Ceres Rail Company offers a magnificent return trip to the Elgin Railway Market aboard our historic passenger train. Our train is usually hauled by a heritage steam locomotive and a diesel, but at times, due to the fire risk and other events beyond our control, the trip may be hauled by two diesel locomotives.
The journey begins at 07h45 from the platform at Harbour Bridge Hotel and Suites, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town. Once aboard you will enjoy a 3-hour rail experience to Elgin, traveling through the beautiful Cape, up the majestic Sir Lowrys Pass, and then down into the Elgin Valley. We have a fully licensed bar on board as well as a dining car providing coffee and other snacks. Various books and memorabilia are also available for purchase onboard.
Our destination is the fabulous Art Deco & Art Nouveau inspired Elgin Railway Market (www.elginrailwaymarket.co.za) where you will spend a few hours at your leisure. At the market, whilst enjoying the live music, you can wander through the many stalls offering delicious food, a wide selection of local wines, ciders and gin. Various bespoke craft stalls selling a wide range of goods including jewelry, leather goods, wire art, etc are also on site. There is a wonderful play area outside for the children to enjoy too.
For guests who prefer to board in Somerset West, please select Van Der Stel Station as your departure point during checkout. Please note that if you choose to board at Somerset West, you will need to be at Van Der Stel Station by 09h40; the train usually arrives between 09h40 and 10h30 but is subject to en-route delays.
We depart from Elgin at 14h15 , arriving back Cape Town at approximately 18h00. PLEASE NOTE: Delays do occur on the railways that are out of our control. Delays of up to 2.5 hours have been known to occur at times. The time at the market will be adjusted, and will thus influence the time that the train arrives back at the departure point.
08h05 Depart from platform alongside the AC Hotel by Marriot (Waterfront) (33.9135° S, 18.4260° E), Dockrail Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town
09h40 Arrive Van Der Stel Station, Somerset West (Usually between 09h40 and 10h30, but is subject to en-route delays)
11h15 – 12h15 Arrive in Elgin
14h15 Departure from Elgin
16h00 Arrive Van Der Stel Station, Somerset West
18h15 Arrive back in Cape Town
We are so excited to have you on board!
The rail journey from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market (Elgin) and back.
Unforgettable memories
1. For information regarding wheelchair access, please email bookings@ceresrail.co.za
2. We do not permit own food or drinks on board, but we do allow baby foods and items related to health conditions
3. No smoking is permitted.
4. We cannot control the actions of communities alongside the rail line, although we do out best to. We do have sporadic incidents of stones that are thrown at the train through certain areas; we undertake to do our best to monitor the known hotspots to ensure passengers are protected, and communities are engaged. We have patrollers on duty at various points along the railway line.
Ceres Rail Company
From start to finish it was an awesome experience. There was a long delay with some railway works which meant we got more time to explore the train. - Juan
What an incredible experience! From the get-go to the finish. The staff were lovely, the scenery enlightening and the Elgin market absolutely memorable. Definitely worth doing if you are contemplating it. My partner and I sat in the bar lounge seating- which did not allow anyone under 18- and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. When we come back to Cape Town we will definitely be doing it again. - Dr.
It was an amazing experience. Calm. Scenic. And the staff were lovely. Champagne was chilled. Everything was perfect. Thank you ! Oh, and we loved the market too - Darren
Great experience and adventure well worth the trip on our holiday in South Africa - roger
5 Stars -- A Truly Unforgettable Experience! I had the pleasure of riding the Steam Train to Elgin with Bar Lounge seating, and what a fantastic journey it was! From the moment we boarded, the atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern comfort. The Bar Lounge seating was absolutely superb, spacious, plush, and with stunning views of the passing countryside, making the experience feel truly luxurious. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive. Whether you're enjoying a glass of wine while chatting with friends or just gazing out the window, the vibe was perfect. The steam train itself was a real highlight, evoking a sense of nostalgia while providing all the modern amenities for a smooth and enjoyable ride. The combination of history, comfort, and breathtaking views made it a memorable outing. Whether you're a train enthusiast, a fan of beautiful scenery, or just looking for a relaxing day out, this experience is a must. I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, fun, and stylish way to travel! - Vanessa
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