The Silk Road republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan remain enigmas for the luxury traveller. A captivating mosaic of countries where civilisation began and the world’s great religious ideologies and political ideas took hold, the ‘Five Stans’ have long held an allure for the intrepid visitor in search of the same adventures as legendary explorer Marco Polo; less so for those who delight in extravagant conveniences. However, winding its way along the railways of Central Asia’s verdant and vast plains, the Golden Eagle luxury train draws back the curtain of mystery for those who wish to experience a region brimming with magnificent mosques, bustling bazaars and breathtaking landscapes, while travelling in unforgettable splendour.
Aboard the Golden Eagle private train, you will find three categories of cabins — Silver Class, Gold Class and Imperial Suite — complemented by a personal attendant who is on hand to service every whim and want on your journey around the ethereal landscapes of the great Eurasian Steppe. Spanning 120 square feet, the Imperial Suite offers the most spacious of sanctuaries. Replete with a king-sized bed, lounge area with dressing table and a private ensuite bathroom, the journey begins with a complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon. Underfloor heating, individual air-conditioning and a complimentary minibar as well as unlimited drinks from the Bar Lounge Car and in-suite dining, add even more opulence to this journey of discovery.
Stray from your affluent surroundings to discover a set of beautifully appointed restaurant cars where you can indulge in a plethora of dishes prepared by the executive chef and his team. Begin each day with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked bread as you savour a bountiful buffet of pastries, cereals and cold plates. Alternatively, you can treat yourself to a made-to-order cooked breakfast, accompanied by tea or coffee. For lunch and dinner, expect a delicious smorgasbord of plates that are joined by a fine selection of wines, hand-picked by the founder and owner, Tim Littler. There’s even a Gala Caviar Dinner for those who wish to elevate proceedings that little bit further.
The Bar Lounge Car is where you have the opportunity to socialise with your fellow passengers. Enjoy a cocktail while you read a novel from the library or challenge your friends to a game of bridge, as you soak up the sounds of the resident pianist playing the baby grand piano. And with no closing time, the bar stays open each night until the last person leaves.
When the train comes to a halt, you will embark on an itinerary showcasing the best and most memorable landmarks each destination has to showcase. Take the Republics of The Silk Road experience: priced at $60,395 per person sharing the Imperial Suite, you and your travel partner will criss-cross the region for 14 days, taking in the mesmerising cultural cities of Bukhara and Samarkand, the stunning Lake Issyk-kul and the infamous Darvaza Gas Crater, which has been burning since the 1980s. There’s even the opportunity to indulge in authentic dining experiences, with stop-offs at local restaurants. And as Imperial Suite guests, you will also benefit from a private guide and chauffeured car service in many of the locations into which the train calls.
During 2025, the Golden Eagle luxury train will operate journeys in April, September and October.
Goldeneagleluxurytrains.com
