Heritage Homes & Gardens Aboard the Royal Scotsman
Great Rail Journey: Heritage Home & Gardens Aboard Royal Scotsman
Duration
5 DaysStarts In
EdinburghRoute
Edinburgh
LUXURY RAIL JOURNEY - 5 days/ 4 nights package visits some of Scotland’s finest estates with untold stories and guided tours. Visiting Pitmuies, Keith, Dingwall, Strathcarron, Kyle of Lochalsh, Isle of Skye, Carrbridge, Boat of Garten, Rothiemurchus, Stirling and Dundee. Includes private round-trip transfers between your Edinburgh hotel and the rail station, 4 nights of luxury accommodation aboard the Royal Scotsman with 24-hour steward service; all meals aboard the train; full Scottish breakfast, two-course lunch, three-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petit fours, all beverages, including alcoholic drinks. This voyage also includes special guests, photographer Patsy Floyd and gardening writer Susan Chivers, as well as a visit to Pitmuis, Attadale and th Walled Rose Gardens, a visit to kilbryde Castle & Gardens, a tour of Foulis Castle by a member of the Munro clan, a visit to Rothiemurchus Easte, an excursion to the Isle of Skye and a tour of the Clan Donald Estate. Enjoy a special evening of drinks at Ballindalloch Castle.
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Bridges & Blooms
2
Day 2: Highland Hospitality & Coastal Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard as the Royal Scotsman travels north through Inverness to Invergordon. Disembark for an exclusive visit to Foulis Castle, the ancestral seat of Clan Munro. Guests are warmly welcomed by Mrs. Munro of Foulis and her son Hector, the Clan Chief. Explore the castle grounds and charming courtyard garden, or join Hector in the drawing room for a guided whisky tasting.
Return to the train for lunch as the journey continues west toward Kyle of Lochalsh, passing the dramatic Torridon mountains, Achnashellach Forest, and serene Loch Carron. In the afternoon, disembark in Plockton for a visit to Attadale Estate, where highlights include a Water Garden, Japanese Garden, and Sunken Garden. Spend the night in Kyle of Lochalsh, with an informal dinner followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.
3
Day 3: Isle of Skye & Castle Elegance
After breakfast, disembark for a scenic drive across the Skye Bridge to the mystical Isle of Skye. Explore the expansive 2,000-acre Clan Donald estate, rich in history and natural beauty. Return to the Royal Scotsman in Kyle of Lochalsh and enjoy a relaxed lunch onboard as the train retraces part of its journey through the Highlands toward Dingwall.
In the evening, disembark once more to visit Ballindalloch Castle, often called one of Scotland’s most romantic castles. Wander its beautifully maintained walled gardens or delve into its rich family heritage. Rejoin the train at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway, ready to unwind in comfort as your journey through the Highlands continues.
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Day 4: Cairngorms Adventure & Castle Gardens Finale
Begin the day with a scenic coach ride to Rothiemurchus Estate, nestled beneath the majestic Cairngorm Mountains. Choose to explore the peaceful parkland or take part in a variety of outdoor pursuits, all set within one of Scotland’s most picturesque natural landscapes.
Return to the Royal Scotsman in Kingussie for a delicious onboard lunch as the train travels south toward Dunblane. In the late afternoon, disembark for a visit to the final garden of your journey—Kilbryde Castle and Gardens. Wander through beautifully kept grounds surrounding the historic castle before rejoining the train in Dundee. This unforgettable day concludes with a celebratory gala dinner and a final night of elegance aboard the Royal Scotsman.
5
Day 5: Farewell to the Highlands
Frequently Asked Questions
The Great Rail Journey: Heritage Home & Gardens Aboard Royal Scotsman package includes: - 5 days/4 nights aboard the Royal Scotsman luxury train - Private round-trip transfers between your Edinburgh hotel and the rail station - All meals onboard, including full Scottish breakfast, two-course lunch, and three-course dinner with beverages - Guided visits to Pitmuies Garden, Foulis Castle, Attadale Estate, Clan Donald Estate, Ballindalloch Castle, Rothiemurchus Estate, and Kilbryde Castle & Gardens - Special guests and curated excursions throughout the journey.
Travelers on this itinerary move between destinations aboard the Royal Scotsman, a luxury Belmond train. The journey starts and ends in Edinburgh, with the train traveling through scenic areas of Scotland, including Montrose, Inverness, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Dundee. Private transfers are provided from your centrally located Edinburgh hotel to the train station and back, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
The accommodations aboard the Royal Scotsman are fixed as part of this luxury rail journey. However, travelers can discuss extending their stay in Edinburgh or adding additional destinations with a Keytours Vacations travel consultant. Customization options may depend on availability and the specifics of your travel dates.
This tour involves a moderate level of physical activity, including guided garden tours, castle visits, and optional outdoor pursuits at Rothiemurchus Estate. While most excursions are leisurely, some walking over uneven terrain may be required. Travelers should be comfortable with short walks and standing for periods during guided tours.
Yes, the itinerary includes special events and guests. Highlights include a whisky tasting at Foulis Castle hosted by the Clan Munro chief, and a special evening of drinks at Ballindalloch Castle. Additionally, photographer Patsy Floyd and gardening writer Susan Chivers will join the journey, offering unique insights and experiences.
This itinerary is well-suited for older travelers and couples who appreciate luxury travel, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. While families can enjoy the journey, the focus on gardens, castles, and cultural experiences may appeal more to adults. The train's comfortable accommodations and curated excursions ensure a relaxed and enriching experience for all participants.
Travelers can expect an exceptional dining experience aboard the Royal Scotsman. All meals are included, featuring full Scottish breakfasts, two-course lunches, and three-course dinners with a cheeseboard, coffee, tea, and petit fours. The menu highlights gourmet cuisine using local ingredients, and all beverages, including alcoholic drinks, are included. Dining takes place in elegant surroundings, enhancing the luxurious rail journey.
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