Join the Royal Scotsman for a mesmerizing expedition through the untamed landscapes of Scotland. Traverse rugged terrain, meander through picturesque villages and delve into the rich history of this remarkable country.
Experience the tranquillity of Boat of Garten, the mystical allure of the Isle of Skye and uncover the secrets held within Tomatin Distillery and Ballindalloch Castle. Plus much more...
Please note: There are NO single cabins on board the Royal Scotsman. Solo travellers who book a double or twin cabin will need to pay a "sole occupancy charge", which is the cost of another adult ticket
Your adventure begins in Edinburgh. The atmosphere is electric, with a welcome drinks reception and a bagpiper on the platform! As the whistle blows, the Royal Scotsman ventures through ancient and mysterious landscapes. Within this luxurious train, you'll find elegant Edwardian interiors adorned with cashmere and tartan - a perfect mix of traditional décor and modern-day comfort.
Heading northward to Perth, indulge in delightful afternoon tea as you pass through Dunkeld, Pitlochry, and Blair Atholl.
The gentle hills of Perthshire give way to more dramatic peaks and valleys as you journey into the Highlands. Traverse past Aviemore, the gateway to the majestic Cairngorms National Park - where you will disembark. You can either take part in an array of adventurous activities or explore the wonders of the park at your leisure - with its towering peaks and lush Caledonian Forest.
Further ahead lies the tranquil village of Boat of Garten along the private Strathspey Railway, where the train halts for the night amidst the serene Cairngorms.
Dine on board with a feast of freshly caught wild salmon, hand-dived scallops, and succulent Aberdeen Angus beef. Delight in locally foraged chanterelles, wild garlic, and bittercress straight from Scotland’s untamed pantry.
After dinner, revel in vibrant entertainment in the Observation Car. Musicians and performers join the journey, blending soulful Gaelic tunes with lively folk melodies. With no more than 40 guests on board, expect a sense of kinship and conviviality, best enjoyed over a dram of fine, local whisky.
Departing Keith this morning, the train travels north towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Lunch is served on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh, on what is arguably the most scenic route in Britain.
Then, travel onwards through Achnasheen and commence the climb to the Luib summit and Achnashellach Forest before descending to Strathcarron, where you'll visit Attadale Gardens. This huge, 30,000-acre estate has been home to the Macpherson family since the 1950s. Your visit includes the Water Garden, Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden. Later, enjoy some light refreshments with your hosts.
Alternatively, stay on the train and alight in Plockton, where you can see the colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Highland welcome and a dram or two in the seafront Plockton Hotel.
You can also choose our wellness option and stride out on a guided afternoon hike close to Kyle of Lochalsh. Meander through glorious woodland, look out over ancient castles and rolling hills, and maybe even spot red deer and golden eagles as you approach the calm, beautiful waters of the freshwater loch. Return to the train in Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the mystical Isle of Skye, for overnight stabling.
The train leaves Kyle early in the morning and retraces part of yesterday's route. Journey towards Inverness and disembark in Aviemore for a choice of country pursuits at the Rothiemurchus Estate. In the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Rothiemurchus Forest is one of the largest and most important remnants of the native Caledonian pine forest, which used to cover most of Scotland. An array of activities await, from fishing to clay pigeon shooting, or wild swimming – for those who have pre-booked. Alternatively, opt for a forest bathing experience, a guided sensory walk where you can practice mindfulness surrounded by wonderful woodland. Afterwards, enjoy refreshments in the hunting lodge as you learn about the fascinating history of the estate.
Alternatively, you may prefer to pedal off on a leisurely cycle ride from the village to discover the magnificent River Spey or beautiful nearby lochs.
Rejoin the train in Boat of Garten early evening and, as it makes its way to Dundee, prepare for a splendid dinner to mark your last night on board. After your celebratory feast, you may feel inspired to join in with the dancing in the Observation Car – a fitting finale to your tour.
On your last morning, the train will depart from Dundee and traverse the iconic Tay Bridge into the historic Kingdom of Fife. Breakfast is served as you admire the views and discuss the wonders you have seen over the last few days. Your Essence of Scotland expedition concludes upon arrival in Edinburgh.
The availability for 2025 is minimal but a few cabins remain. If you are interested in travelling this year, please get in touch with our concierge team at 0203 640 8887 or info@luxurytraintickets.com
Please note: There are NO single cabins on board the Royal Scotsman. Solo travellers who book a double or twin cabin will need to pay a "sole occupancy charge", which is the cost of another adult ticket
This is a brief overview of our booking terms and conditions. Please note each individual operator has their own terms and conditions and by booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com you are also accepting the operator's terms. For more information regarding operator terms and conditions please contact us or the operator directly.
PLEASE NOTE: Receiving receipt of payment is not confirmation that your booking has been successful. We will contact you one to 10 working days after you have paid to confirm your booking, take further details of those travelling and send your itinerary. In the rare instance your booking cannot be fulfilled for any reason, such as the operator cancelling a journey or anything else beyond our control, we will be in touch with alternative options or will refund your payment.
All prices shown are for one adult ticket. Sleeper journeys are based on two adults sharing accommodation. Single occupancy of cabins may incur additional charge.
Prices are set by the operator and may change at short notice. We endeavour to ensure prices are always accurate and update our own website as soon as possible. All timings and details of included tours and activities are for guidance only and will only be confirmed in your travel documents that will be emailed to you 7 days before departure. For any questions including discounts, offers or group pricing, please contact info@luxurytraintickets.com.
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There are a limited number of private tables and cabin types onboard. While we keep our website updated regularly, there may be occasions when private tables or cabin types become fully booked meaning we are unable to fulfil your booking requirements. Should this be the case, we will contact you to discuss alternative options and refund any payments made.
We have the right to refuse the request of a deposit when a journey is scheduled to depart in less than 16 weeks. If you choose to book with a deposit you must pay the remaining balance in full 15 weeks before departure at the latest. Should you fail to pay the remaining balance 15 weeks prior to departure, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking. Deposits are accepted by request. Most journeys require a 25% deposit to secure a booking however some specialist journeys do require a 50% deposit. Please contact us for confirmation.
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