The London to Venice Simplon Orient Express is a journey unlike any other. With its luxurious and opulent train cars, elegant dining experiences, and unparalleled service, it has become synonymous with luxury travel. This iconic train takes passengers from the bustling city of London to the charming canals of Venice, offering a glimpse of Europe’s most stunning landscapes along the way. Whether you are a train enthusiast or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the London to Venice Simplon Orient Express will not disappoint.
1. The History of the Orient Express
The history of the Orient Express dates back to 1883 when the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL) launched the first direct train service from Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul). Over the years, the route evolved and expanded, eventually including cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bucharest. The train became known for its luxurious and glamorous reputation, attracting royalty, celebrities, and wealthy travelers alike.
During the heyday of train travel in the early 20th century, the Orient Express was the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Its famous blue and gold carriages, plush interiors, and exquisite cuisine were all part of the allure. However, the advent of air travel led to a decline in train travel, and the original Orient Express stopped running in 1977.
2. The Revival of the Orient Express
In 1982, James Sherwood, an American businessman, acquired two original carriages from the Orient Express at an auction and decided to revive the iconic train. He purchased more vintage carriages and meticulously restored them to their former glory, creating the Venice Simplon Orient-Express as we know it today.
The revived Orient Express made its inaugural journey from London to Venice in 1982, and since then, it has become one of the most sought-after travel experiences in the world. Today, the train is owned and operated by Belmond Ltd., a luxury hotel and leisure company, and continues to offer its passengers an unparalleled experience of luxury train travel.
3. The Train’s Unique Features
The Orient Express is not just a mode of transportation; it is an experience in itself. From the moment you step aboard, you are transported back in time to the golden era of train travel. The train comprises of 17 carriages, each with its own distinct character. The original 1920s and 1930s carriages have been lovingly restored to their former Art Deco glory, complete with polished wood panels, plush armchairs, and antique fixtures.
One of the most unique features of the Orient Express is its variety of train cars. Each carriage has a different purpose, from the elegant dining cars to the luxurious bar car and the opulent sleeping compartments. The train even has a piano bar where live music is played every evening, adding to the nostalgic ambiance of the journey.
4. The Dining Experience on Board
One of the highlights of the London to Venice Simplon Orient Express is the exquisite dining experience on board. The train boasts three restaurant cars, each with its own distinctive decor and menu. The Côte d’Azur, filled with beautiful marquetry and Lalique glass panels, offers French cuisine; the Etoile du Nord, adorned with intricate marquetry and brass accents, serves traditional British dishes; and the L’Oriental, inspired by the Middle East, offers exotic Eastern fare.
All meals on board are prepared by skilled chefs who use only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily, ensuring that passengers have a unique and unforgettable culinary experience during their journey. From caviar and champagne to five-course gourmet dinners, the dining experience on board the Orient Express is nothing short of exceptional.
The Menu
| Entrees | Main Dishes | Desserts |
|---|---|---|
| Scottish smoked salmon with caviar | Beef fillet with truffle sauce and gratin potatoes | Chocolate souffle with raspberry coulis |
| Duck foie gras terrine with fig chutney | Lobster tail with lemon butter and saffron risotto | Selection of French cheeses |
| Avocado and shrimp salad with mango salsa | Coq au vin with creamy mashed potatoes | Classic tiramisu |
| Roast beef carpaccio with rocket and parmesan | Grilled sea bass with ratatouille and herb butter | Apple tart with vanilla ice cream |
5. The Route and Stops
The London to Venice Simplon Orient Express takes passengers on a scenic journey through Europe, starting at London’s Victoria Station and ending at Venice’s Santa Lucia Station. The train travels through the English countryside before crossing the Channel on the Eurotunnel. It then passes through France, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, and Italy, offering stunning views of Europe’s diverse landscapes along the way.
The train makes several stops during the journey, giving passengers the opportunity to explore some of Europe’s most iconic cities. The first stop is in Paris, where passengers have the option to spend a night and explore the city’s famous sights, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. The second stop is in Innsbruck, Austria, known for its picturesque alpine scenery and charming Old Town. Finally, the train arrives in Venice, where passengers disembark and continue their journey by boat to their final destination.
The Route and Stops Summary
| City | Country | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| London | United Kingdom | Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower of London |
| Paris | France | Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral |
| Luxembourg City | Luxembourg | Grand Ducal Palace, Bock Casemates, Adolphe Bridge |
| Innsbruck | Austria | Old Town, Golden Roof, Hofburg Palace |
| Venice | Italy | St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Grand Canal |
6. The Sleeping Accommodations
The Orient Express offers a range of luxurious sleeping accommodations, from cozy single cabins to spacious suites. All cabins have been carefully designed to provide a comfortable and restful night’s sleep for passengers. The accommodation options include:
- Single Cabin: These compact cabins are perfect for solo travelers and feature a single bunk bed, a washbasin, and a small wardrobe.
- Twin Cabin: These cabins are ideal for two passengers and have two single beds, a washbasin, and a small wardrobe.
- Cabin Suite: These larger cabins are perfect for couples and feature a double bed, a private en-suite bathroom with a shower, and a sitting area.
- Grand Suite: These lavish suites are the most luxurious on board and boast a double bed, a living room area, a private en-suite bathroom with a bathtub, and even a private balcony.
All cabins come equipped with amenities such as fresh towels, bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries, ensuring that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.
Conclusion: A Journey Like No Other
In conclusion, the London to Venice Simplon Orient Express is an experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. From its rich history and unique features to its exquisite dining experiences and luxurious accommodations, this iconic train journey offers a glimpse into the golden age of travel. So why not treat yourself to the ultimate luxury and embark on a journey of a lifetime aboard the Orient Express? It is sure to be an experience you will never forget.
