The carriages were built in France between 1929 and 1930 by the Wagon-Lits Company, and have now been restored to their original splendour that is matched with an on board service that combines quality meals with a romantic travel experience.

Accommodation

Al Andalus has seven renovated sleeper carriages, five of which are original Wagon-Lits carriages dating from 1929.

There are twelve standard suites on the train; each suite has two lower beds, a safe, a closet and a large bathroom.

Each of the twenty superior suites have a double bed (150 x 200 cm), a mini-bar, safe, closet and a full bathroom.

During the day, beds fold into comfortable couches, so that each suite becomes a comfortable private lounge.

All suites are individually air conditioned.  Train stewards are available at all times.

Lounge and dining cars

The train has four lounge cars, dating between 1928 – 1930.

These carriages are used as restaurants, saloons and lounges.

Music recitals are given in these cars.  All  the carriages are air conditioned and are available 24 hours a day.

Itinerary

2012

Day 1 – Sunday   Seville to Cordoba

Board the train at 12:00 (noon) at the Santa Justa Railway Station in Seville.

Settle in over luncheon,  en route to Córdoba.  On arrival, join a coach tour to the Old Town, a World Heritage Site.  Of particular interest are the Reales Alcazares, the Mosque / Cathedral of the Juderia.

There will be free time before dinner at a local restaurant,  and a night on the static train  in Córdoba station.

Day 2 – Monday    Córdoba – Baeza – Úbeda – Granada

Breakfast on board then arrival in Linares Baeza, from where the coach travels to the Olive Oil Museum and the historic part of Baeza, a world heritage site and the seat of the International University of Andalucía.

Free time before lunch and visit to Úbeda.

Return to the train for the onward journey to Grenada, where the train stops for the night.

Day 3 – Tuesday    Granada

Visit La Alhambra and the Jardines del Generalife, followed by free time in Alhambra and lunch.

In the afternoon, visit the city; the quarters of Albaicin, Sacramonte and its cathedral, the first Spanish Renaissance church.

Free time before dinner at a local restaurant, with a flamenco performance.

Overnight on the train at Granada.

Day 4 – Wednesday    Granada – Ronda – Cadiz

Enjoy the scenery of the Serrania during breakfast as the train travels to Ronda.

Visit the city which hangs on the edge of a huge escarpment known as El Tajo.  This is the birthplace of bullfighting with a history that goes back to Roman times.  Free time will be followed by lunch in Ronda.

After lunch, re-board the train for a journey to Cadiz, a coastal city on the Bay of Cadiz and one of the oldest cities in Europe with an important heritage.  Visit the city and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.

Overnight on the train at Cadiz.

Day 5 – Thursday    Cadiz – Jerez – Sanlúcar – Jerez

Arrive in Jerez during breakfast.

This is the birthplace of sherry wine and some of the most deep rooted Andalusian traditions.  Visit one of the most important wineries for a tour and wine tasting.

Continue to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, for the show “The Andalusian Dancing  Horses”.  After the show and a visit to the riding school, travel by coach to the neighbouring town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda on the estuary of the Guadalquivir River.

Lunch is followed by a boat trip down the Guadalquivir.

Return to the train waiting at Jerez, where there will be free time and dinner at a restaurant.

After dinner there will be a special tour-end party with a night on the train at Jerez.

Day 6 – Friday   Jerez – Seville

The train reaches its final destination at Seville during breakfast.

The city has a fine cultural and historic heritage, which make it an attractive tourist destination.

The city tour will end just before midday, when guests will return to the Santa Justa Station to collect luggage.

Departures 2012

May  06, 13, 20, 27.     June  03, 10, 17, 24.      September 16, 23, 30.      October 07, 14, 21, 28.     November 04, 11, 18, 25. December 02

Prices 2012

In Euros; payment can be in Euro or converted to GBP or USD at time of invoicing at the prevailing exchange rate.

Accommodation                              Standard Suite                   Superior Suite

Per person, sharing                         € 2500                                  € 2950

Single use of a Suite                         € 3500                                  € 4150

Third person supplement             Not available                      € 1000

Tour Inclusions

-  Six day and five nights on board the Al Andalus Train

-  Five breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners on board or at restaurants

-  High quality wines, liquor, coffee and tea with meals

-  Accompanying hostess throughout the journey

-  Guide during excursions

-  Coach for transfers and visits

-  Permanent security

-  Musical performances

-  All visits, transfers and entrance fees

-  An attentive crew at your service

El Transcantábrico luxury trains have been travelling through Cantabria, Castille, Asturia and the extraordinary Picos de Europa for 25 years.

Either going from Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián, or from San Sebastián to Santiago, the magic of northern Spain awaits the traveller; from Galicia to the shores of the Bay of Biscay.

Gastronomy, art, monuments and landscapes are presented to the voyager from the comfort of a five-star train hotel, El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo.

