On board, the Coastal Pacific has an open-air viewing carriage where travelers can catch epic views of the dramatic seasides drifting by. Back inside the train, travelers will find a casual café serving up local dishes like lamb shank and steak and cheese pie, as well as a selection of New Zealand wines.
Hop off the train in Blenheim to tour some of New Zealand’s top vineyards in its famous Marlborough region or explore the coastal town of Kaikōura, known for its abundant marine life, natural beauty, and whale watching tours.
London to Cornwall aboard Belmond’s Britannic Explorer
The newest luxury train to join Belmond’s illustrious line-up is the UK-based Britannic Explorer. Travelers craving oceanfront views should book a journey aboard the line to Cornwall. The four-day rail voyage whisks travelers through verdant countryside and beach towns as they explore Southwest England.
On the second day of the journey, the train ambles along the UK’s famed Riviera Line, historic tracks along the seaside that lead to the English beach resort areas of Devon and Cornwall. Along this heritage track, stony sea cliffs submerge into translucent aquamarine waters and postage stamp-sized fishing villages slide by the windows. Take in the views while having tea service in the elegant dining car, designed to evoke an English garden party, or enjoy the panoramas from the plush bed in your private suite.
As the train enters Cornwall, watch sailboats bob at their moorings as the train skates by the town of St. Austell. Passengers stop for the afternoon in south Cornwall to explore the seaside hamlets of Penzance.
Vietnam’s Central Coast aboard the Vietage by Anantara
Winding its way through the heart of Vietnam, Anantara’s Vietage train cuts a partial path along Vietnam’s central coast. The scenery is a combination of tropical countryside and waterfront views. The railway runs between Da Nang, Quy Nhon, and Nha Trang, with each journey spanning a leisurely five to six hours. Amid the lush greenery rushing by the windows, travelers will experience portions of the journey that hug the stunning oceanfront along the section of track between Quy Nhon and Nha Trang. Travelers will also glimpse the tranquil shores of An Khe Lake and the seaside city of Quang Ngai, as well as other scenic points of interest, including ruins of ancient cities.
On board the train, passengers are assigned comfortable booths with bamboo privacy dividers. Along the way, tuck in to local dishes like Hoi An chicken rice, as well as an afternoon tea service featuring caviar and Vietnamese tea. There is also a selection of Vietnamese gins, along with other spirits and wines, that pair beautifully with the views rolling by.
