As the growing number of vintage train fans know, there is nothing more romantic than partaking in a gourmet meal on a steam train, or an afternoon spent lounging in the lush compartment of an Art Deco-era bar car.The gentle rocking of the rails lulls you into a state of relaxation almost unheard of in this era of crowded flights and congested highways.
But for some travelers the idea of being "stuck on a train" for a long journey is daunting. Luckily, many of the world's most romantic vintage train trips can be done in a weekend. Here are some of the best:
The Venice, Italy, to Oxford, England, leg of the Orient Express features one of the most famous and beautiful trains you will ever lay your eyes on. Everything on the Orient Express is restored vintage, not reproduction. Board at the train station in Venice and spend the afternoon and evening traveling through Switzerland and France. In the evening, your cabin is made up by your private cabin attendant, who lays out your own keepsake Orient Express bathrobe and slippers for you. You end up de-boarding, traveling through the Chunnel, and arriving at Dover for the leg to Oxford on the British Pullman where more champagne and plush vintage upholstery is awaiting. Orient Express also operates the reproduction-vintage Northern Belle on day trips throughout Britain.
Also in Britain, which pioneered the steam engine at the dawn of the Industrial Age, the Isle of Man Steam Railway is a 3-foot-gauge, intact vintage rail system. The railway runs from Douglas through Port Soderick, Santon, Ballasalla, Castletown and Port St. Mary to the southern resort of Port Erin. It's a popular way to explore some of the quaintest towns and villages on the island - home of the famous cat without a tail. At 15-plus miles it is the longest narrow gauge steam line in Britain.
The Napa Valley Wine Train offers wine-tasting trips and gourmet dining experiences on retrofitted style trains. It's a great alternative to renting a car and driving for afternoon tastings in the region. Afterward, you can relax in a vinotherapy tub at one of the valley's sumptuous spas.
The Niagara Weekender takes travelers roundtrip from New York City to Niagara Falls on a three-day trip with off-train accommodations along the way. The journey includes meals, accommodations and entry to the falls themselves, one of the most romantic destinations since honeymoons began.
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