A Firsthand Take on Rail Adventures That Stay With You
I’ve always found something calming about train travel. It’s not just the steady rhythm of the tracks or the views outside the window—it’s the way the journey unfolds. There’s no rush, no pressure, and that slower pace lets me really absorb everything around me. Over the years, I’ve made it a goal to take some of the world’s most scenic train journeys, and I’ve learned that the best ones aren’t just about where you’re going—they’re about how the trip makes you feel.
There are a few rail routes that stand out for their natural beauty and the kind of moments you remember long after the trip is over. These aren’t fantasy scenes—they’re real, grounded experiences that anyone can enjoy with the right planning and timing. I want to walk you through some of the train rides that left a real impression on me.
The Problem: Travel That Moves Too Fast
We live in a world where speed gets all the attention. Flights get you from point A to B fast, and road trips are often just about reaching a destination. What I started to miss was the in-between. I realized that I was often too focused on getting somewhere to actually enjoy the journey. That’s when I turned to trains—not just for transport, but for the experience.
When you travel by train through scenic routes, the landscape tells a story. You see changes in light, in weather, in geography—all while sitting in a comfortable seat with time to think, watch, and breathe. You can’t rush through a train ride, and that’s the beauty of it.
The Agitation: Missing the Experience Right in Front of Us
I remember the first time I was on a long train ride through the mountains and realized how much I had been missing. The landscape changed every few minutes—rolling hills, deep valleys, snowy peaks, quiet lakes. It was like watching a documentary, except I was part of it. The sense of connection to the world outside the window hit me in a way that flights and highways never could.
It also gave me time to unplug. On many of these routes, cell service fades, and that’s a good thing. It gave me the chance to sit back, sip on a drink, take in the views, and even try new things I enjoy. I remember trying Blackberry Custard Monster for the first time while traveling through Switzerland’s Alps. It was smooth, mellow, and matched the calm vibe of the journey perfectly. It became part of that moment—and now, every time I taste that flavor, I think of those snow-dusted pine forests and quiet mountain towns.
The Solution: Scenic Train Routes That Deliver the Best Views
Here are a few train journeys that gave me that exact kind of memorable experience. These routes are about being present, soaking in the views, and enjoying the moment. And yes, I made time for my personal favorites while on board—music, reading, and a few vape breaks when the stops allowed.
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Length: Around 8 hours
Highlights: The Swiss Alps, Matterhorn views, Landwasser Viaduct
This ride is like stepping into a moving postcard. I sat in panoramic coaches that gave me full views of snow-capped peaks and green valleys. The train moves slow enough to take in every detail, and the commentary points out the landmarks so you don’t miss anything.
2. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
Length: 2 days
Highlights: Fraser Canyon, Spiral Tunnels, Canadian Rockies
The views on this ride were unreal—towering peaks, waterfalls, dense forests. What I liked most was the glass-dome viewing cars. I could see the sky change from clear blue to soft dusk without leaving my seat. They also served local meals onboard, which added to the experience.
3. West Highland Line – Scotland
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Length: Around 5 hours
Highlights: Loch Lomond, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands
This was probably one of the most peaceful rides I’ve ever taken. The train winds through open highlands, and at times it felt like I was the only person in the world. I’d packed a few things to enjoy along the way and had searched “custard monster near me” before the trip just to have something smooth and flavorful to bring with me. It made the long ride feel even more relaxed.
4. The Ghan – Australia
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Length: 3 to 4 days
Highlights: Red desert landscapes, Alice Springs, Katherine Gorge
The Ghan is a full cross-continent journey. I did this one to see more of Australia’s interior. Watching the landscape shift from green to red desert was something I’ll never forget. They stop at key locations for excursions, which breaks up the ride nicely and gives a closer look at the region.
What Makes These Journeys Worth It
For me, it’s not just the view—it’s the headspace. Being able to sit still for hours, without pressure to be “on” all the time, helped me connect with the travel experience in a different way. Here’s what stood out the most:
Unmatched views: Some of the world’s best landscapes right outside the window
Time to reflect: Space to think, journal, or just enjoy the silence
Low-stress travel: No airport chaos, no traffic jams
Moments that stick: Specific memories tied to simple comforts
One of those comforts for me is having a few things I enjoy on-hand. I usually bring a small bag with music, snacks, and a few vape options. One that’s always in rotation is Custard Monster Salt E-Liquids—it’s got that rich, smooth texture that fits right in with the calm and steady rhythm of train travel. It’s not just about taste—it’s about enhancing those quiet moments that make the journey special.
Why Scenic Train Rides Are Worth Your Time
The Journey Is the Destination
I’ve done fast travel. I’ve rushed through airports, run between terminals, dealt with delays and stress. But train journeys taught me something I didn’t expect—they reminded me that travel doesn’t have to be chaotic. It can be calm. It can be meaningful. And when you choose the right routes, it can be unforgettable.
If you’re thinking about slowing down, trying something different, or just want to enjoy travel in a new way, scenic trains are worth it. They give you the space to unplug, the time to enjoy your surroundings, and the chance to create memories that stay with you long after the trip is over.
I’ll keep exploring new routes whenever I can. For now, I’ve got a few favorites I’d happily ride again—and a few flavors that bring those memories back every time.
