So often, people find themselves longing to slow down, take a step back, and gain some perspective on life, yet they rarely allow themselves the pleasure. Imagine sitting on a train, a drink in one hand and a book in the other, with the scenery gliding past the window. That is the kind of true relaxation Cape Rail Company sets out to offer.
Cape Rail Company (formerly Ceres Rail Company) hosts a number of different vintage train experiences throughout the Western Cape. It does this on such a scale that it sees itself as the Cape’s railway company. Its routes carry guests from Cape Town to Elgin, Caledon, Bot River, Matjiesfontein, Darling, Ceres, Mossel Bay and Simon’s Town.
It is an experience that lives up to the ‘Cape’ in the name.
The company traces its heritage rail lineage through Atlantic Rail, before it became Ceres Rail Company, and then Cape Rail Company on 1 September 2026. The rebrand reflects how far the routes now reach across the province.
The company runs two categories of trips: Day Trips and Overnight Trips (although at this stage guests do not sleep on the train). The main Day Trip option takes guests from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market. It is a 3.5-hour journey to the bustling market, a two-hour stay, and then a leisurely 3.5-hour return trip.
The market is known for its local food, craft and produce, set in the Elgin Valley. It makes for a full day out with none of the driving.
The Overnight Trip options are the two-night Train to Matjiesfontein and the five-night Mossel Bay Explorer. Both carry smaller passenger numbers, but both offer amazing experiences. The Matjiesfontein run takes guests to a historic Victorian village for two nights. The Mossel Bay Explorer follows the winelands, mountain passes and farmlands all the way down to the coast.
These are trips for travellers who want the journey to unfold over days rather than hours.
Onboard the train, guests are treated to lovingly restored coaches, scenic views and service from a time gone by. Each coach has its own coach controller, who makes sure guests are well looked after. The onboard bar serves liquid refreshments throughout the journey too. There is no timetable to keep beyond the one the train sets.
The company positions itself as a curated experience rather than a luxury one. It offers the charm of heritage rail travel without the formality or the price of the luxury sleeper trains. That places it within reach of families, groups of friends and anyone who simply wants a different way to see the Western Cape.
Birthdays, anniversaries and quiet weekends away all suit the pace.
None of this is about getting from one place to another quickly, though. The world today rewards speed and hustle, but Cape Rail Company sees things differently. It believes the journey matters just as much, if not more, than the destination.
The invitation is a simple one: Slow down with them, watch the Cape roll by and reach a new level of relaxation.
To book a trip, or to see the full list of dates and fares, visit Cape Rail Company’s website, email [email protected], or call/WhatsApp +27 79 401 9353.
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Picture: Supplied
This article was produced in partnership with Cape Rail Company
