The 7 Most Luxurious Trains in the World
As things finally begin to open up and international travels start to pick up, people can once again set off on adventures of their lifetimes. While most look for comfort in the form of beach holidays, cabins in the wilderness, or expensive dinners in iconic locations. We thought why not combine this. We bring to you an array of options for luxury trains from around the world. Hop aboard and travel to the most adventurous and scenic parts of the globe.
1. Venice Simpleton-Orient Express:
The setting of Agatha Christie’s famous ‘Murder on the Orient Express, has found its way back to the rails, racing through some of the most iconic cities in Europe. The Venice Simpleton-Orient Express is an icon of timeless nostalgia and boundless glamour. The Art Deco style has persevered through the decades, while the train’s elegant suites recall an older, more stylish age. Delve into European culture by taking the classic route from London to Venice, through the awe-inspiring journey within the French farmlands and Swiss Alpine valleys. For the more adventurous guests aboard, the train offers a journey to the edges of Europe, traveling from Paris to Istanbul. With The Venice Simpleton-Orient Express, embark on a thrilling voyage connecting some of the continent’s most vibrant cultural hubs. Explore European landmarks by the day and indulge in some of the most exquisite cuisines by night.
2. The Blue Train:
From the dream of connecting the Cape all the way to Cairo, the blue train was born. Running through the arid desert landscapes, over tamed savannah grasslands, and areas teeming with wildlife, the Blue Train traverse South Africa and its breath-taking scenery in a manner that befits the mystique that has grown around it. Ther Blue Train has on offer two routes. The first of these is Kruger National Park. An ideal opportunity to enjoy nature with luxury cabins and world-class safaris. Moreover, the second route is from Pretoria to Cape Town, offering a 31-hour long journey through some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the African sub-continent. The Blue Train is the perfect window to the soul of Africa.
3. Rovos Rail:
Known primarily for its bespoke train journeys, Rovos Rail has gained an international reputation. Linking some of the African continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions. Step aboard the vintage wood-paneled coaches and sit back as some of the varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. With discreet and friendly service, top cuisine, and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail goes back to a simple, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration. The beautifully rebuilt trains, which may be hauled by diesel or electric locomotives, carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suits and are also available for charter, while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys.
4. The Rocky Mountaineer:
Operating in all four rail routes of Canada, British Columbia, Alberta, Colorado, and Utah, the Rocky Mountaineer perfectly encompasses the natural beauty the country has to offer. Coupled with a once-in-a-lifetime experience is the opportunity to dine on delicious, regionally-inspired cuisine that features local ingredients and flavors. What sets The Rocky Mountaineer apart is the custom-designed coaches that provide passengers with panoramic views or the opportunity to get a bit closer by stepping into the outdoor viewing area. With the Rocky Mountaineer, see the sights by day, sleep at a luxurious hotel at night, an experience designed with a perfect combination of maximum views and maximum comforts.
5. Belmond Royal Scotsman Scottish Highlands:
The Belmond Royal Scotsman, the spark that rekindles the romance of travel, is at once leisurely, intimate, luxurious, and eye-opening. Ranking among the world’s most luxurious trains, our mahogany-clad cars marry Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house. Ten intricately designed carriages, including the sublime Bamford Spa, forms a palace on wheels. The Royal Scotsman provides experiences like non-other. Home to some of the largest expenses of dark skies in Europe, the Scottish highlands are the perfect place to delve into the wonders of the cosmos. Join expert astronomer Steve Owens for an exhilarating planetary exploration in the cairngorms. While in Scotland, gain an insight into the crafting of casks, and of course, indulge in dram. A selection of tours is available, including Glen ord, one of the oldest in the country, and Tullibardine Distillery in Blackford village, where guests can experience a tour led by the master blende.
6. Maharaja Express:
Running the lengths of a country big enough to be containment in itself, The Maharaja Express seeks to take the traveler back to the days of the Indian Rulers and their luxurious lifestyles. Giving a taste of Rajput lifestyles through visits to Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner and lunch and dinners with erstwhile Royal Families. The experience further extends to 300 years in Indian history, the time of the Mughal empire, with visits to the abandoned city of Fatehpur-Sikri and Delhi with monuments such as Red Fort, once a bastion of power. Lastly, no trip to India is complete without visiting the greatest symbol of love, the Taj Mahal. Journeys on board the Maharaja Express last about 7 days starting either from the capital city of Delhi or the port city of Mumbai.
7. The Transcantabrico Gran Lujo
Chugging slowly along Spain’s Atlantic coast for seven days, the Transcantobrico feels more like a five-star hotel on wheels than a full-on train experience. The rides are short, the sightseeing extensive but what you’ll remember afterward is the exceptional catering with select wines, haute cuisine, and excursion meals in top-notch restaurants. Consider this a luxury roll through the best of northern Spain -- stops include the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, the prehistoric cave of Altamira, the Picos de Europa National Park, and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela -- and you won't be disappointed.