Train travel has long been a romanticized mode of transportation, offering a unique perspective on the world's most breathtaking landscapes. From the snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps to the lush greenery of the Scottish Highlands, there are countless scenic train routes that showcase the natural beauty of our planet.
In this article, we'll take you on a journey to explore some of the most scenic train rides in the world. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just looking for inspiration for your next adventure, these routes are sure to leave you in awe.
*1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland*
The Glacier Express is often referred to as the "slowest express train in the world." This 8-hour journey takes passengers through the stunning Swiss Alps, passing through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. The train travels from Zermatt to St. Moritz, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and picturesque villages.
*2. The West Highland Line, Scotland*
The West Highland Line is widely considered one of the most scenic train routes in the world. The journey takes passengers from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through the rugged Scottish Highlands. The train travels along the shores of Loch Lomond, crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.
*3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada*
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels through the Canadian Rockies, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and lush forests. The train journey takes passengers from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff, passing through the stunning scenery of Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.
*4. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand*
The TranzAlpine is a scenic train route that travels through the Southern Alps of New Zealand. The journey takes passengers from Christchurch to Greymouth, passing through the stunning scenery of the Waimakariri River, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. The train travels through 19 tunnels and over four viaducts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
*5. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy*
The Bernina Express is a scenic train route that travels through the Swiss and Italian Alps. The journey takes passengers from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, passing through the stunning scenery of the Engadine Valley, the Bernina Pass, and the Poschiavo Valley. The train travels over 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and picturesque villages.
*6. The Blue Train, South Africa*
The Blue Train is a luxury train that travels from Pretoria to Cape Town, passing through the stunning scenery of the African savannah. The journey takes passengers through the Magaliesberg Mountains, the Vaal River, and the Winelands region, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
*7. The Flåm Railway, Norway*
The Flåm Railway is a scenic train route that travels through the fjords of western Norway. The journey takes passengers from Myrdal to Flåm, passing through the stunning scenery of the Aurlandsfjord and the Nærøyfjord. The train travels through 20 tunnels and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
*8. The Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru*
The Belmond Hiram Bingham is a luxury train that travels to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The journey takes passengers from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes, passing through the stunning scenery of the Andes mountains and the Sacred Valley. The train travels through tunnels and over bridges, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Inca ruins.
*9. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, USA*
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a scenic train route that travels through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee. The journey takes passengers through the stunning scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, passing through tunnels and over bridges, and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
*10. The Maharajas' Express, India*
The Maharajas' Express is a luxury train that travels through the stunning scenery of India, passing through the states of Delhi, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The journey takes passengers through the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, and the Amber Fort, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and cultural heritage.
In conclusion, these scenic train rides offer a unique perspective on the world's most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure-filled journey, or simply a chance to relax and take in the views, these train routes are sure to leave you in awe. So why not embark on a journey of a lifetime and experience the beauty of our planet from the comfort of a train?
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The Most Scenic Train Rides In The World