French champagne brand Veuve Clicquot has announced its all-new Solaire Journeys, a magnificent three-part, once-in-a-lifetime adventure on board the legendary Belmond trains. The experience follows the sun aboard three of the world’s most iconic trains across three continents, from East to West.
The Solaire Journeys starts in Singapore on the Eastern & Oriental train, which takes passengers through the jungles of Malaysia. After that, the journey crosses Europe on board the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express before finally travelling to Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca with the Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer in South America. All the while, passengers sip “La Grande Dame de la Champagne” and enjoy fine dining prepared by world-renowned chefs.
Interested in experiencing this exciting, once-in-a-lifetime? Get all the details below.
Malaysia’s Jungle Line: Southeast Asia Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express
April 22-25, 2024
To celebrate Veuve Clicquot’s historic connection with Singapore — where its champagne bottles were first shipped in 1859, guests are invited on a remarkable three-night journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. This unique expedition from Singapore to Penang and Kuala Lumpur traverses the pristine landscapes of the Teman Negara National Park via the breathtaking ‘Jungle Railway.’ It seamlessly blends opulent luxury, culinary excellence, and artistic indulgence with a hint of adventure. Passengers will relish the leisurely pace of life in cherry wood-panelled cabins, delight in live entertainment within the Piano Bar carriage and savour sophisticated dining experiences curated to complement Veuve Clicquot’s finest cuvées.
Champagne Sunrise: Vienna to Reims Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
July 4-6, 2024
The second Veuve Clicquot Solaire Journey will begin with a gala dinner in one of Vienna’s historical gems, a destination for Veuve Clicquot champagnes since 1777 when Maison’s prestigious bottles were transported from Reims to the Austrian capital along the Danube. Following a day of exploration amid Vienna’s rich heritage, travellers will board the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a symbol of timeless elegance and adventure spanning over four decades. Settling into Art Deco cabins, guests will gather in the Bar Car ‘3674’ for an aperitif and a black-tie dinner curated by Veuve Clicquot ambassador chef Jean Imbert. As dawn breaks over the Alps, passengers will witness a breathtaking sunrise from their cabins before arriving in Reims – the heart of the Champagne region and home to Veuve Clicquot since 1772. There, they will embark on a journey through the Maison’s historic vineyards, explore the bucolic kitchen garden, and descend into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Crayères for an unparalleled gastronomic experience orchestrated by chefs Jean Imbert and Mory Sacko.
Andean Adventure: Cusco to Arequipa and Machu Picchu Aboard Belmond Trains, the Hiram Bigham and Andean Explorer
October 21-26, 2024
Inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s most spectacular sunsets, this unique journey takes guests aboard two luxurious trains, the Hiram Bingham and the Andean Explorer. Beginning with a night at Palacio Nazarenas in Cusco and an exquisite dinner in the Monasterio Chapel featuring a 50 Best Peruvian Chef, the adventure unfolds as the iconic Hiram Bingham train winds through the Sacred Valley towards the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Guests will revel in the opulence of Pullman-style carriages, indulge in gourmet dining and soak in the breathtaking vistas en route to Machu Picchu. Following exploration in Cusco, travellers will embark on the Andean Explorer, South America’s premier sleeper train, journeying through traditional cities and the enchanting Peruvian Andes to the world’s highest navigable lake, Titicaca, where a stunning sunrise awaits. Onboard, guests will savour the finest champagnes guided by Veuve Clicquot’s Cellar Master, Didier Mariotti, elevating this journey into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.