The Southern Drift
Experience the best of New Zealand’s South Island on this twelve-day guided tour. Travel on the TranzAlpine, one of the world’s great train journeys, to the wild West Coast. Discover the Franz Josef Glacier on a guided walk with local experts. Journey along the Haast River in an enclosed jet boat, then travel to the picturesque former mining village of Arrowtown. Take time to explore the charming town of Queenstown: here, you can choose a guided e-bike tour or join a boutique wine tour, then dine on exceptional fare at one of its most exclusive restaurants. Journey through Fiordland National Park to Doubtful Sound, a stunning fiord with ancient valleys, waterfalls and wildlife where you'll embark on an overnight nature cruise complete with an onboard naturalist, activities and lectures. Travel to the ‘Edinburgh of the South’, Dunedin, to sample craft gin at Dunedin Craft Distillers. End your adventure in Christchurch, where you will toast your travels during a celebration dinner.
Dining Summary
- 11 Breakfast (B)
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 3 Lunch (L)
- Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
- In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
- Included at all hotels.
- Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
- Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
- On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
- Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
- Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
- Dunedin: Delight in the rich history of chocolate in Dunedin, uncover the origins of OCHO and learn the art of crafting true, artisanal chocolate. Indulge in an exquisite 10-sample bean-to-bar tasting, elevating your senses to the heights of luxury.
- Fiordland National Park: Give in to the wilderness, and escape to the secluded Patea Doubtful Sound, located in the depths of the Fiordland National Park. Unlike a day cruise, this unique overnight experience completely immerses you in nature. Wake up feeling connected, in harmony, and full of wonder for Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna.
- Doubtful Sound: A warm welcome awaits you at a local farm, where you’ll savour a rustic lunch while listening to captivating tales from landowner Chris. Immerse yourself in the farm's charm, with the chance to interact with friendly animals and enjoy an abundance of fascinating stories-an unforgettable experience in nature.
- Queenstown: Ride the scenic trail on an e-bike, visit hidden gems of the area and learn local history.
- Queenstown: Fall in love with nature and immerse yourself in a unique experience where conservation, horticulture, and eco-tourism meet. The Walter Peak Eco Experience allows you to learn more about New Zealand conservation and contribute to biodiversity.
- Cromwell: Visit the Highlands National Motorsport Museum and come face to face with top-of-the-line machines. Since you only ever see them in the movies or on TV, there’s just something about being in the same room with these rare special cars that gets everyone buzzing.
- Lake Wanaka: Wanaka Lavender Farm is just a few minutes drive from Wanaka, where you can experience 20 acres of beautiful lavender fields. Enjoy a walk through the flowers, meet our friendly farm animals, play a garden game, unwind over a cup of herbal tea & indulge in our lavender ice-creams. Sample our Lakes Honey and the many Wanaka Lavender Farm products that are lovingly made on site.
- Haast River: Enjoy the unique blend of thrilling speed and calm comfort on a Haast River jet boat safari. Zip past untouched forests and snow-capped mountains in your fully enclosed cabin while you hear beguiling tales of the wilderness communities of the valley.
- Franz Josef: Discover the wild beauty of the West Coast with a personalised scenic cruise on Lake Mapourika. Step off the boat and into a Jurassic rainforest, where a guided nature walk follows a low-impact track created by your skipper, Dale, and his team. Wander through untouched old-growth forest, rich in native flora and teeming with birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for graceful white herons and New Zealand’s native bush birds in this peaceful, otherworldly sanctuary.
- Christchurch: Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine. Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.
- Hokitika: Visit the coastal town of Hokitika, where you’ll find stunning scenery and a cool, arty vibe. Join a Local Expert for a Hokitika History Walk and hear about the area's rich history - from the discovery of New Zealand jade through the many tales from the gold rush in the 1860s.
- Queenstown: Enjoy dinner at the majestic waterfront Bathhouse, try locally grown, foraged and farmed produce, local and international wines, against the spectacular lakefront backdrop of Lake Wakatipu.
- Gibbston Valley: Enjoy wine tasting in Gibbston Valley Wine Region at Kinross, followed by lunch.
