Taste of the Highlands Tour
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!
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
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
2025 Dates
June 11 - 13
July 5 - 7 *
July 18 - 20
July 27 - 29
August 11 - 13
September 10 - 12
October 10 - 12
July 5-7, 2025: Board The Royal Scotsman for A Taste of Scotland, a special tour hosted by acclaimed Michelin star chef, Tom Kitchin.
| Accommodation | Price | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Twin/Double | From £4,400 | 25% |
| Grand Suite | From £9,500 | 25% |
- 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.
2026 Dates
May 4 - 6
May 16 - 18 *
July 11 - 13
July 24 - 26
August 5 - 7
September 30 - October 2
May 16-18, 2026: Board The Royal Scotsman for A Taste of Scotland, a special tour hosted by acclaimed Michelin star chef, Tom Kitchin.
| Accommodation | Price | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Twin/Double | From £4,800 | 25% |
| Grand Suite | From £13,000 | 25% |
- 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.
Book Your Journey
Reviews From Our Travelers
Our trip on the Royal Scotsman was memorable--wonderful service, food, facilities. Can't beat the Scottish Highlands in beautiful autumn weather. Interesting excursions and pleasant company on board.
First class doesn’t come close to describing the Royal Scotsman experience – it’s more like being a member of royalty for a week. The cuisine, service, tours -- all fantastic. The castles and historical sites were fascinating ....I loved my cozy train compartment and was impressed with how much storage space I had and also the great shower. I have no suggestions for improvement.
My husband and I had the most incredible trip ever. Our experience on the Orient Express was so special and David our stewart was so competent. We loved the food and the people we met on board. I certainly have a greater understanding of Turkey and her people now thanks to him. We are so pleased we went!
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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.
Inquire About This Journey
For dates and prices, please click here.
Questions? Our experienced luxury rail travel consultants are ready to help.