## Alsa’s New Venture in Galicia’s Tourist Train Scene
Alsa, a dominant player in passenger transportation, is making strides beyond traditional bus services by re-entering the market with its tourist trains. Recently, the CNMC (National Commission for Markets and Competition) has given the green light for Alsa to launch a new service that is poised to enhance tourism in Galicia.
### No Competition with Renfe
According to the CNMC, Alsa’s new tourist train initiative does not pose a threat to Renfe’s operations on similar routes. The regulatory body concluded that Alsa’s trains, which will be exclusively available during the summer, do not interfere with Renfe’s public service contract. Notably, Alsa’s pricing structure, which ranges between €17.28 for its tourist tickets and Renfe’s fares of approximately €2.51 to €5.40, reinforces the notion that these services cater to different market segments.
### The Galaico Expreso: A Historic Journey
This summer, Alsa will roll out its newest attraction: the Galaico Expreso, which will traverse two scenic Galician routes. The proposed routes are:
– Orense – Barra de Miño – Os Peares – San Estevo de Sil – Canaval – Monforte de Lemos
– Monforte de Lemos – San Coludio-Quiroga – Montefurado – A Rúa-Petín
While specific schedules have yet to be announced, Alsa Rail, the subsidiary handling trains, recently refurbished this historic train by retrieving it from the Galician Railway Museum. The train comprises two first-class coaches—one equipped with restaurant service—plus a generator van, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
### Reviving a Historic Travel Experience
The Galaico Expreso holds a rich history, having previously operated until 2011 in a limited capacity. With a focus on enriching local tourism, tickets offered bundled experiences with local dining options. The revival of such services is seen as a boon for the tourism sector, providing more opportunities for both locals and visitors.
### A Trend in Tourist Train Offerings
Alsa is not new to the tourist train scene; it offers an array of historic train experiences across Spain. Examples include the Blue Train connecting Zaragoza and Logroño and themed journeys like the “80’s Train” from Madrid to Cáceres. Alsa’s price points are appealing, starting below €20, which makes these journeys accessible for families and tourists alike.
### Luxury Tourism on Historic Trains
In contrast to the more budget-friendly options, there exists a luxury segment in Spanish train tourism, exemplified by the Transcantábrico. This high-end experience runs from Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián, and ticket prices soar between €2,000 and €10,000, depending on accommodations. Renfe’s offerings, such as the Al-Ándalus, are similarly exclusive, featuring journeys through significant Spanish cities and prices that can also reach into the tens of thousands.
## Conclusion
Alsa’s new tourist train venture in Galicia signifies a fresh chapter for the region’s transport and tourism landscape. By complementing Renfe’s services rather than competing with them, Alsa is set to offer a distinctive and enriching travel experience, drawing tourists eager to explore the stunning scenery of Galicia.