As the people behind the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Belmond know a thing or two about luxury trains. In fact, their opulent cabins and indulgent dining cars grace everywhere from Edinburgh – with the Belmond Royal Scotsman – to Southeast Asia, with the Oriental Express. And, this Peruvian offering is certainly a jewel in its crown, with its routes taking in the Sacred Valley’s Incan wonders, Cusco’s colonial charm, Arequipa’s brilliantly white architecture and Colca Canyon’s condor-troubled beauty. You’ll even visit Lake Titicaca where traditional floating reed islands are inhabited by colourful indigenous peoples.
And, from the moment you board it’s clear that this is no ordinary rail journey. Traditional musicians, performing on the platform, will soundtrack your embarkation as you settle into your luxurious cabin. Here, wood-panelled décor, padded detailing and crisp linens transport you back to the golden age of rail travel. Each even features its private en suite shower room while you’ll have the option between, twin, bunk or double bed setups.
It’s a sense of considered style – imparted by designer Inge Moore of The Gallery HBA – that extends throughout. Informed by the train’s route through the Andes, alpaca wool and slate greys are found throughout the piano-graced lounge car, observation carriage and bar. However, the sense of style is perhaps most keenly felt in the opulent dining car where menus showcase the best in Andean produce with a suite of fresher-than-fresh ingredients. The afternoon tea is a particular highlight.
