Belmond Royal Scotsman

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Scotland in Style. Embark on a Grand Highland Flin

At once leisurely and luxurious, intimate and eye-opening, step aboard and rekindle the romance of travel

Riding Belmond Royal Scotsman is one of those pinch-me moments. Ranking among the world’s most luxurious trains, our mahogany-clad cars marry Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house. Ten intricately designed carriages, including the sublime Bamford Spa, form a palace on wheels.

Join us on-board and allow Belmond Royal Scotsman to provide the ultimate slow escape. Leave the everyday behind and step into the Scottish Highlands, a magnificent adventure playground waiting to be explored.

Tailor each day perfectly to you. Delve into the great outdoors with a guided mountain bike tour or a round of golf on a world famous course. Or, perhaps enjoy a calmer pace with a yoga class set in the rugged, yet mesmerising landscape.

As you watch the  sun set, indulge in a private outdoor dinner on the shores of a glistening Scottish loch, all before stargazing under some of Europe’s darkest skies with a personal astronomer to guide you.

The bar’s a good spot to hear local folklore, and sample the finest malts.

Because it’s never just about the destination. Savour every drop of the experience the moment you step aboard this iconic train. Meet like-minded explorers and mingle with friendly Belmond crew for stories, live music and of course, a single malt or two.

TRAIN

All aboard a living legend. Sit back, relax, and uncover the wonders of Scotland in peerless style

From the moment you step onto Belmond Royal Scotsman, you are swept up in a world of myth, legend and timeless luxury.

Delve into a land of soaring peaks and deep valleys, mirror lochs and looming castles. Enjoy a tasting in a world-famous distillery, then enter the forest for an exhilarating clay pigeon shoot. As night falls, mingle with fellow guests over candlelit dinners and live ceilidhs—a fine finale to the day’s adventures.

HISTORY

The train first launched in 1985. Following a whirlwind five-year operation of award-winning success, the original carriages were retired and replaced by a new set of Pullman cars to be renovated by James Park Associates. Lacquer-polished wooden-panels and warm tonal fabrics perfected the Edwardian country-house appeal. En-suite cabins, complete with steamy showers, established unprecedented comfort and the birth of a luxury legend.

In 2007 the train was christened Belmond Royal Scotsman and has continued to raise the bar of style and innovation since. The recent addition of the Bamford Haybarn Spa carriage marks a world first in the pursuit of perfect pampering. A true chieftain of the rails, Belmond Royal Scotsman is an awe-inspiring way to delve into the soul of the Scottish highlands.

OBSERVATION CAR

Soak up the spectacular Highland scenery from the best vantage point. Settle down in a comfortable sofa or armchair, or step out onto the open-air veranda, as you glide past castles, villages and glens.

It’s the perfect place for an aperitif or after-dinner drink. Sit back and enjoy the relaxed country-house atmosphere. Live entertainment each evening is sure to provide countless stories to write home about.

EXCURSIONS

Unveil the spirit of Scotland with our inspired itineraries. Whichever journey you pick, each day brings a host of exciting excursions. Step through the pages of history at Glamis Castle, Eilean Donan Castle and Culloden Battlefield. Revel in Scotland’s whisky heritage with a dram or two at world-class distilleries.

Famed for its sporting adventures, Scotland is the perfect place for outdoor pursuits. Enjoy clay-pigeon shooting and fishing, or tee-off at championship courses with our special golfing itineraries. From ancient strongholds to wild natural wonders, Belmond Royal Scotsman promises a truly enchanting escape.

ACCOMMODATION

A fine Highland retreat

Our luxury cabins provide a welcome sanctuary after a day in the Highlands. Lined with rich marquetry, each one features plush beds fitted with soft Scottish wools and tartans. An elegant dressing table and en suite add to the indulgence. Let your mind wander as you gaze through the generous picture window—they’re made for daydreaming.

Details

  • Lower berth beds
  • En suite with shower, washbasin and WC
  • Dressing table
  • Full-length wardrobe
  • Opening windows and ceiling fans
  • 220/240 voltage system
  • High-quality toiletries
  • Fresh white towels
  • Foam pillow and hypoallergenic duvet
  • Quilted cotton bed cover
  • Hairdryer
  • Cabin service call button

TWIN CABIN

Our twin cabins are designed for space and relaxation. Lower beds, a long wardrobe, ceiling fans and controlled heating ensure absolute comfort––no matter how the weather is outside.

