Grand Taste of the Highlands, Northbound on Royal Scotsman

Your adventure begins with a private transfer from your centrally located Edinburgh hotel to Waverley Station, where you’ll be welcomed aboard the Royal Scotsman. Step into an atmosphere of timeless elegance, where Edwardian-inspired interiors blend tartan, cashmere, and contemporary Scottish design. Departing in the early afternoon, the train travels north to Perth, while you indulge in a traditional afternoon tea. Wind your way through scenic Highland landscapes, passing Dunkeld, Pitlochry, and Blair Atholl. As you continue toward Aviemore, gateway to the Cairngorms, admire towering peaks and ancient forests before arriving at Boat of Garten for the night. Dinner is a celebration of Scottish cuisine—think Shetland lobster, wild halibut, and Aberdeen Angus beef. Cap off the evening with live entertainment and a fine dram in the Observation Car. 

After breakfast, take a short coach ride to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Choose from outdoor pursuits such as clay pigeon shooting, archery, fishing, or a guided nature tour, followed by refreshments in the estate’s hunting lodge. Return to the train in Carrbridge and enjoy lunch en route to Inverness. In the afternoon, explore the historic Culloden Battlefield, where your guide brings the dramatic events of 1746 to life. Continue to Nairn, and then to Keith, stopping for a private visit and tasting at Strathisla Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries. Soak in views of the Aberdeenshire coast as the train travels south. A splendid dinner is served before an evening of live jazz and conviviality in the Observation Car. 

Enjoy breakfast as the Royal Scotsman departs Dundee and crosses the River Tay into the former Kingdom of Fife, returning to Edinburgh. Disembark for a guided tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating residence of the Royal Family. Explore its regal decks before enjoying a light lunch at Brasserie Prince in The Balmoral Hotel or opt for time at leisure in Edinburgh. Rejoin the train in the afternoon and journey west via Falkirk, Dumbarton, and along the banks of the Clyde. From Craigendoran, begin the West Highland Line, passing Loch Long, Ben Arthur, and Loch Lomond. Ascend Glen Falloch with its cascading waterfalls, and continue across the hauntingly beautiful Rannoch Moor. Dinner is served en route to Spean Bridge, followed by traditional music and storytelling in the Observation Car. 

This morning, the train travels west through Fort William, with dramatic views of Ben Nevis. Continue alongside Loch Eil, then across the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and past Lochailort to Arisaig. Disembark for a walk along the Silver Sands of Morar, with views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye. Return to the train for lunch, then choose between a guided tour of Glenfinnan or a moderate-grade hike through Nevis Gorge to Steall Waterfall, led by a local ranger. The hike offers unforgettable views but requires proper footwear and a good level of fitness. Rejoin the train in Fort William and relax as you travel south to Bridge of Orchy, where dinner and a peaceful evening await. 

Departing Bridge of Orchy, enjoy breakfast while passing through the dramatic Highland scenery. After lunch, disembark in Wemyss Bay for a short ferry crossing to the Isle of Bute. Visit Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece created by the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Inside, marvel at the richly detailed interiors, a private art collection, and architectural features inspired by mythology, astrology, and faith. Enjoy afternoon tea in the Drawing Room and stroll through landscaped gardens and coastal paths. Return to the train for a grand gala dinner en route to Kilmarnock. The evening continues with traditional Scottish music and farewell drinks in the Observation Car. 

After an early departure from Kilmarnock, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the Royal Scotsman makes its final journey east. Take in the last glimpses of Scotland’s rolling hills and timeless charm before arriving at Edinburgh Waverley Station. Your private driver will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your centrally located Edinburgh hotel, ensuring a seamless and stylish end to your unforgettable luxury rail experience.