Mighty Trains

Norway is the unlikely home to one the most spectacular train journeys in the world: the Nordland line. Ride past the capital city of Oslo, where the terrain takes a distinctly alpine turn as magnificent glaciers and fjords hover into view. With more than 50% of Norway’s terrain made of mountains, it’s no surprise that this route snakes through its fair share of tunnels, 182 in total. To balance out the journey, there are also charming bridges to cross, magnificent views to take in, and even a series of waterfalls that play an ingenious part in propelling the train up the steep mountain tracks.

Italy is the only country in the world to boast two competing high tech, high-speed train lines: the lightening-fast Frecciarossa 1000, and its sleek privately-owned rival, the Italo EVO. At 190 miles per hour, the Frecciarossa is the fastest train in Europe, while the Italo isn’t just fast and reliable, it also boasts a sleek design that clearly owes its influence to the country’s sports car culture and love of racing. Enjoy a thrilling, high-tech rail adventure through some of Italy’s most breathtaking landscapes.

The ability of the Indian Pacific train to complete the 2,700-mile journey from Perth to Sydney not just with ease, but with five-star luxury, is impressive. But just as impressive is the behind-the-scene operation to ensure the train doesn’t break down in the middle of the Australian outback, some the harshest desert terrain in the world. Join us as we ride the rail through some of Australia’s most dramatic landscapes.

For passengers, the Thai rail network provides of majestic views and opportunities to soak up the nation’s rich history and tradition. But for the drivers and engineers in charge of operating and maintaining the trains, it’s a non-stop battle to overcome weather-beaten tracks, challenging terrain, and five-month monsoon seasons. Take a four-day ride past beaches and mountains and over the Bridge on the River Kwai and visit sites unique to Thailand, from bustling Bangkok markets to a temple that’s been taken over by monkeys.

Rovos Rail offers a one-of-a-kind trip through South Africa, full of exotic landscapes, wildlife excursions, and five-star accommodations. This family-operated train whisks passengers on a coast-to-coast journey from Durban on the east coast all the way through Pretoria to Cape Town in the southwest. Join us on this first-class, 1,500-mile adventure and see how its drivers, maintenance inspectors, and staff members overcome extreme weather, stolen power lines, and unexpected delays to deliver a trip of a lifetime for all on board.

A rail journey through the Swiss Alps in winter is considered one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, but it’s also one of the most perilous for its drivers and crews. Each trip is an obstacle course through heavy snowfall, ice buildups, and falling rocks, presenting huge challenges at every turn. Take a four-hour journey through Switzerland and into Italy on two historic rail lines: the Albula Railway and the Bernina Express, and see firsthand how machines master the mountains to deliver a world-class experience for all aboard.