- Franz Josef: Indulge in an exceptional dining experience at Te Waonui Rainforest Retreat, where exquisite, locally sourced cuisine is perfectly paired with fine wines, set against the serene backdrop of an ancient rainforest, offering an unforgettable journey of taste and tranquillity.
- Franz Josef: Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a five-star haven of relaxation and impeccable luxury. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
- Dunedin: On this a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, sample exquisite botanical spirits made from surplus bread and bakery products in an effort to reduce landfill waste. Witness how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell, do it as they take you through the process of turning bread into spirits.
- Luxury
- Rail Tours
Welcome home to our carefully curated selection of places to stay. A true immersion in each destination. Luxury hotels and resorts along with unique and boutique accommodations are part of every journey.
Enjoy magnificent locations, glamorous properties, and superior service. Whether you want to put your feet up or let your hair down, your encounter with excellence begins the moment you wake up and continues through each decadent night’s rest.
A few of our Europe & Britain Magnificent Stays
Quisisana Hotel
Capri, Italy
The five-star Quisisana Hotel is in prime position for exploring the Isle of Capri. Rooms are designed with effortless Mediterranean elegance, matching perfectly with the idyllic backdrop of lush greenery and turquoise water.
Experience on: Ultimate Italy
Ohla Eixample Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain
This boutique centrally located hotel is on the site of what was once the palace of the first Count of Barcelona. From the rooftop there are incredible views over the city for you to enjoy while taking a dip in the pool or relaxing with a drink on the terrace.
Experience on: Spain and Portugal in Style
Ashford Castle
Mayo, Ireland
The remarkable 800-year-old castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. Meticulously restored to its former glory, guests are warmly welcomed to discover beautifully restored castle interiors, original artwork, and antiques.
Experience on: Ultimate Ireland
A few of our USA & Canada Magnificent Stays
The Ritz-Carlton
New Orleans, USA
Relax in luxury at the elegant 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The Ritz-Carlton retains the grace and charm of this former mansion home, and a touch of glamor including the hotel’s resident Jazz artist to serenade your stay.
Experience on: Southern Grace
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Québec City, Canada
Standing high on a bluff overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of it. At this iconic property, you’re guaranteed a memorable and inspiring stay in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Experience on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada
Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens
Mississippi, USA
As a charter member of Southern Living's Hotel Collection, Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens is a quintessential Southern travel experience with a unique combination of hospitality, world-class service, and luxurious surroundings, all set within a historic backdrop.
Experience on: Southern Grace
A few of our Latin America Magnificent Stays
Belmond Copacabana Palace
Rio, Brazil
Located in the famous Copacabana Beach, the Belmond Copacabana Palace is known as the most luxury hotel in Brazil. A symbol of sophistication and refinement, it offers impeccable service, excellent cuisine, and luxurious accommodation, and is the ideal place to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
Experience on: Classic South America
Hotel das Cataratas
Iguazu National Park, Argentina
Step through the doors into a world of understated luxury. The luxurious Belmond das Cataratas is the only hotel inside the National Park and sits alongside the falls. Soak up the jungle chorus while you float in the pool, stroll through gardens bejewelled with orchids, and sip caipirinhas as the sun goes down.
Experience on: Grand South America
Tambo del Inka
Sacred Valley, Peru
Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is a luxury hotel in Sacred Valley, Peru that invites visitors to experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with adventure tourism experiences nearby including historical and cultural tours of the vestiges of the Incan Empire.
Experience on: Treasures of the Incas
A few of our Africa Magnificent Stays
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Kruger Park, South Africa
Situated in the Sabi Sands, which boasts one of the planet’s highest concentrations of animal species, the lodges offer exquisite treehouse-style rooms, luxury suites with private decks and some with plunge pools.
Experience on: Spectacular South Africa
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Cape Town, South Africa
An award-winning hotel dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain, with stunning ocean and mountain-facing rooms and suites.
Experience on: Spectacular South Africa
Marriott Mena House
Cairo, Egypt
As far as hotels go, there are few that compare to the five-star Mena House Hotel. Having welcomed numerous heads of state over the years, you’ll have the opportunity to bask in its storied history, while still benefiting from its modern luxury.
