The Blue Train: a romantic and luxurious hotel on wheels

This experience is so much more than a train journey. It begins in the arrivals lounge at the station when you join a group of people who are all starting out on an adventure together. This is where you’ll meet your butler, who will show you to your cabin.

As soon as they get on board people want to explore. Every part of the train has picture windows and the views are diverse and spectacular. The suites also have picture windows and in the day they’re set up like little lounges, so you can get comfy and watch the scenery go by. The views as you pull out of Cape Town are extraordinary, but it’s very real, too. There’s Table Mountain, the coast and the townships, and then you slowly approach the outskirts of the Winelands.

Getting dressed up for dinner is all part of the experience, and the lounge car really is the heart of the train. There’s a beautiful bar, live music and cocktails or a glass of South African sparkling. The Blue Train is a lovely place to experience fantastic South African ingredients with an international twist, and you’ll get to try things like kudu and ostrich. There’s great attention to detail and an intangible African feel – even the chocolate pots are served in miniature versions of the traditional African cooking pot.

Although this is a very special experience, popular for celebrations or anniversaries, the atmosphere on board is far from staid. The staff are very proud of the train but service is friendly, and with your crystal and silver, you can expect a very smiley waiter. When you get back to your cabin after dinner, you’ll step into a bedroom. It’s a beautiful transformation. The Blue Train really is a five-star hotel on wheels.