Routes & Map

Itinerary: Santiago de Compostela – San Sebastián

Meeting Point: 12.00hrs  Santiago de Compostela, Parador Nacional de Los Reyes Católicos,  Plaza del Obradoiro, 1     Telephone: +34 981582200

Day 1, Saturday

• Santiago de Compostela
• The Praza or Plaza do Obradoiro, the Platerias (full of silvermiths’ shops) and the Cathedral
• Lunch in Santiago de Compostela
• Ferrol by coach to meet the train
• Viveiro

Day 2, Sunday

• Breakfast aboard the train to Ribadeo
• Lugo’s coast, with Las Catedrales beach
• Lunch in Ribadeo
• Luarca, “The White Town of the Green Coast”
• Dinner and overnight in Luarca

Day 3, Monday

• Candas
• Gijon with city tour
• Oviedo and its Pre-Romanesque monuments
• Dinner and overnight in Oviedo

Day 4, Tuesday

• Arriondas, the heart of Asturias
• National Park of Picos de Europa
• Covadonga Lakes and the Sanctuary of Covadonga
• Cangas de Onís
• Lunch on the train
• Llanes, fishing village on the east coast of Asturias
• Dinner and overnight in Llanes

Day 5, Wednesday

• To Cantabria, through the La Hermida Pass
• Santo Toribio de Liebana sanctuary and Potes
• Cabezon de la Sal
• Comillas, the archbishop’s palace
• Lunch in Potes
• Dinner and overnight in Cabezón de la Sal

Day 6, Thursday

• Santillana del Mar
• Museum of Altamira
• Lunch in Santillana del Mar
• Santander
• The Casino on El Sardinero
• Dinner and overnight in Santander

Day 7, Friday

• Bilbao, in the Basque Country
• The Guggenheim Museum (open July – August)
• Lunch on the train
• Balmaseda
• Dinner and overnight at Balmaseda

Day 8, Saturday

• San Sebastián
• City tour and journey’s end

Departures:  March 31;  May 12, 26;  June 9, 23;  July 7, 21;  August 4, 18;  September 1, 15.

Itinerary: San Sebastián – Santiago de Compostela

Meeting Point:  12.00hrs.   San Sebastián Londres & Inglaterra Hotel, Calle Zubieta, San Sebastián         Telephone: +34 943 440 770

Day 1, Saturday

• San Sebastián
• Reception and city tour
• Coach to Bilbao to board the train
• Balmaseda
• Dinner and overnight in Balmaseda

Day 2, Sunday

• Bilbao
• Guggenheim Museum (open July – August)
• Lunch on the train
• Santander
•  The Casino on El Sardinero
• Dinner and overnight in Santander

Day 3, Monday

• Unquera
• Coach to La Hermida Pass
• Potes and Santo Toribio de Liebana sanctuary
• Lunch in Potes
• Cabezon de la Sal, by train
• Comillas
• Dinner and overnight in Cabezon de la Sal

Day 4, Tuesday

• Santillana del Mar
• Altamira caves and the medieval town
• Lunch in Santillana
• Llanes
• Arriondas
• Dinner and overnight in Arriondas

Day 5, Wednesday

• National Park of Picos de Europa
• Covadonga Lakes and the Sanctuary of Covadonga
• Cangas de Onis
• Lunch on the train
• Oviedo with city visit
• Dinner and overnight in Oviedo

Day 6, Thursday

• Gijón
• Visit and lunch in Gijón
• Luarca, ‘The White Town of the Green Coast’
• Dinner and overnight in Luarca

Day 7, Friday

• Ribadeo in Galicia
• Las Catedrales beach
• Landscape of Las Rías Altas
• Lunch in Ribadeo
• Viveiro
• Dinner and overnight in Viveiro

Day 8, Saturday

• Ferrol
• Coach to Santiago de Compostela
• Plaza do Obradoiro, the Platerias, the Cathedral
• Journey’s end

Departures: May 5, 19;  June 2, 16, 30;  July 14, 28;  August 11, 25;  September 8, 22;  October 6, 20;  December 1.

Cabin Accommodation

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is stationary overnight, allowing a good night’s rest and an opportunity to enjoy the nightlife of the nearby towns.

Each Suite on the Gran Lujo has:

• 150×200 cm Double bed
• Sofa, convertible into a bed
• Large bathroom with sauna / steam shower, hairdryer and hydro-massage
• Writing desk and telephone with outside line
• Inidivudal controls for music and lighting
• Computer with Internet, videogames, TFT TV, DVD player, game console
• Hardwood panelling and individual air-conditioning
• Large windows with curtains

The Dining Car

The elegant but simple dining car serves a fine buffet breakfast and an occasional other meal.

Most dining, except breakfasts, takes place in local restaurants, enabling passengers to sample northern Spanish cuisine from the Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque country, using the finest ingredients, frequently locally-sourced.

The prices include all meals, wines, and other drinks served during dining.

Lounge Cars

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo has 4 lounge cars, made more than a century ago.

These include the bar car with its own dance floor, with entertainment every night.  A second bar car provides a more quite atmosphere in which to enjoy a drink.  The remaining two lounge cars are for watching the scenery go by, reading or socialising with friends.

There is a library with newspapers and magazines; DVDs and television are available on board.

General Information

Dress Code

Smart leisure wear for the day.  Smart casual for the evening.

