Adventure on Rails: 10 Scenic Train Journeys Across the Globe
Exploring the world by train offers a unique combination of comfort, nostalgia, and breathtaking scenery. Unlike the rapid transit of planes or the confined paths of cars, trains meander through landscapes, allowing travelers to soak in the diverse beauty of the world at a leisurely pace. Here, we embark on a journey across ten of the most scenic train rides across the globe, each offering an adventure on rails that is unforgettable.
1. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Route: Vancouver to Banff
The Rocky Mountaineer, renowned for its luxurious service and panoramic views, takes passengers through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The journey begins in Vancouver, a vibrant coastal city, and winds its way to Banff, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains. Along the way, travelers are treated to sights of rushing rivers, dense forests, and towering peaks. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Fraser Canyon and the Spiral Tunnels, a marvel of railway engineering.
Why It’s Scenic: The changing landscapes from coastal rainforest to alpine wilderness provide a stunning backdrop. Glass-domed coaches ensure that passengers don’t miss a single moment of the spectacular views.
2. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Billed as the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express offers an eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps. Starting from the shadow of the Matterhorn in Zermatt, the train travels to the glamorous resort of St. Moritz. Along the way, it crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and climbs over the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 meters above sea level.
Why It’s Scenic: The panoramic windows provide uninterrupted views of pristine mountain lakes, deep gorges, and quaint Swiss villages. The route’s highlight is the Landwasser Viaduct, a dramatic six-arched structure that spans a deep valley.
3. The Ghan (Australia)
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
The Ghan is a legendary train that traverses the length of Australia, from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. This epic journey covers nearly 3,000 kilometers and takes approximately 54 hours. It passes through diverse landscapes, from the fertile plains of South Australia to the rugged red center and the tropical Top End.
Why It’s Scenic: Passengers experience the vast and varied Australian outback, with its striking red deserts, ancient mountain ranges, and lush, tropical regions. The train also offers off-train excursions, allowing travelers to explore iconic sites like Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge.
4. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world, stretching over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok. This epic journey takes about a week to complete and crosses eight time zones. The route traverses the vast expanse of Siberia, passing through taiga forests, vast steppes, and along the shores of Lake Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake in the world.
Why It’s Scenic: The sheer diversity of landscapes, from European Russia’s rolling hills to Siberia’s endless forests and the rugged mountains of the Russian Far East, makes this a truly epic adventure. The cultural experiences along the way, from bustling cities to remote villages, add to the journey’s richness.
5. The Blue Train (South Africa)
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
The Blue Train is synonymous with luxury and elegance, offering an opulent journey from Pretoria to Cape Town. This 31-hour trip covers 1,600 kilometers and passes through the varied landscapes of South Africa. Travelers can enjoy the changing scenery from the comfort of their plush suites, complete with private bathrooms and 24-hour butler service.
Why It’s Scenic: The route offers a glimpse of South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from the golden grasslands of the Highveld to the arid Karoo and the lush vineyards of the Western Cape. The journey culminates with the stunning approach to Cape Town, with Table Mountain providing a dramatic backdrop.
6. The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
Route: Chur to Tirano
The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway that connects the Swiss town of Chur with Tirano in Italy. The four-hour journey takes passengers through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps, including the Bernina Range and the Morteratsch Glacier.
Why It’s Scenic: The train crosses the dramatic Landwasser Viaduct, climbs the Bernina Pass, and passes by the stunning Lago Bianco. The descent into Italy offers breathtaking views of the Poschiavo Valley and the vineyards of Valtellina.
7. The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)
Route: Fort William to Mallaig
Often referred to as the Hogwarts Express, the Jacobite Steam Train offers a magical journey through the Scottish Highlands. The 84-mile round trip from Fort William to Mallaig takes about two hours each way and includes the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which featured in the Harry Potter films.
Why It’s Scenic: The route passes by Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and through stunning highland scenery, including lochs, rivers, and the rugged west coast. The journey is particularly enchanting in the summer when the heather is in bloom.
8. The TranzAlpine (New Zealand)
Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
The TranzAlpine is one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, traversing the South Island of New Zealand from Christchurch to Greymouth. The four-and-a-half-hour trip covers 223 kilometers and includes 19 tunnels and four viaducts.
Why It’s Scenic: The train travels across the Canterbury Plains, climbs into the Southern Alps, and passes through lush beech forests and river valleys. Highlights include the Waimakariri River gorge and the breathtaking Arthur’s Pass.
9. The Belmond Hiram Bingham (Peru)
Route: Cusco to Machu Picchu
Named after the explorer who rediscovered the Inca citadel, the Belmond Hiram Bingham offers a luxurious journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The trip includes a gourmet brunch and dinner, live music, and guided tours of Machu Picchu.
Why It’s Scenic: The route follows the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley, with views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and ancient Inca ruins. The final approach to Machu Picchu is particularly spectacular, as the train winds its way through a dramatic gorge.
10. The West Highland Line (Scotland)
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
The West Highland Line is one of the most scenic railway lines in the UK, running from Glasgow to Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland. The journey takes about five and a half hours and covers 264 kilometers.
Why It’s Scenic: The train travels through some of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful landscapes, including Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The route also offers stunning views of the islands of the Inner Hebrides.
Exploring the Magic of Train Travel
Train journeys have a unique charm that captures the imagination and evokes a sense of adventure. They offer a window to the world’s most stunning landscapes and provide a leisurely pace that allows travelers to fully appreciate their surroundings. Each of the ten train journeys highlighted here offers a distinct experience, from the luxurious to the rugged, but all share a common thread of scenic beauty and unforgettable moments.
The Allure of Slow Travel
In an age of instant gratification and rapid transit, there is something profoundly appealing about slow travel. Trains allow passengers to unwind, disconnect from the rush of everyday life, and reconnect with the world around them. The rhythmic motion of the train, the ever-changing scenery, and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers all contribute to the unique allure of train travel.
The History and Culture of Railways
Many of these scenic train routes have rich histories and cultural significance. The Trans-Siberian Railway, for example, was a monumental engineering feat that connected the vast Russian Empire, while the Blue Train in South Africa has hosted royalty and dignitaries. Understanding the historical context of these railways adds an extra layer of depth to the journey.
Tips for Planning a Scenic Train Journey
If you’re inspired to embark on your own scenic train adventure, here are a few tips to help you plan:
- Book in Advance: Popular scenic train routes can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance ensures you get a spot on the train and can often save money.
- Choose the Right Season: The scenery can vary dramatically with the seasons. For example, the Swiss Alps are breathtaking in both winter and summer, but offer very different experiences. Research the best time to travel for the specific route you’re interested in.
- Pack for Comfort: Even on luxury trains, it’s important to pack comfortable clothing and essentials for a multi-hour journey. Layers are key, as temperatures can vary widely, especially on routes that pass through different climates.
- Embrace the Experience: Scenic train journeys are about more than just reaching a destination. Take the time to relax, enjoy the views, and engage with fellow passengers. Bring a camera, but also take moments to simply appreciate the scenery without distractions.
Conclusion
From the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps to the vast deserts of Australia, scenic train journeys offer a unique way to explore the world. These adventures on rails provide not only stunning views but also a sense of connection to the landscapes and cultures they traverse. Whether you’re seeking luxury or adventure, there’s a train journey out there that promises to be an unforgettable experience
