Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands

9 days, 16 meals. Discover picturesque Scotland by rail and traverse its breathtaking highlands. Cruise to the Isle of Mull, discover Loch Linnhe and visit Loch Ness. Take exciting journeys along some of the world’s most incredible railways, including the West Highland Line and the Kyle Line, and ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh

Today you will arrive in Scotland’s much-loved capital, Edinburgh. Discover its fascinating history, unsurpassed beauty and friendly locals. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel, situated close to the station.

Day 2: Edinburgh, West Highland Line,Fort William

Journey by rail to Glasgow this morning, before changing trains for a journey on one of the world’s most incredible railway lines, the West Highland Line. Travel along a hillside ledge overlooking Gare Loch before entering the spectacular Highlands, an idyllic, remote and untouched landscape. The incredible route skirts the western banks of Loch Lomond and ascends from Crianlarich to Upper Tyndrum and wild Rannoch Moor, a dramatic region of peat bogs, streams and ancient forests that are only visible from the comfort of your train. On arrival at Fort William, transfer to your hotel. 

Day 3: Fort William, Isle of Mull

Venture to the town of Oban where you’ll board a ferry and cruise to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. Heading through the small islands and across to Mull, the incredible picture-postcard views are truly awe-inspiring. Think rugged coastline; hills rising sharply from the water’s edge; endless greens, purples and browns of the moorland; and jagged, exposed rock faces. On approach to the island, catch sight of Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Maclean Clan. Spend time at leisure in the island's colourful capital. Wander the pretty port and seek out its sheltered bay where, according to legend, one of the Spanish Armada ships sank in 1588 carrying a stash of gold.

Later, return to your hotel for the evening.

Day 4: Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase, Loch Linnhe

Today you’ll travel by coach to Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive set of eight locks operated by a team of at least three lock keepers. Situated on the Caledonian Canal, the 22-ton lock gates were originally hand-powered but are now operated by hydraulics. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours to pass from one end of the staircase to the other, where water overcomes gravity and nature to climb the hillside. From here, discover the picturesque waters of Loch Linnhe and set off on a cruise. Later, pass the stunning mountain landscapes of Glencoe before returning to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner and whisky tasting.

Day 5: Jacobite Steam Train*, Inverness

Departing from Fort William, join the Jacobite Steam Train. Your train will steam past Ben Nevis before climbing into the mountains around Glenfinnan, a town famous as the rallying point for Bonnie Prince Charlie’s assault on the British throne. At Glenfinnan, reach the line’s most picturesque section and one of Britain’s most iconic engineering works – the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct. A magical experience, it’s no wonder this train was featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. As you head towards Mallaig, we drop down to the sea’s edge and the landscape opens with the first views of the rugged ‘Small Isles’ – Rum, Eigg and Muck – which hang close offshore and tease in and out of view near the journey’s end.



After free time for lunch in Mallaig, continue by coach to explore Glenfinnan. Pass through the picturesque countryside to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

Day 6: Inverness, Loch Ness

This morning, you’ll travel to the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, as famous for the elusive ‘monster’ that allegedly swims in its depths as for its natural beauty. Later, return by coach to Inverness, and enjoy some time at leisure.

Day 7: Inverness, Kyle Line, Eilean Donan Castle

Today, experience one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe aboard the Kyle Line. Enjoy countless photo opportunities as you wind through wooded hillsides and over sparse moors, climbing over the highlands and past charming loch-side and seaside towns. Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh, the end of the line, located across a short stretch of water from the Isle of Skye. Afterwards, make a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a tiny island in Loch Duich.

Day 8: Inverness, Edinburgh

Leaving Inverness behind this morning, you’ll travel south by rail through the Cairngorms and via the towns of Aviemore and Kingussie, as well as the burgh of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh. Transfer from the railway station to your hotel.

Day 9: Depart Edinburgh

Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport today.