Zaragoza Delicias Railway Station

I’m normally early to everything but had spent a little longer wandering Madrid so by the time I found my platform at the station it was only 5mins till departure (yes I know that’s still early, but it’s cutting it fine). I’m heading north to Zaragoza today onboard an Iryo high speed train. The train smoothly pulled out of the station on time (to the second) and we soon accelerated to a top speed of 300km/hour.

I’d booked first class (cause why not - yolo). Shortly after departure the crew came around to offer an Aperitif service of nuts and drinks. Unfortunately the crew member splashed me with some tomato based drink as the train went over a bump. Highly apologetic she rushed for her colleague to bring some wipes to clean me up.

I want to say after take off because it has a flight vibe, but after my aperitif champagne I was quickly served the main meal. I’d pre selected a pork cheek which was really nice for airplane, sorry, train food. It came with a glass of wine which was topped up. #daydrinking

Outside the window the dry landscape of Spain passes by at lightning pace. The red soil, dry scrub and the occasional solar or wind farm make up the landscape. It looks a little like Australia to be honest.

In typical nerd me fashion, while flying is obviously my favourite form of travel, high speed trains are probably up there as second best. Perhaps it’s just the novelty factor given we don’t have any in Australia. It’s impressive that in 1 hour and 15minutes I’m in a new place 270 km away from Madrid.

As I got closer to Zaragoza there were more orchards, vineyard, farms and more hills. Flying through tunnels and bursting into new scenery is a cool train feature. You do get to see a lot more of the countryside. A few ruined castles atop hills reminds me I’m definitely in Europe. An on time arrival into Zaragoza and a short cab ride to my hotel for some relaxation time before exploring tonight.

I’ve taken the Renfe high speed trains in Spain before and thing the Iryo trains have much better service. It really felt like I was on a plane. Anyway, time to get some downtime before exploring a new city.Read more