L´Observatoire, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Paris | France

A timeless romance by rail – that is the promise of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe. A legend of rail travel, it forms part of the distinguished Belmond collection. Today, Belmond represents a global portfolio of 44 iconic properties across 25 countries and territories, dedicated to exceptional travel experiences, hotels, trains, and river cruises. Since 2019, Belmond has been part of the world’s leading luxury group, LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton). The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) has been travelling along some of Europe’s most exclusive routes since 1982, including the celebrated Paris–Istanbul connection and the classic Paris–Venice journey.

This Art Deco style luxury train now boasts a remarkable new addition: the luxury private carriage “L’Observatoire,” an apartment in motion unfolding across an entire carriage of the train. Conceived by French artist JR, L’Observatoire was unveiled in March 2024 during the Biennale Arte in Venice and welcomed its first passengers in 2025.

JR's passion for the rails, sparked off as a child, largely informs the inspiration behind the creation of L’Observatoire. The artist was also influenced by the design of his personal art studio in Paris, the charm of century-old crafts, astronomical observatories and the cabinets of curiosity of Renaissance Europe.

The main bedroom is clad in green leather scallops that evoke leaves and bring a sense of nature into the space. A large stained-glass lighting feature adds colour and drama, while a dedicated tea lounge tucked behind a secret door offers an intimate retreat. Throughout the carriage, playful touches — from a disco ball to cleverly hidden details and clues woven into the design — invite guests to explore and uncover surprises as they journey aboard the world’s most iconic train. The carriage is particularly impressive for its detailed marquetry work by Atelier Philippe Allemand. This intricate wood craftsmanship gives the room a warm and luxurious atmosphere.

Beyond its aesthetics, the private carriage offers numerous modern amenities such as a high-quality audio system and JUNG Smart Home technology based on KNX technology to control the air conditioning, as well as the windows and skylights. The DALI T8 Tunable White Lighting adapts to different times of day or creates special lighting moods. Manual control of this technology is provided by F 40 push-buttons, classic LS 990 switches and sockets, as well as USB outlets – all stylishly and elegantly integrated in antique brass into the interior design. The Smart Home system implemented in this historic train is a remarkable achievement in design and engineering. Thoughtfully and precisely integrated, it enhances comfort and functionality for the guests, while respecting the train’s heritage. The result is a fully immersive travel experience in which every detail tells its own story.

Immersive travel experience in which every detail tells its own story. With the “L’Observatoire” carriage, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express sets a new benchmark in luxury. It brings together art, design, and craftsmanship at the highest level. The result is a unique place that combines curiosity, adventure, and creativity.