Dramatic coastal scenery and train rides make a winning combination. Our rail expert picks journeys over and along the sea, from the Scottish Highlands to the German Wadden Sea.
The Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line in Scotland offers views of both the west and east coasts from a regular local train. For the east coast, look out for Cromarty Firth to the right as the train approaches Dingwall, about half an hour after leaving Inverness. Later, you have good views of west coast sea lochs as the train runs down to the Atlantic coast at Kyle. The last 20 minutes bring a magic panorama of coast, headlands and islands, with seals shuffling for safety near Duncraig.
In Ireland, the Dublin Connolly to Arklow route includes a spectacular coastal section south of Dún Laoghaire, where the railway cuts under Bray Head. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it resembles his celebrated coastal railway at Dawlish in Devon. South of Bray Head, the train hugs the coast with fine views of the Wicklow Hills and the Murrough Wetlands. Coastal purists may stop at Wicklow, but staying on board offers a foray through the hills and down the Vale of Avoca.
Germany's Husum to Keitum line crosses the Hindenburg causeway to the island of Sylt. Leaving Husum, the train sweeps over the harbour on a high bridge, then glides north over marshlands protected by dykes. After Klanxbüll, the railway turns west and crosses salty mudflats to reach the open sea. For an unforgettable experience, travel at high tide on a stormy day. Alight at Keitum, the nicest village on Sylt, with cosy cafes and fine Frisian thatch and gables.
Spain's Ribadeo to Ferrol route follows the western extremity of Europe's most extensive narrow-gauge rail network. The journey offers superb coastal views, especially from the right-hand side. The train runs along the rugged Galician coast, with glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean and lush green landscapes.
