7 Unforgettable Train Journeys with Unique Drinks and Stunning Scenery

With gin tastings in the United Kingdom and moonshine in the Appalachian Mountains, these boozy train rides are sure to delight.

Sometimes, the journey truly is better than the destination. That’s especially true for a few special train rides that allow you to sip and savor along the entire route. Moreover, train getaways are currently experiencing a resurgence, with curated trips available for just about every type of traveler. From those seeking to enjoy scenic wildflowers to luxury enthusiasts and history buffs, there’s a train trip out there for each interest—including those keen on indulging in delectable beverages. Here are seven spectacular train rides from around the globe that offer travelers the chance to take in the stunning views while enjoying something special along the way.

1. Napa Valley Wine Train: Napa Valley, California

The Napa Valley Wine Train has been captivating wine lovers for decades. Covering a 36-mile route through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Northern California, this train stops at renowned wineries along the way. The experience includes exclusive tours, onboard wine tastings, and a sumptuous four-course meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring passengers leave fully satisfied. Discover more about the various rides and explore ticket options online.

2. Jose Cuervo Express: Tequila, Mexico

Travel from Guadalajara to the charming city of Tequila aboard the stunning Jose Cuervo Express. This beautiful train features ultra-plush seating in all classes for maximum comfort while journeying through the lush agave fields. Onboard, guests can participate in tequila tastings led by a team of expert tasters, sampling the brands’ Reserva de la Familia tequila selections, including platinum, reposado, and extra añejo varieties. The adventure encompasses a visit to the agave fields, complemented by plenty of snacks to keep guests fueled.

3. Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience: Bryson City, North Carolina

Experience the thrill of strong flavors aboard The Carolina Shine, an exclusive adults-only first-class train trip on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This experience is uniquely offered during the Nantahala Gorge excursion, where guests can sample several triple-distilled, handcrafted moonshines. Along the journey, opportunities to learn about the rich moonshine-making tradition and its unique bootlegging history in the Appalachians abound. Guests will also enjoy delightful Southern culinary favorites like pulled pork BBQ, cheesy shrimp and grits, and ham hash brown casserole.

4. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: Bardstown, Kentucky

Savor something smooth on My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. While its name suggests a focus on food, this train offers a specific ride dedicated to the local spirit—bourbon. This two-and-a-half-hour round-trip train covers 32 miles over verdant valleys and rolling hills in a fully restored vintage 1940s train. Throughout the journey, guests can learn from an onboard master distiller as they lead bourbon tastings, ingeniously paired with a fine multicourse meal.

5. Kent Gin Train: Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom

Enjoy not one, not two, but three local gins during your journey aboard the Kent Gin Train. This scenic ride takes guests from Tunbridge Wells West to Eridge on a beautifully restored 1960s train. Guests can appreciate the picturesque views while sipping on three distinct gins from the Anno Distillery, all accompanied by ice, a choice of garnishes, and Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water, allowing for personalized gin and tonics. A Spa Valley Railway balloon gin glass is also provided for guests to take home. Learn more about the train and its available dates online.

6. The Sake Tasting Train: Niigata Prefecture, Japan

Embark on a leisurely ride around Niigata Prefecture aboard the Koshino Shu*Kura by JR East, which showcases the region’s finest sake producers. The train stops briefly at various points where guests can hop off and explore local sake breweries, tasting their offerings. Onboard, partake in an expert-led sake tasting and enjoy locally sourced snacks. The experience is further enhanced by live entertainment, featuring jazz, folk dancing, and traditional Japanese music.

7. Belmond Royal Scotsman: Scotland

Experience the pinnacle of elegance with a journey on the world’s most glamorous train, the Belmond Royal Scotsman. This enchanting train whisks guests through the wild, breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, providing a sense of escape from the everyday world. The train offers multiple itineraries traversing the nation; one particular journey stands out—The Whisky Journey. This four-night experience in collaboration with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society guides travelers through the Scottish Highlands, featuring formal four-course meals, cask whisky tastings, and exclusive tours of local distilleries.