Travel Trends: Scenic Train Rides

What is old is new again these days, and train travel is back in style. Rail journeys have become increasingly popular. These adventures are scenic, convenient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly.

Here are some of the most amazing train rides around the world.

PeruRail Vistadome Train – Peru

Climb aboard the Machu Picchu Vistadome train for breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes. The train, which mostly travels between Cusco, Sacred Valley of the Incas, and Machu Picchu, has domed windows that are perfect for a panoramic view of the wild Andes.

The ride takes just a few hours, giving you enough time to admire the scenery and relax before your next Peruvian adventure. There are only good views on this train, as every cart has panoramic windows. The scenery is diverse; you’ll pass mountains and jungles, and much of your journey will follow the Vilcanota River.

The train also features an “onboard fashion show,” featuring the latest trends spinning off traditional alpaca wool items. You may even enjoy some traditional Andean snacks, or live music and dances honoring the ancient culture of the region.

Not to mention, your final destination will be the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu. It’s a win-win for you.

Flåm Railway – Norway

Traverse the Scandinavian terrain on the renowned Flåm Railway, one of the steepest train rides in the world. You’ll pass rushing waterfalls, looming mountains, picturesque valleys, and through 20 tunnels.

The journey begins in the quaint Norwegian village of Flåm, ascends nearly 3,000 feet to the Myrdal mountain station, and then cascades back down to the fjord of Flåm. The ride takes about an hour, and the Myrdal station connects to trains running between the cities of Bergen and Olso. The railway took at least 20 years to build, and was completed in 1940.

Swiss Rail Service – Switzerland

Savvy travellers know that the absolute best way to see Switzerland is by train. It’s also the most environmentally friendly way, as it emits less carbon than an airplane or car. Plus, you’ll be swept away to regions that roads can’t go, across steep mountains and through tunnels.

On this ride, you’ll see beautiful vistas of snow-capped peaks, glimmering valleys, and deep forests, all seemingly designed to take your breath away.

The Swiss Rail is also unique because it offers travellers the opportunity to hop on and off the train to explore the country. A First Class Swiss Travel Pass includes all-access entry into more than 500 museums and cultural exhibitions throughout Switzerland, as well as local ferries, scenic trains, mountain trams, and more.

Historic Trains of Colorado – United States

There’s nothing like a journey down memory lane, and these Colorado trains will take you there. Many travellers have seen the Rocky Mountains of Canada and the U.S. by train, but fewer have added a historical component to the trip.

You can travel the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, 45 miles of track that were built in 1881. This coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive made its name hauling silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains. This scenic route goes between the towns of Durango and Silverton, bordering the Animas River and Colorado wilderness that are inaccessible by any road.

Another great scenic-historic train ride is the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, built in 1881. This heritage railway features a historic train ride in homage to the passageway used by miners in the late 1800s. This memorable two-hour train ride follows the tumbling Arkansas River. See the soaring 1000-foot granite cliffs of Colorado’s grandest canyon.

On any of these train rides, you’ll see your destination from a unique perspective as you pass through natural wonders and spectacular cities.

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