For the first time in its four-decade history, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, will travel to the Ligurian coast, connecting Paris and Portofino.
Launching in June 2024, the new, annual overnight journey will see the train travelling throughout the French countryside and along the coastline of the Mediterranean Riviera, concluding at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, where guests will stay for two nights.
The first of the annual Paris to Portofino Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journeys will depart Paris on Thursday 20 June, 2024.
The Art Deco style train recently saw the addition of eight new Suites. Cabin categories now include the ‘Historic Cabins’; the new Suites offering twin or double beds with marble ensuite bathrooms; and Grand Suites: six vast private suites that are an ode to the golden age of travel in the 1920s.
The trip will take in the cities of Dijon, Lyon and Avignon.
A new summer menu by the train’s Michelin-starred chef, Jean Imbert, will be served in restaurant cars Côte d’Azur, L’Oriental, and Étoile du Nord. Accompanying each course are handpicked wines from the train’s extensive collection. After dinner, guests can take in live musical performances in Bar Car ‘3674’.
A continental breakfast will be served in the privacy of the cabins. As the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express crosses the Italian border, guests can admire the scenery of Ventimiglia, Savona, and Genoa. A brunch will be served before disembarking to for a two-night stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino.
As a former 16th century Benedictine monastery, Splendido is perched in the Ligurian hills, with views of the Gulf of Portofino. The hotel’s rooms and suites are inspired by the noble Palazzos of the region. During their stay, guests will dine on a five-course tasting menu by Chef Jean Imbert at La Terrazza, one of the hotel’s restaurants.
The journey will conclude with a private film screening under the stars on the Piazzetta.
Prices start from £7,920 (about AUD$14,978) per person based on two guests sharing a Historic Cabin on the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express and a Garden View Room at Splendido.
Rates include an overnight journey on the Venice Simplon- Orient-Express (24-hour steward service; all meals with sommelier’s choice of wine), two nights at Splendido on B&B basis, a dinner by Chef Jean Imbert at La Terrazza, and transfers in Paris and Portofino.
For more information, visit belmond.com
