Scotland’s Classic Splendours

A leisurely breakfast is served as the train travels west along the Moray Firth towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands. From there, it on to Kyle of Lochalsh, one of the most scenic lines in Britain, while lunch is served. The line passes Loch Luichart and the summit and Achnashellach forest, descends to Strathcarron and runs along the edge of stunning Loch Carron.

Travel onwards through Achnasheen, then commence the climb to the Luib summit and Achnashellach Forest, before descending to Strathcarron for a visit of Attadale Gardens.

Alternatively, stay on board the train until you reahch the picturesque fishing village of Plockton, and head out on a boat trip to view seals and admire the magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. After, take a walk through the woodlands to a viewpoint overlooking the loch. Return to Plockton Hotel for a traditional Highland welcome and a dram or two.

Back on board the train, a formal dinner is followed by coffee and liqueurs in the observation car.

Join your onboard host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. 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 for a bespoke shopping experience. Alternatively, stretch your legs and join our Highland storyteller for a walk along the old military road leading to Silver Bridge. Lunch is served as the train departs Inverness.

Travel south to Carrbridge for a visit to Ballindalloch, one of Scotland’s most romantic castles. The  baronial castle, known as the “Pearl of the North,” is the much-loved family home of the Macpherson-Grants, with treasures including a fine collection of 17th-century Spanish paintings, a sumptuous dining room, splendid vaulted hallway and impressive library.

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.

The day begins with an excursion to Rothiemurchus Estate, where you may choose from activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting or a tour of the estate.

Rejoin the train at Kingussie and have lunch while traveling south to Dunkeld. Disembark and visit Glamis Castle, Seat of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and childhood home of the late H.M. Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Save time in your tour to visit the gorgeous gardens. Alternatively, visit the quaint town of Pitlochry and Blair Athol Distillery for an afternoon tour.

Rejoin the train in Perth for a final formal dinner on board.

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