Luggage

There is limited storage space  inside the cabin for luggage storage.   Soft-topped luggage is easier to store.

Prices  2012

Booking & Reservations

To find out more, or to book El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo please call us on +44 (0)1249 890176.   We’ll be happy to answer any questions and make all your arrangements for you.

Private
Rail Car Rentals

Private rail cars give you one thing above all: the luxury of time alone with the people who matter most.

Rail Charters

Large group train travel from £35pp.

Baggage Delivery

Have your bags delivered to your Train.

If you are a travel agent you can book through us too – using Open Access Rail.

Booking  For Travel Agents

Trans-Siberian Express

One of the world’s greatest railway journeys, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs from Moscow over the Urals, across the magnificent Russian steppes and alongside the shores of the world’s largest freshwater lake.   By the time the Golden Eagle arrives in Vladivostok, it will have passed through eight time zones, and travelled over 6,000 miles; one quarter of the way around the world.  The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express  takes a leisurely two weeks for the journey, making sure you have plenty of time to take in and enjoy this voyage of a lifetime.

As well as a tour of Moscow, Russia’s vibrant capital, we will also stop at Yekaterinburg, where the Romanovs were executed;  Kazan, with its beautiful Kremlin;  Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’ ;  Ulan Ude, capital of the Buryat Republic.  We will also stop  at Lake Baikal, to visit a traditional fishing village and enjoy a barbeque at the water’s edge.

The Golden Eagle  branches off the Trans-Siberian main line to take a trip into Mongolia for a visit to the capital, Ulaan Baatar, before returning to Russia for the remainder of the trip.

In Vladivostok, there is  time to explore and tour  this rarely-visited city, which until relatively recently, was completely closed to foreigners.

One of the main attractions of the journey has to be the gradually changing scenery;  from the climb through the Ural mountains (the boundary between Europe and Asia), to the wide open steppes and broad rivers, travelling on the Trans-Siberian is the only way to truly take in the vastness and grandeur of the world’s largest country.

The Golden Eagle is formed of 12 new fully en-suite sleeping cars featuring state of the art amenities as well as a range of sumptuous public  cars for dining and relaxing.

Itinerary & Routes

The Trans-Siberian Express runs on a number of routes Eastbound and Westbound.

The Classic Route

A 14-day adventure from Moscow to Vladivostok, via Mongolia.  This tour is also available Westbound from Vladivostok to Moscow.

Departures:

Moscow to Vladivostok:    May 9 – 23;  July 30 – August 13;  August 25 – September 8.

Vladivostok to Moscow:    May 21 – June 4;  August 11 – 25;  September 8 – 22.

• Day 1     Vladivostok (arrivals)
• Day 2     Vladivostok
• Day 3     Khabarovsk
• Day 4     On board
• Day 5     Ulan Ude
• Day 6     Ulaan Baatar
• Day 7     On Board
• Day 8     Lake Baikal
• Day 9     Irkutsk
• Day 10   On board
• Day 11   Novosibirsk
• Day 12   Yekaterinburg
• Day 13   Kazan
• Day 14   Moscow
• Day 15   Moscow (departures)

Trans-Siberian Express via BAM

A 14 day alternative route, via the Baikal-Amur Mainline

This route follows the same tracks as the classic route as far as Novosibirsk.  The train then takes a route south to Novokuznetsk, before turning north over Lake Baikal.

A Westbound itinerary is also available.

• Day 1     Vladivostok (Flights arrive)
• Day 2     Vladivostok
• Day 3     Komsomolsk na Amur
• Day 4     On Board
• Day 5     Tynda
• Day 6     Novaya Chara
• Day 7     Severomuysk, Severobaikalsk
• Day 8     Bratsk
• Day 9     Sayan Mountains and Abakan
• Day 10   Novosibirsk
• Day 11   Yekaterinburg
• Day 12   Kazan
• Day 13   Moscow
• Day 14   Moscow

Mongolia & The Russian Far East

7 days from Ulaan Baatar to Vladivostok

For those with less time and a particular interest in Mongolia and the Russian Far East, this 7 day tour from Ulaan Baatar to Vladivostok allows you to experience the Eastern section of the classic Trans-Siberian train route.

• Day 1     Ulaan Baatar
• Day 2     Ulaan Baatar
• Day 3     On Board
• Day 4     On Board
• Day 5     On Board
• Day 6     Vladivostok
• Day 7     Vladivostok

Tariff 2012

Gold class twin share: £3,995 per person

Gold class single: £4,995 per person

THE SILK ROAD (MOSCOW TO BEIJING, AND BEIJING TO MOSCOW)

The Silk Road route is the same in both directions

Departures:

Westbound:    March 24 – April 13;  September 25 – October 15

Eastbound:     September 21 – October 11

21 days from Moscow to Beijing

Retracing one of the most important trading routes of ancient civilisation, this remarkable tour follows in the footsteps of such legendary figures as Alexander the Great and Marco Polo.

Crossing both Russia and China as well as some of the remotest former Soviet republics – Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – the  journey  takes in some of the most magnificent yet rarely-visited sights from the ancient world.  Eastbound trips start in Russia’s capital Moscow (westbound trips end here), with plenty of time to explore.

