Few experiences rival the romance and adventure of travelling by train. The rhythmic clatter of wheels, sweeping vistas unfurling outside your window, and the leisurely pace that allows you to truly savour the journey make train travel unique. Across the globe, certain rail routes stand out for their breathtaking scenery, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re seeking the ultimate rail adventure, these five iconic journeys — Britannic Explorer, Al Andalus, Flåmsbana, Indian Pacific, and Rovos Rail — belong on every traveller’s bucket list.
Route: London – Edinburgh – Belfast – Dublin – Galway – Cardiff – London
Duration: Around 10 days
The Britannic Explorer is the ultimate luxury rail tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland. Passengers are whisked through the rolling English countryside, rugged Scottish Highlands, and the dramatic coasts of Wales and Ireland.
The journey combines scenic splendour with cultural discovery. Guests visit iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, and the Cliffs of Moher, all while enjoying five-star service, gourmet dining, and elegant cabins reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel.
Why Go: Perfect for those who wish to experience the diverse landscapes and heritage of the British Isles in unrivalled comfort.
Route: Seville – Córdoba – Granada – Ronda – Cádiz – Jerez – Seville
Duration: 6–7 days
Step aboard Al Andalus, one of Europe’s most glamorous trains, and enter a world of Belle Époque elegance. Once a favourite of royalty, this beautifully restored train takes travellers through Andalusia, Spain’s sun-drenched region of flamenco, Moorish palaces, and olive groves.
The experience is steeped in romance and history: wander the Alhambra in Granada, sip sherry in Jerez, and marvel at the dramatic gorge of Ronda. Between excursions, dine on regional specialities in the dining car and relax in opulent lounges evoking the charm of the 1920s.
Why Go: Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts who want to explore Spain in style.
Route: Myrdal – Flåm
Duration: 1 hour
Although one of the shortest journeys on this list, the Flåmsbana delivers more visual drama in 20 kilometres than many trains do in days. Descending from the mountain plateau at Myrdal to the fjord village of Flåm, it drops 867 metres in under an hour.
The route is a feast for the senses: waterfalls cascade from sheer cliffs, emerald valleys stretch into the distance, and traditional wooden cottages dot the hillsides. Nature lovers and photographers alike will find this journey unforgettable.
Why Go: Perfect for those seeking Norway’s natural beauty in a compact, breathtaking experience.
Route: Sydney – Adelaide – Perth
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Few rail journeys showcase the sheer scale of a continent like Australia’s Indian Pacific. Spanning over 4,300 km from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, it is one of the world’s longest and most iconic train routes.
The landscapes change dramatically along the way — from the Blue Mountains to the vast emptiness of the Nullarbor Plain, and finally to the wild beauty of Western Australia. Off-train excursions reveal the spirit of the Outback, from ghost towns and goldfields to Aboriginal cultural experiences.
Life on board is equally memorable: fine dining, comfortable cabins, and a convivial social atmosphere ensure the journey is as enjoyable as the destinations.
Why Go: A must for adventurers and rail enthusiasts seeking to explore Australia’s vast and untamed heart.
Route: Pretoria – Cape Town (with other routes across Africa)
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights (longer itineraries available)
Known as the “Pride of Africa”, Rovos Rail is more than just a train — it is a journey into the golden age of travel. With its wood-panelled carriages, period furnishings, and attentive service, Rovos Rail blends Edwardian charm with modern comfort.
The flagship journey between Pretoria and Cape Town showcases South Africa’s diverse landscapes: from the highveld savannahs and dramatic Great Karoo desert to lush vineyards and Table Mountain’s iconic silhouette. Longer itineraries stretch to Namibia, Tanzania, and even Egypt, making Rovos Rail one of the most ambitious luxury train networks in the world.
Why Go: For travellers seeking refined, nostalgic luxury and a unique perspective on Africa’s most captivating scenery.
As modern travel grows ever faster, these timeless train journeys highlight the luxury of travelling at leisure. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of Al Andalus, the natural drama of the Flåmsbana, or the epic sweep of the Indian Pacific, each train offers more than transport — it offers a story, an experience, and a window into the soul of a place.
Step aboard, relax, and let the rhythm of the rails transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure.
Want to find out more and book your next rail journye? Contcat our team today on 01962 396 100
