The Transcantabrian Train (El Transcantábrico)

The Transcantabrian is a special train chartered by FEVE (Spanish narrow-gauge railway ). It is luxurious and exquisitively decorated, and is said to be a miniature version of the Orient Express.

The routes covered by this train are: León – Santiago de Compostela and Santiago de Compostela – León both are via Bilbao and follow the Cantabrian coast the journey lasts 8 days ( 7 nights). See route on map.

Passengers can admire the spectacular scenery while passing through Galicia, Asturias, The Basque Country and Castilla and León. While travelling along the Cantabrian coast they will pass impressive cliffs, green fields next to beaches and small villages.

The train stops in the following places:
Viveiro, Ribadeo, Luarca, Cudillero, Oviedo, Gijon, Llanes, Santander, Bilbao. The journey includes a day trip to Covadonga Sanctuary and the two famous lakes nearby, in the Picos de Europa National Park; lake Ercina and Enol.

The train ticket may not be suitable for all budgets, but those who can afford it will enjoy the four carriages each one dedicated to a different function: a bar and dance floor, a television room and board games, another more relaxing bar whilst the last carriage is a library.

Regarding accommodation there are compartments of double or single suites.There is also a medical service.
The Transcantabrian is in operation from May to December. Apart from these dates it is possible to hire it for charter trips. The train holds a maximum of 48 passengers.

Useful links

Transcantabrian Railway Map
Download Transcantabrian Railway brochure
Transcantabrico official website