Gentiane Express, Tourist train in Riom-ès-Montagnes, France.
Gentiane Express is a train that travels about 16 kilometers between Riom-ès-Montagnes and Lugarde, passing through two tunnels and three viaducts. The route winds through the hilly terrain of central France with its distinctive landscape and varied geography.
The train operates on a railway line that preserves French mountain transportation heritage with a historic railcar maintained by regional railway enthusiasts. This vehicle and the route represent the region's connection to rail travel traditions spanning many decades.
The train passes through areas shaped by cheese production and mountain farming traditions that visitors can observe from their seats. The route reveals how these crafts have defined the local way of life for many generations.
Service begins in April with departures on Thursdays and Sundays, then increases to daily trips in July with afternoon departures. Morning trips are added after mid-July, giving visitors more scheduling options for planning their visit.
The journey offers views of three different mountain ranges: the Cantal Mountains, the Sancy Massif, and the Cezallier Plateau. Seeing several distinct mountain systems in a single short trip is an uncommon geographic experience.
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