Few things are more romantic and enjoyable than a steam-train ride through the countryside… And now you can hop aboard one of Ceres Rail’s family-friendly locomotives and experience the splendour firsthand.
The three-hour train ride to Elgin departs from the Harbour Bridge Hotel in the Foreshore district, and travels up Sir Lowry’s Pass. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of mountains, endless rolling hills and grazing sheep and cows along the way.
The steampunk-style Elgin Market
Once the train pulls into the Elgin station, you will be able to disembark, and enjoy three-and-a-half hours at the steampunk-themed Elgin Railway Market. With live music and a dazzling selection of clothing, accessories, ceramics and art stalls, you’ll be able to enjoy all that’s on offer while savouring tantalising street food and refreshments.
Sitting pretty: seating options on the train
Ticket Type Description Cost Day Seating Restaurant-type booth seating with great views. R625 per person Bar Lounge Seating Seating in comfortable lounge chairs in the bar. Great views. No under 18s. R625 per person Family Coupe Suited for a maximum of three adults, or two adults and two children. Offers privacy and a large window. R1 500 per unit Family Compartment Suited for a maximum of six adults, or four adults and two children. Offers privacy, a large window and a table. R2 900 per unit Observation Car Truly the best seat in the house. Suitable for large groups of up to 28 people, with air-conditioning, optional private bar, optional exclusive catering, and guaranteed all-round views. R850 per person
(Groups of 15 – 28)
Good to know
- Snacks and drinks are sold onboard (and there’s a fully licenced bar). No food and drinks can be brought onboard (in the case of special dietary requirements, exceptions can be made by prior arrangement).
- The trips are hauled by two locomotives; one steam and one diesel. On the rare occasion that a steam locomotive is not available, two diesel engines will be used, but customers will be informed in such instances.
Itinerary
- 7.45am: depart from Harbour Bridge Hotel, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town
- 11.30am: arrive at the Elgin Railway Market
- 2.15pm: depart from Elgin
- 5.30pm – 6.15pm: arrive back in Cape Town
Discover all of the Cape’s hidden gems – subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
Address
Harbour Bridge Hotel, Dockrail Road Foreshore Cape Town