A Luxurious Belle Époque Train Journey Through France: Le Grand Tour
In 2025, French company Puy du Fou, renowned for its historical theme park in the Vendée region, will launch Le Grand Tour, a luxurious six-day, five-night train journey through France. This opulent voyage, described as the "world’s longest show," promises an immersive experience aboard an authentic Belle Époque train. Departing from Paris Gare de L’Est and concluding in Pays de la Loire, the itinerary encompasses iconic French destinations like Champagne, Burgundy, Lake Annecy, the Arcachon Basin, the Châteaux of the Loire Valley, and the Palais des Papes in Avignon. Passengers can anticipate "immersive shows" and unparalleled comfort throughout the trip.
This exclusive experience comes at a premium price, with tickets costing €8,450 (£7,000) per person. The high cost reflects the level of luxury and exclusivity offered. The train accommodates only 42 passengers in 21 private cabins, each featuring a private bathroom and shower. Guests will also enjoy gourmet dining in dedicated carriages and socialize in an opulent bar. The limited passenger capacity ensures a personalized and attentive experience, creating an intimate atmosphere onboard. Puy du Fou emphasizes that this exclusivity allows for a high level of comfort and bespoke service for each traveler.
While Le Grand Tour represents a significant investment, it promises a unique and unforgettable journey through the heart of France. The combination of historical immersion, luxurious accommodations, and curated experiences aims to transport passengers back to the Belle Époque era. Puy du Fou is meticulously crafting the final details to deliver an exceptional experience and will announce booking details at a later date. This venture builds upon Puy du Fou’s reputation for creating immersive and engaging historical experiences.
Beyond Le Grand Tour, Puy du Fou is also expanding its presence in the UK with a planned £300 million theme park near Bicester in Oxfordshire. This ambitious project highlights the company’s international growth strategy and its commitment to delivering immersive entertainment experiences. The company envisions two more theme parks by 2030, further solidifying its global presence. This expansion signals Puy du Fou’s confidence in its unique brand of historical storytelling and entertainment.
In contrast to the extravagant Le Grand Tour, there are numerous other remarkable train journeys worldwide that offer breathtaking scenery and unique cultural experiences at a fraction of the cost. From the snow-capped Swiss Alps between Davos and Geneva to the futuristic Shinkansen bullet train in Japan, these journeys provide unforgettable memories. The scenic route from Glasgow to Fort William in Scotland showcases stunning lochs and moors, while the Trans-Mongolian Express offers a glimpse into the vast landscapes of Mongolia and the Gobi Desert. Even the relatively short Eurostar journey from London to Paris connects two iconic European capitals with ease and efficiency.
These diverse train journeys highlight the enduring appeal of rail travel for exploring different cultures and landscapes. Whether it’s the luxurious indulgence of Le Grand Tour or the more accessible beauty of other scenic routes, train travel continues to captivate travelers with its unique blend of comfort, convenience, and immersive experiences. From historical immersion to breathtaking natural beauty, these journeys cater to a wide range of interests and budgets, offering something for every traveler.
