A Love Affair with France by Rail

Slow Travel Through History, Culture and Breathtaking Landscapes

Lac des Gaillands with Mont Blanc massif and train station, Chamonix, Savoie, France - Shutterstock

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Begin a journey through France’s most scenic train routes, where breathtaking landscapes and rich history come together in perfect harmony.

Beyond the ease of eco-friendly travel and the efficiency of France’s renowned rail network, these train journeys offer a window into the country’s diverse beauty - from rolling vineyards to dramatic mountain passes.

Whether following in the footsteps of literary greats or winding through the peaks of the Mont-Blanc Express, each route offers a unique perspective on France’s landscapes and heritage.

Join us as we travel through the heart of France, uncovering ten unforgettable train journeys that celebrate the joy of slow, scenic travel.

In Today’s email

• A Love Affair with France by Rail - Take a train journey through France, where breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and candlelit cafés set the stage for a love story - whether with a partner or simply with the magic of the journey itself.

  • 1. Le Cévenol: Take a scenic 5-hour journey from Clermont Ferrand to Nîmes, retracing the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson in the enchanting Cévennes.

    2. The Little Yellow Train: Experience a 3-hour ride through the picturesque Pyrenees on Le Petit Train Jaune, with its vibrant appearance matching the stunning mountain landscapes.

    3. U Trinighellu: Traverse Corsica's historic railway, offering vertigo-inducing views as it winds through arid gorges, tunnels, and bridges, connecting Bastia to Ajaccio.

    4. The Orient Express: Step into a 1930s murder mystery novel on the Paris to Vienna route, a 24-hour cinematic thrill with art deco elegance, live bands, and champagne in the dining car.

    5. Nîmes to Le Grau du Roi: Discover the unexpected beauty of southern France as you journey from Nîmes, a Roman city, through the Camargue, spotting flamingos and wild Camargue horses in under an hour.

    6. The Paris to Nice sleeper service: Relive a touch of glamour as you fall asleep in Paris and wake up on the Mediterranean, with stops along the south coast, including Antibes, Cannes, and Marseille.

    7. The Swallows Railway: All Aboard La Ligne des Hirondelles through the magical Jura region, enjoying verdant landscapes, forests, mountains, and a cheese-heavy picnic.

    8. The Mont-Blanc Express: Marvel at stunning alpine scenery during this 90-minute journey from Chamonix to Martigny, Switzerland, passing through tunnels and over bridges with views of snow-capped peaks and blooming meadows.

    9. The 'Corkscrew' Train: Experience endless horizons on the Tire-Bouchon seasonal train in Brittany, linking Aubray with the Quiberon Peninsula exclusively from June to September.

    10. The Food Train: Indulge in a fine-dining experience aboard Le Seudre Ocean Express in Nouvelle Aquitaine, savoring a 6-course menu with ocean views from Saujon to Chaillevette.

A Love Affair with France by Rail: