There’s something inherently indulgent about travelling along a coastal route by train. Rather than rushing between destinations, these journeys invite you to slow down and enjoy the hours in between. Outside your window, waves break against the shore and charming seaside towns unfold at an unhurried pace. Inside, fine dining, attentive service and elegant surroundings make the journey an experience in its own right. Here are four unforgettable coastal rail experiences that show why, sometimes, taking the scenic route is the ultimate luxury.
Spain’s northern coast on Transcantabrico Train
This legendary train hugs the Cantabrian coast for much of its eight-day, seven-night journey between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. Its panoramic windows reveal sparkling ocean vistas, dramatic cliffs and picturesque fishing villages. In sections, the scenery shifts to dense forests and soaring mountain ranges as the train turns inland. Beyond the scenery, curated excursions let you discover treasures like Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, the prehistoric Cave of Altamira and more. Overnight stops also give you the chance to experience local nightlife.
The train itself evokes the glamour of a bygone era. With just 14 elegantly appointed suites, the atmosphere is intimate and exclusive. Each features individual climate control, a spacious bedroom, private bathroom and elegant living area. And, when you’d like to socialize, all you need to do is step into the bar or dining carriage. Here, you can enjoy 24-hour service and multi-course meals that celebrate the flavours of northern Spain.
Cornwall on Belmond's Britannic Explorer
The Britannic Explorer's three-night round-trip to Cornwall is a picturesque getaway from London. As the train pulls out of the capital, it travels through rolling countryside before reaching the historic West Somerset Railway and Devon’s Riviera Line. Here, dramatic coastal views lead the way to Cornwall’s golden beaches. Off-train experiences make the experience even more memorable. Highlights include an exclusive after-hours visit to Hauser & Wirth. You'll also have a chance to create your own Cornish spirit at Colwith Distillery.
The Britannic Explorer is Britain’s first luxury sleeper train. When it comes to accommodation, you can choose from three Grand Suites and 15 standard suites. Each features a private bathroom, 24-hour steward service and thoughtful amenities. The Observation Car provides an elegant setting for cocktails, while the Malva and Samphire dining cars serve beautifully crafted menus and indulgent afternoon teas. You can even enjoy spa treatments on the go at the train’s wellbeing suite.
The Shores of Sicily with La Dolce Vita
From Sicily’s sun-drenched coastline to mainland Italy’s countryside, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express lets you explore Italy at a wonderfully unhurried pace. This three-day, two-night journey begins in Palermo and winds through Taormina and Maratea before arriving in Rome. The route lets you enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean shores from a unique perspective while curated excursions offer authentic glimpses into local culture and flavours. One of the journey’s most distinctive moments comes when the train itself boards a ferry to cross the Messina Strait.
Your time on board is every bit as enticing as the landscapes outside your window. Whether you opt for a Deluxe Cabin or a Suite, you’ll enjoy an en-suite bathroom and room service throughout the journey. In the restaurant car, gourmet menus curated by a three-Michelin-starred chef celebrate regional Italian flavours. Meanwhile, the bar brings the spirit of la dolce vita to life with aperitivo, live entertainment and relaxed conversation.
The Vietnamese Coastline on the SJourney
Closer to home, the four-day, three-night journey along the Indochine coastline on Vietnam’s first luxury train is a leisurely way to discover the country’s coastal charm. As the lights of Ho Chi Minh city fade, the landscape shifts from lush rice fields to mountain scenery and beautiful stretches of coastline before reaching Central Vietnam. Curated excursions including visits to the Fish Sauce Museum and Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village add a cultural dimension to the journey. Meanwhile, Phu Yen’s beautiful beaches offer the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.
With space for just 40 guests, the train offers an intimate and indulgent experience. Accommodation ranges from elegant cabins to Imperial Suites, which feature private bathrooms complete with bathtubs. The culinary experience onboard is equally inviting, with a rotating menu of locally sourced dishes showcasing Vietnamese flavours, complemented by a full-service bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected dress code on luxury trains?
While daytime attire is usually relaxed and informal, elegant, smart-casual wear is expected in the evenings.
Are excursions included in the train ticket?
Most luxury train experiences are inclusive of major excursions. However, specialized or optional requests may incur additional fees.
Are part-journey bookings available on these luxury trains?
These luxury train experiences are usually sold as complete itineraries rather than individual segments or single-night stays.
Booking Your Slow Travel Experience
From Spain's rugged Cantabrian coast and Cornwall's windswept cliffs to Sicily's Mediterranean shores and Vietnam's Indochine coastline, each of these routes offers a different perspective on life by the sea. Planning a luxury rail holiday, however, involves more than choosing a route. From selecting the right itinerary and accommodation to arranging transfers, excursions and other travel details, having the right support can make all the difference. That’s where we come in. Leave the logistics to us and focus on savouring every moment of your journey. Tell us where you’d like to go next, and we’ll start planning an escape that’s unforgettable in every way.