The Legendary Orient Express Returns: A New Era of Luxury Train Travel
Over the past two years, trains have become the transport of choice for a growing number of travelers, both in Europe and the US. This shift can be attributed to improved services and connections, an emphasis on environmental sustainability, and pivotal investments in high-speed rail lines. The EU is aiming to double high-speed rail use by 2030 and triple current levels by 2050.
It’s no surprise that multiple train projects are being developed to meet this rising demand while taking the scenic route to a whole new level. The latest highlight is the relaunch of the iconic Orient Express, a train that forever changed luxury travel nearly 140 years ago. Originally debuting on October 4, 1883, the train is being revived by French hospitality group Accor, operating under license from SNCF, France’s national train service.
Relaunching the Iconic Experience
Starting in 2024 and just in time for the Paris Olympics, the railroad icon will resume service from the French capital to various destinations across the continent, reviving its lavish journeys reminiscent of its illustrious past. While specific details and itineraries are still pending confirmation, it is likely that some routes will conclude in Istanbul, similar to the original Orient Express experience.
The refurbished train is envisioned as “a dream on wheels,” according to Guillaume de Saint Lager, vice president of the Orient Express. He emphasizes the goal of creating a timeless experience that blends contemporary comforts with the elegance of the past.
Restoration of Classic Train Cars
Seventeen cars will form the ‘new’ convoy, including 12 sleeping cars, one restaurant, three lounges, and one caboose, all dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. These cars were part of what was known as the Nostalgie-Istanbul Orient-Express.
The story of how these original train cars were rediscovered is captivating. In 2015, industrial history researcher Arthur Mettetal initiated a global hunt to inventory what remained of the Orient Express for SNCF. Although the luxury train service was discontinued in 1977, various iterations briefly resurfaced in the 1980s before vanishing, with the exception of the Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express service, a separate venture.
The Discovery Journey
During his survey, Mettetal stumbled upon a YouTube video showing a train resembling the Nostalgie-Istanbul. This led him to use Google Maps and 3D tools to track its location, eventually discovering it on the border between Belarus and Poland.
In a few months, Mettetal traveled to Warsaw with Saint Lager, a translator, and a photographer. They headed to the forsaken site where the cars had been sitting unattended for about ten years.
Saint Lager recounts, “We expected them to be in terrible condition, but inside, they were surprisingly well-preserved.” Some cars featured original Lalique glass panels and intricate marquetry detail. Following two years of negotiations between Accor and the trains’ owner, the Orient Express was safely transported back to France.
The expert team is using archival materials to restore the train cars to their original Art Deco splendor.
Crafting a Timeless Experience
For the restoration, Saint Lager enlisted the help of Paris-based architect Maxime D’Angeac, tasked with creating a fantasy Art Deco style that resonates with the past while appealing to modern travelers. The objective is to transform a century-old train into a luxury hotel on wheels, complete with opulent bathrooms in each suite.
According to Saint Lager, maintaining the core essence of the Orient Express is vital. He expresses the need for a French creative to infuse their understanding of the train’s myth and cultural legacy into the new design.
Restoration and Design Inspirations
D’Angeac has been inspired by renowned designers of the Art Deco era while aiming to craft an ambiance that bridges past and present. “The Orient Express is a train beyond time and fashion,” he states, reflecting his intention to create a mythical atmosphere evoking historical dreams.
The historical archives of the train are proving to be a rich source of inspiration. “We have access to sketches, fabric prints, ornamental details, and original plans,” shares D’Angeac, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the train’s legacy in ushering in its new chapter.
Moreover, the elements discovered in the cars, such as woodwork and ornamental details, will be restored for inclusion throughout the train.
Celebrating French Craftsmanship
In addition to the restored antique furnishings, the new Nostalgie-Istanbul will emphasize contemporary French craftsmanship. “Every element, from products to amenities in the rooms, will celebrate France’s artisanal excellence,” states Saint Lager.
Saint Lager hints at an exciting addition: a ‘Winter Garden’ in one of the carriages, promising an extravagant feature in line with the luxurious journeys planned for the train.
The eagerly anticipated tickets will be available in 2023. In the meantime, travelers can look forward to the Orient Express La Dolce Vita project by Accor, set to hit the tracks soon.
