Above: The Grand Hibernian train approaching Killarney, Ireland

I had long wondered why Ireland, unlike neighboring Scotland, did not have a luxury train from which to view its glorious scenery. I was therefore extremely interested to learn that Belmond (formerly Orient-Express) was planning to launch just such a train in August 2016, to join the ranks of the Royal Scotsman and the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Join Andrew Harper today to continue reading our exclusive content.