To paraphrase the immortal Ralph Wiggum from The Simpsons: I choo-choo-choose this.
Today sees the launch of Ireland’s first luxury train service, known as the Belmond Grand Hibernian – and it’s unlike any train service that Irish people have seen before.
The 10-carriage sleeper train can carry 40 passengers travelling in 20 swanky en-suite cabins. The train’s interior is modelled on Dublin’s classic Georgian architecture, blended with elements of ancient Irish folklore and traditions.
Chef Alan Woods – a former head chef at Thornton’s in Dublin – has been hired to design the menu for the service, and the grub options include roast Killarney venison loin, scallops from the Beara Peninsula, and Donegal turf-smoked salmon and seafood chowder.
No simple pre-packaged ham and cheese sambos here.
The company is launching three services for the train, but, as you’d expect, you’ll have to dig deep in order to afford it.
The Realm Of Giants tour, taking in Dublin, Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway, which starts at €3,16o per person for three days and two nights;
The Legends And Loughs tour (Dublin – Cork – Killarney – Galway – Westport), starting at €5,420 for five days and four nights;
The Grand Tour Of Ireland, travelling Dublin – Cork – Killarney – Galway – Westport – Dublin – Belfast – Portrush – Dublin, which starts from €7,722 per person for seven days and six nights.
Belmond’s Facebook page has this video documenting how the train was built, if that’s your thing.
All images via Belmond Grand Hibernian.
