This Winter, Luxury Travel Makes Tracks In the Alps

Making tracks across Europe, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is bringing back over-the-top opulence to luxury travel. | Photos courtesy of Belmond, Christophe Coenan

When deciding to travel, how you get there is often just as important as where, why and when. This winter, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), a private luxury train service currently owned by Belmond, is introducing a more decadent way to travel to the slopes. VSOE currently has 76 routes available from hotspots including Brussels and Budapest, Venice and Vienna. This new route is of particular interest to the snow-loving set, journeying from Paris to the prestigious peaks of the French Alps.

But this is no ordinary commuter train.

The Historic Cabins, suites and grand suites, each lovingly restored to full 1920s grandeur, make for a bon voyage indeed.

Stepping onto VSOE’s historic carriages is like stepping into a different era. The train’s carriages, lovingly restored to their original 1920s and 1930s splendor, exude an air of opulence and refinement. Intricately carved woodwork, plush upholstery and polished brass details set the stage for a journey through time.

Departing from Paris in the evening, guests can unwind in the Art Deco surroundings with a glass of champagne as the train gathers speed to the Alps. The heart of the train is Bar Car 3674, where musicians provide an auditory accompaniment to the carefully sipped cocktails.

The iconic deep blue train cars, all polished and complete with bell hops dressed to impress as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

When dinner is served, guests can meander to one of three dining cars, each with its own unique character and ambience. The culinary team on board is led by French chef Jean Imbert, who curates a collection of seasonal menus that promise a gastronomic journey to remember. Indulge in a selection of Petrossian caviar before choosing from comforting dishes such as filet of beef with a wine mushroom sauce and puff pastry filled with lobster in a spinach cream sauce.

Guests can return to the Bar Car for a nightcap with fellow travelers, or retreat to their cabins, transformed by their steward for nighttime. The plush bedding and soft, warm lighting make for a perfect night’s rest as the train continues its journey through the night.

The marbled ensuites mean you can refresh in style.

In June, Belmond unveiled a new cabin category with eight new suites aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, further elevating the original legend of the rails as it crisscrosses through Europe. Bridging the train’s iconic history and authentic craftmanship with modern comfort and luxuries, the lavish new accommodations feature a private marble ensuite and a spacious lounging area by day that seamlessly transforms into either double or twin beds by night. Additional amenities include a personal 24-hour cabin steward and a complimentary robe and slippers.

The new suites complement the two existing cabin categories, Historic Cabins and Grand Suites. The Historic Cabins exude timelessness in the Art Deco carriages, transforming from daytime lounge into cozy upper and lower beds at night. For the epitome of luxury, the Grand Suites feature private bathrooms with showers, double beds and a living area with underfloor heating. Grand Suite amenities include 24-hour cabin service, free-flowing champagne and private transfers to and from the train.

The legendary Bar Car 3674 offers unforgettable cocktails and conviviality. Request a tune from the pianist or strike up conversation with your fellow bon vivants for a night filled with moments to remember. Did we mention they serve brunch at midnight for those guests dancing the night away?

After a restful evening lulled to sleep by the rocking of the rails, the following morning brings the enchanting scenery of the Rhône-Alpes. There’s something truly magical about waking and watching the world pass by in a blur of snow and sky. As the Alps rise majestically on the horizon, their peaks dusted with freshly fallen snow, the train snakes its way through pristine valleys and alongside frozen rivers, offering passengers an unrivaled opportunity to witness breathtaking natural beauty. To refuel before an afternoon of skiing and alpine activities, a multi-course brunch is served in the dining cars before the train arrives in Albertville, the first of the three alpine stops. (Moûtiers and Bourg-Saint-Maurice are also options.)

As passengers disembark for a day of exploration, the winter activities offered are as diverse as the landscapes themselves. Skiing and snowboarding are a popular pastime, and enthusiasts can take their pick of ski resorts: Megève and the Mont Blanc; Courchevel and Three Valleys; and Tignes-Val d’Isère. Not a downhiller? Snowshoeing and ice skating are also available, as well as exploring picturesque alpine towns. In short, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this snowy paradise.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers more than just a train journey; it offers a glimpse into a bygone era when travel was an art form and a destination in itself. From the moment you step on board in Paris to the moment you bid adieu in the French Alps, this winter voyage is a testament to the timeless allure of luxury, romance and adventure.

Seasonal menus expertly prepared by world-renowned chefs such as Jean Imbert. These dishes are culinary perfection in motion.

If you go: The new route will be offered on four dates: Dec. 15 (Paris to French Alps), Dec. 16 (French Alps to Paris), Dec. 21 (Paris to French Alps), Dec. 22 (French Alps to Paris). An overnight stay in a Historic Cabin starts at $4,738 per person, while in the new suites it starts at $9,138 per person. Rates include dinner, breakfast and brunch as well as all soft drinks and shared transfer to Gare De Lyon in Paris. Guests staying in the Grand Suites can choose to employ a private car transfer from Albertville, Moûtiers or Bourg-Saint-Maurice to their final destination (overnight stays start at $12,486 per person). 

ORIENT EXPRESS 

Katie Coakley is a freelance writer based in Eagle County. She’s written for a variety of local and national newspapers and magazines.