For travellers dreaming of a luxurious rail journey without the legendary price tag of the Orient Express, an unexpected and affordable alternative has emerged from the hills of Northern Spain. A former coal train, once vital to the region's industrial past, has been meticulously restored into a moving hotel, offering a unique and comfortable way to explore lesser-known Spanish landscapes.
From Industrial Workhorse to Luxury Hotel on Rails
The La Robla Express has a rich history, originally running between León, Palencia, and Vizcaya to supply coal to the northern steel industry in the late 19th century. After the industry declined, the trains were abandoned. In a remarkable revival, Spanish rail operator RENFE repurposed the old engines in the early 2000s. The service officially launched its new life as a luxury travel experience in 2009.
This transformation offers a stark contrast to the cost of the famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where cabin fares start from around £3,800. The La Robla Express provides a comparable allure of vintage travel and private accommodation for a significantly lower investment, making luxury rail travel more accessible.
Two Scenic Itineraries Through Northern Spain
The service currently operates two primary routes. The first is the La Robla Route, a three-day, two-night journey travelling between Bilbao and Leon. This trip includes excursions to historic sites like the medieval town of Frómista and the Roman villa of La Olmeda.
For a more extensive adventure, the Pilgrim's Route offers a six-day, five-night exploration covering a larger section of the famed Camino de Santiago. This longer itinerary passes through cities like Oviedo, with its Gothic cathedral and UNESCO sites, and coastal stops in Ferrol and A Coruña, showcasing the verdant countryside and pristine northern coast.
Departures for these journeys are scheduled from June to September in 2026, capitalising on the region's mild summer climate. The train is fully air-conditioned for passenger comfort.
Onboard Comfort and Culinary Delights
Passengers enjoy their own private compartment, each featuring a bathroom with a sink and toilet. By day, these compartments offer panoramic views, and by night, they convert into cosy bedrooms with fold-down bunk beds, reading lights, and storage. A key comfort feature is that the train is stationary overnight, ensuring an undisturbed sleep.
The experience includes full board. Meals are served in a luxurious dining car, with dinners highlighting local ingredients. Notably, the itinerary also includes opportunities to dine at local restaurants along the route, with transport provided to these establishments.
Pricing for the shorter La Robla Route starts from €2,600 (approximately £2,267) for a double room, which works out to about €1,300 per person. This cost covers all meals, excursions, entrance fees, and organised activities. The longer Pilgrim's Route begins at €3,400 (roughly £2,965) for two people sharing, presenting a substantial saving compared to other luxury train journeys in Europe.