The Golden Eagle then travels on to Volgograd, often better known as Stalingrad, where the Soviets turned the course of the Second World War, before heading to far remoter places that owe their importance to a time much further back in history.

The crossing of the  Kara Kum desert is followed by the amazing 2,500 year old cities of Khiva and Bukhara, both considered so important by UNESCO that it supported their restoration,  as well as Samarkand, the ‘Rome of the East’. Much admired by Alexander the Great before he destroyed the ancient city, Samarkand is home to Registan Square, a spectacular open space surrounded by beautiful Islamic buildings and considered one of the most inspirational sights in central Asia.

Between visits to Khiva and Bukhara, there is  a two-day excursion into Turkmenistan and a visit to the capital city of Ashgabat, a huge modern folly in the desert and a monument to the recently deceased President Sapamurat Turkmenbashi.  The ancient city of Merv is toured before returning to Uzbekistan.

After crossing the border into China, and changing trains (details below), the tour takes in the fascinating Magao Thousand Buddha cave complex (a network of almost 500 grottoes containing over 2,000 statues and 45,000 murals created up to 1,700 years ago), the Jiayuguan fortress at the end of the Great Wall (considered one of northern China’s most spectacular sights) and the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, an army of almost 6,000 statues recognised as one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th Century.

The  journey ends in Beijing, the vibrant capital of modern, confident China, where the latest architecture rubs shoulders with Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

• Day 1     Moscow, Russia
• Day 2     Moscow
• Day 3     Onboard
• Day 4     Volgograd
• Day 5     Kara Kum Desert, Kazakhstan
• Day 6     Khiva, Uzbekistan
• Day 7     Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
• Day 8     Merv
• Day 9     Bukhara, Uzbekistan
• Day 10     Samarkand
• Day 11     Tashkent
• Day 12     Alamty, Kazakhstan
• Day 13     Crossing into China (Change of Trains)
• Day 14     Urumchi & Turpan
• Day 15     Dunhuang
• Day 16     Jiayuguan
• Day 17     Xian
• Day 18     Beijing
• Day 19     Beijing
• Day 20     Beijing – The Great Wall
• Day 21     Beijing

Kamchatka Discovery

Pre- or Post-Tour Extension – 5 Days

Extend your Trans-Siberian Express journey by taking a breath-taking 5-day tour of the Kamchatka Peninsula on the Pacific Rim ‘Ring of Fire’.

This undiscovered land of active volcanoes, geysers and wild bear contains some of the world’s most spectacular scenery.

If you are travelling eastbound, your visit to Kamchatka will be at the end of your tour; if you are travelling westbound, it is before starting your journey to Moscow.

Day 1

Flight arrivals in Petropavlovsk, the capital city of this little-known peninsula. Transfer from your flight to a centrally located hotel.  There is a  welcome dinner.

Day 2

The region is home to over 160 volcanoes, of which 29 are still active.  After a tour of the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky area, we take an Mi8 helicopter over 3 of the most spectacular – Korryaksky, Avachinsky and Kozhelsky – on our way to Geyser Valley.  Discovered in 1941, it is the only geyser field in Eurasia.  This 6km-long basin has over 90 geysers, and is the second largest in the world.  The largest geyser, Velikan, is capable of producing a jet of water reaching up to 130 feet (40 meters). Overnight  in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

Day 3

Today another private helicopter is taken to visit volcanoes south of the city – Gorely, Viluchinsky and Mutnovsky – where, weather permitting, we will land in the crater.  Our flight continues to Kurilskoye Lake and the Yuzhno-Kamchatskiy Reserve, which contains the world’s largest concentration of brown bears.  Accompanied by a Park Ranger, we will view wild bears and stellar sea eagles.

From mid-July to the end of September, the bears can be seen catching salmon as an estimated 6 million run upriver from the sea of Okhotsk to spawn in Kurilskoye Lake.  On our return, we stop at the Ksudoch Volcano for a brief visit to the crater’s edge overlooking a large lake.  The walls of the crater are coloured  red, gold, brown, and grey from volcanic activity.

This is one of Kamchatka’s most beautiful and least-visited places.  Return to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky for overnight stay.

Day 4

Morning tour of the highlights of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.  After lunch we visit an Itelmen settlement.  The native inhabitants of Kamchatka, the Itelmens are thought to have settled in this region over 6,000 years ago, having migrated from China.  Traditionally fisherman and fur hunters, they are reputedly the best herbalists among the Nordic people.

Day 5

Transfer to the airport for departing flights.

Note:  Day 4 may take place any point during the  stay, depending on weather and flying conditions.  All flights subject to cancellation due to adverse weather conditions.  In the event of this happening, there will be an alternative programme by road.

Cabin Acommodation: Imperial Suites

The Imperial Suites are the most spacious cabins available onboard the Golden Eagle measuring 120 sq ft (11.2 sq metres).

They benefit from their own large and luxurious fixed King Size bed as well as a dedicated sitting area with dressing table.

Suite facilities include private en-suite facilities with large power shower and underfloor heating, individual air-conditioning, wardrobe, DVD/CD player with LCD screen and two large picture windows.