Experience on: Elegance of the Nile
A few of our Asia Magnificent Stays
The Leela Palace
Udaipur, India
Built in the style of a grand Maharaja's palace, The Leela Palace evokes the mystique of a bygone age where refined service and regal majesty combine to present an unparalleled experience.
Experience on: Imperial Rajasthan
Anantara Hoi An Resort
Hoi An, Vietnam
Positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this luxury resort is situated moments away from the charming historic part of Hoi An. Take in the tranquil atmosphere from a sunbed overlooking the river, treat yourself to a massage at the spa or cool down in the swimming pool.
Experience on: Cambodia and Vietnam in Style
Pilgrimage Village
Hue, Vietnam
Find balance and harmony at the peaceful Pilgrimage Village, situated among leafy trees and quiet countryside. Participate in meditation, yoga or tai chi classes or unwind in the steam bath.
Experience on: Inspiring Indochina
A few of our Australia & New Zealand Magnificent Stays
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Franz Josef, New Zealand
Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a five-star haven of relaxation and impeccable luxury. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Experience on: The Southern Drift
Porters Boutique Hotel
Havelock North Village, New Zealand
Porters Boutique Hotel is a privately owned, boutique hotel that delivers a luxurious experience. Elegantly appointed guest rooms are fitted with plush, classic furnishings and local artwork, all moments away from the charming village of Havelock North.
Experience on: The Long White Cloud
Voco Kirkton Park
Hunter Valley, Australia
Set amidst acres of rolling hills, the boutique voco Kirkton Park Hotel offers the ultimate country escape with a variety of walking trails leading on from its gardens. It also boasts a Grecian-style heated indoor pool, spa and sauna, fitness center, and tennis courts.
Experience on: Inspiring Australia
Our Trusted Partners
In addition to your Magnificent Stays, your overnights are spent with trusted hotel partners
Our trusted accommodations partners include:
- The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
- Belmond
- JW Marriott
Cuisine and travel go hand in hand. At the heart of each journey, culinary experiences are highlights, not just meals. The best fine dining and local gastronomic tours are hand selected and integrated into every journey.
Michelin Star and Acclaimed Restaurants
Tasting is believing. Linger in Michelin-starred restaurants. Exquisite surroundings and impeccable service bring a side of wonder that make every meal an unrivalled experience. Here’s a taste of what luxury dining you can expect.
Salmon n' Bannock
Vancouver, Canada
Exclusively opening for our guests, Salmon n' Bannock is Vancouver's only Indigenous owned and operated restaurant. The restaurant is a gathering place where the focus is on the people and the food, and where traditional ingredients used for thousands of years by the First Nation, are used to create authentic flavors in delicious modern dishes.
Experience on: Majesty of the Rockies
Villa Dianella
Tuscany, Italy
Immerse yourself in the culture of Tuscan food with a hands-on cooking class at Villa Dianella in Italy. Source fresh ingredients from the blooming garden and roll your own fresh pasta to prepare a classic Italian meal. Relax in this Medicean villa over wine and food.
Experience on: Ultimate Italy
1135 AD Amber
Jaipur, India
Opulent Maharaja's dining within the Amber Fort plating incredible Indian dishes by candlelight. Dine on centuries-old recipes once made exclusively for royalty. Condé Nast consistently names 1135 AD Amber in their top restaurants of India, and the tantalizing dishes on offer make you realize why.
Experience on: Essence of India
Gastronomic Variety
Variety is always on the menu. The breadth and depth of dining choices take you deep into the soul of a place. From flavors that flirt to textures that tease, you’ll enjoy gastronomic sensations on every journey. Step in with the locals on foodie street tours. Create delicious favorites with local gourmands. Indulge at winery picnics and enjoy breakfast in bed. The New Golden Age of Travel offers a smorgasbord of incredible dining options infused with discovery and adventure.
Old Cataract Hotel
Aswan, Egypt.
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at sunset in the elegant Victorian surroundings of The Old Cataract Hotel in Egypt, famously frequented by Agatha Christie and Winston Churchill.
