Following journeys through the legendary Machu Picchu and exotic Southeast Asia, Belmond has taken to Ireland for its latest luxury sleeper train experience with the Grand Hibernian. The inaugural journey, which departed Heuston Station on 30 August, took 40 guests on a six-night Grand Tour of Ireland.
Covering 2,217 kilometers through Ireland, the Belmond Grand Hibernian evokes the familiar warmth of traveling in an Irish country house, with the added bonus of genuine and warm service provided by the train’s dedicated set of crew. You’d be hard pressed to miss the elegant midnight-blue train, as it traverses through Dublin to Cork, immersing guests in a full Irish experience; visits to the Jameson Distillery, private tour of Blarney Castle, jaunting cart rides at the Killarney National Park and a cruise on the spectacular Lough Leane are some of the highlights on the itinerary. Leaving the train at Westport, guests alight to spend a day at Ashford Castle, once home to the Guinness family. The journey continues to Northern Ireland and Belfast to visit the award-winning Titanic Experience before returning south to the Viking port of Waterford. The unforgettable journey comes to an end in Ireland’s capital city, Dublin.
On board, Head Chef Alan Woods showcases the best of Irish produce with a contemporary twist to ensure guests experience the best of Irish cuisine. The decadent menu sees classics such as Irish seafood chowder, Roast Killarney Venison, Skeaghanore Duck Leg Confit and Crab Cannon made from locally sourced ingredients.
Belmond is high on details; each of the Grand Hibernian’s carriages is named after Irish counties, with interior designs and colors equally inspired by local scenery and details of each county’s tartan. Expect 20 luxury en-suite cabins, including four spacious double cabins, each fitted with elegant details throughout the carriage.
Belmond Grand Hibernian offers two, four, and six-night itineraries for up to 40 guests from now till the end of October. In 2017, the season will run from 25 April to 14 October. Prices start from SGD4,802 (USD3,528) for a two-night journey with two guests sharing a twin/double cabin. To make a reservation, contact 0845-077-2222, email reservations.uk@belmond.com or visit Belmond.
In the meantime, watch the video below and be prepared to get serious vacation envy.
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