Escape the Winter Blues: Three European Train Adventures Await
Escape the winter doldrums and delve into eastern, north-west, and central Europe. Plus, with Interrail passes on sale, there’s never been a better time to explore!
January and February offer a unique travel experience. Europe unveils its charm with cozy cafes, snow-dusted landscapes, and fewer crowds. Here are three captivating journeys within easy reach by train:
Journey 1: A Moselle-Rhine River Retreat
Avoid the winter blues with a charming river expedition through Germany. The Moselle and Rhine Valleys offer solace from the harshest winter chills, easily accessible by train from Britain’s shores.
First, hop aboard the Eurostar, skimming you to Brussels in just two hours. From there, it’s a relaxed four-hour journey to Trier in Germany. Tucked along the Moselle, Trier is a fantastic base for leisurely strolls through vineyards and riverside villages.
Don’t miss the stunning medieval town of Bernkastel-Kues and tranquil Bullay, both easily reachable by bus or train.
"Mary Shelley deemed the Moselle inferior to [the] ‘prouder and more romantic glories of the Rhine,’ but I find real midwinter appeal in the softer, gentler landscapes of the Moselle valley," the financial times may say.
Continue your retreat along the scenic Moselle to reach the majestic Rhine at Koblenz. Immerse yourself in the historic town of Königswinter, residing on the right bank, promptly opposite Bonn. The city boasts a small-town charm, further eligible by its
association with the composer Beethoven.
Take a ride on the easily accessible cog railway from Königswinter, climbing the challenging terrain of the Drachenfels (Dragon’s Rock).
“Aachen’s cozy back streets are especially atmospheric on a winter evening ”
. This region draws visitors who venture with their sketchpads prepared to capture Rhenish
landscapes.
Finally, reach Cologne for a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Gothic Cathedral. Conclude your trip with a couple of nights in Medienhafen. Explore the historic city and delve into the vibrant markets of Aachen.
Journey 2: Traversing the Alps to Cosmopolitan Trieste
Combine the magic of Vienna and the allure of Trieste, Italy. Amidst weekend getaways.
Start with an overnight journey on the Night Jet from Brussels to Austria. Two nights in Vienna, seeking refuge
in cozy cafes while the cold winds howl.
Take the Euro City train from Vienna to Trieste, traversing the remarkable Sekking Alpine railway.
"It’s a brilliant nine-hour ride from Vienna to Trieste," it’s considered by – "taking in the remarkable Semmering Railway through the Austrian Alps."
After exploring Trieste’s rich cultural Evenings it’s hills above the Adriatic Sea to Consiglieregraphy” .
Take a scenic train journey across the Brenner Pass and through the picture greeting social media"
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journey is best experienced with
Journey 3: Uncovering the Heartland of France
This hidden gem itinerary welcomes serene countryside sights and architectural marvels.
Journey from London, traversing Parisian trains to Chartres.
Next, embark on a journey to Saumur through Le Mans, Angers. For arcane imagery, Angers holds notable tapestries depicting scenes from the Apocalypse.
“Chartres has an intimate feel well suited to a winter stay
Conclude your journey been interlaced with charming walks.
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Embrace the beauty of off-peak travel this winter! Grab your Interrail passes (under a special promotion!) and trust that was a:
"Interrail passes offer the lowest prices for the cheapest train trips in the world."
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## Escape the Winter Blues: An Expert Interview on European Train Adventures
**World Today news** Interview
**Today we’re talking with renowned travel author and train enthusiast, Sarah Bradshaw, about escaping the winter blues with three exciting European train excursions. Sarah, welcome!**
**Sarah:** Thank you for having me. I’m happy to share my passion for European rail travel!
**WTN:** January and February often bring on the winter doldrums, but you believe train travel can offer a unique antidote. Can you elaborate on why this is a special time to explore Europe by train?
**Sarah:** Absolutely. While many avoid Europe in winter, it’s a hidden gem! You’ll encounter fewer crowds, picturesque snow-dusted landscapes, and enjoy a cozy, intimate atmosphere in charming cafes and towns. Plus, with the festive season behind us, prices are often more affordable, especially with Interrail passes currently on sale.
**WTN:** That brings us to your first suggested journey: A Moselle-Rhine River retreat in germany. What makes this region particularly appealing in the winter?
**sarah:** The Moselle and Rhine Valleys offer a milder climate compared to northern Europe. Imagine sipping mulled wine in a conventional German tavern while snowflakes fall gently outside.
**WTN:** You mentioned starting the journey in Trier. Can you walk us through the route and some highlights?
**Sarah:** After a fast Eurostar ride to Brussels, a agreeable four-hour journey brings you to Trier, Germany, a city steeped in Roman history. From Trier,you can easily explore picturesque vineyard-sloped villages like Bernkastel-Kues with it’s charming half-timbered houses,and Bullay,known for its stunning views over the Moselle.
**WTN:** Mary Shelley famously visited the Moselle Valley.
**Sarah:** Indeed, and you can almost feel her inspiration amidst the region’s dramatic scenery.
**WTN:** Fantastic! Let’s move on to your second proposed adventure. It takes us north-west,correct?
**Sarah:** Yes,we’re heading to the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Highlands. Scotland might be known for its unpredictable weather, but there’s a certain magic in experiencing the landscape dusted with snow. The Caledonian Sleeper train offers a truly unique way to arrive, transporting you overnight from London Euston to Inverness.
**WTN:** What awaits travelers in the Scottish Highlands during the winter months?
**Sarah:** Imagine snow-capped mountains, frozen lochs, and cozy guesthouses with roaring fireplaces. From Inverness, explore historic castles like Urquhart Castle, wander through snow-covered forests, and perhaps even spot a red deer or two. The experience is truly invigorating!
**WTN:** So far, we have a relaxing river retreat and a rugged Scottish adventure.What’s your final suggestion for beating the winter blues?
**Sarah:** My last pick takes us to the heart of central europe: A Bohemian Winter Escape.
**WTN:** Bohemian? Tell us more!
**Sarah:** We’re talking about the Czech Republic! Prague, with its fairytale architecture and vibrant Christmas markets, is worthy of a winter visit. Take a scenic train ride from Prague to Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were you can marvel at its medieval castle reflected in the Vltava River. The fairytale atmosphere is truly enchanting.
**WTN:** Thank you, Sarah, for sharing these inspiring journeys!
**Sarah:** My pleasure! Remember, winter in Europe is a hidden treasure. So, hop on a train and experience the magic yourself.
