One-of-a-kind budget rail journey named one of Europe’s most breathtaking train routes
A SHORT rail journey in Europe has become something of a tourist attraction due to its stunning scenery and unique route.
The Odontotos Rack Railway in Greece is high on a lot of train enthusiasts' bucket lists.
The relatively short ride links the seaside town of Diakopto to Kalavrita in just over an hour, but the ride is one unlike any other.
The track cuts its way through the Vouraikos gorge and canyons while also climbing Greece's steepest train track.
Its sharp twists and turns has enthralled engineers and train fans since it opened to the public in 1896, as it passes by waterfalls and mountain landscapes.
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Tunnels are carved into the mountainside, while rickety bridges span across plunging chasms, adding further excitement to the route.
Overall, it's a 22km (13.5 miles) route that reaches an altitude of 750m (2460ft) that reaches speeds of 40kmh (25mph).
What's more, it's affordable too, with tickets available from around £8.
Among those who rate it highly are , who listed it as one of the "most breathtaking" train routes in the continent.
They wrote: "If you prefer to incorporate train travel into your holiday, rather than making it the main focus, Greece’s steepest railway could be perfect for you.
"Opened in 1896, the line has been enthralling visitors for years as it climbs some 720 metres above sea level, all while taking sharp turns in the stunning Vouraikos gorge.
"On the sometimes hair-raising journey, you’ll see waterfalls, forests and mountains, all while taking in relatively undiscovered Greek countryside."
Others have said that the train feels like it's a part of the striking environment through which it can be found chugging back and forth.
They also claim that the train looks as if it was created by its surroundings and not by any engineers.
Three scenic train journeys you can take in the UK
The UK is full of great train journeys, including some with scenic views.
- The West Highland Line in Scotland has previously been dubbed the best rail journey in the world, thanks to its breathtaking views overlooking mountain landscapes, serene lochs and wistful moors. Tickets start from £19.50.
- The East Coast Main Line from Durham to Edinburgh is another popular railway route. Passengers on this train will be treated to views of Durham Cathedral, the Angel of the North, and the King Edward VII Railway Bridge. Tickets start from £24.50.
- The train from St Erth to St Ives only has one stop on its route, which is complete with sea views. Tickets start from £3.
They wrote: "The little train incorporated so well to the natural environment that it seems that it had always been there.
"The way it was constructed did not put a strain on the ecosystem of the gorge.
"Using stone and wood from the area the technicians' work is so perfect that someone may think that the nature worked on its own."
Services run along the tracks pretty much every day, whatever the weather, however it is better to visit in the summer.
Significantly more services run during the warmer months, so that might be a better time to go for anyone hoping to go for a ride.
There are other amazing train routes across Europe that you can book a ticket for too.
Italy
Located along the Italian coastline in northern Italy, the Cinque Terre is a string of five villages, including Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
The towns are linked together by a rail trip that rail experts and enthusiasts love to ride - and it takes just 25 minutes to complete.
The UK
There are some pretty breathtaking stretches of track running through the UK countryside, making it a great country to travel through by rail.
And the stretch running between Settle and Carlisle has been described as the most scenic in all of Europe by travel experts Lonely Planet.
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Meanwhile, this new 19-hour European train service is set to launch between top city break destinations.
And these are four European train trips that can be joined from the UK.