The Blue Train - Sumptuous and Classy

The Blue Train service started in 1929 and, to the best of my knowledge, is the only train that had ever won the title World's Best Luxury Train eight times consecutively and again three times consecutively - plus a few times more! Despite this proud heritage, I find that there is a margin of ignorance among the general public and I deemed it necessary to bring the experience closer to those who could spread the word.

As a travel writer with no formal ties with any railway company, I find great pleasure in promoting our South African long distance trains. The flagship has always been The Blue Train and I don't see this changing any time soon.

We recently undertook a short journey on The Blue Train. I took stakeholders in the Tourism Industry along so that they could get exposed to this sublime and perhaps opulent experience.

One of our guests was Mr Richard Valentine, who not only graced us with his presence, but also found the time to comment as follows:

"My only previous experience of long distance train travel in South Africa had been of the Trans-Karoo with my parents when I was very young. It had been a very exciting and memorable experience at the time. So being invited to travel on the Blue Train found me excited again and looking forward to the experience with great anticipation.

The Blue Train is sumptuous and classy and certainly lived up to, even surpassing my expectations. The train glides smoothly on the rail tracks as you are able to watch out over the world around you through large windows and even a front camera view. While we did not spend much time in our suite, it would clearly be an ideal place to relax in your own space with your travel companion. The Observation coach and forward lounge / bar coach are luxuriously comfortable providing a relaxing opportunity for photographs and to spend time with other travel group companions from other suites or possibly even meet fellow passengers should you so wish.

The dining experience was excellent from the food itself to the presentation, and overall olde worlde charm of the dining room.. The staff were extremely friendly and hospitable. They have experience, seem to really enjoy their work and operate as a cohesive team. With each suite being allocated a butler, this would only add to the personal service and individual experience.

So whether one spends special time with a partner, spouse or with a group of friends, the Blue Train seems to be a forgotten or undiscovered gem to include in a holiday itinerary or even for a group seeking time together in a special environment. On viewing the website, prices seemed to be far more affordable than I had anticipated and very good value for money. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if a similar train could be used for tourists on other lines including the Garden Route and the beautiful Southern line from Cape Town to Simonstown."

Now it is your turn to make your reservations!