Explore the World’s Most Captivating Railway Routes: A Guide to the Top 8
Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
A journey on the Belmond Andean Explorer is nothing short of magical. This luxurious train is full of luxurious amenities, from dining cars with deliciously creative Peruvian cuisine to spacious onboard residences that allow travelers to admire stunning views as they travel through the majestic peaks of the Andes.
Taking this one-of-a-kind ride allows passengers to explore Peru’s most breathtaking terrain without worrying about a stressful commute. Guests can sit back and relax as they take in captivating scenery or participate in various activities, such as alpaca walks and yoga classes. A railway journey on the Belmond Andean Explorer is an unforgettable experience sure to tantalize the senses while offering breathtaking views along the way.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Rocky Mountaineer is the luxury train to board if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey through Western Canada. On board, travelers can enjoy beautiful views from every seat as the domed trains move through three routes that span Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies from mid-April through mid-October.
The experience is enhanced as you are served delicious meals prepared with locally-sourced ingredients like Salmon from British Columbia or Alberta beef. Totop it off; meals come with a complimentary glass of British Columbia wine. With its exceptional service and stunning scenery, Rocky Mountaineer is the ideal way to explore the best of Western Canada.
Shinkansen High-Speed Trains, Japan
Japan is a leader in the world of rail transport due to its notoriously reliable shinkansen bullet trains, which travel across the nation at speeds up to 200 mph. Not only are they every bit as efficient and modern as they should be, but they also offer an incomparable dining experience aboard – a great selection of bento boxes or ‘ekiben’ that represent quintessentially Japanese fare.
In keeping with local customs, the train stations sell a variety of regional specialties and produce in ekiben, accompanied by salads or pickles and often dessert. There’s something for everyone – a seared mackerel complete with a lemon wedge, teriyaki chicken, or fried beef served over rice, not to mention sushi and sashimi. All this is offered up with impeccable precision, making shinkansen bullet trains and their ekiben boxes an unforgettable experience for all those who ride them.
Denali Star, Alaska
The Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, runs for 12 hours from Fairbanks to Anchorage – and vice versa. On a clear day, the majestic presence of North America’s highest mountain, Denali, can’t be missed.
Other stunning wilderness landscapes will take your breath away as you make your way through remote parts of Alaska that are otherwise entirely unsreachable by other means of transport. It is little wonder then that this train journey has become an icon in Alaska with its memorable way for travelers to traverse the vast frontier.
During the trip, passengers can look forward to delicious meals such as reindeer penne Bolognese paying homage to both Italy and Alaska, or a smoked salmon sandwich with caper salad. Dinner, too, is rich in local ingredients such as Alaskan cod crusted with Kettle chips, aioli, and birch syrup slaw or slow-braised pot roast. With every mile traveled, you’ll uncover something new that brings the full charm of this beautiful place to life.
The Blue Train, South Africa
A journey aboard South Africa’s The Blue Train is a window to the soul of Africa. The 31-hour ride from Pretoria to Cape Town offers passengers captivating views of the country and many chances to spot exotic wildlife along the 994-mile route. Aside from its main service, The Blue Train also offers excursions to Victoria Falls and the edge of Kruger National Park for those seeking further exploration.
Aboard The Blue Train, travelers can expect five-star treatment, including fine china and crystal ware serving local delicacies like an ostrich and Karoo Lamb alongside smooth jazz melodies. The lush grasslands of veld provide fragrant pastures while Knysna oysters and lobster adorn coastally inspired dishes during one’s culinary jaunt across the lovely South African landscape.
Indian Pacific, Australia
Onboard the luxurious Indian Pacific train, you can explore the remarkable 2,704 miles that separate Australia’s two great oceans. With stops at brilliantly named spots such as Cocklebiddy and Pinkawillinie, you’ll be dazzled by stunning Australian landscapes and spectacular countryside views.
The highest level package available on the Indian Pacific is Platinum Club, offering a selection of wines and spirits while you travel. You can expect to treat your taste buds to some truly delicious cuisine that showcases the best local flavors – such as Pacific Ocean swordfish with puy lentils and olive tapenade or slow-cooked pork belly with miso, crackling, pumpkin puree, and apple and celery slaw. Experience all Australia has to offer when you embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Indian Pacific!
Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Belmond Royal Scotsman is a luxurious train experience that takes passengers on exciting, magical journeys across Scotland’s glorious highlands. Setting off from Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, it features two fine dining cars – Raven and Swift – with mahogany-panelled walls and sumptuous tweed upholstery.
An array of packages are available for travellers to choose from, including the five-day Whisky Journey in collaboration with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Passengers can savour the finest single malts and single casks while travelling through the majestic landscape. In addition, the team of talented chefs onboard create mouth-watering dishes made from the freshest local produce, including incomparable Scottish smoked salmon and classic haggis. By embarking on The Belmond Royal Scotsman, one experiences a unique opportunity to appreciate Scotland’s breathtaking beauty in lavish style and comfort.
Bernina Express
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Swiss Alps aboard the Bernina Express, an experience that transcends mere travel and evolves into a symphony of breathtaking landscapes and engineering marvels. As the train winds its way through the heart of the Alps, passengers are treated to an unparalleled spectacle of snow-capped peaks, charming villages, and lush valleys. The Bernina Express, renowned for its panoramic windows, allows travelers to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Swiss countryside, making it a sensory feast for those seeking an unforgettable train adventure.
What sets the Bernina Express apart as one of the best train trips in the world is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed route it follows, featuring the iconic Albula and Bernina lines. The journey encompasses dizzying viaducts, looping tunnels, and the highest point of the RhB network, the Ospizio Bernina at 2,253 meters above sea level. The meticulous engineering of the railway, combined with the train’s modern comforts, offers a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply an avid traveler, the Bernina Express promises an extraordinary passage through some of the most spectacular scenery the world has to offer, making it an unmissable experience for anyone with a passion for exploration.
Planning Your Railway Journey
From the Blue Train in South Africa to The Belmond Royal Scotsman in Scotland, traveling by train offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most magnificent places around the world. Not only do you get to enjoy stunning views and landscapes along your journey, but also tantalizing cuisine made from local produce will leave you wanting more.
Whether it’s reindeer penne Bolognese paying homage to both Italy and Alaska or slow-braised pot roast with fresh ingredients, these overnight train journeys offer an unforgettable experience filled with delicious food and incredible scenery. If you’re looking for a way to make travel even more special this year, why not take one of these amazing trips? You won’t regret it!
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