A land of mysterious lochs, ancient castles, heathered hills, and destinations where the traditions of yesteryear juxtapose modern amenities, the small nation of Scotland is truly unique in its offerings. Legends and lore guide every vacation, and as a trusted authority on travel for more than 20 years, Vacations By Rail brings these stories to life in extraordinary locations, from the Scottish Isles to the Highlands.
The Scottish landscape is best explored by rail, and some of the world's most beloved lines open the door to a range of possibilities. From Scotland's age-old capital, Edinburgh, continue inland to Glasgow or through the moors and peaks to Inverness. Your itinerary might include the Jacobite steam train between Fort William and Mallaig or the scenic West Highland Line. Follow the Kyle Line to the coast or travel in old-world opulence on the Royal Scotsman. Our immersive itineraries expertly join these journeys with memorable moments, such as castle tours and Scotch whisky tastings, to create a Scottish vacation you treasure.
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(572 reviews)Majestic lochs and glens await on this Scottish escape as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Traveling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle rail lines, we discover historic castles, sail along glistening lochs, and stay in vibrant cities. Admire the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on the world-famous Jacobite Steam train journey through the...
(184 reviews)Experience three of the British Isles' most scenic countries on a vacation showcasing the best of these Celtic destinations. Beginning in Scotland, we explore the majestic Highlands before travelling to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, nations with fascinating culture and history. Traveling on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train,...
(22 reviews)Journey through the heart of Britain's most iconic cities and landscapes, savoring local cuisine and breathtaking vistas throughout. Starting by touring the streets of London, a visit to enigmatic Stonehenge adds a touch of ancient mystery, before uncovering reminders of Romans and Georgian elegance in Bath. Explore Liverpool, the historic port...
(27 reviews)A land where legends are just as prevalent as natural beauty, Scotland plays host for this journey of a lifetime. Settle in as you explore from south to north aboard a legendary rail line, and by way of scenic roadways through the highlands. Incredible history and stunning neogothic architecture offer a grand introduction to the country as the...
(14 reviews)Uncover atmospheric castles, ancient archaeological sites and captivating wildlife in Orkney and Shetland. This magnificent Northern Isles vacation explores Scotland's mainland, with time in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness, and ventures by ferry to the beautiful islands of Shetland and Orkney. Encounters with Shetland ponies, seals and...
(5 reviews)This short break is an introduction to the best of Scotland, culminating in the iconic extravaganza of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Based in the charming town of Dunblane in the Perthshire countryside, this Scottish vacation also includes a visit to Stirling Castle and...
(61 reviews)Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands on a five-day tour while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating heritage and...
Experience a memorable festive break in Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. Your vacation starts and ends in the Scottish capital where you can soak up the enchanting atmosphere of Edinburgh, illuminated for the festive season. We discover the captivating Kelpies statues, enjoy the tranquil setting of Glencoe and visit the legendary Loch Ness...
Luxury
Embark on a leisurely exploration of the Scottish Highlands, departing from the historic city of Edinburgh. Journey west towards the charming Craigendoran, your gateway to the renowned West Highland Line. As you travel, gaze out at the stunning vistas of Ben Nevis and immerse yourself in the dramatic landscapes that unfold. Relish the enchanting...
Luxury
Journey into the wild and beautiful Scottish Highlands, soaking up the rugged beauty of Cairngorms National Park aboard the famous Royal Scotsman train. Leaving Edinburgh, relish breathtaking panoramas as you travel into the Cairngorms to visit a country house, a historic battlefield and a timeless whisky distillery.
Luxury
Step aboard the Royal Scotsman for an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's majestic landscapes and captivating culture. Sample whisky at Tomatin Distillery, tour the grand Ballindalloch Castle, and absorb views of the Cairngorm National Park. Journey along the charming Strathspey Railway, explore Attadale Gardens and conclude your adventure...
Embark on a one-of-a-kind vacation, delving into Scotland's legendary world of castles, kings, fairy folk and mythical monsters. Hear evocative tales of stories of important clans and historic battles, and experience the wild beauty of the Highlands and mystical Isle of Skye. On this multi-center exploration, stay in Edinburgh and Glasgow, the...
A land of legend, lore and extraordinary beauty, Scotland is the ideal destination for escorted or self-guided vacations. A trip to Scotland can depart from London or begin in one of the enchanting cities within the country. Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is the perfect beginning or endpoint for your Scotland vacation. This city has an enchanting fusion of cosmopolitan amenities and ancient sites, including 12th-century Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, which was constructed in the 16th century. From Edinburgh, travel north across the Firth of Forth en route to Aberdeen and the market town of Keith. Other vacation packages continue further inland by train to Glasgow or through the incredibly scenic Scottish Highlands to Inverness. Regardless of where the rail tour itinerary takes you, vistas of mysterious lochs, ancient castles and rolling green hills make the perfect backdrop.
Explore the endless facets of Scottish culture with travel packages that include stops in well-known cities and charming destinations in between. Taste your way through the Glen Ord Distillery, the last remaining Scotch whisky distillery on the Black Isle. Tour Scotland's remaining castles, including Ballindalloch Castle, Glamis Castle or Kinghorne. Marvel at the waterfalls of Glen Falloch or search for Nessie from the shores of Loch Ness. Journey to Cairngorms National Park, which houses the Rothiemurchus Estate, and visit the Culloden Battlefield outside Aviemore.
Scotland vacations often include train tours between these memorable points of interest. Enjoy a ride on one of the world's most iconic rail lines, the Jacobite Steam Train, while traveling between Fort William and Mallaig. This train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct that gained notoriety in the Harry Potter films. A trip on the West Highland Line presents the very best of the Scottish Highlands. Select travel packages also feature overnight adventures aboard Scotland's premier luxury train, the Royal Scotsman.
While perfect on their own, Scotland rail tours can be easily combined with a vacation in England, tours of Wales or Ireland trips for a more expansive vacation experience.
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