The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
There is something playful about train travel. From the moment you hop onboard, it reawakens the child in you. How can any traveler contain their youthful enthusiasm as the carriages slowly pull out of the station? There is so much to take in: the rhythmic “clickety-clack” sound of the wheels as they roll against the tracks, the chatter among fellow passengers, the clink of crystal champagne flutes (on the most opulent trains at least). It is said that the journey is more important than the destination, and nothing embodies this sentiment quite like a train. With more and more travelers gravitating toward more authentic travel experiences, the immersive nature of the sleeper train might just be the cure. Beau Monde Traveler has curated a list of 5 of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains:
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train
No list on the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains would be complete without the famed Orient Express. Setting off from London Victoria station, the classic overnight journey runs from London to Venice, with stops in Paris, Innsbruck and Verona. Celebrated within the pages of Agatha Christie’s iconic 1934 murder mystery, “Murder on the Orient Express,” this journey is a must-do for anyone pursuing an authentic sleeper train experience.
Journeying aboard the Orient Express feels as if you have taken a time machine back to the 1920s. The Art Deco interiors comprise of glossy cherry wood paneling, antique fixtures and plush fabrics. As for the suites, take your pick from the classic vintage cabins with hidden washbasins and sofas that transform into bunk beds, or opt for more modern luxury in one of the train’s Grand Studio Suites. These have double beds, private en-suite bathrooms and a small living area. Each of them have also been uniquely decorated using iconic European cities such as Paris, Istanbul and Venice as their inspiration.
Against the backdrop of Europe’s captivating landscapes, indulge in premier bubbly served in the train’s Champagne Bar before retreating to your room for afternoon tea. With the arrival of dusk, throw on your most stylish frock or tuxedo as you head off for an elegant four-course dinner in one of the three fine dining cars, Côte d’Azur, L’Oriental and Etoile Du Nord. All dishes are prepared using fresh, local ingredients that are taken aboard at stops along the way. You can enjoy lobster from Brittany, salt marsh lamb from Mont St Michel and juicy tomatoes from Provence. The train’s continental breakfast spread is great too, serving up fresh fruit, bread, smoked salmon, truffles and caviar.
2. Train Suite Shiki-shima
Forget Platform 9 and ¾, we’d rather be waiting for the Train Suite Shiki-shima at Platform 13.5 of Tokyo’s Ueno Station. In stark contrast to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, we look now to the luxurious sleeper trains of the future. Operated by the East Japan Railway Company, this sleek, champagne-gold sleeper (and its advanced Electric Diesel Hybrid Propulsion System) is a reflection of the very latest in high-end train travel and technology. The name Shiki-shima translates to “Island of the Four Seasons.” And so, it is fitting that the train offers various journeys for each passing season, whisking guests away from Tokyo and on an exploration all across northern Japan.
The train was designed by Ken Kiyoyuki Okuyama, a well-known collaborator for manufacturers such as Porsche, Ferrari and Maserati. Following a contemporary, Japanese style, the train’s 17 suites are adorned with intricate lacquerware latticework. The standard suites include grey sofa beds and en-suites with a shower and toilet. Shiki-shima also offers two ultra-luxe suites which span over two levels, with further opulent details such as glass fireplaces, Japanese-style bathtubs made of hinoki cypress wood and Swarovski binoculars.
At each stop, new chefs come aboard to exhibit their skill, preparing signature dishes from their particular region. Under Executive Chef Sato, the chefs serve up traditional Japanese and French-inspired cuisine crafted from only the finest seasonal ingredients. In a dining car decked out with half-moon shaped tables and a bespoke chandelier, guests can enjoy delectable and visually appealing dishes such as the sea eel served with slivers of cucumber and edible flowers. After dinner, escape to the serenity of the forest-inspired Komorebi Lounge, and gaze upon the gold “branches” which extend to the ceiling while taking in the soft sounds of the car’s grand piano.
Perhaps Shiki-shima’s most exciting additions, though, are the futuristic observatory cars situated at the front and rear of the train. With white leather sofas, grass-green carpeting intended to mimic shaggy moss and wall-to-ceiling cut out windows, the cars allow for immersive views of Japan’s diverse, dramatic landscapes – forest, field, mountain and sea.
3. Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train
Magnificent mountain ranges, wild terrain, diverse vegetation and towering volcanoes. These are just a few of the sights and scenes that await you aboard South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer. Offering either one or two-night trips, the train sets off from Cusco, gliding along the 600-year-old Inca rail system through the Andean plains before finally reaching Arequipa. Highlights of the journey include stops at Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon.
There are 35 cabins and guests can choose from the authentic bunk bed cabins, twin bed cabins or modern suites with double beds. The train’s interiors are neutral with proudly Peruvian inclusions such as handwoven fabrics and alpaca wool. The en-suite bathrooms have even been crafted using natural local stone. As one of the highest-altitude rail lines in the world, the Andean Explorer has to take certain precautions. There are oxygen tanks and masks in each room, as well as an onboard nurse who is available to assist passengers around the clock.
Apart from the carriages housing the sleeper cabins, the Andean Explorer has two dining cars, one lounge car, and a rear observation bar car. Each carriage has been named after the native flora, fauna and creatures. Within the chic, atmospheric dining cars, Muna (Herb) and Llama, talented Chef Diego Munoz serves up signature Peruvian delicacies such as alpaca tortellini and succulent prawns served with ocopa sauce. Such dishes pair beautifully with the extensive list of local wines. But before you gulp down on too much Sauvignon Blanc, leave some room for Peru’s classic pisco sour cocktail to be sipped on while lounging in the open-air observation car.
4. Rovos Rail
It is known as the Pride of Africa, and for good reason. What began as a more personal project to owner Rohan Vos, who intended to use a few vintage carriages for family holidays, has grown to become one of the most luxurious sleeper trains in the world. Rovos Rail, like the Orient Express, is a symbol of the golden age of rail. The train is arguably one of the best ways to see the beauty of Africa, with journeys to the likes of Knysna, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Its most popular route, however, is the two-night trip from Cape Town to Pretoria.
Moving at a leisurely pace, Rovos affords its guests the opportunity to appreciate some of Africa’s most exquisite landscapes. Gaze upon the Highveld grasslands, the wild desert land of the Great Karoo and the lush Cape Winelands from open-air balconies at the rear of the train’s observation car. Additional highlights of this route include excursions to the Victorian railway town of Matjiesfontein and to Kimberly to see The Big Hole.
With only three suites per carriage, there is ample space for each cabin to have private en-suite bathrooms, writing desks and large windows. Apart from these allowing for unobstructed views of the ever-changing scenery, the windows can also be opened to welcome in the fresh air. The interiors onboard Rovos Rail invoke the glamour of a bygone era, with thick green patterned carpeting, polished red wood, tufted leather chairs and gold accents. As the evening approaches, a five-course meal awaits guests in the candlelit dining car. On top of an impressive South African wine list, Rovos Rail serves up mouth-watering regional cuisine such as Cape Babotie, braised lamb shank and milk tart.
5. The Ghan
Last on our list of luxurious sleeper trains is Australia’s legendary rail experience. The Ghan is so much more than mere luxury, though. The three-day journey from Adelaide to Darwin balances the excitement of an outdoor adventure through Australia’s outback with the comforts of a modern train. The journey features stops and experiences in Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine. Guests have the chance to see an authentic cattle station and cruise through the awe-inspiring Nitmiluk Gorge. Additional off-train experiences include camel riding and hiking.
The Ghan’s elegant private cabins boast wood paneling, sumptuous furnishings, en-suites bathrooms and large windows for observing the passing scenery. The four levels of service onboard the train include Gold Single, Gold Twin, Gold Superior and Platinum. With double beds, lounging chairs and bigger bathrooms than its sibling cabins, its best to opt for the Platinum suites if it is a top luxury rail experience that you desire.
The Ghan is home to three atmospheric dining carriages. The train works with suppliers and farmers to source the delicious local ingredients which make up its regionally-inspired menu. Feast on a five-course meal in the Art Deco styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant, which serves delicacies such as saltwater barramundi and grilled kangaroo fillet. Alternatively, The Outback Explorer Lounge is a great place to kick back and enjoy a light meal accompanied by a cold beer or glass of wine, while the exclusive Platinum Club Lounge offers bubbly, cocktails and barista coffee.
Travel trends may come and go, but the allure of the sleeper train is here to stay. From the authentic vintage luxury of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the futuristic comforts of Japan’s Train Suite Shiki-shima, such opulent hotels-on-wheels are truly timeless, and will continue to be revisited and reborn for years to come.
