A new nine-day luxury steam train holiday is set to take rail enthusiasts deep into the heart of Europe’s most spectacular mountain scenery when The Alpine Belle departs in June 2026.
Operated by Belle Trains, specialists in curated steam railway holidays, the tour runs from 4–12 June 2026 and combines four days of mainline steam, iconic Alpine railways, historic cities and hand-selected hotels across Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
A Steam Journey Across Three Countries
The Alpine Belle begins in Cologne, following the Rhine Valley into the Hesse region where steam locomotive 01 1104 takes charge for the run south towards Lake Constance. Passengers stay in Lindau, before the train weaves through Switzerland’s dramatic Alpine valleys en route to Innsbruck in the Austrian Tyrol.
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After two nights in the Tyrol, the journey continues through the high Alps to Salzburg, with a three-night stay allowing time to explore one of Europe’s most historic musical cities.
A Highlight for Steam Enthusiasts
One of the standout moments of the tour is a mainline steam journey from Salzburg to the Ampflwang Railway Museum, travelling in carriages with open balconies. This rare experience includes access to the preserved railway, mining museum and roundhouse — a must for steam railway devotees.
The tour concludes in Frankfurt or Wiesbaden, where passengers enjoy their final overnight stay before returning home.
Locomotives and Rolling Stock
Steam traction plays a central role throughout the holiday. 01 1104, originally built in 1940 and capable of 140 km/h, hauls the train on key legs of the journey. Swiss-based steam power features on the Swiss section, while Austrian steam — likely G10 locomotive No. 657 — operates on Alpine routes and optional excursions.
Belle Trains is again partnering with Rail Event of Switzerland, owners of the Prestige Continental Express and associated heritage carriages.
Travel Packages and Pricing
The Alpine Belle is offered in three distinct travel packages, all including hotel accommodation, porterage, transfers where required, and English-speaking representatives throughout:
- Three-Star Package – From £2,995pp
Travel in Suisse Train Bleu First Class compartments with opening windows, plus 3-star hotels. - Four-Star Package – From £4,595pp
Vintage 1960s restaurant car dining with meals included and selected 4-star hotels. - Five-Star Package – From £6,795pp
Travel in the Prestige Continental Express with full dining, wine included, piano bar access and award-winning hotels.
Expertly Curated Rail Holidays
Founded in 2024, Belle Trains is led by a team with more than 40 years’ combined experience in UK and European railway holidays. Their debut tour, The Harz Mountains Belle, ran successfully in May 2025, earning strong passenger feedback.
Chairman and founder Marcus Robertson said the Alpine Belle combines “spectacular landscapes, historic locomotives, curated excursions and vibrant cities,” promising an unforgettable rail experience for 2026.
To find out more, visit www.belletrains.co.uk/alpine-belle-2026
