In a world dominated by the hustle of air travel, train journeys are a testament to the magic of slow travel. With enchanting views, luxurious carriages, and rhythmic movements, there’s an undeniable romance and allure to traveling by rail. Boutique train journeys take this experience a step further, weaving landscapes, culture and history into one extraordinary journey that’s just as significant as the destination. 

From the longer expeditions such as Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and South Africa’s Rovos Rail to the one-day journeys like Norway’s Flåm Railway and Peru’s Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, here are some of the most remarkable luxury boutique train journeys that take you to the heart of your destination. 

Rocky Mountaineer with GoldLeaf Service, Canada

Take an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer. With GoldLeaf Service, you’ll experience one of the most spectacular boutique train journeys in the world, as we roll from Jasper in Alberta to the city of Vancouver. 

In GoldLeaf, you’ll kick back in plush, reclining seats in the bi-level glass-domed cabin with full-length panoramic windows, so you can see all the snowcapped mountains, dazzling blue lakes, deep green forests, dreamy meadows and wildlife in high-definition. You’ll also get access to an outdoor viewing platform, so you can get even more immersed in the stunning landscapes of western Canada. Keep your eyes peeled and you are likely to spot eagles, elk and even bears.

Meals are another highlight of the GoldLeaf Service, served in the dedicated dining room on the lower level of the bi-level coach. Crafted by talented chefs with locally sourced ingredients, you’ll indulge in the authentic flavors of the region. Enjoy a glass of wine, a freshly baked cookie, and other gourmet snacks, before disembarking each evening to spend your night in a luxurious hotel. 

You can experience the Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service from Jasper to Vancouver, with a night in Kamloops, on our Majesty of the Rockies luxury tour.

Discover it on: Majesty of the Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer

Read more: The Story of The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa is the epitome of luxury train travel in South Africa, with lashings of old-world charm and an Agatha Christie-esque atmosphere. The journey starts with you settling into your private suite, dripping in vintage decor while equipped with modern comforts. The lavish suites are wood-paneled with thick carpet and everything from full-size beds and private bathrooms and amenity bags to air-conditioning and fluffy white gowns. 

Life on board is like a step back in time, with no televisions or digital entertainment on board, yet plenty to see. There’s an observation car with an open-air balcony to soak up the South African landscapes and often an onboard historian. There are places to socialize with fellow guests including a lounge car, gift shop and dining car, all designed with timeless elegance.

The dining car will quickly become a firm favorite with breakfast, lunch, and a formal dinner every day. You’ll indulge in four-course meals crafted by skilled chefs and paired with the finest South African wines. The dress code is smart casual during the day and more formal in the evenings, adding to the allure of this vintage journey.

You can travel from Pretoria to the majestic Victoria Falls aboard the historic Rovos Rail on our Spectacular South Africa tour. 

Discover it on: Spectacular South Africa with Rovos Rail

Read more: This is what it’s actually like to travel on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

Glacier Express Scenic Train, Switzerland

The Glacier Express may be the world’s slowest train, but that’s a bonus when you’re surrounded by the world’s most impressive landscapes. Chugging along at an average of 18mph, the Glacier Express takes around eight hours to travel from Saint Moritz to Zermatt. That means you get eight hours to soak up the remarkable views of the Swiss Alps. The journey is truly special, passing over 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and endless snowy peaks, emerald valleys, deep gorges, ancient castles and charming hamlets.

Mid-journey, the train snakes down the Rhine Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland. Keep your eyes peeled here for the breathtaking views of the UNESCO-listed Aletsch Glacier. As you arrive at the final destination, Zermatt, you’ll come face to face with the iconic Matterhorn.

You’ll see it all from your plush first-class seat. The glass-domed carriage has panoramic windows allowing you to feel close to the landscapes outside. You’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch prepared onboard.

Travel through the heart of the Swiss Alps in luxurious first class on the Glacier Express Scenic Train with our Majestic Switzerland tour. 

Discover it on: Majestic Switzerland

Read more: 5 incredible photographs to take from Switzerland’s Glacier Express

Flåm Railway Scenic Train, Norway

Renowned as one of the most beautiful train journeys, the Flåm Railway offers a mesmerizing showcase of Norway’s ethereal beauty. Setting off from historic Bergen, it’s a feast for the eyes as you wind through majestic fjords and snowy mountains. You’ll marvel at the idyllic countryside with its fairytale waterfalls and charming red clapboard cottages. You’ll also come face to face with the Norwegian wilderness passing over the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, the highest in Europe.

