Coastal railway journeys combine dramatic scenery with the romance of train travel. From the Atlantic shores of Scotland to the Wadden Sea of Germany, these routes offer unforgettable views. Here are four of Europe’s finest coastal lines, each accessible from the UK.
The only rail route in Britain with views of both west and east coasts runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. The 83-mile journey takes 2 hours 40 minutes and costs £32 single with ScotRail. Look out for the Cromarty Firth on the right near Dingwall, then later the sea lochs as the train descends to the Atlantic. The final 20 minutes deliver a magical panorama over Loch Carron towards the Applecross peninsula, with seals often visible near Duncraig.
From Dublin Connolly to Arklow, Irish Rail’s 50-mile route takes 1 hour 45 minutes and costs €8.85. The line follows Ireland’s first railway, built by Brunel, and cuts under Bray Head in a feat reminiscent of his Dawlish line in Devon. South of Bray Head, the train hugs the coast with views of the Wicklow Hills and Murrough Wetlands. Continuing past Wicklow, the journey then winds through the Vale of Avoca before reaching Arklow.
Germany’s Husum to Keitum line crosses the Hindenburg causeway over the Wadden Sea to the island of Sylt. Opened in 1927, the causeway is now served by ICE trains. The 44-mile journey takes an hour, with departures hourly from DB. Leaving the herring-port town of Husum, the train sweeps over the harbour and then crosses marshlands protected by dykes. At high tide, especially in stormy weather, the crossing over the open sea is unforgettable. Alight at Keitum for the island’s nicest village.
In Spain, Renfe’s Ribadeo to Ferrol service is a superb short journey along the northern coast. The 91-mile route takes 3 hours 10 minutes and costs €11.15. It is part of Europe’s most extensive narrow-gauge network, which stretches from the French border to Galicia. The train follows the coastline, offering a delightful way to explore this rugged region.