DOUBLE CABIN

Each marquetry-lined double beckons you in with Scottish charm. Plush beds, a drawing table, long wardrobe and window are a warm welcome after the day’s outdoor pursuits.

SINGLE CABIN

Enter your own private retreat lined with rich marquetry and tartan furnishings. Each features a lower bed, wardrobe, writing table and en suite. Splendid Highland views from your window are sure to inspire.

INTERCONNECTING CABIN

Our Interconnecting Cabins are perfect for families travelling together. Recline on plush lower beds. one twin and one double, or revive in a fully equipped en suite. A writing desk and large open window fuel the imagination.

DINING

Fine Dining in the Heart of the Highlands

Snaking through sky-high peaks and dramatic valleys, dining aboard Belmond Royal Scotsman is one of the world’s most unique dining experiences. Served in our mahogany-panelled dining cars, each meal celebrates exceptional Scottish produce. A selection of fine wines, liqueurs and malt whiskies are an ideal accompaniment.

CELEBRATED SCOTTISH FARE

Feast on the best produce from Scottish land and sea. Rich game, seasonal seafood and wild salmon are all regular highlights on our acclaimed menu.

Fuel up with classic kedgeree, or savour steamed Scottish mussels after a day’s outdoor pursuits. Dining is an extravagant affair and may include delicate pigeon salad or spiced roast halibut. Just add superb wines and new friends.

Sublime Flavours For Every Season

A medley of seasonal delicacies, sourced fresh from the finest suppliers.

Dining Experiences

THE WHISKY JOURNEY

As the world’s foremost malt whisky club––specialists in single cask, single malt whiskies––The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is the perfect partner for our unique Whisky Journey through the Highlands.

Cooking onboard is a treat––most kitchens are closed off to nature, but we enjoy incredible views.

Head Chef Mark Tamburrini has worked in some of the UK’s finest restaurants. Under Steven Granton and Jim Kerr at the Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, Mark’s passion later led him into the kitchens of Michelin-starred L’Escargot in Soho, London.

EXPERIENCES

Let us inspire you with the hidden treasures of this adventure playground

Enhance your journey through the Highlands with an array of unique excursions available to our guests. From exhilarating activities such as white water rafting and coasteering, to unforgettable evenings spent observing the star-studded night sky. Step into our world of adventure by downloading our full Experience Brochure, or simply allow us to pique your interest with some highlights below.

OUTDOOR DINING

Dine to the sound of the gentle rippling waters of a Scottish loch. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner on the shores of the Rothiemurchus Estate. End this idyllic evening with a soothing hot toddy before stargazing under big skies with a personal astronomer

ADVENTURE UNDER THE STARS

Home to some of the largest expanses of dark skies in Europe, the Scottish highlands are the perfect place to delve into the wonders of the cosmos. Join expert astronomer Steve Owens for an exhilarating planetary exploration in the Cairngorms. After this fascinating adventure you will never look at the sky in the same way again!

WHISKY DISTILLERIES

Visit some of Scotland's most celebrated whisky distilleries. Gain an insight into the crafting of casks, and of course, indulge in a wee dram. A selection of tours are available, including Glen Ord, one of the oldest in the country and Tullibardine Distillery in Blackford village, where guests can experience a tour led by the master blender.

A ROUND OF GOLF

Where better to tee off than in the country the game originates from. Experience golf in its truest form, playing on courses where the sense of history and tradition is as impressive as the majestic scenery.

WHITE WATER RAFTING

For the adrenaline junkies among us, take part in a guided white water rafting tour through dam released rivers such as River Garry, Orchy and Moriston. This exhilarating experience will have you tackling the wild and raging waters, whilst passing through the rugged landscape of Scotland.

SPA

True indulgence on the rails

Unwind in one of the most unique spas that Scotland has to offer. Two serene treatment rooms provide a haven of peace, while an exceptional menu of all-natural therapies work to rejuvenate body and mind. Simply sit back, relax, and let our therapists indulge you as the striking scenery glides by.

