Essence of Scotland

Departing Boat of Garten 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.

The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon Mountains, then commences the climb to the Luib summit and Achnashellach Forest, before descending to Strathcarron. Here, guests will disembark for a visit of Attadale Gardens, a 30,000-acre estate that includes a Water Garden, Japaenes Garden and Sunken Garden. Enjoy some light refreshments with your hosts as they welcome you into their home.

Alternatively, stay on the train until the picturesque village of Plockton, where you can take a boat trip to see a colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. Opt for a woodland walk, followed by a traditional Highland welcome and a dram or two in the seafront Plockton Hotel.

Return to the train in Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the mystical Isle of Skye, for overnight stabling. After dinner, make your way to the Observation Car, where local musicians are waiting to entertain you.

Leave Kyle and retrace part of yesterday’s route to Inverness as you enjoy breakfast. There, disembark to uncover the secrets behind the historic Tomatin Distillery, including a tasting.

Alternatively, relax onboard as our Highland storyteller brings fables to life, regaling you with fascinating tales of the Jacobites and dramatic moments of the country’s past.

After lunch on the train, disembark in Aviemore for an afternoon tour of Ballindalloch Castle. From the heart of the Speyside whisky region, the ‘Pearl of the North’ enjoys a majestic setting, surrounded by hills with the Spey and Avon rivers running through the grounds. Home of the Macpherson-Grant family, the baronial castle treasures a fine collection of 17th-century Spanish paintings, sumptuous dining room, splendid vaulted hallway and impressive library.

Rejoin the train in Aviemore early evening and, as it makes its way to Dundee, prepare for a final Gala dinner to toast your last night on board.

After your celebratory feast, you may feel inspired to take part in some lively Scottish country dancing on the station platform, a fitting finale to your tour.

Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge into the former Kingdom of Fife on to Edinburgh, where your journey ends.