As of summer 2016, Ireland (Republic and Northern) can be explored by rail luxury style aboard the Grand Hibernian, a new member to the family of iconic trains such as the legendary Royal Scotsman. Between August and October, clients are offered an attractive choice of three journeys – each following a different itinerary, yet all starting and ending in Dublin. The train boasts accommodation for up to 40 guests in private en-suite cabins whose cosy interior has been inspired by the isle’s rich cultural heritage.
Two-, four- or six-night trips on the Grand Hibernian
And a luxury it is…: The Observation Car of the Grand Hibernian resembles the warm atmosphere of a Dublin saloon. Here’s where travellers mingle, live music plays, storytellers narrate or craft sessions take place.
Rolling green hills, rugged rocks or the otherworldly landscape of Connemara, quaint sea-side villages or a ranting ocean: snuggled into one’s comfy seat and seeing a scenery flying by that is as diverse as Ireland’s, may be a treat worth considering also for the not-so-affluent. After all, there’s always a bucket list holding stubborn items asking to be ticked off.
A stylisch retreat while on the move: the Down Cabin.
Experiencing lively modern cities, historic castles, inspecting a distillery or indulging in a round of golf on one of the many mouth-watering greens the country sports, are appealing options incorporated in the respective itineraries:
Two nights ♦ Realm of Giants:
Belfast and Titanic Experience, Old Bushmills Distillery, Giant Causeway.
Four nights ♦ Legends and Loughs:
Cork, Blarney Castle, Lakes of Killarney, Connemara National Park and Galway.
Six nights ♦ The Grand Tour of Ireland is a combination of the two trips above.
From 2017, the season will last from April through October.
MICE on rails
A business event on a scheduled trip aboard a venue as unique as the Grand Hibernian could well deliver the stuff for an impression to last – only to be heightened by an exclusive charter of the entire train rolling along an itinerary personalised for the group.
The Grand Hibernian is run by Belmond, owners of a number of renowned luxury trains plus an imposing count of up-scale hotels throughout the world.
The Wexford dining car. Another restaurant car – Sligo – is equipped with AV facilities and can be adapted for events and meetings. Onboard cuisine is based on selected local produce.
Photo credit train: Belmond ©JPA Design London
Header image: ©Christina Feyerke