Guests will also have a dedicated butler service, a selection of complimentary drinks from the premium bar list, included laundry service and room upgrades to the next available category at our selected hotels as per the itinerary.

• Area: 120 sq ft (11.1 sq m)
• Width: 17ft 4ins (3.6m)
• Length: 6ft 7ins (2m)
• Bed Width: 5ft/1.5m; sleeps 2 in (UK) King Size bed
• Bed Length: 6ft 2ins (1.9m)
• Cabins per car: 1 (plus 3 Gold Class Cabins)

• Sitting area
• Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
• Recessed lighting and wardrobe
• Dressing Table
• Personal safe
• Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
• Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided; towels & linens changed daily
• DVD/CD player with LCD screens
• Drinks from the Bar Car included from the Standard and Premium Bar List (excluding Premium Wine List); complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water available at all times
• Dedicated Butler Service with laundry service included

Cabin Accommodation: Gold Class

Gold Class cabins have everything from power showers and underfloor heating to a DVD/CD player, LCD screen and individual air conditioning – and at 77sq ft (7 sq m) they are among the largest rail cabins anywhere in the world.

Fully en-suite, the bathrooms contain a separate shower cubicle.

• Cabin area: 77 sq ft (7sqm)
• Cabin length: 6′ 7″ (2m)
• Cabin width: 11′ 8″ (3.6m)
• Lower bed width: – 4′ 5″ (1.35m)

• 77 sq ft (7 sq metres)
• Sleeps 2 in either lower standard (4ft 6) double bed or bunk style
• Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
• Recessed lighting and wardrobe
• Personal safe
• Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
• DVD/CD player with LCD screens
• Towels and Linens changed regularly
• Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin
• Drinks from the Bar Car included from the Standard Bar List
• Laundry service available for a fee
• 5 cabins per carriage

Cabin Accommodation: Silver Class

Silver cabins are more compact at 60sq ft (5.5 sq m) and have similar facilities with a fully en-suite wet room.

• Cabin area: 60 square feet, (5.5sqm)
• Cabin length: 6′ 7″ (2m)
• Cabin width: 9′ (2.7m)
• Lower bed width: 4′ (1.2m)
• Upper bed width: 2′ 9″ (85cm)

• 60 sq ft (5.5 sq metres)
• Sleeps 2 in lower small double bed (4ft) or bunk style
• Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
• Recessed lighting and wardrobe
• Personal safe
• Private en-suite bathroom with ‘wet-room’ style shower and toilet
• DVD/CD player with LCD screens
• Towels and Linens changed regularly
• Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin
• Laundry service available for a fee
• 6 cabins per carriage

Restaurant Cars

A particular delight of the Golden Eagle is two beautifully appointed restaurant cars, the venue for chefs to serve carefully-prepared meals using only the finest local ingredients.

Whether it be the world-renowned ‘Borsch’, caviar or Omul – a fish unique to Lake Baikal – they offer a culinary experience representing the very best of Russia.

Meals are complemented by wines from around the world, as well as – naturally – vodka.

Lounge Car

The social heart of the train is of course the bar car, a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board.

Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers; the bar stays open until the last person leaves.

General Information

What is included in the price

All accommodation as per the itinerary, both on board the train and in hotels; all meals starting with dinner on the first day (on some tours this may differ slightly, please refer to the specific itinerary); a generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks and tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise); all arrival and departure transfers; guided off train sightseeing excursions; the services of experienced tour leaders; complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water 24 hours a day, all gratuities; the services of a doctor (except where stated otherwise).

Gratuities

All gratuities are included in the tour price.  Passengers are asked to refrain from offering gratuities to crew/hoteliers/drivers etc.

Luggage

There is limited storage space inside the cabin for luggage storage.  Soft-topped luggage is easier to store.  Clients can have assistance to store their luggage.

Dress Code

During the day, dress is casual both on and off the train.   In the evening we suggest smart casual.

Tariff

For full  details and quotes for Trans-Siberian railway tours and journeys, please contact us on +44 (0)1249 890176.

We’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a full quote.

Booking & Reservations

We’ll be happy to answer any questions and make all your arrangements for you.

We book the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express directly on your behalf.

Contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890176 or info@luxurytrainclub.com

The Palace on Wheels is rated 4th best train journey in the world.

Covering some of India’s greatest tourist destinations, the train leaves from Delhi and takes in Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer and Agra (home of the Taj Mahal).

Travelling on the famed Palace on Wheels is one of the most memorable ways to explore India’s stately splendour.  The carriages have been refurbished as the original saloons of the Maharajas.

Sightseeing & Stops

The Palace on Wheels travels to the pink Rajasthan state capital Jaipur, the golden citadel Jaisalmer, the blue city of Jodhpur, the National Park Ramthambhor, the symbol of chivalry Chittorgarh, the romantic city of the lakes Udaipur, the bird sanctuary Bharatpur and the Mughal capital Agra with the Taj Mahal before returning to Delhi.

