Through rolling hills, past snow-capped mountains, across
viaducts and bridges, and amidst peaceful heather moorlands, the
West Highland Line unravels the secrets of Scotland's wild beauty
one mile at a time. The train travels over 160 miles on a course
from the bustling city of Glasgow, on the country's interior, to
the sleepy fishing village of Mallaig on the Atlantic Coast. Much
of the scenery along the route remains untouched and is nearly
identical to what the first travelers would have seen when the rail
line was built in the late 19th century.
ScotRail trains operate on the West Highland Line, ensuring each
experience is filled with all the comfort and convenience for which
the brand is known. Riders may select from airline-style seats that
face forward or backward or choose to be seated at a table.
Expansive windows line the cabins and allow guests to soak in all
the amazing scenery to come in the Scottish Highlands. While there
are not separate service classes, there is a Quiet Car that guests
can select for their trip. Light meals, snacks, and drinks are
available for purchase from the snack trolley that attendants push
through the carriages. Heartier options, like sandwiches, join
chocolate bars, bags of chips, and even beer and wine on the menu.
Modern amenities, like Wi-Fi and power sockets, join the other
onboard offerings.
The West Highland Line operates throughout the year, showcasing
seasonal perspectives on the scenery. There is something ethereal
that overtakes the remote landscapes when they are covered in a
blanket of fresh snow - something refreshing about the glens and
valleys all anew in the spring green. Six trains depart daily for
the journey between Glasgow and Oban, and there are three daily
trains between Glasgow and Fort William/Mallaig.
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