The resorted Union Limited is run by the Transnet Historical Foundation. This foundation raises funds for railway preservation in South Africa. Although this train is not considered luxurious, accommodations are in comfortable compartments with 2 lower berths. All compartments have a wash basin with running water. Clean showers and toilets are located at the ends of the coach. The six suites on this train offer en suite bathrooms with showers.
Union Limited
Making the Dream a Reality
The Union Limited is Transnet's beautifully restored vintage steam safari train used for excursions throughout Southern Africa. For the comfort-conscious traveller, a Union Limited Steam Safari is not only the most unique way to discover the splendours of South Africa, but also one of the best value-for-money ways to enjoy a relaxing change of pace, first class accommodation and meals served in traditional silver service manner
Travel in style
Relax in the comfort of first class accommodation and enjoy the ultimate traveling experience along mainlines and branchlines, with recreation of 1930's period trips.Meals consisting of hearty South African breakfasts, two course lunches and four course dinners are served in traditional silver service manner in the magnificent wooden dining car "Protea" built in 1933 for the original Union Limited or the 1942 built "Umtata". There is also a serviced lounge to relax in.
Relax in splendid old-world charm
In keeping with the Transnet Foundation's pledge to preserve the heritage of rail and steam, many of the original fittings have been retained, highlighting the authentic way in which these coaches and locomotives have been restored. Ablution facilities have been upgraded with gas-heated showers, each containing a wash basin to ensure the comfort of our guests. For space and comfort we book a maximum of two passengers in a four-berth compartment and one passenger in a two-berth coupe.
In the compartments, the seats are in an upright position and this allows the guests to relax in comfort during the day. These seats are converted to sleeping accommodation at night.
An added bonus would be traveling in the comfort and luxury of your own air-conditioned suite for two. A further advantage is that although air-conditioned, the windows in the suites can be opened. Suites are spacious by luxury train standards and toilet and bathroom areas have ample room.Customised for the soul in need of romance, relaxation and revitalisation, each suite offers ablution facilities en suite with the choice of a double bed, (or two single beds on request) table and chairs, with the added advantage that it does not have to be made up in a day or night configuration. Travelling in the suites offers passengers a superior, authentic, heritage train experience.
Private Saloon
The Union Limited now has an additional exclusive vintage private saloon available for the sole use of small groups. Accommodation consists of three double compartments and one single compartment. There is a private lounge, dining room, two showers and two toilets. This coach allows passengers to experience our railtours in the comfort and privacy of their own coach. They may join other passengers in the main lounge for drinks or remain secluded in their own private lounge.
Photo Opportunities
Dramatic lighting during the day, breathtaking sunsets and stunning smoke effects along with magnificent views provide train enthusiasts with unrivalled photographic opportunities of many classes of locomotives at carefully pre-selected locations.
Culinary Experience
The Union Limited offers a gastronomic experience supplemented by some of the best South African wines. The emphasis is on using fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes are a specialty.Breakfast normally consists of fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals and cooked dishes to order. Lunch is a 2 course meal and dinner 4 course(includes dessert). In keeping with the classically romantic ambience of the 42-seater dining car, dining on board the Union Limited is an elegant affair.Guests are pampered by our attentive yet unobtrusive on board personnel. |
