There are people that can sleep anywhere; on planes, trains and automobiles, but if you thought that the only way to get some shut-eye on a train was with your head lolling onto the unsuspecting gentlemen next to you, then you’re very wrong.
All across the world, and even in our own fair country, there are sleeper trains. These are trains with purpose-built cabins, with full beds in them, letting you make the most of a long journey by sleeping through most of it – waking up feeling refreshed at the other end. Some of the world’s most famous train journeys have spectacular views and with journeys taking anywhere from a 24hrs to a week, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, watching the landscape roll by.
So, just what are these sleeper trains like? Well, of course, it will depend on where you are, but many of the sleeper cabins are designed with luxury in mind. Comfortable beds, soft bedding, hotel style card access and gourmet food to boot, not to mention room service and en-suite showers – train travel is the way to get around in 2012 – and in some cases, it’s cheaper than flying too.
Try out some of our favourite routes:
Paris to Berlin
Two magnificent cities in two days – surely impossible? But with the Deutsche Bahn’s City Night Line service, you can depart from Paris just after 8pm and arrive in Berlin, bright eyed and bushy tailed after a great night’s sleep, at 9am the next morning. Plus, a complimentary breakfast is available to all, even if you are in economy.
Paddington to Penzance
A sleeper train in Britain? No doubt it’s not something you’ve ever really thought about before. For a little touch of luxury, hop aboard the train at Paddington Station and grab a cup of cocoa and help yourselves to free sandwiches in the first-class lounge.
Oslo to Trondheim
For spectacular scenery, beautiful mountains and lakes, not to mention some amazing food options, head to Norway. The trek from Oslo to Trondheim passes through Norway’s idyllic lake district and you can chow down on some Norwegian style tapas – from potato flatbreads to reindeer pate – before arriving in Trondheim at 7am.