A Journey to remember! The Blue Train

When the taxi pulled into the forecourt at Cape Town Station for our journey to Pretoria on the Blue Train, I knew I was in for a treat! On a recent FAM trip, with one of our preferred luxury suppliers to South Africa and after a wonderful few nights in and around Cape Town, our itinerary took us from Cape Town to Pretoria, travelling on one of the most luxurious trains in the world, The Blue Train.  From the moment, the taxi car door opened, we were looked after, by the most amazing staff.  Our baggage was labelled and taken from us, so that we could be reunited with it once on board.  We moved on through to the waiting room, where I was served, a greatly received, Cappuccino.  Once on the Platform, the train stood, gleaming in the sunlight, like something from a James Bond film set.  We boarded the train to be met by our butler, who showed us to our cabin and ensured we had all we needed.  Our bags, as promised were there waiting for us!  The cabins, whilst snug, were beautifully decorated and felt hugely luxurious, however once we'd accustomed ourselves, with all the remote controlled blinds and lights, it was time to explore.  At the back of the train, is a wonderful observation car, where there are cakes and pastries to be had and again, waiter service should you require refreshments.  From here, we could see Cape Town disappearing away from us, as we left the City and hurtled out into the South African countryside. There was then an off town excursion to the extremely small town of Matjiesfontein.  Taken from the Blue Train by a London bus, to the main bar, where sherry is served and old songs are sung, it is a fun and quirky little excursion. With it's original Victorian buildings and lamposts, it really does feel like you are stepping back in time. Brunch was served at 11.30, in the Dining Car.  The staff, attentive as ever, made sure we had all our requirements catered for.   The food was delicious and served beautifully. After Brunch and a few glasses of Rose, it was time to relax.......either back in the cabin, in the lounge car or the observation car, the choice is yours.  This journey, allows you to relax in pure luxury, whilst taking in the ever changing scenery. The rest of the experience, did not disappoint!  Diner in the Dining Car, was again a luxury experience, with an exceptional choice of offerings and wines.  Men must wear jackets and ties, but I would say nothing else would be appropriate!  And, after dinner on returning to our cabin, it had been transformed from a seated cabin to a sleeper cabin all made up and ready for bed!  Wake to the trundling of the train, another delicious meal in the dining car for breakfast and then time to watch the landscape become more built up, as the train nears it's final destination, of Pretoria. Travelling on the Blue Train, was a truly magical and relaxing experience.  For something really special it is a once in a lifetime journey and whether you travel from Pretoria to Cape Town, or Cape Town to Pretoria, really depends on where you want the next step in your amazing journey to be!!  We travelled on to Madikwe For more details on The Blue Train and holidays to South Africa, please contact me..