Experience on: Elegance of the Nile
Stockholm Fotografiska
Stockholm, Sweden
Dine at the Fotografiska Museum Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering, creative and sustainability-driven dinner. Honored with the Michelin Sustainability Emblem, Fotografiska is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience serving organic, plant-based meals with a mission to inspire a more conscious world.
Experience on: Timeless Scandinavia
L'Antic Moli
Tarragona, Spain
L'Antic Moli is where contemporary gourmet cuisine is crafted with precision and creativity. Delight in Michelin-starred dishes that embrace the rhythms of the seasons, made from locally sourced ingredients that highlight the rich flavors of the region. Enjoy an exquisite dining experience that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence.
Experience on: Spain and Portugal in Style
In Room Breakfasts
Where noted, on select days with Relaxed Starts, set your clock a little later and enjoy breakfast in bed with complimentary room service.
Your Choice Dining
Your Travel Concierge can also recommend hand-picked restaurants serving local specialties within an easy walk from your hotel, giving you the freedom to dine where you choose on select nights.
Enjoy luxury concierge services on your journey within your small group setting. You’ll enjoy flawless personal service tailored to you. This is the new gold standard in luxury travel.
Small Group Journeys
Enjoy a bespoke experience within an intimate setting of an average of 18 guests, meaning a personal one-to-one experience. Exclusively for you.
Your Personal Travel Concierge
Your Travel Concierge is an expert on your destination. And your tastes. At your service, 24/7, with you every step of the way. They will lead you through under-the-radar history, introduce you to undiscovered artisans, and connect you to the humanity and culture of your destination. They know what you need before you need it. Every detail or desire is tailored for you. They are the embodiment of ‘driven by service’ – the founding philosophy on which our company is built.
Personalize Your Days
On many days you can enjoy a choice of included experiences to personalize your journey. Plus, your personal Travel Concierge goes the extra mile and combines insider knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to further customize your trip. Whether it’s concerts or cuisine, the Renaissance or relaxation or something else entirely, your Travel Concierge will feed your passions or spark your curiosity.
Private Door-to-Door Transfers
Your bespoke travel experience awaits from your journey’s beginning with private door-to-door transfers. Enjoy a flawless transfer from your home to your local airport with a private car and driver.
Curated travel with VIP access. Unique luxury experiences at your fingertips. This is VIP vacations like no other.
Beyond the Velvet Rope
Front-of-the-queue priority. Behind-the-scenes access. Before and after-hours visits. Ours aren’t your everyday experiences. Enjoy rare insights into the world’s most majestic landmarks, with personal anecdotes from those in the know. Here’s a sample of what you’ll experience.
Dine with a Former All Black Rugby Player
Auckland, New Zealand
Enjoy dinner with a former member of the All Blacks rugby team. Hear stories of the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport.
Experience on: The Long White Cloud
Meet a Survivor of the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb
Hiroshima, Japan
Experience a truly poignant travel moment, as you hear from a survivor of the 1945 Hiroshima Atomic Bomb, which destroyed most of the city during World War II and changed world history forever.
Experience on: Majestic Japan
Chauffeured 2CV Experience
Provence, France
Embark on an enchanting journey through the rolling countryside in a chauffeured Citroën 2CV, passing fragrant fields of lavender with the roof down. The majestic Luberon mountain reveals hidden destinations inaccessible to other travelers, offering a delightful glimpse into the quiet charms of yesteryear. Cap your experience off with a picnic prepared by Madame Dromer in the serene Domaine de la Citadelle vineyard, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
Experience on: Ultimate France
Exclusively for You
On many days you can enjoy a choice of included experiences to personalize your journey. Your Travel Concierge also goes the extra mile and combines insider knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to further customise your trip. Whether it’s concerts or cuisine, the Renaissance or relaxation, or something else entirely, your Travel Concierge will feed your passions and spark your curiosity.
Experience the World’s Great Luxury Train Tours
Step onboard and back in time with these exclusive train tours in Switzerland, Canada and New Zealand. Please note, these incredible rail experiences may be limited to select departures, as listed in the journey page departure calendar.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train
Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine. Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.
