The original icon of the rails, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, has launched new winter journeys between Paris and the French Alps that were made for skiers, mountain enthusiasts and epicureans.

Departing from platforms in December, the blue and gold carriages will glide through some of France’s most untouched countryside and up to the alpine train stations of Albertville, Moûtiers and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. With options to disembark at either of the three stations, guests will be able to access the white powdery slopes of ski resorts Megève and the Mont Blanc; Courchevel and Three Valleys; and Tignes-Vald’Isère. 

Along with some cool new destinations, on debut on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express are eight new suites, which will be available to book for an overnight journey to the alps. 

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Departing from Paris Gare de Lyon in the evening, guests are invited to unwind with a glass of champagne followed by a round of cocktails in the beating heart of the train, Bar Car ‘3674’. Bon vivants are then escorted to the three dining carts where they will be treated to a menu of seasonal dishes designed by French Michelin-starred chef Jean Imbert before they indulge in a nightcap or retreat to their suites. You’ll wake to a delicious French breakfast that will fuel you for a day on the slopes. This may be the only trip worth leaving Australian summer behind for.  

Overnight journeys start from $6,500 (approx.) and includes dinner, breakfast, brunch as well as all soft drinks and a shared transfer to Gare De Lyon in Paris. Grand Suites guests will be provided with a private car transfer from Albertville, Moûtiers or Bourg-Saint-Mauriceto to their final destination. For more information, visit belmond.com

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