Clans, Castles & Isles of Scotland

Breakfast is served as train makes its way to the lovely village of Arisaig. Along the way, keep an eye out for stunning views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Disembark in Arisaig for a romantic walk along the Silver Sands of Morar, with views of Isle of Skye and Cuillin Mountains.

Lunch is served as the train travels back to Fort William, crossing over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. This afternoon, you have two options: either join the Highlander to explore Glenfinnan and discover the history of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s rebellion, or take a guided hike through Glen Nevis to the Steall Waterfall. Informal dinner and entertainment on board.

Today visit Oban and enjoy an exclusive visit to the historic Oban Distillery, producer of a fine 14-year-old single malt. After, cross to the Isle of Mull to visit spectacular Duart Castle, strategically located on the high crag at the end of a peninsula jutting into the Sound of Mull. Dating from the 13th century, the castle was modified over time by the Macleans of Duart and completely restored to its original glory in the early 20th century.

Return to the train in Oban for a formal dinner on board as the train travels to Kilmarnock for overnight stabling.

After a leisurely breakfast, journey from Wemyss Bay to the Isle of Bute to visit Mount Stuart House, one of Britain’s most astonishing Victorian Gothic houses. The architectural fantasy of the 3rd Marquess of Bute and his architect, Sir Robert Rowand Anderson, the extravagant mansion boasts stunning and mysterious interiors that reflect the Marquess’s passion for art, heraldry, astrology, mythology and religion. Surrounding it are expansive landscaped gardens and wild woodlands.

Back on board, enjoy an informal dinner, followed by engaging entertainment.

This morning we make our way to Drumlanrig Castle, the Dumfriesshire home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. A turreted sandstone mansion with sweeping views over the Nith Valley, it is home to important collections of silver, porcelain, and French furniture and art, while its surrounding 90,000-acre estate embraces lavish formal gardens, rambling woodlands, and miles of footpaths.

Choose between a Victorian gardens tour, an architectural tour, or discover the Buccleuch collection of fine art.

Rejoin the train after lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on-board. A formal farewell dinner is served this evening, followed by lively Scottish music in the observation car.

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