Island Rail Journeys: 10 Spectacular Scenic Train Rides
There’s something inherently romantic about traveling by train—but when that journey hugs a rugged coastline or climbs misty highlands surrounded by sea, the experience becomes magical. Island train rides combine dramatic landscapes, local culture, and slow travel bliss. Whether it's a luxury ride through tea fields or a heritage rail rattling past ocean cliffs, here are 10 island train adventures every wanderluster should experience.
1. St. Kitts Scenic Railway – St. Kitts, West Indies
Nicknamed the “Sugar Train,” this narrow-gauge railway was built in 1912 to carry sugarcane but now whisks tourists along a lush 18-mile route with stunning ocean and mountain views. The double-decker cars feature open-air top decks, offering an immersive view of the Atlantic Ocean, old plantations, and Mount Liamuiga’s green slopes. Folk singers and rum punch onboard? Yes, please.
Top tip: Sit on the ocean-facing side on the upper deck for the best photos.
For more information about St. Kitts Scenic Railway
2. TranzAlpine – South Island, New Zealand
Though often overlooked as an island destination, New Zealand’s South Island is a dramatic beauty—and the TranzAlpine train captures it all. This 5-hour journey from Christchurch to Greymouth crosses the Southern Alps, showcasing braided rivers, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and ancient forests. The panoramic windows and open-air carriage make this ride legendary.
Best season: Summer (Dec–Feb) for long daylight hours, but snow-covered winter views are equally magical.
3. Kandy to Ella – Sri Lanka
This iconic ride through Sri Lanka’s central highlands is a bucket list favorite. Winding through emerald tea plantations, cloud forests, and charming villages, it passes the famous Nine Arch Bridge. You can ride with locals in open-door carriages, letting the wind and views wrap around you.
Travel tip: First-class seats offer comfort, but the real charm lies in the open windows of second class.
For more information about Kandy to Ella train ride
4. Trenino Verde – Sardinia, Italy
Translated as “Little Green Train,” Sardinia’s Trenino Verde is a slow, nostalgic ride through the island’s untouched interior. With steam or diesel engines pulling old-fashioned coaches, you’ll travel through forests, granite hills, and centuries-old villages. This is Italy unplugged—quiet, rural, and deeply scenic.
Route highlight: Try Arbatax–Mandas for dramatic coastal and inland contrast.
For more information about Trenino Verde ride
5. Alishan Forest Railway – Taiwan
This historic narrow-gauge marvel climbs from Chiayi into the cloud-wrapped peaks of Alishan. The journey includes zig-zags, switchbacks, and red-hued forest tunnels, making it both an engineering feat and a sensory overload. Misty mornings and Japanese-era stations give the route a mystical aura.
Tip: Catch the sunrise train to Zhushan for a dramatic dawn panorama above the clouds.
6. Coto Coto Train – Kyushu, Japan
This isn’t just a ride—it’s a full gourmet experience. The Coto Coto Train on Japan’s Kyushu island offers exquisite local cuisine aboard a slow-moving, beautifully designed train with stained glass windows and wood interiors. It glides through pastoral fields and tranquil countryside, inviting you to slow down and savor every moment.
Perfect for: Romantic getaways or foodies with a taste for design and detail.
7. Wangerooge Island Railway – Germany
A tiny but utterly charming railway that serves as the lifeline of this car-free Frisian island. Connecting the harbor to the main village, the train glides across tidal salt flats and grassy landscapes. At just 3.5 km, it’s brief—but loaded with charm and history.
Pro tip: Sync your train with the ferry schedule and enjoy seaside views from Westturm.
8. Hawaiian Railway Society – Oʻahu, Hawaii
This restored vintage rail line hugs Oʻahu’s Leeward Coast, showcasing sweeping ocean views and glimpses of native history. Run by a nonprofit, the experience is laid-back and educational, complete with a Toy Train Museum and optional premium ride in the Parlor Car.
Ideal for: Families and vintage train lovers wanting a mix of coast, history, and aloha spirit.
9. Bay of Islands Vintage Railway – North Island, New Zealand
Located in charming Kawakawa, this quirky railway is famous for literally running down the town’s main street. The short journey to Taumarere takes you through pastoral fields and across restored bridges. Steam or diesel engines add a dash of classic Kiwi charm.
Don’t miss: Weekend steam rides with “Gabriel,” the oldest working steam engine in NZ.
10. St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway – Barbados
A short, spectacular train ride through a historic plantation on Barbados’ Atlantic coast. The train chugs through tropical mahogany woods and sugarcane fields, stopping at Cherry Tree Hill for sweeping cliffside views. It’s cultural, scenic, and full of colonial-era character.
Bonus: Combine with a visit to the Abbey’s rum distillery and historic house.
🚆 All Aboard the Island Express
From the misty tea hills of Sri Lanka to the sugarcane fields of St. Kitts and the alpine heights of New Zealand, these island train journeys are more than transportation—they’re immersive adventures. Each ride tells a story of place, people, and landscape—slow travel at its finest.
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