Belmond Royal Scotsman
A luxurious rail journey through the Scottish Highlands
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
GBP
£8,300
|
Days
5
|
Nights
4
|
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
GBP
£8,300
|
Days
5
|
Nights
4
|
Introduction
A journey on Belmond Royal Scotsman takes you straight to the heart of the Highlands, through landscapes of towering, pine-clad mountains reflected in mirror-still lochs.
Just 40 guests travel through Scotland’s finest countryside in private cabins, with an observation carriage behind. Life on board is relaxed and indulgent, with gastronomic dining and the convivial atmosphere of celebrating with friends over a wee dram, a local clansman recounts tales that bring Scottish history alive. Along the way, guests disembark to meet local personalities, talk to experts on subjects from salmon fishing to whisky and take part in fun activities.
The Train: The train first launched in 1985 and was christened the Royal Scotsman in 2007. The recent addition of the Bamford Haybarn Spa carriage marks a world first in the pursuit of perfect pampering. All cabins feature lower berth beds, en suite with shower, washbasin and water closet, dressing table, full length wardrobe, opening windows and ceiling fan, quality toiletries, towels and hairdryer.
Twin Cabin: Designed for space and relaxation. Lower bed, a long wardrobe, ceiling fans and controlled heating ensure absolute comfort.
Double Cabin: Each marquetry-lined double beckons you in with Scottish charm. Plush beds, a drawing table, long wardrobe and window are a warm welcome after the day’s outdoor pursuits.
Single Cabin: Enter your own private retreat lined with rich marquetry and tartan finishings. Each features a lower bed, wardrobe, writing table and en suite.
Interconnecting Cabin: Perfect for families travelling together. Recline on plush lower beds, one twin and one double, or revive in a fully equipped en suite.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Edinburgh > Keith
Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh Waverley Station in the early afternoon and travels north, crossing the Firth of Forth by means of the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge. This is one of the oldest cantilever bridges to be built, designed by Benjamin Baker in the late 1880s and considered one of the greatest achievements of the Victorian Age. Enjoy afternoon tea as you journey through the former Kingdom of Fife. The train follows the east coast, passing through Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith. An informal dinner is served on board, after which you are invited to the Observation Car to enjoy entertainment with a Scottish flavour.
Day 2 : Keith > Kyle of Lochalsh
Departing Keith this morning, the train travels west along the Moray Firth 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, which geologists believe were formed before any life began. The train travels onwards through the small village of Achnasheen, before commencing the climb to the breathtaking Luib Summit and Achnashellach Forest. Descending to Strathcarron, you are invited to visit Attadale Gardens, a huge 30,000 acre estate. Explore the renowned gardens and enjoy light refreshments with your hosts as they welcome you into their home. Alternatively, stay on board the train to the picturesque village of Plockton, where you can take a boat trip to see the colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. There is also a woodland walk to be discovered here and time afterwards to enjoy a traditional Highland welcome and a dram or two in the seafront Plockton Hotel. Return to the train in nearby Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the mystical Isle of Sky. You are invited to dress for a formal dinner this evening, followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.
Day 3 : Kyle of Lochalsh > Boat of Garten
Join your Royal Scotsman host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye, taking in the majestic mountain views in every direction. Breakfast is served as the train leaves Kyle and retraces part of yesterday’s route as far as Dingwall. Have your cameras ready for the enchanting views of Plockton. Across the bay to the left you will glimpse whitewashed cottages with fishing boats and yachts riding at anchor. Disembark in Garve to visit the charming, family-run Campbells of Beauly retail emporium, dating from 1858, which specialises in tweeds and cashmere. Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk with a history storyteller.
Rejoin the train in Inverness in time for lunch. You then disembark in Carrbridge for an afternoon visit to Ballindalloch Castle. Located in the heart of the Speyside whisky region, Ballindalloch enjoys a majestic setting, surrounded by hills with the Spey and Avon rivers running through the grounds. The romantic baronial castle, known as the ‘Pearl of the North’, is the much-loved family home of the Macpherson-Grants, with treasures including a fine collection of 17th century Spanish paintings, a sumptuous dining room, splendid vaulted hallway and impressive library.
Return to the train at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After an informal dinner, make your way to the Observation Car, where our entertaining Highlander paints a colourful picture of Scottish heroes and gives a dramatic insight into Highland life through the centuries.
Day 4 : Boat of Garten > Dundee
After breakfast, travel the short distance by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Rothiemurchus Forest is one of the largest and most important remnants of the native Caledonian pine forest, which used to cover most of Scotland. Choose from a number of activities including fishing, clay pigeon shooting and an estate tour.
Afterwards you are warmly welcomed by your hosts in the hunting lodge, where, over refreshments, you can learn about the fascinating history of the estate that has been in the same family for over 400 years. Return to the train in Kingussie and relax over a leisurely lunch on the journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld. Here you disembark for a private tour of Glamis Castle and its beautiful gardens. Seat of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, Glamis was the childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. The multi-turreted, fairytale castle houses many treasures, including rich tapestries, furniture and priceless works of art. Steeped in legend and myth, its dramatic history embraces alleged murderers, monsters and gamblers, stories of whom may be revealed during an illuminating tour.
As an alternative option, enjoy a visit to the Victorian town of Pitlochry and a tour of Blair Athol Distillery, including a whiskey tasting.
Rejoin the train in Perth and, as it makes its way to Dundee, prepare for a final formal dinner to mark your last night on board. After your celebratory feast, you may feel inspired by our musicians to partake of some lively Scottish country dancing on the station platform, a fitting finale to your classic tour.
Day 5 : Dundee > Edinburgh
Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge into the former Kingdom of Fife and on to Edinburgh, where your journey ends.
Please note
Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh at 1.45 pm on Day 1 and arrives back in Edinburgh at 9.40 am on Day 5. However, as Belmond Royal Scotsman operates within the constraints of the railway network, timings, routes and associated itineraries are subject to change.
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Pricing
Pricing (per person), GBP
TYPE |
TWIN from |
SINGLE from |
EXTRA from |
---|---|---|---|
2024 | |||
Guide price, from |
£20,000 |
||
2025 | |||
Guide price, from |
£8,300 |
Departs
2024 | 2025 |
10 Jun | 7, 21 Apr |
5, 26 May | |
16, 23 Jun | |
7, 20 Jul | |
18 Aug | |
29 Sep | |
6, 20, 27 Oct |
Included
• 4 nights aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train
• 24-hour steward service
• All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, three-course lunch, and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
• All beverages including alcoholic drinks
• A private visit to Ballindalloch Castle, a choice of country pursuits at Rothiemurchus Estate, guided tour of Glamis Castle, a seal-watching boat trip and a visit to Blair Athol Distillery
• Traditional ceilidhs on board, evening entertainment in the Observation Car and a gala dining experience
Not Included
• Gratuities
Important Notes
• Itineraries are subject to change and all timings shown are for your guidance only
• Confirmed itineraries and timings will be supplied with your travel documents
• Single pricing is available for sole occupancy of a single cabin
• For single occupancy of a twin cabin a 60% supplement applies
• The price quoted is indicative only, as all pricing is dynamic
• Request an up-to-date quote from us at the time of enquiry
• Please enquire about other 4-night journeys which include “Heritage Homes & Gardens” or “Scotch Whiskey Tours”
• Please also enquire about the Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train’s 2-, 3-, 5-, or 7-night journeys
Please refer to World Journeys terms & conditions
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