La Dolce Vita Orient Express is targeting golf enthusiasts with two new curated itineraries that pair Italy's top courses with the luxury of rail travel. The offerings, named Northern Greens and Italian Swing, are designed to appeal to high-net-worth travelers seeking a blend of sport, culture, and gastronomy.
Two distinct routes across Italy
The Northern Greens itinerary is a four-day, three-night journey departing from Rome. It traverses Northern and Central Italy, with stops at Royal Park I Roveri, Franciacorta Golf Club, and The Club at Castiglion del Bosco. The route showcases Italy's varied landscapes, from Alpine foothills to Tuscan hillsides.
The Italian Swing itinerary explores southern regions, featuring rounds at San Domenico Golf Club in Apulia, The Club at Castiglion del Bosco in Tuscany, and Antognolla Golf in Umbria. This journey also includes curated experiences for non-golfing guests, such as wellness rituals and cultural encounters, making it suitable for couples or groups with mixed interests.
Both itineraries include a round at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, the venue for the 2023 Ryder Cup. This gives participants access to one of Europe's premier championship courses, a significant draw for serious golfers.
Onboard luxury and culinary excellence
The train's interiors, designed by Milan-based Dimorestudio, reflect Italy's mid-century design heritage. Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck oversees the culinary program, offering regional Italian cuisine. The experience aligns with the broader trend of slow travel, where the journey itself becomes a destination.
The next departure for Northern Greens is scheduled for 29 September 2026. Bookings are available through the Orient Express website. For travel professionals, this represents a niche product that combines two high-yield segments: luxury rail and golf tourism.
This launch comes as luxury travel operators increasingly seek to differentiate with experiential offerings. For context, Sea Cloud Spirit's La Dolce Vita sailing offers a similar Mediterranean luxury angle, while Explora Journeys and Hilton Honors have merged land and sea loyalty to capture high-end travelers. The golf-focused itineraries add a distinct option for agents and tour operators catering to affluent clients.
Italy's golf tourism market has been growing, with courses like Marco Simone gaining international visibility after the Ryder Cup. The combination of rail travel and golf allows for seamless movement between regions, reducing logistical friction for travelers. For hoteliers and destination marketers, these itineraries could drive demand for accommodations and services along the routes.
The product also underscores the revival of luxury train travel in Europe, with operators like Belmond and Accor's Orient Express brand investing in new routes and experiences. Travel advisors should note the long lead time—bookings for 2026 departures are already open—and consider this for clients planning milestone trips or group golf outings.