Experience on: The Southern Drift
Canada's Rocky Mountaineer with GoldLeaf Service
You’ll meander through Canada’s Rocky Mountains onboard a luxurious train that ensures you don’t miss any of the magnificent vistas. Uniquely outfitted with panoramic windows and glass-domed train cars, you’ll take in every snowy peak, lush forest and rushing creek. You can even step out onto a refreshing outdoor viewing platform to feel even more connected with the natural environment.
Experience on: Majesty of the Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer
Incredible Train Experiences
Each of these tours includes showstopping train experiences.
Glacier Express Scenic Train
MAJESTIC SWITZERLAND
Embark on an epic journey through the Swiss Alps to the village of Zermatt aboard the Glacier Express. Sit back in your spacious, first-class seat surrounded by panoramic windows showcasing the dramatic scenery relaxing as you wind your way through the Alps’ narrow valleys and curves.
Inspirational Train Journeys
Read more about our carefully curated collection of luxury Train Journeys.
Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer
From the plush carriages and iconic GoldLeaf service to the 360-degree views of the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer is a world-renowned rail journey.
Discover Boutique Train Journeys
Boutique train journeys Take the allure of slow travel and weave landscapes, culture, and history into one extraordinary journey that’s just as significant as the destination.
Celebrity Train Journeys
Few can resist the romance and opulence of a luxury train travel experience. It’s one of the world’s greatest travel experiences, with dozens of celebrities lining up to board the finest luxury trains.
The Most Luxurious Train Journeys
If you love the journey as much as the destination, here are 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys to inspire your next adventure.
Festive Train Journeys
Have you ever considered booking a festive train journey? We scoured the globe in search of seven of the most beautiful train journeys this holiday season. Step aboard with us.
Welcome home to our carefully curated selection of places to stay. A true immersion in each destination. Luxury hotels and resorts along with unique and boutique accommodations are part of every journey.
Enjoy magnificent locations, glamorous properties, and superior service. Whether you want to put your feet up or let your hair down, your encounter with excellence begins the moment you wake up and continues through each decadent night’s rest.
A few of our Europe & Britain Magnificent Stays
Quisisana Hotel
Capri, Italy
The five-star Quisisana Hotel is in prime position for exploring the Isle of Capri. Rooms are designed with effortless Mediterranean elegance, matching perfectly with the idyllic backdrop of lush greenery and turquoise water.
Experience on: Ultimate Italy
Ohla Eixample Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain
This boutique centrally located hotel is on the site of what was once the palace of the first Count of Barcelona. From the rooftop there are incredible views over the city for you to enjoy while taking a dip in the pool or relaxing with a drink on the terrace.
Experience on: Spain and Portugal in Style
Ashford Castle
Mayo, Ireland
The remarkable 800-year-old castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. Meticulously restored to its former glory, guests are warmly welcomed to discover beautifully restored castle interiors, original artwork, and antiques.
Experience on: Ultimate Ireland
A few of our USA & Canada Magnificent Stays
The Ritz-Carlton
New Orleans, USA
Relax in luxury at the elegant 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The Ritz-Carlton retains the grace and charm of this former mansion home, and a touch of glamor including the hotel’s resident Jazz artist to serenade your stay.
Experience on: Southern Grace
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Québec City, Canada
Standing high on a bluff overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of it. At this iconic property, you’re guaranteed a memorable and inspiring stay in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Experience on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada
Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens
Mississippi, USA
As a charter member of Southern Living's Hotel Collection, Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens is a quintessential Southern travel experience with a unique combination of hospitality, world-class service, and luxurious surroundings, all set within a historic backdrop.
Experience on: Southern Grace
A few of our Latin America Magnificent Stays
Belmond Copacabana Palace
Rio, Brazil
Located in the famous Copacabana Beach, the Belmond Copacabana Palace is known as the most luxury hotel in Brazil. A symbol of sophistication and refinement, it offers impeccable service, excellent cuisine, and luxurious accommodation, and is the ideal place to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
Experience on: Classic South America
Hotel das Cataratas
Iguazu National Park, Argentina
Step through the doors into a world of understated luxury. The luxurious Belmond das Cataratas is the only hotel inside the National Park and sits alongside the falls. Soak up the jungle chorus while you float in the pool, stroll through gardens bejewelled with orchids, and sip caipirinhas as the sun goes down.
