This Gorgeous Train Will Take You Back in Time
Image: Belmond
Have you ever wondered what travel would have been like in Europe’s Golden Age of the 1920s? If you’ve ever longed for the romance and mystique of seeing the world by train during this captivating era, you might be pleased to know there’s a way you can, thanks to global luxury hotel giant, Belmond.
Restoring the Art Deco icon, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Belmond has allowed its discerning guests to step back in time as they enjoy the revitalised leg of this historic continental rail network. Read on for a closer look at the fabulous offerings on display in this iconic locomotive.
What is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is a luxury train service, operated by Belmond, that travels between Paris and Venice. Originally a trans-alpine route of the grand Orient Express rail network, today the VSOE is the premier luxury rail experience for travellers looking to experience the grandeur of the bygone Art Deco era.
The complete route takes just two days and one night, beginning in London Victoria Station, where guests board a luxury British Pullman and enjoy bellinis with brunch while they meander through the evergreen Kentish countryside. Once through the English Channel, the Pullman passes through Calais and weaves over the rolling hills of Northern France and into Paris. Once in the grand old city upon the Seine, passengers transfer to the titular historic train itself.
The VSOE then steams Southeast through France and crosses the border into Switzerland, coming in for a brief rest in Lausanne on picturesque Lake Geneva. From here, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, as the train winds its way up into the majestic mountains and on to the famous Simplon Pass (for which the train line is named).
The train then crosses into Italy and descends back down the Alps and into historic Milan. From here, the journey sweeps across the regions of Lombardy and Veneto, and through the timelessly romantic city of Verona, before crossing over the lagoon and finally coming to a stop in Venice.
On Board the Orient Express
Image: Belmond
The train is comprised of carriages which have been in use from as far back as the 1920s, some of which were acquired by Belmond’s very own founder in 1977. Lovingly restored by expert artisans, the train today is true to its historical roots in the Art Deco era, featuring iconic midnight-blue side panels, white roof and brass detailing. Inside, the carriages are adorned with French-polished cherry wood furnishings with Lalique glass detailing.
Image: Belmond
The train’s sumptuous dining carriages speak to the grandeur of old-world hospitality, with plush, patterned upholstery and Art Deco features. Guests are treated to an array of classic cocktails and seasonal dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, while attentive waiters see to their every whim.
Image: Belmond
For the overnight stay, guest’s private cabins are transformed into luxurious sleeping suites, beautifully appointed and complete with a private water closet and washbasin.
Image: Belmond
While the VSOE is currently on hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Belmond is sure to open its doors and get its old engine rolling again as soon as time allows. Be sure to take a closer look at the website to make a booking for the moment Europe is open for travel. Or just browse the incredible gallery on the Belmond website and let your imagination take you back a century in time.
Prefer travel by boat? These surf charters will blow you away.