Five Epic Rail Journeys
I’ve long been in love with the idea of rail travel.
One of my favorite things to do in Europe is to take long train rides - you don’t have to deal with the hassle of the airport, the trains are often set closer to the center of town so it’s easier to get in and out, and you get to enjoy the scenery during your ride. I’ve yet to take an overnight train in Europe, but I have taken them in Thailand (quite the experience!). More than anything, I am dreaming of taking a long, luxurious train ride on the Orient Express in Europe or perhaps a scenic ride in the US (yes, these exist!). So here are some of the most epic rail journeys in Europe and North America that you can consider for that next trip when you want to slow down and take it all in.
The Glacier Express
On this 5-day journey through Switzerland, you’ll see some of the most beautiful parts of the Swiss countryside, cross over 291 bridges, go through 91 tunnels, and travel through the Alps. Take a ride on the world’s slowest (yet stylish) train and see more of Switzerland than you ever could on foot - St.Moritz, the most elegant resort in the country, the Rhine Gorge, and the alpine village of Zermatt with views of the Matterhorn. Experience a taste of the Glacier Express here.
Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer
Your epic trip starts in Vancouver, where you’ll have two days to explore before boarding the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer for two days. You’ll arrive in Jasper and travel onwards to majestic Banff before reaching your final destination in Calgary. While traveling, you will visit the Columbia Icefield and experience the Ice Explorer and Glacier Skywalk. The trip includes a mix of scenic train rides and scenic drives through some of the most beautiful parts of Canada.
Rocky Mountaineer also operates trains in the US, including one between Denver and Moab - travelers can take this incredible train for a 2-day trip from Denver, stopping in Glenwood Springs for an overnight, before arriving in Moab where they will visit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
Belmond Royal Scotsman
Belmond offers luxurious train experiences in the UK, Europe, and South America. I’ve talked about Belmond’s stunning hotel properties before (and through my host agency, I am part of the Belmond Bellini Club)- their trains are no different. Imagine one of those unique, luxury hotel experiences - but on a historic train. The cabins are well-appointed and there are elegant and spacious suites with views of the landscapes around you. There’s even a spa onboard!
There are 3-night and 4-night itineraries from Edinburgh which include trips through the Highlands, to castles, and to the famed whisky distilleries for tastings. This isn’t just any train ride - black tie is encouraged! There are two luxury dining cars on board where evenings are a celebratory affair.
Venice-Simplon Orient Express
Yes, this is another Belmond train. And the experience is even grander. This is THE Orient Express, now operated by the luxury experts at Belmond. This trip is less about the destination and more about how you arrive (although the destinations are also fabulous). This train voyage will transport you in more ways than one - you’ll step back to the 1920s with all of the glamour of train travel from the past on the restored train. The cabins, suites, and grand suites have been restored to their 1920s grandeur (where you can take your breakfast in bed).
In the evening, take to the bar car after your dinner for some cocktails and revelry with your fellow travelers. And if you get hungry, don’t worry. Midnight Brunch is served in the bar and the pianist plays late into the night.
There are routes between the major European capitals including Paris, Prague, Budapest, Amsterdam, Venice, Rome, Brussels, Florence...Depending on where you arrive, you can add a Belmond property to your stay, such as the Hotel Cipriani in Venice or The Cadogan in London.
Image: Alaska Railroad - Michael W Sullivan
Alaska Railroad's Highlights of Alaska
If you are dreaming of a trip to Alaska, there are a few ways to explore - on a cruise, driving, or by rail. The beauty of this 7-day train trip is that it gives you a bit of all of this! You'll take the trains winding through the Alaskan landscape with stops for glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park where you'll search for whales, sea lions and more. or a glacial river float trip down the Placer River. And you'll board a bus to travel along the Denali Highway for more wildlife sightings.