Blue Train

Since 1946, the distinctive blue carriages of the world famous Blue Train have carried travellers across southern Africa. Today, with the introduction of modern rolling-stock featuring the latest in modern technology, the superbly designed 18 coaches offer up to 84 passengers the opportunity to travel in elegance and luxury. Each compartment has a fully appointed en suite bathroom and individually controlled air conditioning. There are two types of compartments – deluxe with private shower or bath and luxury, which are slightly larger, and with bath. During the day your compartment is a lounge which at night converts into twin  or double beds. Considerable attention is paid to guests’ needs – there is a writing desk, telephone together with a mobile ‘phone, laundry service, 24 hour room service and the discreet availability of your own professional butler. An innovative feature is that from your compartment you can watch the line on TV ahead.

The ambience of the Lounge Car is one of warm elegance, where large windows allow for views of the passing countryside. The Club Car offer impeccable service with its card tables, reading chairs, small library and fully-equipped bar. The train also has an Observation Car. However, on certain departures this coach is converted into a conference facility. The Dining Car provides fine wining and dining by carefully selecting the best South African wines to complement the cuisine. The à la carte and vegetarian menus are prepared using only the finest fresh ingredients. In keeping with the ambiance of the train, breakfast and lunch is casual whilst dinner is more formal with a jacket and tie required for gentlemen. Whilst on board all meals, drinks and wines (excluding champagne) are included.

SIGHTSEEING STOPS
Matjiesfontein was created by James Logan in the 1890’s when he obtained the catering concession for the speculators travelling by train and ox-wagon to the diamond fields in Kimberley. The town grew and with its dry Karoo climate became a health resort. It is now a national monument with the centre piece being the Lord Milner Hotel. Step back in time and visit the museum, Lairds Arms pub and general store.

Kimberley has literally been built on diamonds. It was in 1866 that the first diamonds were found and the ‘Big Hole’, the largest hand excavated hole in the world, has yielded 14.5 million carats of diamonds. The observation post for visitors is inside the mine museum which gives a fascinating insight into the diamond industry and life in Kimberley in the late 1800’s with reconstructed houses, offices and shops.

Aquila Game Reserve is situated close to Touws River and after an educational talk about the conservation of cheetah you will be taken on a game viewing drive. Apart from cheetah, animals to be seen include buffalo, giraffe, rhino, hippo and zebra.

The Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam train has always been a popular excursionon its 3 hour scenic journey between George and Knysna.  Unfortunately, the line was severely damaged by a land slip and is currently closed with no date  yet announced for its re-opening. However, a service is being operated between George and Mossel Bay.