As you ascend up the mountainside to Myrdal, you’ll see the awe-inspiring Aurlandsfjord and the Kjosfossen Waterfall. The journey ends in the gorgeous town of Geiranger, nestled among snow-capped peaks and the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. This is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting train rides on earth.

Take a magnificent journey from Bergen to Geiranger aboard the Flåm Railway Scenic Train on our Timeless Scandinavia luxury tour.

Discover it on: Timeless Scandinavia

Read more: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu, Peru

Climb aboard the Vistadome Train for a journey through Peru’s remarkable landscapes to the mysterious Machu Picchu. You’ll set off from the Sacred Valley, passing through the spectacular Urubamba Valley. It’s incredible to see the towering Andes, cascading rivers, and verdant forest whizzing by your window.

We’ll pause for lunch at Café Inkaterra, nestled between the train tracks and forest above the Vilcanota River. After lunch, we’ll set off on a guided walk through the cloud forest. You can also choose to visit a working tea plantation and learn the art of tea making or see the world’s largest private collection of Indigenous orchids. 

Legs stretched, we’ll once again board the train, settling into the comfortable seats surrounded by panoramic glass windows. There’s also an outdoor observation carriage, so you can inch closer to the stunning landscapes. If the natural beauty isn’t enough, you’ll also be entertained by live traditional music on the train and enjoy meals inspired by the region’s rich culinary scene. The star of today is the final destination – the iconic Machu Picchu – but the journey here is sure to be as unforgettable as the Incan ruins themselves. 

Get immersed in the culture and nature of Peru on the Vistadome Train with our South America luxury tours.

Discover it on: Treasures of the Incas and Grand South America

Read more: Embrace the spirituality of the Incas in Peru’s Sacred Valley

TranzAlpine Scenic Train, New Zealand

Credit @greatjourneysnz – Instagram

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train is one of New Zealand’s most dazzling boutique train journeys. You’ll traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island, starting in Christchurch on the east coast. You’ll cross the island, arriving in the town of Greymouth, near Franz Josef on the west coast.

The 138-mile journey showcases some truly remarkable scenery from the pastoral farmlands of the Canterbury Plains to the soaring snowy peaks and crystal blue, ice-fed rivers of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. 

Credit @greatjourneysnz – Instagram

One of the highlights is the Otira Tunnel, a feat of engineering burrowing into the heart of the mountain range. You’ll also watch the landscape transform into verdant rainforest before reaching the Tasman Sea. Best of all, you’ll see it all unfold in comfort, with panoramic windows, café, and open-air viewing decks. 

Journey across the South Island aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train on our New Zealand luxury tours. 

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Jan Shatabdi Express Train, India

One of the best ways to explore Rajasthan and northern India is a journey on the Jan Shatabdi Express Train. We’ll board the train in the historic town of Bhraratpur, and set off into the heart of Rajasthan. You won’t want to blink as charming villages, lush plantations and countryside roll by. 

You’ll enjoy comfortable seating and large glass windows to make the most of the beautiful views. In just a few hours you’ll arrive in Ranthambore, set on the edge of the world-renowned national park home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears and more.

A former royal retreat and hunting ground turned wildlife sanctuary, you’ll catch a glimpse of the incredible jungle as you roll into the train station. The views are an exciting preamble to your game drive through the park tomorrow. 

Travel through the landscapes of Northern India on the Jan Shatabdi Express Train with our Essence of India luxury tour. 

Discover it on: Essence of India

Read more: Walking With the King of the Big Cats in India’s Royal Hunting Grounds

Experience more of the world’s greatest luxury and boutique train journeys with our exclusive Golden Extensions. 

The most glamorous coastal cities serve up a bewitching blend of stunning beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant nightlife – and it’s all best experienced in summer. Whether you’re drawn to glitzy Saint-Tropez, energetic Rio, or laidback Sydney, here are the coastal cities that embody summer glamour. 

Saint-Tropez, France

Set in the heart of the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez is synonymous with glamour and luxury. What was once a quiet fishing village is now a summer paradise, with its reputation for glitz firmly established by Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s. In the summer, beautiful beaches like Pampelonne Beach come alive with people soaking up the Mediterranean sun. 

The city’s marina boasts an impressive array of lavish yachts, and the waterfront is lined with high-end boutiques, terraced cafes and gourmet restaurants offering the finest French cuisine. Saint-Tropez is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with world-famous clubs like Les Caves du Roy attracting celebrities and socialites from around the world. 