• Delhi
• Jaipur
• Amber Fort. A vast Mughal & Hindu influenced fort in the town of Amer
• Jaipur city markets. Shop in the city’s colourful bazaars.
• Jai Mahal Palace dinner
• Jungle safari in Ranthambore National Park (possibly seeing tigers, leopards, jackals and a host of other mammals, birds and reptiles) follow by breakfast
• Chittorgarh Fort. Rajasthan’s largest fort, occupied from 7th century to 1568
• Udaipur
• Lake Pichola
• Jaisalmer
• Sam Sand Dunes & Camels
• Jodhpur
• Bharatpur
• Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Home to over 400 species of birds.
• Agra city markets
• Agra Fort (The Taj Mahal)
• Delhi

Route & Map

The journey takes 7 Nights / 8 Days

Departure every Tuesday in February, March, April, September, October, November, December, January, February , March, April.

Palace On Wheels Facilities

Cabin Accommodation

There are 14 coaches on the Palace On Wheels, each named after a former Rajput state and decorated in fantastically lavish royal styles!

Twin beds are side by side. Each cabin has its own bathroom with shower, toilet and hot and cold water.  The cabin accommodation includes a TV.

Each saloon is attended by a valet and has snacks, tea and coffee making facilities available.  There is a lounge in each saloon for guests.

Dining Cars

There are two dining cars for guests; the Maharajah and the Maharani restaurants.

The restaurants serve both regional dishes, Indian specialities and a range of international cuisines.

The tables in each car are set for 2 people and 4 people respectively.

Should you wish to dine in privacy, meals can also be brought to your room.

Dress Code

Light tropical or light woollen clothing is recommended.   For dinner on the train semi-formal attire is recommended.

Tariff

Price (in US dollars) for double occupancy, per person.

The tariff is inclusive of:

• Guaranteed one-night accommodation on the above room-sharing basis at the The Suryaa Hotel or similar including breakfast
• All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary by private air-conditioned car with driver (Delhi portions only)
• Two airport transfers: airport/hotel and train station/airport
• One half-day sightseeing tour of Delhi followed by a transfer to the train station and assistance with check-in aboard the Palace on Wheels
• Service of an English-speaking guide for all sightseeing
• Palace on Wheels 7-night tour, including cost of travel & accommodation per the itinerary, full catering (morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner), tea/coffee/bottled water, conducted sightseeing tours in deluxe coaches, entrance fees for monuments and palaces and cultural entertainment

Tariff does NOT include:

• Domestic or international airfare
• Travel insurance or visa fees
• Lunches and dinners during your two-day stay in Delhi
• Liquor, soft drinks, juices, wine or beer
• Hotel incidentals, telephone calls, laundry services, additional toiletries, video and still camera fees at monuments, gratuities, souvenirs, or any items of a personal nature
• Compulsory holiday dinner charges that may be required by the hotels on 24th December, 25th December, and 31st December

Booking & Reservations

To book your luxury train journey on the Palace On Wheels, please call us directly in the UK on +44 (0)1249 890176.

We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about the Palace On Wheels train tours and journeys as well as make reservations for you.

Experience a panoramic view of the mystical landscapes of Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Laos.

The majesty and splendour of the Eastern & Oriental Express (E&O) with its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, combined with the adventure of a journey through the heart of Asia, is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.

Train Tours

The classic journeys include:

• Bangkok to Singapore: 4 days, 3 nights
• Singapore to Bangkok: 3 days, 2 nights

The Chronicles of South East Asia train journeys include:

• Epic Thailand: 7 days, 6 nights (Bangkok to Chiang Mai)
• Fabled Hills: 7 days, 6 nights (Singapore to Bangkok)
• Tales of Laos: 4 days, 3 nights (Bangkok to Laos)

For detailed itineraries and route maps, please contact us.

Route & Map

This route map shows the classic Singapore to Bangkok or Bangkok to Singapore Eastern and Oriental Express train tour.

Cabin Accommodation

The Eastern & Oriental Express has  three types of luxury cabin accommodation:  Pullman Cabins,  State Cabins and Presidential Suites.

Pullman Cabin

• 62 square feet
• Private lounge by day
• Upper & lower single bed
• Lower bed converts to a banquette for daytime seating
• Private en suite shower, washbasin and WC
• Wardrobe with in-room safe

State Cabin

• 84 square feet
• 35% larger than a Pullman Cabin
• Private lounge by day
• Fixed daytime seating
• Seating converts to single beds at night
• Private en suite shower, washbasin and WC
• Wardrobe with in-room safe

Presidential Suite

• 125 square feet
• 48% larger than a State cabin
• Private lounge by day
• Banquette seating, fixed chair & two moveable chairs
• Seating converts to single beds at night
• Private en suite shower, washbasin and WC
• Wardrobe with in-room safe
• Complimentary bar

The Dining Car

You are assured of excellent Eastern and European cuisine in the dining car, sitting at tables for 2 or 4 people.

Chefs can cater for specific dietary needs.  Please tell us of any special requirements at the time of booking.

The Bar Car

Find cocktails, aperitifs, liqueurs and a fully stocked international bar on the Eastern & Oriental Express each evening, whilst enjoying live music from the resident pianist as well as local entertainment.

