If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy a glorious Saturday morning in the Cape, then hope on board! The famous Ceres steam-train line is up and running again and adventurers are encouraged to book their tickets fast!
Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands and a short 90-minute drive from the City Centre, Ceres is the perfect stopover for anyone looking to enjoy amazing views and juicy, fresh fruit. Now, there’s one more reason to embark on an adventure with the re-opening of the steam train line, providing an exciting and unique adventure for history buffs.
The first steam-train line in the Cape was completed in 1862, and ran from Cape Town to Eerste River. Within a year, the route had been extended to include Stellenbosch and Wellington.
Gradually, a network of railway lines spread throughout the province, managed by Cape Government Railways; while in the north, the Netherlands-South African Railway Company facilitated the expansion of the railway network in the-then independent South African Republic.
By the time the four provinces merged to form a nation in 1910, an expansive national railway system had effectively been established. The Ceres Railway track was originally built at the turn of the 20th century, starting in July 1910 and was completed in May 1912.
Throughout the years, the Ceres Rail Company’s mission has been to preserve and promote South African Rail Heritage, which involves restoring and refurbishing old locomotives and coaches.
The Ceres Rail Company and the Transnet Freight Rail also relaunched the freight service on the Wolseley–Ceres–Prince Alfred Hamlet branch line in June 2021.
Take a train ride back in time and journey to the amazing Elgin Railway Market for a bite to eat and stroll through the aisles for some handcrafted goods.
Join Ceres Rail Company on a 160 km round-trip departing on Saturdays and Sundays at 07:45am from Cape Town. The destination is the Art Deco Elgin Railway Market. All aboard!
- Day Sitter seating: R625 per seat.
- Family Coupe (Maximum 2 adults and 2 children): R1500 for the whole compartment.
- Family Compartment (Maximum 4 adults and 2 children): R2900 for the whole compartment.
- Bar Lounge Seating (No under 18’s): R625 per seat.
- Observation Car (Group bookings only for 15 – 28 people): starts at R12 750 for 15 people in an air-conditioned, private setting.
Bookings can be made at www.ceresrail.co.za.
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Picture: Facebook