Despite its flashy reputation, Saint-Tropez hasn’t lost its magic. The old town, La Ponche, provides a quaint contrast to the city’s glamorous side. The narrow, winding streets, traditional Provencal market stalls, and historic Citadel add a touch of old-world charm to the city. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

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Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubbed the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik perfectly blends history with modern glamour. The UNESCO-listed city’s medieval walls and historic Old Town back onto the city’s gorgeous beaches, like Banje Beach and Sveti Jakov. They become a playground for sun-seekers in the summer months, with the turquoise water enticing swimmers and snorkelers to the shores. 

The city’s gourmet restaurants are the ideal spot to enjoy al fresco dining in the balmy evenings and savor delicious Dalmatian cuisine and fresh seafood. You also can’t resist the city’s nightlife on a warm summer night, with wine bars and exclusive clubs adding another alluring layer to Dubrovnik. Experience its food and vibrant nightlife firsthand on one of our Croatia luxury tours.

Experience it: Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Read more: Six of the world’s most beautiful walled cities and towns 

Monaco

No list of glamorous coastal cities would be complete without mentioning Monaco. This tiny yet affluent city-state on the French Riviera is the embodiment of summer glam. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea makes a stunning backdrop as you explore the iconic marina filled with superyachts, lush gardens, upscale cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

Head to the beautiful Larvotto Beach or try your luck at the elegant Casino de Monte-Carlo. You could even time your visit with high-profile events like the Grand Prix, Monaco, for the ultimate luxury coastal holiday. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is undeniably one of the most glamorous and energetic coastal cities in the world. The iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are the city’s crown jewels, with golden sands, warm waters and people pumping music and playing football. At sunset, the beachside bars and restaurants come alive with locals and visitors enjoying the unique culinary scene. 

Unwind with a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, or dive into Rio’s vibrant nightlife in the Lapa neighborhood. From chic rooftop bars to buzzing samba clubs, you can’t help but have a blast in Rio. Stick around for Carnival, and you’ll really see the city light up, with two million people descending on the city for the greatest party on earth. 

Experience it: Classic South America

Read more: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Isle of Capri, Italy

It may not be a city, but the Isle of Capri is the queen of summer glamour. Set off the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy, Capri is renowned for its crystal blue grottoes, luxury beach clubs, upscale hotels, and designer shopping. It’s also home to a remarkable culinary scene, with restaurants offering fresh seafood and authentic Italian cuisine. And it’s all best enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz in the summer months. 

Here you’ll walk in the footsteps of the most famous artists, socialites, and dreamers who were all captivated by the charms of Capri. From classic icons like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor to the modern-day glitterati like Beyonce, Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, and Leonardo DiCaprio, Capri goes hand-in-hand with stardom. 

Experience it: Ultimate Italy 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Sydney, Australia

Summer in Sydney conjures up images of lavish boat rides on Sydney Harbor and iconic beaches like Bondi and Bronte. With plenty of music and art festivals and a remarkable dining scene, summer is the best time to soak up the glamour of Sydney. You could catch a performance at the world-renowned Sydney Opera House and enjoy international cuisine in hotspots like Surry Hills, Newtown and Haymarket. Take the ferry to laidback Manly or have a picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens. You could even head out of the city to the beautiful Blue Mountains to soak up the Australian bush scenery.

Plan your summer holidays over New Year’s Eve, and you’ll witness one of the world’s most impressive celebrations with a spectacular fireworks show over Sydney Harbor. 

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

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Barcelona, Spain

With a unique combination of sun, sea, and stunning architecture, Barcelona is one of those effortlessly glamorous coastal cities. Spend your mornings exploring the icons of Barcelona like the Gothic Quarter and Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. In the afternoon, relax on sunny beaches like Nova Icaria and Barceloneta. 

As evening falls, delve into the city’s gastronomic scene, from mouthwatering tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. After dark, you can’t resist the vibrant nightlife. With glitzy nightclubs, jazz bars, and a thrilling atmosphere filling the streets, everyone comes together to celebrate summer in Barcelona. 

Experience it: Spain & Portugal in Style

Read more: 5 timeless and beautiful European cities to re-discover this summer

Cape Town, South Africa

World-class winelands, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife – Cape Town is the epitome of summer glamour. Start by exploring the city’s exceptional natural beauty. Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain or wander around the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Go swimming at Clifton Beach and Camps Bay, or meet the resident African penguins at Boulders Beach. Venture into the Cape Winelands for the most remarkable wine experiences. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are all within easy reach of the city and offer stunning vineyards and wine tastings.

You’ve also got to explore the culinary scene. Dive into local specialities at the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill. Or ask your Travel Concierge to make a reservation at a gourmet restaurant to try traditional South African dishes. You can also head to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for high-end shopping and dining experiences or check out Long Street for bustling nightlife. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: A Gastronomic Guide to Cape Town

Inca spirituality, deeply rooted in the Andean culture of Peru, is a captivating blend of ancient beliefs and reverence for nature.

