Itinerary

Day 1
Departing Waverley station early-afternoon, the Belmond Royal Scotsman will then head west, through Falkirk, eventually reaching Craigendoran, the starting point of the iconic West Highland Line, as guests relax with an indulgent afternoon tea. As Loch Lomond comes into sight you will gaze at the majesty of Ben Arthur’s distinctive peak, before the train climbs up Glen Falloch, with its many waterfalls, continuing north to the village of Splean Bridge, where you will stable for the night following formal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day 2
Following breakfast, the train will head due west, passing through Fort William, and offering passengers splendid views of Ben Nevis. Making its way up the side of Loch Eil, you will experience the iconic curved viaduct at Lochailort, before turning north to follow the dramatic coastline approaching Arisaig.

Disembark for a scenic walk along the beautiful Moror Sands, which boast wonderful views across the Sound of Sleat towards the Isle of Skye, where the majestic Cuillin Mountains dramatically pierce the horizon. Back on board, enjoy a leisurely lunch as the train heads back to Fort William, where you will have the opportunity to visit Glenfinnan and hear stories of local history and folklore told by a real life Highlander before sitting down to afternoon tea. Or, alternatively, opt for a guided hike- weather permitting- with a mountain ranger helping you make a way through Nevis Gorge and The Steall Waterfall.

Returning to the train at Fort William, take some time to relax and gaze on the stunning scenery passing by the window before indulging in an informal dinner en route to the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy, finally heading to the Observation Car for evening entertainment before heading to bed.

Day 3
Day Three is focused on the enchanting Isle of Bute, which you will reach by ferry from Wemyss Bay. Rich in geological, historical, and ecological treasures, this varied landscape is yours to enjoy in the morning, before a visit to Mount Stuart opens up the fascinating past of this Victorian Gothic house, home to the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland. Finally, head back to Wemyss Bay for a formal dinner and overnight stay onboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Day 4
Departing early-morning, a delicious breakfast will be served as the train makes its way towards Edinburgh, pulling into Waverley Station mid-morning, leaving you free to enjoy the delights of Scotland’s prestigious capital until early afternoon, when the Belmond Royal Scotsman leaves the city behind, crossing the Forth Railway Bridge bound for Perth.

Along the way you will pass through Fife, Arbroath, Montrose, and Aberdeen, finally arriving in the charming market town of Keith, where an informal dinner will be served onboard. Following your meal, either retire to your cabin or head to the Observation Car to partake in a nightcap, or two, along with your fellow passengers.

Day 5
Enjoy a delicious breakfast as the train departs Keith in the morning. Passing through Inverness you will see some of Scotland’s finest scenery before arriving at Muir of Ord to visit the Glen Ord distillery. Here guests are treated to a delectable lunch and tasting tour, before climbing back aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman for the journey towards Kyle of Lochalsh a route that is arguably the most scenic in Britain, passing by Loch Luichart, the Torridon Mountains, climbing Luib summit and meandering through Achnashellach forest before descending Strathcarron to travel by stunning Loch Carron.

Alighting in Plockton, spend some free time exploring this wonderful seaside town, take a boat trip to observe wild seals or walk into the beautiful woodland surrounds, before heading back to the Plockton Hotel for a wee dram. Next, rejoin the train in Kyle of Lochalsh for a formal dinner followed by entertainment in the Observation Car, all set to the backdrop of the stunning Loch Alsh and Isle of Skye.

Day 6
Breakfast will be served onboard as the Belmond Royal Scotsman heads back towards Dingwall, skirting the Beauly Firth and crossing the top of the Caledonian Canal to the north of Loch Ness. Reaching Inverness, next find yourself continuing south to Carrbridge, disembarking for a visit to fabulous Ballindalloch Castle, with its beautiful gardens and pervading sense of romance. Spend the night onboard at Boat of Garten, part of the marvellous private Strathspey Railway, with another sumptuous formal dinner, served as a Highlander regales inspiring and exciting tales of Scotland’s history, complete with weaponry display.

Day 7
Start the day with a trip to Rothiemurchus Estate. Here you will have the opportunity to partake in various outdoor pursuits, including clay pigeon shooting and guided walks. Alternatively, select one of the warming single malts and enjoy a glass of whisky by they fire. Boarding the Belmond Royal Scotsman at Kingussie, lunch is served to a passing scenery comprising Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, and Dunkeld, where you will disembark for a visit to Glamis Castle. Finally, climb back aboard the train at Perth for a final informal dinner, nightcap and sleep onboard.

Day 8
Breakfast will be served as the Belmond Royal Scotsman leaves Dundee behind, crossing the Tay Bridge and moving through the stunning Kingdom of Fife. Gradually approaching Edinburgh, you will arrive at the city’s Waverley Station mid-morning, where your epic seven-night journey reaches its final conclusion.