The iconic Blue Train, known in French as Le Train Bleu, concluded its service in 2003. This luxurious night express train, officially named the Calais-Mediterranée Express, operated for over a century, connecting passengers from Calais to the glamorous French Riviera.
A Legacy of Luxury Travel
Le Train Bleu gained international renown as the preferred mode of transport for wealthy and famous individuals traveling between Calais and the French Riviera during the interwar period. Its opulent carriages and impeccable service set a benchmark for luxury rail travel.
The train's operational history is summarized below:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Train Name | Le Train Bleu (The Blue Train) |
| Original Name | Calais-Mediterranée Express |
| Operational Period | 1886 – 2003 |
| Primary Route | From Calais, France, to destinations along the French Riviera (e.g., Nice, Cannes) |
| Distinction | Celebrated luxury night express, frequented by high-society figures |
The End of an Era
After a long and illustrious run, the service ceased operations in 2003. Its discontinuation marked the end of an era for a train that symbolized elegance and exclusivity in European rail travel for over 117 years. While the original service no longer runs, its legacy as a symbol of luxury and a connection to the golden age of rail travel endures.
For more information on its history, you can refer to resources like its Wikipedia page.
