A Five Star Hotel On A Train

This October I was invited by Rovos Rail to come and experience their train. You can’t really say no can you. I mean it’s like a five star hotel on a train.

What a train | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

I tried out their Durban to Pretoria route and I must say I was rather pleasantly surprised. From the wonderful welcome by the staff at Durban Station where we were whisked away to their private lounge to enjoy welcome cocktails and tantalising snacks which were a sample of what awaited us on the train.

Pretoria to Durban | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Guests come from all over the world to travel this train, from the USA, UK, France, Brazil and even South Africa.

When we boarded the train we were whisked away to our suite and what a suite it was. I’m still not sure how they fitted a huge bed in it. Not only that but two chairs a table, bar fridge, coffee maker and plenty of wardrobe space. The bed had a heated blanket which was a nice touch especially on those cold nights. The bathroom had a shower and toilet in it and even a heated towel rail. Bear in mind we are talking about on a train here.  For all you tech heads they also have USB plug points.

How did they fit that bed in the room? | Image: Fred Felton

Each car has a dedicated hostess who looks after all of your needs.

When we had unpacked we headed off to the lounge car and saloon car where afternoon tea was being served. Make sure you have some as you can have coffee, sweet treats, cakes and even koeksusters. Haven’t had such a tasty koeksuster like that in a very long time. It takes me back to days with my family in Pretoria.

Afternoon tea | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

The dress on board is smart casual during the day and during the night guests are encouraged to dress up for dinner. So break out your suit and tie and dress to impress. The dining cart is a sight to behold with wonderful décor all around. Guests are treated to a real fine dining experience along with their choice of drinks and wine. Let me put it this way you don’t leave on an empty stomach.

Dining on another level | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Fine dining | Image: Fred Felton 

As you climb into bed each night the train slowly rocks you to sleep and before you know it the next day is waiting for you along with a delicious breakfast.

Spionkop | Image: Fred Felton

Our first stop was at Ladysmith. We headed off to Spionkop where guests had a choice of a battlefield excursion or a game drive. We chose the game drive option and were treated to some wonderful game sightings and spectacular scenery. Whatever you do don’t forget your camera.

Spot the giraffe | Image: Fred Felton 

After a brief stop for tea or coffee we headed back to the train and it was almost time for lunch. In the afternoon another game drive awaited at Nambiti. This game farm is home to the big 5 and you will see plenty of wildlife on this drive. Pro Tip – Wear something warm along with a scarf and beanie as these game drives can get a bit chilly.

Anyway back at Nambiti we were treated to sightings of Elephant, Hippo, Buck, Giraffe, Wildebeest and many more.

Elephants aplenty | Image: Fred Felton

We were welcomed back to the train by the friendly Rovos Rail staff and drinks awaited us as we chatted with fellow guests about the wildlife we had seen.

Rovos at Dusk | Image: Fred Felton

Now and again I had to pinch myself as I felt as if I was in some Agatha Christie detective novel or even a James Bond movie. That’s what awaits you on this train, that glamorous old world lifestyle.

A passage to another world | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Some of the cuisine that stood out for me included the stuffed chicken thighs with aubergine and cherry tomato pilau, the heavenly chocolate mousse with chocolate soil, the refreshing chilled cucumber and melon soup and the banoffee tartlet with banana and caramel cream. There were plenty more tasty surprises on the train but I leave those up to you to enjoy on your trip.

That refreshing chilled cucumber and melon soup | Image: Fred Felton

On my excursions up and down the train I couldn’t help but marvel at the detail that has gone into the interiors and the luxury couches and chairs where you can sit. A great place to relax and enjoy the scenery is on the back of the saloon car where you can sit on benches outside and feel the breeze over you as the train carries on.

The lounge car | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Suites are named after famous people and places around Africa. We stayed in the Constatia Suite and I spotted Kimberley, Drakensberg and even Madiba amongst many others along the way.

Guests can also help themselves to books to read or even play one of the many games that are on offer.

There is also a cocktail evening that is a wonderful ice breaker where all the guests meet and mingle over delightful cocktails.

The Observation Balcony my favourite spot | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

On the last day we had some wonderful sights just outside Johannesburg and then nearer to Pretoria. When we reached the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria we were all greeted personally by Mr Rohan Vos as we stepped off the train. He is the founder of Rovos Rail and an amazing man to chat to.

Mr Rohan Vos | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

You can also sign up for a tour of the workshop at his station after your trip. This is highly recommended for those that love train history as you will see some wonderful vintage models there.

The Rovos Rail Pretoria Station Lounge | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

The Rovos Rail train station in Pretoria is something to behold. It’s like one of those olden day train stations but with modern luxuries. The bathrooms don’t just have toilets and basins they also have showers so you can freshen up if you want.

Delicious chocolates and treats are scattered all over the lounge area and guests can enjoy a welcome drink as they wait to move on to their next leg of their journey. Free Wi-Fi is included.

It was with a hint of sadness that I left the Rovos Rail Pretoria Station. It was a wonderful experience and I am already planning my next trip.

There are many more hidden delights awaiting you on the train. I’m not telling you what they are you will just have to find out for yourself.

You will find yourself leaving the train having made friends with fellow guests. I certainly did.

If you would like to experience Rovos Rail Tours they have tours from Durban to Pretoria, Pretoria to Cape Town, South Africa to Namibia, South Africa to Vic Falls, South Africa to Dar es Salaam,    Dar es Salaam to Lobito, I could go on and on but why don’t you just visit their site and book a trip.

30th year anniversary specials | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

It’s their 30^th year anniversary and they have a special on so take advantage now. They also have specials for next year as well.

For reservation and general enquiries: rovos.com |reservations@rovos.co.za | +27 (0)12 315 8242 | +27 (0)21 421 4020.

Rating: Highly recommended

Review by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton