Aerial of mountains and train
Highland storyteller on Belmond Royal Scotsman
Dining area on the Taste of the Highlands Tour journey
Belmond Royal Scotsman cook.
Toasting from observation car of Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Taste of the Highlands Tour

Europe
3-day Escorted Tour
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Overview

The Highlights

  • Three days aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman, with only 38 passengers on board
  • A guided tour of Rothiemurchus Estate with a park ranger (or opt for clay pigeon shooting or fishing)
  • Visit Strathisla Distillery, the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands, producing Chivas Regal
  • Private tour of Culloden Battlefield, site of the last major battle fought on British soil
  • Exquisite meals on board the Belmond Royal Scotsman, paired with fine wines
  • Evening entertainment in the train’s lounge car

The Tour

NEW for 2025! The train will introduce two new Grand Suites (bringing the total of Grand Suites to four) and will no longer have dedicated single cabins. Single travelers will still be able to book a cabin for sole occupancy.

There is simply no better way to experience the drama and wild beauty of Scotland than aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train.

This short introduction to the Scottish Highlands is ideal for those who like outdoor activity. At Rothiemurchus Estate, for example, there will be the opportunity to try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, venturing out with the Estate’s rangers on a Highland safari or just enjoying a Highland walk. We love this train for all of its great dining, service, beauty within the train — and without. The scenery is spectacular, of course. And one great thing about this train: there are 4 cabins for solo use with no single supplement. Great for a family of couple and solo travelers. Call early to book!

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New to the Belmond Royal Scotsman in 2017: full-service spa car. Inquire when you book your journey!

IRT Exclusvie: Watch our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Countries Visited

  • Scotland

Itinerary

Download itinerary

Day 1: Edinburgh – Boat of Garten

The Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh early afternoon and heads north to the ‘Fair City’ of Perth.

Head out to the train’s observation platform for the best views, or enjoy a drink in the lounge. Afternoon tea and an informal dinner are served on board, followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day 2: Rothiemurchus, Culloden & Strathisla

After breakfast, travel by motorcoach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Its diverse landscape comprises low-lying fields on the river flood plain, open heather moorland, forestry plantations and majestic Caledonian pine forest. Here you can enjoy a variety of activities including clay pigeon shooting, fishing or a guided tour of the family-run estate.

Return to the train in Carrbridge for lunch before disembarking in Inverness to visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the last major battle fought on British soil on April 16, 1746. Listen to a Highlander as he paints a vivid picture of how this battle changed the way of life in the Highlands forever.

Enjoy an evening visit to Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest working distilleries and home to the malt which is incorporated into one of Scotland’s most famous blends, Chivas Regal.

Rejoin the train for spectacular panoramas on the way south through Aberdeenshire and Angus. Dinner tonight is a formal affair as you travel south towards Dundee. After dinner, relax in the Observation Car and enjoy a performance of traditional Scottish music.

Day 3: Return to Edinburgh

After breakfast, the train leaves Dundee and travels south through the former Kingdom of Fife, across the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge before returning to Edinburgh’s Waverley Station where your journey ends.

Dates & Prices

2024 Dates

April 29 - May 1

May 1 - 3

June 19 - 21

July 6 - 8

July 15 - 17

August 23 - 25

August 29 - 31

September 4 - 6

October 11 - 13

October 17 - 19

  • Please note prices are in British pounds. View approximate exchange rates.
  • Prices are per person.
  • Please note there are a limited number of Single Cabins (without single supplement) on every Belmond Royal Scotsman departure. Contact us for pricing for sole occupancy of a Twin Cabin.
  • Pricing varies based on availability and date. Prices are subject to change daily. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure.

2025 Dates

June 11 - 13

July 27 - 29

August 11 - 13

September 10 - 12

October 10 - 12

  • Beginning in 2025, there will no longer be Single Cabins available. Single travelers will still be able to book a cabin for sole occupancy. Contact us for pricing for sole occupancy.
  • Please note prices are in British pounds. View approximate exchange rates.
  • Prices are per person.
  • Pricing varies based on availability and date. Prices are subject to change daily. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure.

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Tour includes all table d’hôte meals, all alcoholic and other beverages, all sightseeing excursions as shown in the itinerary and accommodation on board.