We Recommend

BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN SPA RITUAL

Indulge in our signature ritual, a fully immersive body and facial therapy designed to strengthen muscles and awaken energy channels.

Targeting areas of specific concern, and using a warm massage oil, we perform a full Swedish back and leg massage with reflexology. Next, we  administer a soothing abdominal massage, an age-old technique whose benefits range from stress relief to easing digestive problems.

Afterwards, enjoy the facial of your choice followed by a stimulating Indian head massage. Emerge feeling totally revitalised.

Our Products

Eco-friendly botanicals inspired by nature

Our fresh sea salt scrub leaves skin feeling silky and glowing with renewed vitality

Bamford’s products capture the health-boosting properties of nature. Nourishing botanical ingredients coupled with holistic techniques ensure a blissful experience, one that aligns body and soul with the natural world.

SCOTLAND'S SPA ON RAILS

Picture the scene. You’re meandering past pristine Highland scenery. Beyond the picture windows, landscapes of brilliant wildflowers, mirror-calm lochs and misty mountains pass by. But you’re in a cocoon of luxury, soaking up the aromatherapy fragrances as you enjoy a massage or rejuvenating body scrub.

We speak to Haybarn founder Carole Bamford about her inspiration for the spa and what makes it truly unique.

SCOTLAND’S CLASSIC SPLENDOURS

https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/scotland/belmond-royal-scotsman/journeys/scotlands-classic-splendour?adults=2&departureDate=2021-04-12&packageCode=SCLSC

Departs at 13:45 from Edinburgh Waverley

Arrives at 09:48 to Edinburgh Waverley
ROYAL SCOTSMAN train operates April through October.
Contact us for exclusive Belmond Bellini Club offers.

Your Journey

Enjoy the ultimate Belmond Royal Scotsman experience with our classic Scottish Highlands tour, travelling through some of the country's finest scenery.

DAY 1.EDINBURGH

Travel north, crossing the Firth of Forth via the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea as you pass Arboath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in Keith. Informal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 2. KYLE OF LOCHALSH

Leave Keith this morning as the train travels west along the Moray Firth towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Lunch is served as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on what is arguably the most scenic railway route in the UK.

Alight in the picturesque fishing village of Plockton,which boasts an incomparable location in a sheltered bay of Loch Carron. Take a boat trip to see the colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. Set off on a woodland walk, with time afterwards to enjoy a traditional Highland welcome in the Plockton Hotel.

Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Dinner is formal, followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.

DAY 3. BOAT OF GARTEN

Join your onboard Host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Alternatively, take a short drive before breakfast to marvel at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic sights. Depart Kyle as breakfast is served and retrace part of yesterday's route as far as Dingwall. Have your cameras ready for the views of Plockton across the bay to the left, where you can see white-washed cottages with fishing boats and yachts riding at anchor.

Disembark in Garve to visit Glen Ord Distillery, which is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, founded in 1838. Situated on the edge of the Black Isle, west of Inverness, Glen Ord continues to malt its own barley and to use the long fermentation and slow distillation methods followed there for generations. During your visit, enjoy a tour of the distillery as well as a private tasting and nosing session.

Travel south to Carrbridge where you disembark to explore romantic Ballindalloch Castle on beautiful Speyside.

Options at Ballindalloch include a private castle tour, 9 holes of golf on the castle's own course or an exclusive look at what is Scotland's only single estate distillery.

The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After an informal dinner, our Highlander regales guests with tales and weaponry displays.

DAY 4. ROTHIEMURCHUS

Travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, where fishing, clay pigeon shooting or a tour of the estate can be enjoyed.

Re-joining the train at Kingussie, lunch is served during the journey south to Dunkeld, where you disembark for a visit to Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

Return to the train in Perth for a formal dinner and entertainment. Overnight stay on board in Dundee.

