LOVING the look of the latest Orient Express, which gives passengers the chance to luxuriate in la dolce vita. It’s the first Italian train to bear the iconic brand, rolling through no fewer than 14 regions.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express – yes, it does what it says on the tin – made its debut at Roma Ostiense Station last month, and offers itineraries on which to eat, sleep and party like a VIP.

Eight specially curated itineraries blend art and culture, landscapes, and cuisine by triple-starred Michelin chef Heinz Beck, offering what is being dubbed ‘Italian excellence in motion’. 

Destinations include the vineyards of Tuscany, the canals of Venice, the coves of Portofino, the medieval charm of Siena, the sun stones of Matera and the truffle paths of Nizza Monferrato.

The island of Sicily is also on the departure board, with the train passing through Catania, Palermo and Taormina, each, we are told, capturing a different hue of the island’s allure. 

La Dolce Vita Orient Express comprises 12 refurbished carriages from the 1960s, with 18 suites, 12 deluxe cabins, a bar, a lounge and a restaurant serving chef Beck’s haute cuisine.

The sumptuous interiors, by Milan’s Dimorestudio, are a salute to the golden age of Italian design, and an unashamed homage to La Dolce Vita and the cultural pulse of 60s Italy. 

It doesn’t come cheap, of course. Prices at launch started from €3,500 (£2,982) but trips were still sold out in April and May, with many passengers celebrating a special occasion.

Images in this post are by Patrick Locqueneux, and courtesy of Orient Express.