In the Sacred Valley you’re invited to immerse yourself in this mysticism as you join a sacred Welcome Ceremony performed by Shaman Laura. Here, she shares how she got her calling and what you can expect from this exclusive and privileged experience.

The Spirituality of the Incas

The Inca religion, known as “Inca tradition” or “Andean spiritual art,” holds a significant position among the world’s major religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity. It is often described as nature mysticism due to its belief that humans are inseparable from nature, its creatures, and the vast universe with its stars and planets. Everything is one and everything is interconnected.

Despite the near loss of the Inca culture during the Spanish colonization of the Americas, the communities in the heart of the Peruvian Andes have successfully safeguarded these deeply ingrained traditions.

The spirituality and mysticism that enveloped the Inca culture continue to thrive within traditional families in the city of Cusco and throughout the Peruvian Andes.

For travel inspiration: Peru destination guide

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

The Incas understood that Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire from 1200 – 1533 AD, holds a unique vibrational resonance. Its location is a huge energy portal to connect with the spirit world and source, the connectedness of all things.

Just 15km north of Cusco, you will find the Sacred Valley, hailed as one of the most important historical sites in South America, and of particular significance to the Incas.

It is here, in this stunning valley gateway to Machu Picchu, embedded with mysteries, spirituality, Inca history and a myriad of ruins and stone terraces, that you will meet Shaman Laura, for this very special Welcoming Ceremony.

“[In Cusco] we have a mystical and magic city,” Shaman Laura says. “Performing the ceremony helps guests to connect with our magical city, and with natural signs.”

Dating back to pre-historic times, the ceremony is a way to celebrate and show gratitude to Pachamama, the only goddess revered by the Indigenous people of the Andes.

As part of the ceremony offering you’ll also savor a typical Peruvian meal of fresh vegetables and slow-roasted meats.

Discover this on: Treasures of the Incas and Grand South America

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A Natural Calling

“My Grandfather was an Alto Mesayuc or ‘Altomisayoc’,” Laura tells us. Increasingly rare, the Altomisayoc are the high priests of the Andes (Alto means ‘High’ and misayoq means ‘one who has power’). It is thought that there are around only 10 alive today, spread throughout Peru and Bolivia.

They receive their vocations during a dream, during a dive into a frozen lake or if they survived a lightning strike. They are said to have a special communion with the spirit world – an ability to gain access to places that most people are unaware of.

Laura explains that that due to her connection to her grandfather she also received signs from the natural elements. “As per my grandfather’s legacy, since I was a little girl, I have been connected to natural elements, in the shapes of the signs and evidence I was receiving.

“In many countries there’s a ‘sage’ and in Peru they have a lot of sages both men and women that accomplished the same function. The difference is that some of us evoke to honor our ancestors with all our soul body and spirit.”

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The Importance of Goddess Pachamama

Guests of Luxury Gold will join Laura for this age-old ceremony, in which an offering is made to the Goddess Pachamama. A fertility goddess, in the indigenous Quechua language, Pachamama (also known as Mama Pacha) translates as Mother Earth or Mother Cosmos.

“Through the Goddess Pachamama you can improve abundancy, heal production, life and spirituality,” says Laura. “Also, she can help us to find our inner force of the heart.”

During her ceremony, Laura expresses gratitude to Pachamama for crops, good weather, animals and the abundance of the soil. Andean people believe in living in harmony with nature and preserving its resources. It is believed that disrespecting Mother Earth can have negative consequences such as earthquakes and floods.

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An Exclusive and Significant Invitation

To join Laura for this ceremony is a rare and privileged invitation, which offers a deep connection both to Peru and to yourself.

“When performing the ceremony, for me I travel through my body with my ancestor and find a lot of answers to the questions of those participating, and I try to help them,” Laura says. “Also, they will be protecting their paths and their journey on this tour.”

Through the ceremony Laura also explains that guests will be ‘opening their energy circle.’ “This allows only positive energy to flow in, so they can absorb only the positive energy,” she says.

Something very deep to Laura’s heart, and that of the Andean people, she’s delighted to share her gift and the ceremony with guests. In return she hopes that guests will enjoy the experience and place a lot of “respect, focus and value to this spiritual heritage.”

To share in Inca spirituality and have the privilege to meet Shaman Laura in the Scared Valley, take a look at our luxurious Treasures of the Incas and Grand South America limited edition tours.