DAY 5. EDINBURGH

After breakfast the train heads south to Edinburgh where your journey ends.
ROYAL SCOTSMAN train operates April through October.
Contact us for exclusive Belmond Bellini Club offers

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Four nights aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train
  • 24-hour steward service
  • All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, three-course lunch, and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
  • All beverages including alcoholic drinks
  • A seal-watching boat trip
  • A trip to Ballindalloch Castle
  • A visit to Rothiemurchus Estate with a choice of country pursuits
  • A guided tour of Glamis Castle and gardens
  • Traditional entertainment on board
GRAND WESTERN SCENIC WONDERS - NORTHBOUND

https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/scotland/belmond-royal-scotsman/journeys/grand-western-scenic-wonders-northbound?adults=2&departureDate=2021-04-12&packageCode=SGNORTH

Departs at 13:45 from Edinburgh Waverley

Arrives at 09:48 to Edinburgh Waverley

ROYAL SCOTSMAN train operates April through October.
Contact us for exclusive Belmond Bellini Club offers.

Embark on a journey through the ages as you explore western Scotland on a journey that perfectly blends untamed natural beauty with spellbinding historic sites.

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Seven nights aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train
  • 24-hour steward service
  • All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, three-course lunch, and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
  • All beverages including alcoholic drinks
  • An excursion to Morar Sands
  • A choice between a visit to Glenfinnan Monument or a walk to Steall Waterfall
  • A visit to Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute
  • A guided tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia
  • Boat trip to see wild seals
  • A trip to Ballindalloch Castle with a choice of activities
  • A visit to Rothiemurchus Estate with a choice of country pursuits
  • A guided tour of Glamis Castle and gardens
  • Traditional entertainment on board

DAY 1. EDINBURGH

The train departs from Edinburgh in the early afternoon, crossing the Firth of Forth by means of the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge.

Enjoy afternoon tea as you journey through the former Kingdom of Fife. The train follows the east coast, passing through Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith.

Enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment in the Observation car.

DAY 2. KYLE OF LOCHALSH

This morning you’ll travel west along the Moray Firth towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Lunch is served on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh, one of the most scenic routes in Britain. The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon mountains.

Alight in the picturesque fishing village of Plockton,which boasts an incomparable location in a sheltered bay of Loch Carron. Take a boat trip to see the colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. Set off on a woodland walk, with time afterwards to enjoy a traditional Highland welcome in the Plockton Hotel.

Return to the train in Kyle of Lochalsh. A formal dinner is served this evening, followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.

DAY 3. BOAT OF GARTEN

Join your onboard Host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Alternatively, take a short drive before breakfast to marvel at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic sights. Depart from Kyle of Lochalsh as breakfast is served, retracing part of yesterday's route. Travel around the edge of the Beauly Firth, across the northern end of the Caledonian Canal before reaching Inverness.

Relax over a leisurely lunch on the way south to Carrbridge. Here you’ll visit Ballindalloch, one of Scotland's most romantic castles. Take a tour of the building and grounds, or take the opportunity to play a round of golf on the castle’s 9-hole course. Optionally you can visit the castle’s single estate whisky distillery.

Return to the train at Boat of Garten and prepare for an informal dinner. Afterwards, make your way to the Observation Car, where local musicians are waiting to entertain you as you sip a nightcap or two.

DAY 4. ROTHIEMURCHUS

After breakfast, transfer to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Choose from a number of activities including fishing, clay pigeon-shooting or an estate tour. Afterwards refreshments are served in their hunting lodge.

Return to the train in Kingussie and enjoy a leisurely lunch during the journey south. At Dunkeld you’ll disembark for a private tour of Glamis Castle and its beautiful gardens.

Re-join the train in Perth and prepare for a formal dinner en route to Dundee. Let the after-dinner musicians inspire you to partake of some lively Scottish country dancing.

DAY 5. EDINBURGH

Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge.

Disembark in Edinburgh where you will be escorted to the Royal Yacht Britannia for a guided tour followed by a light lunch on board. Alternatively, enjoy some free time to explore Scotland's vibrant capital city.

Re-join the train in the early afternoon and travel west. Near the mouth of the Clyde estuary lies Craigendoran, the starting point of the West Highland Line. Enjoy afternoon tea as you travel along the edge of Gare Loch.

