Clans, Castles & Isles of Scotland

Your itinerary continues west, sweeping past Britain’s highest mountain — majestic Ben Nevis. Disembark at Arisaig for a morning stroll along the silver sands of Morar and marvel at soft white beaches and breathtaking views of the Cuillin mountain range. Lunch is served as the train travels back to Fort William crossing over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

This afternoon presents two choices. Join our local guide to explore Glenfinnan and discover the lively stories of great Scottish heroes, or accompany our mountain guides for a hike through stunning Glen Nevis to the Steall Waterfall. An informal dinner, followed by an evening of spirited Scottish music in the Observation Car, awaits on the train.

This morning, disembark the train in Oban, gateway to the Hebridean Islands. Choose to take a private boat tour around the nearby island of Kerrera, known for its dramatic cliffs, sweeping sea views and sense of stepping back in time. Or explore Oban on a walking tour with a historian who will reveal the clan history surrounding the town and islands, you’re also free to explore at your own leisure should you wish.

After lunch at a local pier-front restaurant, visit the Hebridean Baker, Coinneach MacLeod’s farmhouse. Spend an afternoon hiking the hills with friendly dogs, taking in the sweeping views of the Hebridean islands and feeding Highland cows as you delve into local myths and folklore. Alternatively, travel to Easdale, a small yet striking island shaped by centuries of slate quarrying. The isle has a unique landscape and deep sense of heritage giving it a memorably atmospheric character. Wherever your afternoon visit takes you, the day concludes at the Hebridean Baker’s farmhouse with whisky, award-winning shortbread and island stories.

The train travels to Kilmarnock for stabling tonight.

This morning, travel south to Dumfriesshire and disembark in Sanquhar for a visit to Drumlanrig Castle. Spend an intriguing morning at the home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. A turreted sandstone mansion with sweeping views over the Nith Valley, Drumlanrig is home to important collections of silver, porcelain, French furniture and art, while its surrounding 90,000-acre estate embraces lavish formal gardens, rambling woodlands and miles of footpaths.

Re-join the train for lunch, and enjoy an afternoon of slow travel onboard, marvelling at the rolling hills of Perthshire as they transform into dramatic peaks and valleys on our journey north into the Highlands. The village of Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway is where the train will stop overnight.

Savour a leisurely breakfast and lunch as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry.

For your final visit disembark for Stirling Castle, the childhood home of monarchs such as Mary Queen of Scots and James VI. You’re invited to a private champagne and canapé reception, followed by a fascinating tour of the castle.

Rejoin the train in Perth and, as it makes its way to Dundee, prepare for a final gala dinner to mark your last night on board. After the celebratory feast, you may feel inspired by our musicians to partake of some lively Scottish country dancing on the station platform, a fitting finale to your tour.

Breakfast is served as the train makes its way back to Edinburgh, where your journey ends.