Glacier Express, Switzerland
Often called the world's slowest express train, the Glacier Express is a journey of superlatives through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Over roughly eight hours, the train connects the glamorous resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz, gliding past iconic
peaks like the Matterhorn. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views through panoramic windows as the train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels. It masterfully navigates the Oberalp Pass, the journey's highest point at over 2,000 metres, and the dramatic Rhine Gorge, often called the 'Swiss Grand Canyon'. This is not just a trip; it's a meticulously engineered performance of scenic beauty, designed to be savoured slowly.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
To journey through the Canadian Rockies by rail is to witness nature at its most majestic, and the Rocky Mountaineer offers a front-row seat. This is purely a daylight experience; the train stops overnight in comfortable hotels, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the spectacular scenery. Travelling between Vancouver and mountain towns like Banff, the route showcases a landscape of turquoise lakes, roaring rivers, and glacier-clad peaks. With glass-dome coaches, the views are unobstructed, allowing for incredible photo opportunities of Western Canada's sublime wilderness. The first-class service and gourmet meals onboard elevate the experience from a simple train ride to a luxurious adventure.
The Ghan, Australia
Crossing the continent from north to south, The Ghan is an iconic Australian adventure that slices through the nation's vast and fiery red centre. The journey from Darwin to Adelaide covers nearly 3,000 kilometres over three or four days, charting a course through some of the most remote and captivating parts of the Outback. The name itself is a tribute to the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this harsh landscape. Passengers can get off for immersive experiences, including exploring the underground town of Coober Pedy and cruising through Nitmiluk Gorge. Watching the landscape transform from the tropical Top End to the rugged Flinders Ranges is an unforgettable experience.
West Highland Line, Scotland
Regularly voted one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, the West Highland Line takes you deep into the wild, romantic heart of Scotland. Departing from Glasgow, the train travels along the shores of Loch Lomond before climbing into the remote and beautiful Rannoch Moor, an area inaccessible by road. The most famous section of the route runs from Fort William to the fishing port of Mallaig, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. This journey offers a stunning tapestry of mirrored lochs, towering mountains, and deep forests, showcasing a side of Scotland's untamed beauty that feels truly timeless.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
Known affectionately as the 'Toy Train', the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a marvel of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This narrow-gauge railway has been operating since 1881, climbing from the plains of West Bengal to the hill station of Darjeeling. The train travels almost 90 kilometres, ascending to an altitude of over 2,200 metres at its highest point. Using ingenious loops and zig-zags to navigate the steep mountain terrain, the journey provides stunning views of tea plantations and the snow-capped Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. A ride on this historic steam-hauled train is a charming and nostalgic trip back in time.