Continuing north, the train passes through Crianlarich and Bridge of Orchy then onto Rannoch Moor, one of the last truly wild parts of Scotland. An informal dinner is served on the way to Spean Bridge followed by lively entertainment by local musicians in the Observation Car.

DAY 6. GLENFINNAN

As the train travels west don't miss the views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. Disembark at Arisaig for an evocative walk along the beautiful Morar Sands, with breathtaking views across the Sound of Sleat.

Lunch is served back on board as the train retraces its route towards Fort William. Disembark here and visit historic Glenfinnan in the company of our local guide. Enjoy cream tea in the elegant drawing room at Inverlochy Castle Hotel before returning to Fort William. Alternatively go on a guided hike of Nevis Gorge, weather permitting.

Relax on board before an informal dinner is served as you travel south.

DAY 7. MOUNT STUART

Leaving Bridge of Orchy this morning, savour the dramatic Highland scenery en route to Glasgow. Board the ferry in Wemyss Bay for the 35-minute crossing to the Isle of Bute, which boasts a mesmerising variety of landscapes.

Visit Mount Stuart, one of Britain's most spectacular Victorian Gothic house and the architectural fantasy of the third Marquess of Bute. Mysterious interiors reflect the Marquess' passion for art, astrology, mythology and religion.

Following afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, explore this magnificent house and gardens.

Back on board, take time to relax and prepare for a formal dinner. Afterwards, head to the Observation Car for entertainment and farewell drinks.

DAY 8. EDINBURGH

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the move this morning as you travel east towards Edinburgh, where you’ll disembark for your onward travel arrangements.

WESTERN SCENIC WONDERS

https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/scotland/belmond-royal-scotsman/journeys/western-scenic-wonders?adults=2&departureDate=2021-04-16&packageCode=SWEST

Departs at 13:45 from Edinburgh Waverley

Arrives at 09:48 to Edinburgh Waverley

ROYAL SCOTSMAN train operates April through October.

Contact us for exclusive Belmond Bellini Club offers.

For those seeking unforgettable train holidays, Scotland is sure to ignite your imagination. Take a ride on the country's wild side on this inspiring three-night journey, visiting iconic sites: Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, the Isle of Bute and Mount Stuart, a stunning Gothic Revival country house.

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Three nights aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train
  • 24-hour steward service
  • All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, three-course lunch, and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
  • All beverages including alcoholic drinks
  • An excursion to Morar Sands
  • A choice between a visit to Glenfinnan Monument or a walk to Steall Waterfall
  • A guided tour of Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute
  • Traditional entertainment on board

Itinerary

DAY 1. EDINBURGH

The train departs Edinburgh in the early afternoon and heads west through Falkirk, reaching Craigendoran, the starting point for the West Highland Line.

Enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea and look out for a first glimpse of Loch Lomond. After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night.

Enjoy a splendid informal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 2. GLENFINNAN

As the train continues west, passing through Fort William, don’t miss the views of Ben Nevis.

Disembark at Arisaig, for a stroll along the gleaming Morar Sands marvelling at the views of the Isle of Skye's majestic Cuillin Mountains.

Lunch is served as the train retraces its route back to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands.

After lunch, our Highlander accompanies you to Glenfinnan Monument to explain the area's history before tea at Inverlochy Castle. Energetic guests can choose instead to walk to beautiful Steall Waterfall in Glen Nevis.

Return to the train in Fort William and relax on board before an informal dinner is served as you travel south towards the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy.

Afterwards, enjoy a nightcap whilst listening to the evening entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 3. ISLE OF BUTE

Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute. The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with a varied landscape.

Guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland.

Return to Wemyss Bay where a formal dinner is served while on the move to Kilmarnock, our stabling location this evening.

DAY 4. EDINBURGH

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the train makes its way back to Edinburgh.

GRAND WESTERN SCENIC WONDERS, WESTBOUND

https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/scotland/belmond-royal-scotsman/journeys/grand-western-scenic-wonders?adults=2&departureDate=2021-04-16&packageCode=SGNORTHR

Departs at 13:45 from Edinburgh Waverley

Arrives at 09:48 to Edinburgh Waverley

ROYAL SCOTSMAN train operates April through October.

Contact us for exclusive Belmond Bellini Club offers.

