Unique Train Adventures: Where to Ride for Unforgettable Views
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Route Overview: Stretching from Zermatt to St. Moritz, the Glacier Express is heralded as the world’s slowest express train. The journey takes around 8 hours, encompassing 291 kilometers (approximately 181 miles) of stunning landscapes.
Highlights: As you travel through the Swiss Alps, expect panoramic vistas that include towering snow-capped peaks, deep ravines, and lush valleys. The train passes over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, including the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, offering awe-inspiring photo opportunities. The glass-paneled roof allows unobstructed views, enhancing the experience.
Travel Tip: Opt for first-class, where you can take advantage of a more intimate service and wider seats. Don’t forget to try the onboard meals, which feature local Swiss specialties, adding a culinary dimension to your journey.
2. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Route Overview: The Rocky Mountaineer offers multiple routes, most notably the journey from Vancouver to Calgary, taking you through the stunning Canadian Rockies. The trip is designed to be taken during daylight hours, allowing passengers to soak in the scenery.
Highlights: Expect to see glittering turquoise lakes, jagged mountain peaks, and abundant wildlife, including bears and elk. Key sights include the breathtaking Spiral Tunnels, stunning views of Mount Robson, and the picturesque Fraser River.
Travel Tip: Book a Gold Leaf service for an elevated experience, which includes gourmet meals and access to a unique open-air viewing area. A knowledgeable onboard guide will also provide fascinating insights into the regions you’re crossing.
3. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Route Overview: The Trans-Siberian Railway spans approximately 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) across Russia, linking Moscow and Vladivostok. The journey can take from one week to over three weeks, depending on stops.
Highlights: Travelers are treated to a diverse array of landscapes, including the Ural Mountains, Siberian taiga, and vistas of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake. Each stop can offer unique cultural experiences, from the hustle of Moscow to the tranquility of small Siberian villages.
Travel Tip: Consider a short ride on the “Golden Eagle” private train for a luxury experience with state-of-the-art amenities. This includes guided excursions at key stops, ensuring a full immersion into the local culture.
4. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
Route Overview: The Bernina Express is a scenic train ride from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. It covers 90 kilometers (56 miles) and takes approximately 4 hours.
Highlights: This route is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its breathtaking alpine landscapes. Expect to traverse the Landwasser Viaduct, the Brusio spiral viaduct, and cross the Bernina Pass, offering dramatic scenery of glaciers and mountain lakes.
Travel Tip: The best time to ride is in the summer when the views of the lush green valleys contrast beautifully with the snow-capped peaks. Pack a light jacket, as temperatures can quickly change.
5. The Blue Train, South Africa
Route Overview: The Blue Train operates between Pretoria and Cape Town, with a journey length of approximately 1,600 kilometers (994 miles) and a travel time of around 27 hours.
Highlights: Luxury meets scenic beauty on this train, offering travelers glimpses of vineyards, mountains, and wildlife. Highlights include the Karoo Desert’s stark beauty and the lush scenery of the Western Cape.
Travel Tip: Indulge in the fine dining experience onboard, which features a selection of exquisite South African wines. Booking a luxury suite ensures utmost comfort and privacy during the long journey.
6. The Jacobite, Scotland
Route Overview: Riding on the Jacobite steam train offers a unique glimpse of Scotland’s rugged terrain, traveling from Fort William to Mallaig.
Highlights: This 84-kilometer (52-mile) trip not only features some of the country’s most scenic views but also traverses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. Additionally, travelers can see Loch Shiel and the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands.
Travel Tip: Opt for a summer ride when the sun keeps the scenery brightly lit. Don’t forget your camera, as the train often stops for photo opportunities along the way.
7. The Ghan, Australia
Route Overview: The Ghan travels from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, covering 2,979 kilometers (1,851 miles) and taking roughly 54 hours.
Highlights: This journey through the heart of the Australian outback includes stunning views of desert landscapes, quaint outback towns, and opportunities to explore the iconic red sands of Uluru. The train stops at key attractions, giving travelers a taste of local culture and history.
Travel Tip: For a truly authentic experience, consider scheduling off-train excursions at stops like Alice Springs, allowing you to explore Aboriginal culture and the dramatic landscapes.
8. The Glacier Discovery Train, Alaska
Route Overview: This scenic train ride operates between Seward and Anchorage, showcasing Alaska’s pristine wilderness over an approximately 4.5-hour trip.
Highlights: Travelers on this route are rewarded with majestic views of towering mountains, sparkling glaciers, and a rich multiplicity of wildlife, including sea otters, bald eagles, and whales. The train travels along Turnagain Arm, known for its incredible scenic beauty.
Travel Tip: Choose the summer months for the best wildlife sightings. The onboard glass-domed cars provide unobstructed views, making photo opportunities plentiful.
9. Flam Railway, Norway
Route Overview: The Flam Railway is a 20-kilometer (12.4 miles) stretch from Flam to Myrdal, ascending nearly 300 meters (900 feet) through breathtaking Norwegian landscapes.
Highlights: This journey features cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and deep valleys, with the highlight being the impressive Kjosfossen waterfall. Travelers will witness the changing landscape, from fjords to lush green terraces.
Travel Tip: This train is popular during the summer months, but early spring offers a unique view of snow melting and blooming flowers. Ensure to check for live music performances at Kjosfossen station during the summer.
10. The Palace on Wheels, India
Route Overview: Embark on a weeklong journey through Rajasthan’s royal heritage on the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train that covers approximately 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles).
Highlights: Experience India’s vibrant culture and historical grandeur, featuring opulent palaces, wildlife reserves, and traditional markets. Key stops include Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur.
Travel Tip: Indulge in gourmet meals featuring local cuisine, and participate in guided tours at significant landmarks to delve deeper into history and culture.
To experience the profound beauty of nature and culture, these unique train adventures offer unforgettable journeys framed by stunning landscapes. Whether traversing the frozen wilderness of Siberia or the rolling hills of the Swiss Alps, these trains promise not just a means of transportation but a journey that fills the soul with wonder.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best unique train adventures in the world?
Some of the best include the Glacier Express, Rocky Mountaineer, Trans-Siberian Railway, Bernina Express, The Ghan, and the Palace on Wheels.
2. Which train ride offers the most beautiful mountain views?
The Glacier Express in Switzerland is famous for its panoramic alpine views, snow-capped peaks, and iconic viaduct crossings.
3. Which scenic train journey should first-time travelers experience?
The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada is ideal for first-timers due to its comfortable service, daylight travel, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
4. What is the longest scenic train journey in the world?
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the world’s longest continuous rail route, covering over 9,289 km across Russia.
5. Are luxury train journeys worth it?
Yes, luxury trains like the Blue Train, Palace on Wheels, and Golden Eagle offer premium comfort, chef-curated meals, guided tours, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
6. Which is the most scenic train ride in Norway?
The Flam Railway is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, fjords, and steep mountain scenery, making it one of Norway’s top attractions.
7. What is the best season for scenic train travel?
Summer is ideal for clear views and lush landscapes, while winter offers snowy panoramas—especially in Switzerland, Norway, and Canada.
8. Are scenic train routes suitable for families?
Yes, many scenic routes like the Jacobite Steam Train, Rocky Mountaineer, and Glacier Discovery Train are family-friendly with comfortable seating and great viewing areas.