From May 2025, a three-night voyage from Paris to Castello di Casole in Tuscany will consolidate its presence in Italy, continuing to promote the luxury of slow travel and reviving its popular route to Portofino, arriving at the iconic Belmond Splendido Hotel.
Guests will be welcomed in Paris with a toast of champagne, while they settle into their cabins, which range from historic cabins to the most luxurious Grand Suites. Every detail is designed to make the journey feel like a work of art. Breakfast, featuring tea, coffee and pastries, will accompany passengers along the journey through the green hills and vineyards of Tuscany. In the evening, Chef Jean Imbert will prepare a gourmet menu inspired by the regions crossed by the train, while in the Bar Car '3674' live music and refined drinks will accompany the night.
Waking up to breathtaking Italian views includes a leisurely breakfast in your cabin as the train approaches Arezzo. From there, a comfortable transfer will take guests to Siena, where a typical lunch will be the prelude to an exclusive visit to the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Palazzo Pannocchieschi d'Elci, which overlooks the famous Piazza del Campo.
The day culminates with the arrival at Castello di Casole, where guests will stay in elegant Suites. The evening offers a unique stargazing experience, under an Astronomitaly-awarded sky, with an expert guide who will reveal constellations, galaxies and planets.
The second day opens with the 'Festa del Villaggio', a celebration of Tuscan traditions, with local producers and artisans. The hotel offers wellness experiences such as excursions, yoga and spa treatments, for a total immersion in nature and luxury. The journey continues with a walk in the gardens of the Castle, before departure.
THE RETURN TO PORTOFINO
Following the success of its first voyage in June 2024, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will return to Portofino, offering a journey through the French countryside, the French Riviera and Liguria, concluding at the iconic Belmond Splendido Hotel.
During the journey, guests will be able to choose from a variety of luxury accommodations, including the L'Observatoire sleeping car, designed by artist JR, which offers exclusive comfort. The evening will be a succession of emotions, with an aperitif in the Bar Car '3674' and a gourmet dinner by Chef Jean Imbert. The journey continues with spectacular views of the French Riviera, passing through Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo and Genoa.
Upon arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure, guests will be transferred to the Hotel Belmond Splendido, recently renovated by Martin Brudnizki Design. For the 2025 season, the hotel will feature a new main building with an exclusive bar, breakfast area and the Dior Spa.
Welcomed by the charm of the Tigullio Gulf, guests can relax by the pool, explore the wellness center or dine at DaV Mare, located at Splendido Mare. The evening will end with an aperitif in the renovated cocktail bar, a historic place that has hosted legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Humphrey Bogart.
The last day will be dedicated to wellness: tennis on the panoramic courts, relaxing in the pool or exclusive treatments at the Dior Spa. Guests can also stroll in the Piazzetta di Portofino or take part in excursions and kayak trips. The day will culminate with an aperitif in the hotel gardens and a Gala Dinner at La Terrazza, with the refined cuisine of Chef Corrado Corti and live entertainment.