Experience on: Grand South America
Tambo del Inka
Sacred Valley, Peru
Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is a luxury hotel in Sacred Valley, Peru that invites visitors to experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with adventure tourism experiences nearby including historical and cultural tours of the vestiges of the Incan Empire.
Experience on: Treasures of the Incas
A few of our Africa Magnificent Stays
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Kruger Park, South Africa
Situated in the Sabi Sands, which boasts one of the planet’s highest concentrations of animal species, the lodges offer exquisite treehouse-style rooms, luxury suites with private decks and some with plunge pools.
Experience on: Spectacular South Africa
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Cape Town, South Africa
An award-winning hotel dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain, with stunning ocean and mountain-facing rooms and suites.
Experience on: Spectacular South Africa
Marriott Mena House
Cairo, Egypt
As far as hotels go, there are few that compare to the five-star Mena House Hotel. Having welcomed numerous heads of state over the years, you’ll have the opportunity to bask in its storied history, while still benefiting from its modern luxury.
Experience on: Elegance of the Nile
A few of our Asia Magnificent Stays
The Leela Palace
Udaipur, India
Built in the style of a grand Maharaja's palace, The Leela Palace evokes the mystique of a bygone age where refined service and regal majesty combine to present an unparalleled experience.
Experience on: Imperial Rajasthan
Anantara Hoi An Resort
Hoi An, Vietnam
Positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this luxury resort is situated moments away from the charming historic part of Hoi An. Take in the tranquil atmosphere from a sunbed overlooking the river, treat yourself to a massage at the spa or cool down in the swimming pool.
Experience on: Cambodia and Vietnam in Style
Pilgrimage Village
Hue, Vietnam
Find balance and harmony at the peaceful Pilgrimage Village, situated among leafy trees and quiet countryside. Participate in meditation, yoga or tai chi classes or unwind in the steam bath.
Experience on: Inspiring Indochina
A few of our Australia & New Zealand Magnificent Stays
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Franz Josef, New Zealand
Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a five-star haven of relaxation and impeccable luxury. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Experience on: The Southern Drift
Porters Boutique Hotel
Havelock North Village, New Zealand
Porters Boutique Hotel is a privately owned, boutique hotel that delivers a luxurious experience. Elegantly appointed guest rooms are fitted with plush, classic furnishings and local artwork, all moments away from the charming village of Havelock North.
Experience on: The Long White Cloud
Voco Kirkton Park
Hunter Valley, Australia
Set amidst acres of rolling hills, the boutique voco Kirkton Park Hotel offers the ultimate country escape with a variety of walking trails leading on from its gardens. It also boasts a Grecian-style heated indoor pool, spa and sauna, fitness center, and tennis courts.
Experience on: Inspiring Australia
Our Trusted Partners
In addition to your Magnificent Stays, your overnights are spent with trusted hotel partners
Our trusted accommodations partners include:
- The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
- Belmond
- JW Marriott
Cuisine and travel go hand in hand. At the heart of each journey, culinary experiences are highlights, not just meals. The best fine dining and local gastronomic tours are hand selected and integrated into every journey.
Michelin Star and Acclaimed Restaurants
Tasting is believing. Linger in Michelin-starred restaurants. Exquisite surroundings and impeccable service bring a side of wonder that make every meal an unrivalled experience. Here’s a taste of what luxury dining you can expect.
Salmon n' Bannock
Vancouver, Canada
Exclusively opening for our guests, Salmon n' Bannock is Vancouver's only Indigenous owned and operated restaurant. The restaurant is a gathering place where the focus is on the people and the food, and where traditional ingredients used for thousands of years by the First Nation, are used to create authentic flavors in delicious modern dishes.