The Observation Car

The Observation Car offers you a truly unobstructed view of the scenery around you, with an open observation deck.

This is the perfect place to watch the exquisite scenery drift by as you sip a cocktail in the evening or tea in the afternoon.

Dates and Tariff

Bangkok to Singapore

 Pullman Superior:  GBP £1,440,  State Cabin: GBP £2,070,  Presidential Suite : GBP £3,010

March 4, 11, 18.  April 1, 24.  May 16.  June 25.  July 23.  August 27.  September 23.  October 6, 21.  November 6, 18, 27.  December 23.

Singapore to Bangkok

Pullman Superior:  GBP £1,440,  State Cabin: GBP £2,070,  Presidential Suite : GBP £3,010

March 8, 15.  April 21.  May 2.  June 19.  July 17.  August 21.  October 3, 11, 26.  November 11, 23.  December 19.

Epic Thailand

State Cabin:  GBP5,700,  Presidential Suite:  GBP 7,300

October 30

Fables of the Hill

State Cabin:  GBP5,700,  Presidential Suite:  GBP 7,300

March 24.  September 16.

Tales of Laos

No available dates.

Prices are per person based on double occupancy.

For full tariff details and a quote please contact us on +44 (0)1249 890176 or info@luxurytrainclub.com

Booking & Reservations

We can reserve and book the Eastern & Oriental  for you.  Simply contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890176 or info@luxurytrainclub.com

We’ll be happy to answer any questions and make all your arrangements for you.

A journey on the Northern Belle is more than just a day trip, you’re travelling back to the spirit of 1930’s and the full glory of the British countryside.  The Northern Belle carriages of the Orient-Express provide the ultimate in stylish and enjoyable day excursions and short breaks from major stations throughout the UK.

Lavishly furnished with specially commissioned fabrics, intricate marquetry and glistening brass, every exquisite detail sets the scene for your dalliance with the romance of travel.

Itineraries

With day trips, dining experiences and afternoon teas, the Northern Belle offers a range of journeys and excursions as well as seasonal day trips.

Seasonal Offers

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL GOLD CUP DAY

From £400 per person

16 March 2012

Start and end this fabulous day out in style.

Your day includes:

• Brunch with Bellini on departure from London Victoria
• Coach transfer to Cheltenham Racecourse
• Entrance to Tattersalls Enclosure with reserved seat in the Guinness Stand
• Dinner with Champagne and half a bottle of wine per person on return trip

Smart daywear is appropriate; please do not wear jeans or trainers.  Do remember to wear sensible shoes as you will be outdoors for most of your time at the racecourse.

This journey is suitable for passengers with special access needs, but a carer will be required due to the distance between the coach park and racecourse.

Signature Journey

Enjoy lunch with champagne and a half bottle of wine included as you witness the delights of the British countryside throughout the year.

Departures available from: Macclesfield, Manchester, Stoke on Trent, Glasgow, Huddersfield, Leeds, York, Oxford, Swindon, Birmingham, Coventry, Milton Keynes, Cardiff, Swansea, Derby, Leicester, Nottingham, Leeds, York, Cardiff, Neath, Birmingham, Coventry

Dress code: Smart daywear.  No jeans or trainers.

Afternoon Tea

Enjoy an afternoon tea on the exquisite Northern Belle starting with a glass of champagne and followed by a traditional tea with sandwiches, cakes and scones.

Departures available from: Glasgow, Grantham, Lincoln, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Worcester.

Booking & Reservations

We can book any of the trips on the Northern Belle for you with no additional booking fee.

Simply call us directly on +44 (0)1249 890176.

We’ll be happy to make all of your arrangements for the luxury train journey of your choice.

Relive the romance of rail travel, the way it was meant to be.  Nostalgia is mixed with elegance, grace and pampered luxury.  The internal surroundings are exquisite and the external scenery is breathtaking.

Travel in 5-star luxury on board this historically restored fleet of railway carriages through the heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies in Alberta and British Columbia.

 Royal Canadian Rockies Experience

• July 15-21, 2012
• August 15-21, 2012
• Tariff – CAN $8,000 per person (double occupancy) , plus 5%GST
• Tour length – six days/five nights
• Beginning and ending in Calgary

Royal Pacific Express

• August 30 – September 3, 2012
• Tariff – CAN$ 5,800 per person (double occupancy), plus 5% GST
• Tour length –  five days/four nights
• Calgary to Vancouver one-way

Royal Fly-Fishing Adventure

• July 29 – August 4, 2012
• Tariff – CAN$ 8,800 per person (double occupancy), plus 5%GST
• Tour length – six days/ five nights
• Beginning and ending in Calgary

Royal Canadian Rockies Itinerary

This is the signature journey of the Royal Canadian Pacific.

Unusually for a luxury train journey, the Royal Canadian Pacific stops  on the tracks every night, enabling the  experience and enjoyment of the Rockies in their entirety.

