Train travel is back in Europe. With 2050 fast approaching, and with that date set as the deadline to become fully carbon-neutral in the continent, the EU is betting on rail as a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transport as well as an efficient alternative to cars and planes.
Last year, the region declared 2021 as the European Year of Rail, in hopes of stimulating EU citizens and tourists to travel by train. Taking advantage of this trend, Airbnb is partnering with Interrail, an all-in-one European train pass, to offer six friends the opportunity to embark on a slow travel journey connecting remarkable historic homes across the continent.
According to the online platform, over 19 days, up to six friends or family members will embark on unique destinations with overnight stays in magnificent historic homes along the way: an English mansion, a French chateau, a Catalan manor, an Italian villa, and a German castle.
“We are excited to be offering this epic adventure which celebrates the golden age of 19th century travel, when there was more time to appreciate adventures with friends and family for longer. By combining the very best of train travel with the best of heritage in Europe, we hope travelers will reconnect with history and culture and enjoy travel as it once was,” said Emmanuel Marill, Airbnb Regional Director, EMEA, in a press release.
With a brand new itinerary curated by Interrail, it easy to enjoy your own heritage tour of Europe by train. The bespoke itinerary connects different areas of Europe that offer some of the best historical homes available on Airbnb.
How to apply
Eligible applicants with an Airbnb account may apply here before July 20, 2022 at 11:59 PM CET by stating why you and your friends would be the perfect travel group for this adventure.
“Please, describe who you’d like to bring with you and tell us about your passion for adventure, interest in cultural heritage and willingness to share your experience with the wider world.”
Applicants must be aged 18 or over and may enter only once. Up to five companions (aged over 18) may join the selected applicant.
All terms and conditions of the contest, and the itinerary for the Airbnb Heritage Tour, are available here. See below the itinerary for the Airbnb Heritage Tour.
1. Bath, UK
August 31 – September 3
The epic adventure begins in London. Climb aboard at Paddington Station and wind your way to the historic city of Bath where host Sophie will welcome you and your five friends to her magnificent baronial-style 19th-century mansion surrounded by a classic English garden and manicured lawns.
2. Saint-Georges-sur-Cher, France
September 3- 6
After three nights of rest and relaxation in Bath, the transcontinental journey continues via the Channel Tunnel into France. You will pass through charming towns and cities along the way before arriving at Chissay-en-Touraine, where retired naval officer Pierre will welcome you to a gorgeous château that has been in his wife’s family for close to 50 years.
3. Sant Pere de Ribes, Spain
September 6-10
The romantic train journey to Spain will take you through the ever-charming South of France, staying over in gastro paradise Montpellier for a night of good food and wine.
Recharged and replenished, you will continue south to your home for 3 nights: a 250-year-old Catalan manor just outside Barcelona hosted by Aleksandra, originally from Slovenia but passionate about Spain and Spanish culture.
4. Lucca, Italy
September 10-14
After three nights in the sun-drenched Catalan villa, the slow travel railway adventure will take you and your friends along the Côte d’Azur, before arriving at the ancient city of Lucca in Tuscany.
There, you will be greeted by David, the Host of a magnificent 400-year-old villa. According to David, guests shouldn’t miss the secret garden behind his house, with a fountain and fabulous pool.
5. Behren-Lübchin, Germany
September 14 -18
For the fifth and final leg, you will journey north over the Italian Alps, passing through Austria and Bavaria, stopping over for one night to explore the baroque and beer-loving city of Munich.
Finally, you will travel from Munich to the Baltic coast where hotelier Kevin, his opera director partner Till and their dog Lucky will be waiting to welcome you to their charming 19th-century castle.
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