Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressArrives At Ligurian Coast With Paris To Portofino Stop At Belmond Hotels Splendido Belmond Destinations Photolondonfair 2024

For the first time in the train’s history, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express headed to the Ligurian coast. Aboard the @vsoetrain we embark on a journey from Paris to Portofino with a final stop at @belmondhotelsplendido. ⁠ ⁠ See the photos from @photolondonfair 2024 of three different @belmond destinations through the link in our bio.⁠ ⁠ 📹: @m.a.s.s.i.m.o.c.o.l.o.n.n.a⁠

Stepping onto the polished platform of Paris Gare de l’Est, the arrival of the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express felt like a page from a bygone novel. The iconic crimson and gold carriages, restored to their 1920s splendor, greeted us with a quiet elegance that instantly set the tone for the journey ahead. As the locomotive hissed softly, a sense of anticipation rippled through the carriage, each passenger drawn into a shared story of travel that transcends ordinary tourism. The promise of a luxurious escape to the Italian Riviera was palpable, and the subtle scent of polished wood and fresh coffee lingered, signalling the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

Our departure from the French capital unfolded like a curated film sequence, with the train gliding past iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Seine’s shimmering banks. As the route curved southward, the landscape gradually shifted from urban grandeur to coastal charm, each view more picturesque than the last. The onboard staff, impeccably dressed in vintage livery, offered attentive service that felt both personal and refined, while the rhythmic click‑clack of the rails set a soothing backdrop. At each stop, the anticipation built, especially knowing that the final destination would crown the experience with a stay at the luxurious Belmond Hotels Splendido in Portofino, a name synonymous with Mediterranean opulence.

Inside the carriage, every detail was designed to evoke the golden age of travel while offering modern comforts that make the journey seamless. Plush, deep‑blue seating invites you to sink in, and large windows frame the passing scenery like moving paintings. The dining car, with its polished mahogany tables and crystal glassware, serves a menu that blends French finesse with Italian zest, featuring dishes such as truffle‑infused risotto and fresh seafood sourced from the Ligurian Sea. Even the bars stocked with vintage spirits and curated cocktails add a playful touch, encouraging travellers to unwind and share stories as the coastline drifts ever closer.

Stepping onto the sun‑kissed promenade of Portofino, the arrival felt like a cinematic finale, with pastel‑colored houses clinging to the cliffs and the sparkling azure water inviting immediate exploration. The Belmond Hotels Splendido, perched on a hill, offers panoramic vistas that captivate the senses, while its historic interiors blend Art Nouveau décor with contemporary luxury. A short stroll leads to the bustling marina, where chic boutiques and vibrant cafés spill onto stone streets, creating a lively atmosphere that perfectly balances relaxation and adventure. The photograph accompanying this post, captured during the Photolondon Fair 2024, showcases the train’s sleek silhouette against a sunlit harbor, reinforcing the sense that this journey is as much about the destination as the voyage itself.

Reflecting on the entire experience, the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express to the Ligurian coast proves that luxury rail travel can still feel fresh and exciting when rooted in thoughtful detail and authentic place. From the meticulous restoration of its historic carriages to the seamless blend of service and scenery, every moment was crafted to evoke wonder without pretension. Whether you are a seasoned collector of unique journeys or a first‑time explorer seeking a romantic escape, the route offers a rare opportunity to taste the romance of old‑world travel while discovering the vibrant life of Italy’s most iconic coastal town. In short, this adventure redefines opulence on rails, leaving a lasting impression that beckons you to book your own seat on the next historic departure.