SNCF is opening up its heritage by making its legendary Mistral train available for onboard events.

Launched in 1950, the Mistral express train operated between Paris and Marseilles until the introduction of the TGV in 1981.

In 1965 the company’s flagship train was integrated into Trans Europ Express (TEE). When the Marseille-Nice line was electrified in 1969, the journey from Paris to Nice was reduced to nine hours.

The Mistral’s last existing carriage is henceforth available for onboard receptions, drinks, dinners and short evening events as well as for seminars and product launches.

Composed of Inox vintage passenger coaches including a bar, dining car and carriages that can be configured and customised to meet specific needs, the Mistral is an invitation to travel and can be made into an original and unusual venue. Events can be held while the vehicle is by the platform, in the station or in motion.

According to Vincent le Poittevin, Director General of Trains Expo Evénements SNCF (SNCF’s events subsidiary), this new service is aimed at companies, institutions and event organisers.

The initiative serves a double purpose:

• To showcase a feature of France’s railway heritage: the Mistral is a time machine and as a public company, SNCF has a duty to keep its memory alive.

• To offer the use of an original venue in a world focusing on the search for new destinations, perspectives and sensations. The Mistral intends to give this initiative new momentum!

(Source: SNCF)