28 January, 2020
While train travel is kind on the carbon footprint, it also reminds us of the joys of a slow-paced escape. Ahead of the Easter weekend, Sebastian Schoellgen, founder of Eighty Four Rooms, a meticulously curated portfolio of the world's most unique and exclusive boutique hotels and houses, has picked out the routes to make your spring getaway as much about the journey as the destination. Expect village-hopping in the Italian Riviera, two-day European odysseys and round-trips through Napa Valley's wineries. Full steam ahead.
Duration: Two days. Leaves London Victoria Sundays 10am and reaches Venice Monday 6.25pm.
Best time to travel: April
Good to know: Dress smart; dining aboard these historic, art-deco carriages is a glamorous affair - the three-course bellini brunch is a particular favourite among passengers.
Route: Montreux to Gstaad, Switzerland
Duration: 1 1/4 hours
Best time to travel: March, for the ultimate Alpine wonderland.
Good to know: Stop in picturesque Rougemont for the best raclette and fondue at Cerf, a traditional Swiss Restaurant.
N/A
Route: St Moritz to Zermatt, Switzerland
Duration: Eight hours
Best time to travel: April for snow-capped mountains.
Good to know: The Glacier Express is often referred to as "the slowest express train in the world". Book the Excellence Class to enjoy window seats, a bar area, personal travel guidance and multi-course lunch.
Route: Levanto to La Spezia, Italy
Duration: 45 minutes
Best time to travel: April; the Riviera is lovely in spring, when tourists are few and temperatures are mild.
Good to know: Combine your journey with a day trip to Portofino, less than two hours' drive from Levanto.
N/A
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William, Scotland
Duration: Three hours 50 minutes
Best time to travel: April
Good to know: The line is considered the world's most scenic, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
Route: Downtown Napa to St Helena (and back), Calfornia, US
Duration: Three hours
Best time to travel: March
Good to know: This 36-mile round-trip gives passengers the inside track on some of the most celebrated winemaking families in Napa.
