Great Railway Journeys of Scotland

Day 1

After departure, we travel north towards the Scottish border, where we enjoy a stop in the Border market town of Moffat. After some free time to explore, we continue our journey to our overnight hotel.

Day 2

Today, we will travel to the historic port of Bo'ness on the Firth of Forth for a journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway. On our ten-mile scenic journey to Manuel, you'll travel along the Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the Avon Viaduct. From here, our journey continues by coach into the Highlands and our hotel based near Fort William.

Day 3

Today, we head north with a photo opportunity at Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most striking castles in Scotland. Perched atop a tiny island and joined to the mainland by an elegant bridge, it was designed to defend the region from invading Viking raiders. We next follow in the footsteps of Michael Palin and embark on a railway journey on the Kyle of Lochalsh Line. This primarily single-track railway travels via breathtaking scenery from Kyle of Lochalsh to Dingwall. After disembarking, our return by coach takes us along the shores of Loch Ness - keep your eyes peeled for the mythical resident! Please note: today's journey may take place in reverse.

Day 4

Described as the 'Greatest Railway Journey in the World', we board the Jacobite Steam Railway today. This section of the West Highland Line crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may remember from the Harry Potter films. Starting in Fort William, a town in the shadow of Ben Nevis, our journey will take us to Mallaig, a busy fishing port and home to many shops, restaurants and freshly caught fish and chips! After some free time to explore, you'll enjoy a return journey by coach with a stop at the Glenfinnan monument.

Day 5

Enjoy a leisurely start to your day before an included cruise on Loch Linnhe. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, from Atlantic Grey Seals and porpoises to eagles and a vast range of migratory birds, whilst entertaining live commentary from our skipper will keep you informed. The rest of the day will be at leisure to relax in the comfort of our hotel to enjoy the tranquillity of your surroundings with breathtaking views from the gardens. Alternatively, you can make your way by local transport into the town of Fort William at the foot of the Great Glen, well known as a gateway to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

Day 6

Today's journey takes us towards the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains and to Aviemore. All aboard the Strathspey Railway for a twenty-mile trip along a section of the original Highland Railway line! Winding along the river Spey, enjoy your journey through moorlands and wooded glens via the Boat of Garten and Broomhill. From here, we head to our final overnight hotel.

Day 7

We begin the drive south, before crossing back over the border and returning home.