Belmond Britannic Explorer – Wales

Your luxury Wales holiday begins at London Victoria Station, where you board the Belmond Britannic Explorer. After exploring your private cabin, it's time to relax in one of the botanically inspired dining carriages. Your journey commences with a thoughtfully curated afternoon tea, expertly crafted by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, featuring delightful Welsh teacakes and traditional bara brith. As you savour these exquisite treats, golden hour bathes the patchwork tapestry of the Cotswolds in a warm, enchanting glow, transforming the countryside into a breathtaking panorama of rich, honeyed hues.

As the evening unfolds, you may choose to unwind in the Wellness Suite, sample the diverse selection of gins in the bar or engage in a board game with your fellow travellers. After relishing dinner curated by Chef Rogan, retreat to your suite and enjoy your first night on this luxurious train.

As the sun rises, illuminating the picture-perfect Pembrokeshire coastline, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before disembarking at Llandrindod Wells. Here, you could opt for a guided hike through the tranquil valleys of the remote Welsh heartland. Relax post-hike at Farmers' Welsh Lavender to savour the aromas, recharge in the sauna or simply relax by the log fire.

After your excursion, rejoin the train and continue your journey along the enchanting Heart of Wales Line, which gracefully winds through the rural uplands of Powys. Heading towards Cardigan Bay and the edge of Snowdonia, prepare to be mesmerised by the dramatic transformation of landscapes, with waterfalls cascading down soaring peaks into lush valleys.

This evening's dining experience promises another celebration of seasonal British fine dining, followed by entertainment onboard. Our overnight stabling point for the evening is near the seaside town of Barmouth.

Spend a leisurely morning aboard the train before arriving in the popular town of Machynlleth, nestled at the southern edge of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). Renowned for its Museum of Modern Art and annual comedy festival, Machynlleth is a hub of creativity. A range of excursions are available to you today, including active pursuits such as clay-pigeon shooting.

Back on board, lunch is served as you continue travelling through the greenery of mid-Wales and Montgomeryshire, passing Welshpool before crossing the English border into Shropshire. Wind down through the Midlands to reach Moreton-in-Marsh, an idyllic Cotswold market town celebrated for its charming chocolate-box cottages.

After dinner on board, disembark for an exclusive party in a quintessential Cotswolds pub, the Fox in Oddington. Recently renovated, this honey-coloured, 16th-century pub continues its legacy as a traditional countryside inn for locals and visitors alike. Menus celebrate local producers, and your evening will include homemade English fare such as Scotch eggs and sausage rolls, local ales and artisan liqueurs, and the chance to learn the art of pouring the perfect pint.

The breathtaking beauty of Wales has been explored in exquisite style aboard the Belmond Britannic Explorer. While enjoying world-class cuisine on and off the train, you have uncovered some of Wales's most awe-inspiring landscapes from the Pembrokeshire coast to the wilds of mid-Wales and Snowdonia.

Waking this morning, savour a farewell breakfast ahead of a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Oxfordshire and the Chilterns. Arriving at London Victoria this morning, your luxurious experience concludes, and you can make your way home or explore the capital independently.