History

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, which means "Great Luxury" in Spanish, became part of the public Hispanic railway company Renfe in 2011. This train was built in France in the 1920s and has been through several eras and countries during its operation. It is even said that the Queen of England, Elizabeth II, traveled on this train, when it operated for other companies. Nowadays, it has been completely renovated and is considered one of the best tourist trains in Europe, often compared to the mythical Orient Express.

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo now crosses the most beautiful landscapes of northern Spain from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela during an 8-day journey in the comfort of a 5-star luxury hotel on the rails. The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is made up of four original 1923 Pullman coaches for its lounges, giving it an authentic charm. It has a capacity of 28 passengers divided into 14 suites, as well as a panoramic glass lounge that allows its guests to observe the green landscapes of northern Spain. The passengers of the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will enjoy a mixture of comfort, glamour, gastronomy, culture, relaxation and pleasure during their journey through time.

What destinations does the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo visit?

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will take you through the most beautiful landscapes of 4 autonomous communities in the north of Spain, from Galicia to the Bay of Biscay, through Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. This is a unique itinerary, in 8 days and 7 nights, between San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela, in either direction, which is offered to the future privileged travelers of this luxury train to discover exciting excursions in the heart of "las maravillas de España" (the wonders of Spain).

Your guide will accompany you on all the cultural visits in the heart of the 4 autonomous communities of the Costa Verde. A coach will drop you off at the most beautiful tourist sites that you will explore during your trip, such as villages perched in the heart of the Asturias valleys or secret beaches on the coast rocked by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Activities and facilities on board the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo has 4 lounge cars where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Costa Verde through its large panoramic windows. It also has 7 sleeping cars to accommodate the 14 suites of its 28 passengers, a restaurant car where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, and a bar car where you can enjoy delicious cocktails as you ride the rails. Your stay aboard the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will be synonymous with luxury and comfort, under the watchful eye of the crew members who will provide you with the most attentive and high quality service throughout your trip. The detailed program of each day as well as the national, international and local press will be distributed in your suite.

Your evenings aboard the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will be filled with entertainment, music and dancing organized by the crew and memorable moments with your fellow passengers.

Your trip on the rails will also be synonymous with gastronomy when you dine in the train's elegant dining cars. Your best dishes will be washed down with the best wines from the wine regions of northern Spain. Also, if you wish to learn more about the gastronomy of Northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country), cooking classes will be offered on board. Do not hesitate to let us know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions when you make your reservation. The crew will be attentive to all your needs for your meals on board the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo.

What are the cabins on board the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo?

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo has 14 luxury suites, which can accommodate up to 28 passengers. All of them have a double bed or twin beds, living room, computer with free internet connection, internal telephone, air conditioning, mini-bar, safe, wardrobe, luggage compartment and bathroom with hydro-massage shower or sauna, hair dryer and a variety of premium toiletries. These suites are spacious, adorned with refined wood decor, thoughtfully designed with large windows to enjoy the scenery as it passes before your eyes from the comfort of your suite. To facilitate your rest in your haven of peace, the train remains at the platform during the whole night.

What excursions are offered on the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo train?

With its 8-day itinerary, from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will take you on an exciting journey through the history and natural beauty of Northern Spain. This train offers a perfect combination of culture and nature on a journey of more than 500 km, synonymous with a wonderful trip. Visit, for example, the famous Guggenheim Museum, the iconic symbol of the city of Bilbao.

Also, the city of Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria. Continue your journey to the thermal circuit of the Hermida Spa for a well-deserved break. Visit El Capricho, in Comillas, a bright and colorful 19th century palace by Antonio Gaudí. Your rail journey will also take you to breathtaking places such as Santillana del Mar and its medieval old town, or to the heart of the Pointes de Europa National Park and its Enol Lake, as well as to Oviedo, capital of the Principality of Asturias. Your trip on the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo will end in Santiago de Compostela with a visit to the historic center, which contains countless artistic gems such as the magnificent cathedral, the place of arrival of thousands of pilgrims who have made their "camino" (path) to this mythical place.