Wild Spirit of Scotland
Overview
The Highlights
- Private tour of Rothiemurchus Estate with several activities, such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, and open water swimming
- Visit to Attadale Gardens, a 30,000-acre estate that includes the Water Garden, Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden
- Tour of historic Tomatin Distillery & whiskey tasting
- Tour of Speyside Distillery & whiskey tasting
- Highest levels of dining and service on-board
- Breathtaking views of the moors, mountains, lakes and sea
- Intimate setting with just 40 passengers total
- Inspiring musical events, blending sweet, slow Gaelic songs with lively folk melodies
- Before-dinner drinks in the cozy lounge car, all included
The Tour
The Wild Spirit of Scotland Tour (previously named Essence of Scotland) aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman takes you on an exploration of Scotland’s rugged landscapes, historical towns, and picturesque villages. Experience the tranquility of Boat of Garten and the mystical allure of the Isle of Skye. Discover the secrets of Tomatin Distillery and Attadale Gardens, and explore the Rothiemurchus Estate.
Relish in the charm of Aviemore and Dundee before concluding your journey in Edinburgh.
IRT Insights: Click here to read about IRT’s most recent experience aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman.
IRT Exclusive: Click here to see our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Royal Scotsman.
Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh-Boat of Garten
The Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh in the early afternoon, traveling north to the ‘Fair City’ of Perth while guests indulge in afternoon tea.
The train continues north through Dunkeld, Pitlochry and Blair Atholl before arriving in the village of Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway.
An informal dinner is served on board, after which you are invited to the Observation Car to enjoy entertainment with a Scottish flavor.
Day 2: Boat of Garten-Kyle of Lochalsh
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, Japaenese 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.
Or you may choose to stride out on a guided afternoon hike close to Kyle of Lochalsh. Meander through glorious woodland, look out over ancient castles and rolling hills, and spot the Scottish wildlife as you approach the beautiful waters of the freshwater loch.
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.
Day 3: Kyle of Lochalsh-Dundee
Leave Kyle early in the morning and retrace part of yesterday’s route. Enjoy breakfast as your journey towards Iverness.
Continue through the Scottish countryside and disembark in Aviemore for a chose of country pursuits at the Rothiemurchus Estate.
Choose to enjoy activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, and an estate tour. Open water swimming is available for those who have pre-booked. Or opt for a nature immersion experience, a guided sensory walk where you can practice mindfulness surrounded by wonderful primeval woodland.
Afterwards, your host awaits you for refreshments in the hunting lodge.
Return to the train for lunch, then disembark for an afternoon visit to the renowned Speyside distillery. Enjoy a private tour and tasting of their exquisite whiskey.
Alternatively, you may prefer to venture off on a leisurely bike ride from the village to discover the magnificent River Spey or beautiful nearby lochs.
Rejoin the train in Boat of Garten 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.
Day 4: Dundee-Edinburgh
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.
Dates & Prices
2025 Dates
April 11 - 14
April 25 - 28
May 2 - 5
May 9 - 12
May 23 - 26
May 30 - June 2
June 13 - 16
June 20 - 23
June 27 - 30
July 24 - 27
August 15 - 18
September 19 - 22
October 17 - 20
October 24 - 27
October 31 - November 3
Accommodation | Price | Deposit |
---|---|---|
Twin/Double | From ÂŁ8,500 | 25% |
Grand Suite | From ÂŁ17,000 | 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.
2026 Dates
May 1 - 4
May 6 - 9
June 19 - 22
July 26 - 29
August 2 - 5
August 28 - 31
October 2 - 5
October 9 - 12
October 23 - 26
October 30 - November 2
Accommodation | Price | Deposit |
---|---|---|
Twin/Double | From ÂŁ7,000 | 25% |
Grand Suite | From ÂŁ19,900 | 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
This was truly a great trip. The service was outstanding the food and beverages excellent. The staff was well trained and truly professional. I would and have highly recommended the trip to others.
It was a wonderful journey with the Royal Scotsman. We really appreciate all the effort from the cabin crew, the spa member, and the kitchen crew.
The service was outstanding and so was the food. It was a delightful experience to see the beautiful countryside of Scotland. I have always been fascinated with trains and the Royal Scotsman was a wonderful experience. Everything was exactly as you described it and if we ever decide to have another train tour you’ll be the first one I call.
More
Scotch malt whisky lovers may prefer the Scotch Malt Whisky Trail Tour.
The Society of IRT highly recommends extending your stay with our Virtuoso preferred hotel The Balmoral. We get special rates and amenities for our passengers there – and it’s especially handy because it’s right at the train station — just an escalator down to the tracks. We also have wonderful guides and drivers at our fingertips. Please inquire if you wish this concierge service.
Greater Savings on Longer Tours: Book the Grand Western Scenic Wonders  (combines Classic and Western itineraries) and save!
Inquire About This Journey
For dates and prices, please click here.
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