4 Gorgeous Train Journeys To Experience In 2022

In the past, train travel was as common as commercial flight is today. However, many travelers still prefer this alternative way of getting from A to B. If you have the time, train journeys allow you to relax and watch the beautiful scenery pass you by. Meanwhile, you sleep comfortably onboard and enjoy delicious meals along the rails. Whether you are looking for day trips or longer train journeys, here are four options worth trying out in 2022 for a vacation on wheels.

1. Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland, UK)

The Belmond Royal Scotsman gives you the chance to experience that gorgeous Scottish countryside from your own wood-paneled suite. Alternatively, head to the dining car for a delicious meal. Meanwhile, you even get the chance to spoil yourself at the onboard spa. Along the way, stop off for a special guided tour of some of the great destinations in the country.

Among the stops, you get guided tours through Scottish landmarks like Eileen Donan Castle, Glamis Castle, and Alnwick Castle. Other options include meals at outdoor dining locations, private tours of whisky distilleries, tours of the night sky with expert astronomers and day-long activities including whitewater rafting, golf, fishing and clay-pigeon shooting.

2. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Italy)

You have no doubt heard of the Orient Express in movies over the years and this luxurious option personifies European travel of the early 20th century. While the train ceased operations in 2009 after 125 years on the rails, the luxury rail brand Belmond brought it back, breathing new life into these historic and beautiful journeys.

The Venice Simplon-Orient Express offers a variety of journeys to experience in 2022. One is the classic Venice to London overnight trip, or, of course, the choice to head from London to Venice. Alternatively, a one-night journey from beautiful Verona to London is an excellent choice for literary fans. You can also enjoy a romantic journey from Paris to Verona or Venice. Whatever your choice, journeys are enjoyed in a luxurious suite, with delicious meals available in the dining car.

3. Orient Silk Road Express (Central Asia)

The Orient Silk Road Express allows you to follow in the footsteps of Marco Polo while traversing central Asia by rail. The service offers a variety of routes, introducing you to rich history and culture through the region where goods were traded. Where eastern and western philosophies mingled in the past. Moreover, the Orient Silk Road Express offers eight wonderful stops along the way.

While the suites might not be as luxurious as the Belmond trains, they are eminently comfortable. Meanwhile, the dining car serves regional dishes and transforms into a comfortable lounge after dinner, with a selection of soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits available to enjoy. Along the way, take half-or full-day tours into the towns and cities along the way as you head through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

4. Rovos Rail (South Africa)

Heading to Africa, Rovos Rail offers first-class travel around the country in absolute luxury. Journeys take you through stunning landscapes all along the way, including various destinations in South Africa, Victoria Falls, Dar Es Salaam or Namibia. In fact, the company claims to be “The Most Luxurious Train in the World.”

The dining car allows you to sample local dishes in comfort and style served with the finest South African wines. Meanwhile, a selection of guided tours is available along the way, including safaris, golf tours and more. Rovos Rail offers bespoke train journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, depending on how much time you have to enjoy the trip. All the coaches are vintage, wood-paneled delights, overlooking some of the most varied scenery in Africa.

Enjoy a slower mode of transport this year – taking time to view the scenery along the way and making your journeys a vacation in themselves.