The sparkling new trips onboard Belmond trains revive the spirit of the “Grande Dame” of Champagne
The golden age of travel. A time when the journey was just as important as the destination. In the early 20th century, at the zenith of Europe’s love affair with railways, well-heeled tourists would enjoy long, slow trips through the continent aboard luxurious trains that offered service and hospitality on par with the best hotels.
It’s this immersive elegance that Veuve Clicquot is aiming to revive through its new luxury rail journeys, inspired by the “fine style and pioneering spirit” of Madame Clicquot, the “Grande Dame” of Champagne. Madame Clicquot was a famed pioneer with a global outlook. After being widowed at only 27, and finding herself at the helm of her late husband’s business, she rose to the challenge and worked tirelessly to expand the brand worldwide, spreading the joy of Veuve Clicquot Champagne.
The same spirit flows through the new Solaire Journeys, named after the house’s famous “sunshine yellow” colour. Taking place throughout 2024 on board luxurious Belmond trains, the curated trips promise to transport passengers back to the golden age. The experiences will chase the sun from east to west, taking in the incredible landscapes, cuisines and cultures of three very different continents—Asia, Europe and South America. Guests will stay and travel on board Belmond’s most iconic trains, where they’ll be treated to fine dining and hospitality —and, naturally, plenty of Veuve Clicquot fizz.
Feast for the senses
While on board the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, guests will feast on menus curated by renowned French chef Jean Imbert, who blends the train’s gastronomic heritage with his own passion for fresh seasonal produce. From breakfast—eggs and caviar at sunrise—through to afternoon tea and dinner, each meal will feature ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers, served alongside incredible views of passing landscapes.
The bespoke menus have been imagined by Imbert to pair with the magnificent Champagne selection from Veuve Clicquot. A highlight of the journey will be a black-tie dinner, showcasing the label’s finest cuvées. Guests will be joined by an oenologist from the house, who will curate wine and Champagne pairings, and host exceptional vintage tastings throughout the journey.
Bottles available to sample include the elegant Yellow Label and Brut Rosé, several Vintage magnums (2002, 2008, 2012), the unique Extra Brut Old and the La Grande Dame series (2008, 2012, 2015 and the Rosé 1998, 2008, 2012, 2015), in addition to exclusive picks from the Cave Privée series (1985, 1990, 1998) including a Rosé (1985, 1998).
Across the globe
The oenologist will also select bottles for two further Solaire Journeys in Malaysia and Peru. The former will take place aboard Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express (April 22nd to 25th) and follow an itinerary that travels from the cosmopolitan city of Singapore, where Veuve Clicquot has been quaffed since 1859, and through the country’s untouched jungles and ancient forests.
The final trip (October 21st–26th) traverses Peru on board two iconic Belmond trains—the Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, Peru, and the Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, Machu Picchu. Departing from bustling Cusco, guests will discover the ancient sites and natural wonders of this fascinating country, including the land of the Incas and the Sacred Valley.
Such remarkable vistas are best enjoyed slowly, making rail the ideal way to travel—especially with a glass of Veuve Clicquot in hand.
