Traveling by train offers a unique and immersive way to see the world. Unlike flying, which whisks you from one point to another without much sense of the journey in between, train travel allows you to experience the changing landscapes, cultures, and histories of the places you pass through. While famous routes like the Orient Express and the Trans-Siberian Railway get a lot of attention, there are many lesser-known railway journeys that offer equally stunning and unforgettable experiences. Here, we explore some of these hidden gems, showcasing the beauty and wonder of traveling by rail.
The Flåm Railway, Norway
Tucked away in the mountains of Norway, the Flåm Railway is often overshadowed by more famous routes, but it is a spectacular journey that deserves its own spotlight. This 20-kilometer railway line, connecting the mountain station of Myrdal to the village of Flåm, descends nearly 900 meters through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe.
The Flåm Railway is renowned for its steep gradient and stunning views, including waterfalls, lush valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The journey takes about an hour, winding through 20 tunnels and over several bridges. One of the highlights is the Kjosfossen waterfall, where the train makes a brief stop, allowing passengers to disembark and take in the powerful cascade. This route is particularly beautiful in the summer, when the landscape is green and vibrant, but it also offers a magical winter wonderland experience when blanketed in snow.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line in Scotland is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Jacobite Steam Train (better known as the Hogwarts Express), but this route offers equally spectacular views without the crowds. Running from Glasgow to Mallaig, this line takes passengers through some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in Scotland.
Travelers on the West Highland Line are treated to views of rugged mountains, serene lochs, and dense forests. One of the most dramatic sections is the stretch between Fort William and Mallaig, which includes the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. This 21-arched railway bridge offers sweeping views over Loch Shiel and the surrounding highlands. The journey also passes through Rannoch Moor, a vast expanse of wilderness that is home to diverse wildlife and offers a sense of solitude and tranquility.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China
Often referred to as the “Sky Train,” the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is an engineering marvel and one of the highest railway lines in the world. This route connects Xining in Qinghai Province to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, traversing the rugged and remote Tibetan Plateau.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway offers unparalleled views of some of the most dramatic and pristine landscapes on Earth. Passengers can see snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, and shimmering lakes, all while traveling at altitudes that reach over 5,000 meters. The train is specially equipped with oxygen supply systems to help passengers cope with the high altitude. Highlights of the journey include views of the Tanggula Mountains, the source of the Yangtze River, and the stunning Namtso Lake, one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express is a less well-known route that offers one of the most scenic train journeys in Europe. This narrow-gauge railway connects the Swiss town of Chur with the Italian town of Tirano, crossing the Swiss Engadin Alps.
The Bernina Express is famous for its dramatic alpine scenery and engineering feats, including the spiral viaduct at Brusio and the high-altitude Bernina Pass. The route passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, offering passengers panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and pristine lakes. One of the most striking sections is the journey across the Landwasser Viaduct, a six-arched limestone structure that seems to float above the valley below. The train’s large windows allow for unobstructed views, making this an ideal journey for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The Al Andalus, Spain
The Al Andalus is a luxury train that takes passengers on a journey through the heart of Andalusia in southern Spain. While it is often overshadowed by the more famous Transcantábrico, the Al Andalus offers a unique and opulent travel experience.
This train journey combines luxury with cultural and historical exploration, passing through some of Spain’s most beautiful and historically significant cities. Starting in Seville, the route includes stops in cities such as Córdoba, Granada, and Cádiz. Passengers can explore the Alhambra Palace, the Mezquita of Córdoba, and the vibrant flamenco culture of Seville. The train itself is a marvel of early 20th-century design, with elegant dining cars, comfortable sleeping compartments, and attentive service that harkens back to the golden age of train travel.
The Coastal Pacific, New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, and the Coastal Pacific railway offers a front-row seat to some of the country’s most beautiful coastal scenery. This route runs between Christchurch and Picton on the South Island, hugging the rugged coastline and offering views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Coastal Pacific is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and marine wildlife. Passengers can often spot seals and dolphins from the train. The journey also includes views of the Kaikoura Ranges, with their snow-capped peaks providing a stunning backdrop. One of the highlights of the journey is passing through the wine-growing region of Marlborough, where passengers can enjoy views of vineyards and rolling hills.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan is one of Australia’s most iconic train journeys, but it is often overshadowed by the more famous Indian Pacific route. This transcontinental journey runs from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, passing through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre.
The Ghan offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Australia, from tropical savannahs to arid deserts. The journey includes stops in Alice Springs and Katherine, where passengers can explore the natural wonders of the Outback, such as Uluru and the Katherine Gorge. The train itself offers comfortable accommodations and gourmet dining, with meals featuring local Australian produce. This journey is a must for those wanting to experience the vastness and beauty of the Australian landscape.
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
The Reunification Express, also known as the North-South Railway, is a lesser-known gem that offers an unforgettable journey through Vietnam. This route connects the capital city of Hanoi in the north with Ho Chi Minh City in the south, spanning over 1,700 kilometers.
The Reunification Express takes passengers through diverse landscapes, from lush rice paddies and tropical forests to stunning coastal views and bustling cities. One of the highlights of the journey is passing through the Hai Van Pass, a mountain pass with breathtaking views of the South China Sea and the surrounding hills. The train also passes through historical cities such as Huế, the former imperial capital, and Da Nang, known for its beautiful beaches and Marble Mountains. This route offers a unique way to experience the rich culture and history of Vietnam.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
While the Rocky Mountaineer is relatively well-known among train enthusiasts, it is often overshadowed by other famous routes in North America. This luxury train journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, offering a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking scenery in North America.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers various routes, with the most popular being the journey between Vancouver and Banff. This route takes passengers through dramatic mountain passes, alongside pristine lakes, and past towering waterfalls. One of the highlights is passing through the Spiral Tunnels, a marvel of engineering that allows the train to navigate steep gradients. The train offers comfortable seating, gourmet dining, and glass-domed observation cars that provide unobstructed views of the stunning scenery.
The Serra Verde Express, Brazil
The Serra Verde Express is a lesser-known but incredibly scenic railway journey in Brazil. This route runs between the cities of Curitiba and Morretes in the southern state of Paraná, traversing the lush Atlantic Forest and the Serra do Mar mountain range.
The Serra Verde Express is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including deep canyons, cascading waterfalls, and dense tropical forests. The journey includes crossing the impressive São João Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The train also passes through numerous tunnels and over several viaducts, including the iconic Marumbi Viaduct. This route offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In conclusion, while famous railway routes like the Orient Express and the Trans-Siberian Railway capture much of the attention, there are countless other scenic train journeys around the world that offer equally spectacular and memorable experiences. Whether you are seeking dramatic mountain landscapes, lush tropical forests, or historical and cultural exploration, these lesser-known railway routes provide a unique and immersive way to travel. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring these hidden gems, you can discover the true beauty and wonder of traveling by train.
