Traveling by train offers one of the most unique and scenic ways to experience the world. From sweeping mountain ranges to lush valleys and picturesque coastlines, trains offer unparalleled views that you simply can’t experience from other forms of transportation. But how can you find the most scenic routes? Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature or take a scenic detour during your travels, here’s a guide on how to find the best train routes with breathtaking landscapes.
Research Popular Scenic Train Routes
One of the easiest ways to find scenic train routes is to research the most famous ones. Many countries around the world are known for their stunning train journeys, which are specifically designed to offer spectacular views.
Famous Scenic Train Routes:
- The Glacier Express (Switzerland): Traveling through the Swiss Alps, the Glacier Express offers panoramic windows that showcase snow-covered mountains, deep valleys, and charming villages.
- The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada): This luxury train ride takes you through the Canadian Rockies, providing breathtaking views of turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountains.
- The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia): This epic journey stretches across Russia, providing travelers with views of vast plains, dense forests, and scenic stretches of the Ural and Altai Mountains.
- The Bernina Express (Switzerland & Italy): This UNESCO World Heritage route travels from the Swiss Alps to Italy, passing through dramatic landscapes, including glaciers and alpine meadows.
By exploring travel blogs, travel websites, or even asking for recommendations from other travelers, you can find out which scenic routes are worth considering.
Use Train Route Planning Tools
Several websites and apps offer train route planning services that can help you find scenic routes. Some of these platforms specifically highlight scenic trains, showing you detailed maps and suggested routes.
Popular Tools to Find Scenic Train Routes:
- Rail Europe: This platform allows you to explore and book European train routes, with a focus on the most scenic and famous journeys, like the Glacier Express or the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
- The Man in Seat 61: This website provides comprehensive guides to train journeys around the world, including the best scenic routes and tips for booking them.
- Trainline: In addition to booking tickets, Trainline offers insights into scenic train routes in Europe, including journeys through the Alps and along the Mediterranean coast.
These tools often include helpful tips about the best times to travel for optimal views and the specific highlights you can expect along the way.
Consider Geography and Landscapes
To find scenic train routes, it helps to consider the geography of the area you’re interested in visiting. Train journeys that pass through mountainous regions, coastal areas, or national parks often provide some of the most picturesque views.
Best Geographies for Scenic Train Journeys:
- Mountains: Trains that travel through mountain ranges, such as the Swiss Alps, the Andes, or the Rockies, provide travelers with dramatic landscapes, breathtaking peaks, and valleys.
- Coastal Regions: Trains running along coastlines, like the Pacific Coast in the U.S. or the Sea to Sky Highway in Canada, offer panoramic ocean views, cliffs, and beaches.
- National Parks: Some of the most scenic train routes pass through national parks or nature reserves, such as the Grand Canyon Railway in the U.S. or the Amtrak Empire Builder that travels through U.S. national parks and forests.
When planning your journey, think about what type of scenery you’re interested in, and choose a route that aligns with your preferences.
Look for Scenic Detours or Special Routes
While many scenic train routes are well-known, some routes are less publicized but equally beautiful. You can look for train journeys that might not be on the typical tourist map but offer equally stunning views.
Hidden Scenic Gems:
- The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland): Known for its role as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, this steam train travels through the Scottish Highlands, passing over iconic viaducts and through rugged countryside.
- The Royal Scotsman (Scotland): A luxury train offering a scenic journey through the Scottish Highlands with unparalleled views of castles, lochs, and vast landscapes.
- The West Highland Line (Scotland): This journey offers views of rugged coastlines, mountains, and glens, making it one of the most scenic rail journeys in the UK.
For less touristy destinations, check out local or regional train routes that might not be as widely advertised but offer incredible views.
Conclusion
Finding the most scenic train routes is easier than ever with the abundance of resources available to travelers. Whether you’re looking for iconic routes like the Glacier Express or lesser-known gems like the Jacobite Steam Train, there’s a scenic journey for every kind of traveler. Research popular routes, use planning tools, consider geography, and talk to locals to uncover some of the world’s most beautiful train experiences. And don’t forget to plan your trip around the best seasons to make the most of the landscapes on offer. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying breathtaking views from the comfort of a train.
