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This incredibly scenic train will make you want to see Italy by rail

Photo credit: Federica Grassi - Getty Images
Photo credit: Federica Grassi - Getty Images

From Country Living

Linking the sparkling Italian lakes to stunning Alpine Switzerland, the Domodossola–Locarno Railway, also known at the Centovalli Railway, offers an unforgettably beautiful Italy rail experience.

RIDE THE CENTOVALLI RAILWAY IN 2021

Opening as early as 1923, the line has 30 stations and takes only two hours to travel the whole way across from one country to the next.

The scenic ride through wild, romantic countryside, was nicknamed the Centovalli Railway after the so-called hundred valleys it passes through, taking in chestnut woods, grape vines and lush waterfalls on its way.

Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images
Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images

Passing over stone bridges and winding through the mountain valley, an Italy rail journey aboard the Centovalli allows you to admire breathtaking scenery through the train’s specially-designed panoramic windows - they’re perfect for snapping the dramatic landscapes and feeling like an Alpine explorer.

Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

There are also lovely towns and villages to visit along the line, including Domodossola, home to a UNESCO-protected Baroque calvary, and Druogno, which is perfect for walking, hiking and cycling. Locarno is another beauty spot and basks in 2,300 hours of sunshine per year.

Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images
Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images

You can cross the 100 valleys with Country Living in October 2021 during our exclusive Italian lakes holiday with Gardeners' World host Adam Frost. The trip is perfectly timed during the season when the sun still shines yet there are fewer tourists to share the views with.

I'M IN. TAKE ME THERE!

As well as viewing fantastic landscapes from the railway, you’ll visit Stresa - the jewel of Lake Maggiore, the glorious gardens of the Borromean Islands, calming Lake Como, lesser-visited Lake Orta and sparkling Zermatt.

Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images
Photo credit: Prisma by Dukas - Getty Images

For those travelling during the Covid-19 pandemic, there are safety measures in place, such as the mandatory wearing of masks on board the Centovalli Railway and limited seats available to guarantee social distancing.

Find out more and grab your spot on our October 2021 Italy rail holiday with Adam Frost, which includes the lakes, the Centovalli Railway and Switzerland.

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