Ireland is slated to receive its first-ever luxury train.
Belmond Ltd, a hotel and leisure company that operates high-end hotels, train services and river cruises around the world, has announced plans to serve the Republic and Northern Ireland.
Launching in August 2016, Belmond Grand Hibernian first journey will be a four-night tour of the Republic of Ireland called the “Legends and Loughs.” Travelers will journey from Cork to Killarney, Galway and Westport. The trip will include behind-the-scenes tour of Jameson’s Whiskey distillery, ‘kissing’ the Blarney Stone and private access to Blarney Castle Gardens. In addition, explorers will be able to take in scenes from the Lakes of Killarney and Connemara national park. There will be sporting activities at Ashford Castle, sheepdog trails and traditional Irish music and crafts in Galway.
The second tour, “Realm of Giants,” will travel from Dublin to Belfast and Portrush. Travelers will visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, Giant’s Causeway and the Old Bushmills Distillery for a sample or two of the famous 400-year-old whiskey. Both journeys can be combined to create a six night Grand Tour of Ireland.
The train will be comprised of 10 carts, which were acquired from Ireland’s national rail company Iarnrod Eireann. It will feature contemporary carriages inspired by Dublin’s architecture designed by James Park Associates. Each carriage will mirror the colors of the tartans from the county they were named after.
Sleeper carriages will accommodate 40 passengers.There will be 16 twins and four double cabins. Each sleeper cabin will have a large window that allows travelers to enjoy the picturesque views. Cabins will also have additional features such as a wardrobe, writing desk and a chair. Look
There are two dining cars: Wexford and Sligo. The Wexford will feature light-filled space with Irish motifs and tweed fabrics. The Sligo will be a fine dining restaurant with a Georgian feel. The observation car will reflect the ambiance of a Dublin saloon.
Prices will begin at €3,160 ($ 3,531.44) per person for the two-night journey and €5,420 ($ 6,056.58) per person for the four-night journey. Each price includes all meals, drinks, entertainments and activities.
See what it would be like to experience the first-ever luxury overnight rail.
(Photos via Belmond)
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