Experience on: Majesty of the Rockies
Villa Dianella
Tuscany, Italy
Immerse yourself in the culture of Tuscan food with a hands-on cooking class at Villa Dianella in Italy. Source fresh ingredients from the blooming garden and roll your own fresh pasta to prepare a classic Italian meal. Relax in this Medicean villa over wine and food.
Experience on: Ultimate Italy
1135 AD Amber
Jaipur, India
Opulent Maharaja's dining within the Amber Fort plating incredible Indian dishes by candlelight. Dine on centuries-old recipes once made exclusively for royalty. Condé Nast consistently names 1135 AD Amber in their top restaurants of India, and the tantalizing dishes on offer make you realize why.
Experience on: Essence of India
Gastronomic Variety
Variety is always on the menu. The breadth and depth of dining choices take you deep into the soul of a place. From flavors that flirt to textures that tease, you’ll enjoy gastronomic sensations on every journey. Step in with the locals on foodie street tours. Create delicious favorites with local gourmands. Indulge at winery picnics and enjoy breakfast in bed. The New Golden Age of Travel offers a smorgasbord of incredible dining options infused with discovery and adventure.
Old Cataract Hotel
Aswan, Egypt.
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at sunset in the elegant Victorian surroundings of The Old Cataract Hotel in Egypt, famously frequented by Agatha Christie and Winston Churchill.
Experience on: Elegance of the Nile
Stockholm Fotografiska
Stockholm, Sweden
Dine at the Fotografiska Museum Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering, creative and sustainability-driven dinner. Honored with the Michelin Sustainability Emblem, Fotografiska is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience serving organic, plant-based meals with a mission to inspire a more conscious world.
Experience on: Timeless Scandinavia
L'Antic Moli
Tarragona, Spain
L'Antic Moli is where contemporary gourmet cuisine is crafted with precision and creativity. Delight in Michelin-starred dishes that embrace the rhythms of the seasons, made from locally sourced ingredients that highlight the rich flavors of the region. Enjoy an exquisite dining experience that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence.
Experience on: Spain and Portugal in Style
In Room Breakfasts
Where noted, on select days with Relaxed Starts, set your clock a little later and enjoy breakfast in bed with complimentary room service.
Your Choice Dining
Your Travel Concierge can also recommend hand-picked restaurants serving local specialties within an easy walk from your hotel, giving you the freedom to dine where you choose on select nights.
Enjoy luxury concierge services on your journey within your small group setting. You’ll enjoy flawless personal service tailored to you. This is the new gold standard in luxury travel.
Small Group Journeys
Enjoy a bespoke experience within an intimate setting of an average of 18 guests, meaning a personal one-to-one experience. Exclusively for you.
Your Personal Travel Concierge
Your Travel Concierge is an expert on your destination. And your tastes. At your service, 24/7, with you every step of the way. They will lead you through under-the-radar history, introduce you to undiscovered artisans, and connect you to the humanity and culture of your destination. They know what you need before you need it. Every detail or desire is tailored for you. They are the embodiment of ‘driven by service’ – the founding philosophy on which our company is built.
Personalize Your Days
On many days you can enjoy a choice of included experiences to personalize your journey. Plus, your personal Travel Concierge goes the extra mile and combines insider knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to further customize your trip. Whether it’s concerts or cuisine, the Renaissance or relaxation or something else entirely, your Travel Concierge will feed your passions or spark your curiosity.
Private Door-to-Door Transfers
Your bespoke travel experience awaits from your journey’s beginning with private door-to-door transfers. Enjoy a flawless transfer from your home to your local airport with a private car and driver.
Curated travel with VIP access. Unique luxury experiences at your fingertips. This is VIP vacations like no other.
Beyond the Velvet Rope
Front-of-the-queue priority. Behind-the-scenes access. Before and after-hours visits. Ours aren’t your everyday experiences. Enjoy rare insights into the world’s most majestic landmarks, with personal anecdotes from those in the know. Here’s a sample of what you’ll experience.
Dine with a Former All Black Rugby Player
Auckland, New Zealand
Enjoy dinner with a former member of the All Blacks rugby team. Hear stories of the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport.
Experience on: The Long White Cloud
Meet a Survivor of the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb
Hiroshima, Japan
Experience a truly poignant travel moment, as you hear from a survivor of the 1945 Hiroshima Atomic Bomb, which destroyed most of the city during World War II and changed world history forever.
Experience on: Majestic Japan
Chauffeured 2CV Experience
Provence, France
Embark on an enchanting journey through the rolling countryside in a chauffeured Citroën 2CV, passing fragrant fields of lavender with the roof down. The majestic Luberon mountain reveals hidden destinations inaccessible to other travelers, offering a delightful glimpse into the quiet charms of yesteryear. Cap your experience off with a picnic prepared by Madame Dromer in the serene Domaine de la Citadelle vineyard, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
Experience on: Ultimate France
Exclusively for You
On many days you can enjoy a choice of included experiences to personalize your journey. Your Travel Concierge also goes the extra mile and combines insider knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to further customise your trip. Whether it’s concerts or cuisine, the Renaissance or relaxation, or something else entirely, your Travel Concierge will feed your passions and spark your curiosity.
Experience the World’s Great Luxury Train Tours
Step onboard and back in time with these exclusive train tours in Switzerland, Canada and New Zealand. Please note, these incredible rail experiences may be limited to select departures, as listed in the journey page departure calendar.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train
Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine. Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.
Experience on: The Southern Drift
Canada's Rocky Mountaineer with GoldLeaf Service
You’ll meander through Canada’s Rocky Mountains onboard a luxurious train that ensures you don’t miss any of the magnificent vistas. Uniquely outfitted with panoramic windows and glass-domed train cars, you’ll take in every snowy peak, lush forest and rushing creek. You can even step out onto a refreshing outdoor viewing platform to feel even more connected with the natural environment.
Experience on: Majesty of the Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer
Incredible Train Experiences
Each of these tours includes showstopping train experiences.
Glacier Express Scenic Train
MAJESTIC SWITZERLAND
Embark on an epic journey through the Swiss Alps to the village of Zermatt aboard the Glacier Express. Sit back in your spacious, first-class seat surrounded by panoramic windows showcasing the dramatic scenery relaxing as you wind your way through the Alps’ narrow valleys and curves.
Inspirational Train Journeys
Read more about our carefully curated collection of luxury Train Journeys.
Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer
From the plush carriages and iconic GoldLeaf service to the 360-degree views of the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer is a world-renowned rail journey.
Discover Boutique Train Journeys
Boutique train journeys Take the allure of slow travel and weave landscapes, culture, and history into one extraordinary journey that’s just as significant as the destination.
Celebrity Train Journeys
Few can resist the romance and opulence of a luxury train travel experience. It’s one of the world’s greatest travel experiences, with dozens of celebrities lining up to board the finest luxury trains.
The Most Luxurious Train Journeys
If you love the journey as much as the destination, here are 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys to inspire your next adventure.
Festive Train Journeys
Have you ever considered booking a festive train journey? We scoured the globe in search of seven of the most beautiful train journeys this holiday season. Step aboard with us.
About Luxury Gold
The beauty and spirit of the world’s most exciting places will come alive when you travel with Luxury Gold. Luxury Gold endeavors to elevate travel beyond the ordinary, bringing you the best escorted experience for the best value. See the places you have dreamed of visiting in a way that indulges your senses and opens your mind to an astonishing tour of wonder, adventure and new learning.
A world of immersive tours awaits you, each with VIP experiences, exceptional dining, elegant hotels and a Traveling Concierge who’s there to tailor everything to your desires. Bon voyage!
About Luxury Gold
The beauty and spirit of the world’s most exciting places will come alive when you travel with Luxury Gold. Luxury Gold endeavors to elevate travel beyond the ordinary, bringing you the best escorted experience for the best value. See the places you have dreamed of visiting in a way that indulges your senses and opens your mind to an astonishing tour of wonder, adventure and new learning.
A world of immersive tours awaits you, each with VIP experiences, exceptional dining, elegant hotels and a Traveling Concierge who’s there to tailor everything to your desires. Bon voyage!
