The Art of the Railway Escape: When Luxury Embraces Slowness
As geopolitical turmoil and air travel congestion redefine the way we travel, an alternative steeped in nostalgia and refinement is emerging this summer: long-distance travel by rail. Far from the hustle and bustle of airports, the night train is once again becoming a sanctuary, offering the rare luxury of time regained, lulled by the hypnotic rhythm of the passing landscapes. This season, “slow travel” is no longer just a trend; it has become a meditative experience, enhanced by opulent interiors and world-class cuisine.
The luxury rail sector is experiencing a true renaissance. While institutions like Rovos Rail in Southern Africa and Belmond in South America have already paved the way, new itineraries and emerging companies—such as France’s Le Grand Tour—now blend retro glamour with contemporary comfort. Amid plush velvet and exquisitely crafted cocktail menus, traversing a continent through the window of your compartment offers a unique, almost spiritual perspective on the world’s geography.
Six Exceptional Stops for a Summer on the Rails
For those who wish to trade speed for elegance, here is a selection of iconic journeys and new routes around the world:
1. The Epic Silk Road Journey (Beijing–Tashkent)
Operated by the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, this 22-day journey is a deep dive into history. From the Forbidden City to the azure splendors of Samarkand, travelers traverse Central Asia in a setting fit for tsars, stopping at legendary sites such as Xi’an.
2. The Spirit of the Rockies (Denver – Salt Lake City)
In the United States, Canyon Spirit’s new route offers a three-day immersion into the heart of the American West. A spectacular itinerary that winds through snow-capped peaks and arid canyons, with impeccable service.
3. Crossing the Outback (Adelaide – Darwin)
The legendary “Ghan” train continues to fascinate. Over four days, it cuts through the red heart of Australia, connecting the temperate south with the tropical north. A sensory adventure where the vastness of the desert can be admired from the comfort of a panoramic lounge.
4. The Spirit of Kyūshū (Japan)
The Seven Stars offers one- to three-day round-trip journeys on the island of Kyūshū. More than just a train, it’s a showcase of Japanese craftsmanship, blending precious woods and delicate porcelain, for an intimate exploration of the archipelago’s volcanic landscapes.
5. From the Seine to the Mediterranean (Paris – Amalfi Coast)
The Orient Express reinvents European romance with a three-day journey connecting the French capital to the rugged cliffs of southern Italy. A journey that embodies the golden age of travel, blending Parisian elegance with the Italian good life.
6. Majestic Andalusia (Madrid – Seville)
The Al Andalus train transforms a week-long journey into a rail cruise through southern Spain. In vintage lounge cars, passengers discover Moorish gems and olive groves, punctuated by culinary and cultural stops along the way.