If you love traveling and exploring new places, there’s nothing like taking a train ride to enjoy the beauty of nature. Train travel is not only comfortable and convenient, but also offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and cultures of different regions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous journey, or a romantic escape, there’s a train ride for you. Here are some of the most scenic train rides in the world that you should add to your bucket list.
– The Glacier Express, Switzerland: This train connects two of the most popular mountain resorts in Switzerland, Zermatt and St. Moritz. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Swiss Alps, including the Matterhorn, the Rhine Gorge, and the Aletsch Glacier. The train has panoramic windows and a glass roof that allow you to admire the scenery from every angle. The journey takes about eight hours and covers 291 kilometers of track.
– The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada: This train offers several routes across the Canadian Rockies, from Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, or Calgary. You’ll witness breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife such as bears, elk, and eagles. The train has spacious seats and large windows that let you soak in the views. You can also enjoy gourmet meals and drinks on board. The journey takes two or three days and includes overnight stays in hotels along the way.
– The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia: This is the longest and most famous train ride in the world, spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok. It crosses eight time zones and passes through diverse landscapes such as forests, steppes, deserts, and mountains. You’ll also get to experience the culture and history of Russia and its neighboring countries, such as Mongolia and China. The train has cozy cabins and a dining car that serves Russian cuisine. The journey takes about seven days and can be extended with stops at various cities and attractions.
– The Blue Train, South Africa: This train is a luxury experience that takes you from Pretoria to Cape Town or vice versa. You’ll enjoy the elegance and comfort of the train’s suites, which have private bathrooms, air conditioning, and entertainment systems. You’ll also savor fine dining and wine on board. The train passes through some of the most scenic regions of South Africa, such as the Highveld, the Karoo desert, and the Cape Winelands. You’ll also stop at Kimberley to visit the Big Hole diamond mine museum. The journey takes about 27 hours and covers 1,600 kilometers of track.
– The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India: This train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling in West Bengal. It was built in 1881 and still uses steam locomotives that chug along the narrow-gauge track. You’ll marvel at the views of the lush tea plantations, the rolling hills, and the majestic Himalayas. You’ll also get to see the culture and lifestyle of the local people along the route. The journey takes about seven hours and covers 88 kilometers of track.
These are just some of the most scenic train rides in the world that will make you fall in love with traveling by rail. So pack your bags and hop on board for an unforgettable adventure!
