Embrace slow travel in comfort as you take in breathtaking views during your journey.
In our fast-paced lives, time is a luxury. But there’s nothing wrong with taking it slow once in a while, especially when you have the chance to travel for leisure.
Rail routes can still be found all over the world, with some offering comfortable stays, excellent service, and even fine dining. Not to mention the dazzling views passing by your carriage window.
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Transport yourself back in time with these luxurious train rides which make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
The Belmond Andean Explorer
Peru’s Belmond Andean Explorer is known as South America’s first luxury sleeper train. From the ancient capital of Cusco, through the Andean Plains, up to Lake Titicaca, and finally to Arequipa, the rail route claims to be one of the highest in the world.
The 24 cabins are decorated with traditional textile patterns and alpaca wools in vibrant colors. Each of them comes complete with its own bathroom and shower.
Passengers can enjoy the views of the country’s natural wonders and kaleidoscopic sunsets in the open-air observation car while sampling authentic Peruvian cuisine. There’s even an onboard spa to top off the luxe experience.
Seven Stars
Considered one of Japan’s most luxurious trains, Seven Stars accommodates around only 20 passengers at a time. Due to its exclusivity, prospective guests must apply through a lottery system before being able to actually purchase a ride.
The train’s interior is decorated with shoji paper screens, walnut floors, and sliding glass doors embellished with flowers and birds. Guests can then enjoy live music at the Blue Moon lounge car, have drinks in the tea room or bar, or find local goods at the gallery shop.
Rovos Rail
The Rovos Rail, established in 1989, takes passengers through several destinations in South Africa. With excursions lasting from 48 hours to 15 nights, passengers can enjoy the natural scenery through panoramic windows and an open-air observation car.
Guests can choose from various routes, exploring untamed deserts, wild safaris, and even one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls. Though the excursions are all about adventure, the wood-paneled sleeper coaches have been refurbished to offer modern comforts.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
When talking about trains, the Orient Express is one that often comes to mind. The legendary train has been the subject or setting of many works of literature and film, taking passengers back to the golden age of luxury travel.
Belmond has restored the train which now continues to travel from London and Paris to Venice and Istanbul. While equipped with modern amenities, the train’s atmosphere can still transport passengers to the 1920s with its Art Deco interior.
The Ghan
The Ghan Expedition is one of Australia’s premiere luxury train routes, having been in operation since 1929. Traveling from Darwin to Adelaide, the route runs from the very northern tip of Australia to the bottom.
The journey includes off-train experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy where guests can have dinner under the stars or explore underground tunnels and caves. Onboard, the train offers all-inclusive meals from a regionally-inspired menu paired with local wines.
Banner image via Instagram @belmondandeanexplorer.
