From May 2025, a three-night voyage from Paris to Castello di Casole in Tuscany will consolidate its presence in Italy, continuing to promote the luxury of slow travel and reviving its popular route to Portofino, arriving at the iconic Belmond Splendido Hotel.
Guests will be welcomed in Paris with a champagne toast as they settle into their cabins, which range from historic staterooms to the more luxurious Grand Suites. Every detail is designed to make the journey feel like a work of art. Breakfast, featuring tea, coffee, and pastries, will accompany passengers along the journey through the green hills and vineyards of Tuscany. In the evening, Chef Jean Imbert will prepare a gourmet menu inspired by the regions the train passes through, while live music and refined drinks will accompany the night in the Bar Car '3674'.
Waking up to breathtaking Italian views includes a leisurely breakfast in your cabin as the train approaches Arezzo. From there, a comfortable transfer will take guests to Siena, where a traditional lunch will pave the way for an exclusive tour of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Palazzo Pannocchieschi d'Elci, overlooking the famous Piazza del Campo.
The day culminates with arrival at Castello di Casole, where guests will stay in elegant suites. The evening offers a unique stargazing experience, under an Astronomitaly-awarded sky, with an expert guide who will reveal constellations, galaxies, and planets.
The second day begins with the "Festa del Villaggio," a celebration of Tuscan traditions featuring local producers and artisans. The hotel offers wellness experiences such as excursions, yoga, and spa treatments, for a total immersion in nature and luxury. The journey continues with a stroll through the castle gardens before departure.
THE RETURN TO PORTOFINO
Following the success of its first voyage in June 2024, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will return to Portofino, offering a journey through the French countryside, the French Riviera and Liguria, concluding at the iconic Belmond Splendido Hotel.
During the journey, guests can choose from a variety of luxurious accommodations, including the L'Observatoire sleeping car, designed by artist JR, offering exclusive comfort. The evening will be a rollercoaster of emotions, with an aperitif in Bar Car '3674' and a gourmet dinner by Chef Jean Imbert. The journey continues with spectacular views of the French Riviera, passing through Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo, and Genoa.
Upon arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure, guests will be transferred to the Belmond Splendido Hotel, recently renovated by Martin Brudnizki Design. For the 2025 season, the hotel will feature a new main building with an exclusive bar, breakfast area, and the Dior Spa.
Welcomed by the allure of the Tigullio Gulf, guests can relax by the pool, explore the wellness center, or dine at DaV Mare, located at Splendido Mare. The evening will conclude with an aperitif in the renovated cocktail bar, a historic venue that has hosted legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Humphrey Bogart.
The final day will be dedicated to wellness: tennis on the panoramic courts, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying exclusive treatments at the Dior Spa. Guests can also stroll through Portofino's Piazzetta or take part in excursions and kayaking trips. The day will culminate with an aperitif in the hotel gardens and a Gala Dinner at La Terrazza, featuring Chef Corrado Corti's refined cuisine and live entertainment.