Embark on a journey through the ages as you explore western Scotland on a journey that perfectly blends untamed natural beauty with spellbinding historic sites.

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Seven nights aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train
  • 24-hour steward service
  • All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, three-course lunch, and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
  • All beverages including alcoholic drinks
  • An excursion to Morar Sands
  • Traditional entertainment on board
  • A choice between a visit to Glenfinnan Monument or a walk to Steall Waterfall
  • Boat trip to see wild seals
  • A visit to Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute
  • A guided tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia
  • A trip to Ballindalloch Castle with a choice of activities
  • A visit to Rothiemurchus Estate with a choice of country pursuits
  • A guided tour of Glamis Castle and gardens

 

Itinerary

DAY 1. EDINBURGH

The train departs from Edinburgh in the early afternoon and heads west through Falkirk, to reach Craigendoran the starting point for the West Highland Line, while guests enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea.

Spot the distinctive peak of Ben Arthur and soon you also catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond.

After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night.

Enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 2. GLENFINNAN

As the train travels west, passing through Fort William, don’t miss the views of Ben Nevis. Travelling by the side of Loch Eil you then pass Glenfinnan, with its impressive curved viaduct, and Lochailort, before turning north along this dramatic coastline to Arisaig.

Disembark here for a leisurely walk along the beautiful Morar Sands, with breathtaking views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye with its distinctive Cuillin Mountains.

Back on board, lunch is served as the train retraces its route towards Fort William.

Disembark here and enjoy a visit to historic Glenfinnan in the company of a local guide who brings to life the stories of Scottish heroes before cream tea at Inverlochy Castle. Alternatively, a guided hike is available (weather permitting). A mountain ranger guides you through the scenic Nevis Gorge to The Steall Waterfall.

Return to the train in Fort William and relax on board before an informal dinner is served as you travel south towards the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy.

Enjoy an informal dinner on board. Afterwards, enjoy a nightcap whilst listening to the evening entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 3. MOUNT STUART

Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute, reached by ferry.

The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with a varied landscape to explore.

Guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland.

Return to the train for a formal dinner and overnight on board.

DAY 4. KEITH

After an early departure from Gourock this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you travel east towards Edinburgh where this first part of your Grand Western Scenic, Westbound journey draws to an end in Waverley Station.

Spend the morning in Edinburgh by joining a guided tour and enjoying a light lunch before returning to the train for the next part of your journey.

The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon and travels north, crossing the Firth of Forth via the Forth Railway Bridge.

It then proceeds through Fife towards the city of Perth, during which you are served a leisurely afternoon tea, passing Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith.

In the evening enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.

DAY 5. KYLE OF LOCHALSH

Enjoy breakfast as the train leaves Keith and heads west along Moray Firth towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Lunch is served as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on what is arguably the most scenic railway route in the UK.

Disembark in Plockton, take a boat trip to see wild seals or enjoy a dram and a traditional highland welcome in the Plockton Hotel.

Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Enjoy a formal dinner and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow guests in the Observation Car which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.

DAY 6. BOAT OF GARTEN

If you’re feeling energetic, join your onboard Host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle Of Skye. Alternatively, take a short drive before breakfast to marvel at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic sights. After breakfast the train heads back towards Dingwall, skirting the Beauly Firth and crossing the top of the Caledonian Canal, north of Loch Ness, before reaching Inverness.

The train continues south to Carrbridge where you will disembark to visit the romantic Ballindalloch Castle and its wonderful gardens. Options at Balindallocah include a private castle tour, 9 holes of golf on the castle's own course or an exclusive look at what is Scotland's only single estate distillery.

The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After dinner, make your way to the Observation Car, where local musicians are waiting to entertain you as you sip a nightcap or two.

DAY 7. ROTHIEMURCHUS

Travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, where pursuits such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, or a guided walk through the stunning landscape can be enjoyed.

Rejoin the train at Kingussie where lunch will be served as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld. Here you will disembark for your visit to Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

Return to the train for a formal dinner and entertainment.

DAY 8. EDINBURGH

Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge into the former Kingdom of Fife and on to Edinburgh were your seven night journey ends.

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