It's always hard to say farewell to the Scottish Highlands. That's why we've made it possible for you to take a longer journey. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of the West Highland Line and an exclusive view of Mount Stuart, a spectacular Victorian Gothic house.

After some free time in Edinburgh, experience the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands as you head north, enjoying a leisurely journey up the east coast through Aberdeen to Keith. Try your hand at some outdoor activities on the Rothiemurchus Highland estate and enjoy a visit to Scone Castle.

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Call 877-929-7245 to book the Royal Scotsman Grand West Highland rail vacation

Day One: Edinburgh - Spean Bridge
The Royal Scotsman departs from Edinburgh early this afternoon and heads west through skirting Glasgow to reach the northern bank of the Clyde. Near the mouth of the Clyde estuary lies Craigendoran, the starting point for the majestic West Highland Line.

As you enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea, the train continues its journey through spectacular scenery. Spot the distinctive peak of Ben Arthur (also called The Cobbler) on your left, a favorite with climbers. Soon you also catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond, followed by a closer view as the train descends almost to the water's edge at Ardlui. After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night.

 

Enjoy a splendid formal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car. Overnight train.

Day Two: Spean Bridge - Bridge of Orchy
As the train continues west, passing through Fort William, soak up the views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Disembark at the most westerly station in Britain, Arisaig, for a romantic stroll along the gleaming expanse of Morar Sands, marvelling at the views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye's majestic Cuillin Mountains.

 

Lunch is served on board as the Royal Scotsman retraces its route back to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands. After lunch, Highlander Ray Owens joins your select group to Glenfinnan Monument to explain the history of the area before tea is served at the Factors Inn. Energetic guests can choose instead to walk to beautiful Steall Waterfall, the second highest in the UK.

 

Return to the train for dinner, musical entertainment and overnight stabling at Bridge of Orchy. Overnight train.

Day Three: Bridge of Orchy - Wemyss Bay
Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute, reached by ferry from Wemyss Bay. The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with abandoned townships, an ancient chapel and 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. The stunning interiors reflect the 3rd Marquess of Bute's passion for art, heraldry, astrology and mythology. The house also boasts magical gardens and a secluded beach. Return to Wemyss Bay for a formal dinner. Overnight train.

Day Four: Wemyss Bay - Edinburgh - Boat of Garten
Soak up the scenery as the train travels back to Edinburgh where the first part of your journey ends. Take the opportunity to discover the beautiful city of Edinburgh. Explore the historic Royal Mile, visit the Castle, take in an art gallery or simply relax with a coffee.

 

Rejoin the the Royal Scotsman early this afternoon and head west to Stirling, onwards past the world-famous golf resort of Gleneagles to Perth, then north into the dramatic scenery and sparkling mountain air of the Highlands. Travelling through Pitlochry and Blair Atholl, whose magnificent castle can be glimpsed once out of the station, you may also spot red or roe deer from the window. After the breathtaking journey you arrive at Dalwhinnie, ready for a tour of the highest distillery in Scotland – and a sample of the "gentle spirit" of the glen.

 

Back on the train, stabled at Boat of Garten, indulge in a sumptuous dinner and a night of musical entertainment in the Observation Car. Overnight train.

Day Five: Boat of Garten - Dundee
After breakfast, you are taken by coach to the historic estate of Rothiemurchus for a taste of wild Scotland. At the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Rothiemurchus offers a magical setting in which to try outdoor pursuits such as clay pigeon shooting or hill walking.

 

Rejoin the train at Aviemore and head north towards Inverness. Enjoy lunch before boarding your coach to visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the last major battle fought on British soil in 1746. Following your private tour, you then board the coach again briefly for a visit to Clava Cairns, one of the best preserved Bronze Age burial sites in Scotland, built around 4000 years ago. Rejoin the train in Nairn and travel east towards Keith.

 

Dinner tonight is a formal affair as you travel south towards Dundee. Overnight train.

Day Six: Dundee - Edinburgh
Journey south through the former Kingdom of Fife this morning, including the chance to see the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge up close as you return to Edinburgh where your luxury rail holiday comes to a close.

Timings
The Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh at 1.32pm on day one and arrives back in Edinburgh at 9.43am on day six.

Please note: Itineraries are subject to change and all timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed itineraries and timings will be supplied with your travel documents.