Highlights include:

• Banff National Park & ski resort.
• Lake Louise. A marvellous emerald lake
• Kicking Horse Gondola. A trip on the Eagle’s Eye Express to 7,700 feet for an unrivalled view of the Rockies.
• The Spiral Tunnels where the Royal Canadian Pacific must climb 1,070 feet in just 10 miles of track in the narrow mountain pass.
• Columbia Valley Wetlands
• Crowsnest Pass
• Frank Slide
• Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Optional helicopter tour in Banff National Park

Route & Map

The Royal Canadian Pacific’s Rockies Experience

Overnights at:

Calgary – Cowley – Summit – Golden – Lake Louise – Calgary

ROYAL PACIFIC EXPRESS

Here we travel from Calgary to Vancouver on a trip following the route of the first Transcontinental train to arrive at the Pacific on July 4, 1886.

Experience the amazing scenery of the original rail route through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, following in the footsteps of the first tourists to travel the nation by train.

Tour highlights:

• On-board CPR Historian
• Heritage menus
• Banff and Lake Louise
• Kicking Horse Pass and the Spiral Tunnels
• Revelstoke Railway Museum
• Roger’s Pass
• Fraser Canyon
• Vancouver, home of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games

ROYAL FLY-FISHING ADVENTURE

Fish in pristine trout fishing rivers, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains……relax on-board  in luxury.

Tour highlights:

• Southern Alberta and South Eastern British Columbia boast some of the best fly-fishing in North America
  *Rivers may vary to accommodate the best fishing locations at time of excursion
• Crowsnest and Frank Slide
• Columbia Valley
• Yoho National Park
• Kicking Horse Pass and the Spiral Tunnels
• Banff National Park

Private fishing guides offer local expertise on all rivers; guide to guest ratio of 2:1.

Cabin Accommodation

All rooms contain the following facilities:

• 3 piece private en suite with shower, washbasin and WC
• In-room safe
• Internal on-train telephone
• Wardrobe and clothes storage
• Room service

Dining Car

The Craigellachie dining car serves up the finest cuisine by two senior chefs in a sumptuously decorated dining car at tables seating six and eight people respectively.

INCLUDED

• Airport transfer
• Welcome reception
• First-class passage on the Royal Canadian Pacific vintage luxury train
• Exceptional cuisine and open bar service onboard the train
• Luxury accommodation in private staterooms
• Evening turndown service
• Select off-train activities

Picture Gallery

In addition to the  photos in the gallery at the top of this page, there are  many more images here:

Royal Canadian Pacific image gallery

Private Rail Car Charter

The train is also available for private charters.

For train charters and private rail car rentals please call us on +44 (0)1249 890176.

Booking & Reservations

To find out more about the Royal Canadian Pacific, as well as make bookings and reservations,  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890176 or info@luxurytrainclub.com

We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about luxury train tours in Canada (or elsewhere around the world) and make reservations for you.

The Deccan Odyssey is the air-conditioned luxury train that operates in Maharashtra, India.

The train journey, over 7 days, starts and ends in Mumbai, with visits to Maharashtra’s greatest cultural destinations throughout the state – all in the extraordinary luxury of the Deccan Odyssey train.

Deccan Odyssey

Seasonal Timetable

The Deccan Odyssey starts on a Wednesday and runs every 7 days from October to April each year.

Sightseeing & Stops

The 7-day journey  covers UNESCO world heritage sites, historical and cultural visits as well as beaches.  Some of the major attractions include:

• The Ajanta Caves:  Home of the world’s oldest frescoes.
• Ellora:  An extraordinary complex of temples carved from a single basalt cliff.
• Shilpa Gram:  A handicraft village perfect for shopping.
• Sula Winery:  Taste award winning wines at this vineyard.
• Sindhudurg:  An impressive ocean fort built between 1664-1667
• Goa Beaches.
• Basilica of Bom Jesus:  A Portuguese 16^th century church
• Museum of Goan Antiquities.
• Mangeshi Hindu Temple.
• Sahakari Spice Farm:  A lush green farm growing, popular spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon and cardamom.
• New Palace, Kolhapur.
• Bhavani Mandap Mahalaxmi Temple
• Shalini Palace
• Menezes Braganza Pereira house:  A 350 year old Portuguese heritage house.
• Mumbai

Route Map

This map shows the route the Deccan Odyssey follows in India:

Deccan Odyssey Train Facilities

With over 21 carriages taking just 80 passengers in total, the train includes over 30 staff to help create your luxury train journey through India’s great state  of Maharashtra.

You’ll get plenty of space with just 8 passengers per carriage.  There are 2 presidential suite carriages with 2 coupés per carriage.  There is one valet per carriage to attend to your needs.

On-board facilities include TV, central CD player, cell/mobile phones, internet access, foreign exchange facilities, etc.

• Air-conditioning
• LCD TV in 11 lounge cars
• Plasma TV
• Health spa with steam, beauty parlour & gymnasium
• Channel Music
• Cell/mobile phone on demand
• Internet access
• Foreign exchange
• Laundry services
• 24-hour room service
• Valet attendant
• Special assistance for the physically challenged
• Luggage collection facility
• Vanity Packs
• Fully stocked bar
• Daily newspapers & magazines
• Mail box
• 110/230V
• Business centre
• Internet, Fax