Scotland by Train (Royal Scotsman)

Itinerary

• Scotland

  Scotland is known for its expansive spaces, majestic and rugged highlands and whisky distilleries.  The country however, has much more to offer the curious of mind. From austere castles, to bucolic landscapes and picture perfect towns and villages, bussling cities and stunning coastlines, Scotland has much to offer the traveller.

• Boat of Garten

  Boat of Garten is a small village and post town in Badenoch and Strathspey, Highland, Scotland.

• Dundee

  Dundee is the fourth-largest city in Scotland and lies on the north bank of the Firth of Tay, which feeds into the North Sea. Evidence suggests Dundee has been continuously occupied since the Mesolithic. Today, Dundee is promoted as the City of Discovery, in honour of Dundee's history of scientific activities and of the RRS Discovery, Robert Falcon Scott's Antarctic exploration vessel, which was built in Dundee and is now berthed in the city harbour.

• Edinburgh

  Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and considered one of the most charming cities on Earth. Regardless of the time of year, there is plenty to see and do. The city is breathtakingly beautiful, on multiple levels with strayed buildings in brooding grey granite. Eclectic bars, fine dining, and national art collections and museums can be found all over the city. The vast student population keeps the atmosphere upbeat and vibrant, even in the downpours that periodically soak the city.

• Wales

  Wales is famous for having more castles per capita than any other country in the World. It has three National Parks (including Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - the only coastal National Park in the UK), five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and only 2.9 million people. Unlike national parks in some other countries, the National Parks aren’t wildernesses, but living communities with beautiful countryside containing pretty villages and market towns. The landscape lends itself to all kinds of activities - walking, cycling, climbing, golf, water sports and paragliding to name but a few. If you prefer less active activities, why not spend time in the bustling city centres, tiny craft shops, designer outlets and galleries.

• Kyle of Lochalsh

  Kyle of Lochalsh is a village on the northwest coast of Scotland, 63 miles (100 km) west of Inverness. It is located at the entrance to Loch Alsh, opposite the village of Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.  The village is the transport and shopping centre for the area as well as having a harbour, marina with pontoons for maritime visitors. The surrounding scenery and wildlife are regarded as attractions of the village, as is the slow pace of life. Crofting as well as more recent crofting pursuits like salmon farming are some of the activities taking place in Kyle of Lochalsh.

• • Edinburgh
  • Caledonian Hilton Hotel

  Day 1: Edinburgh

  Meet your driver for your private airport transfer today.

  Avail of any of the optional tours available in the thriving city of Edinburgh. Consider a private tour with your own Licensed Guide and private vehicle if you have any interest in a certain aspect of the city such as the architecture or history - or if you just want to get a great indepth introduction to the city. Consider doing a guided walking tour - one of the best ways to see the city. If you feel like venturing out of the city, there are lots of places of interest such as Blair castle, Perth, whiskey distilleries, Cairngorm National Park - for a Lough ness themed tour, and the majestic Sterling castle sitting on its high volcanic rock, visible for many miles in every direction. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if any of these options are of interest.

  Accommodation: Caledonian Hilton (5*)

  Built in 1903 and refurbished in 2008, this grand landmark Victorian hotel is centrally located on Princes Street and overlooking Edinburgh Castle. Smart, contemporary guestrooms feature high-speed Internet access, tea/coffee facilities, minibars, stylish sofas, and bathrobes and slippers. Guests of Hilton Edinburgh Caledonian can unwind at the complimentary health club with pool, sauna and gym or indulge in treatments in the spa.

• • Street Sign in Edinburgh
  • The Royal Scotsman Train
  • Dinner on board The Royal Scotsman
  • The Royal Scotsman Train

  Day 2: Edinburgh

  You will be met at your central Edinburgh hotel by your guide to commence your walking tour. The buzz of Scotland's capital city sits in perfect contrast to the peaceful tranquility of the surrounding Lothians region. Edinburgh has one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world, making it the ideal city break destination. From ceilidhs and science to ghost, film and food festivals there's always something going on in the festival city, and that's just for starters. Discover world-class museums and galleries, learn the history of the city or spend an afternoon pub crawling - whatever your fancy! Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and perhaps take an umbrella!

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Board the famous Royal Scotsman train today. The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon and travels north. After settling into your cabin, wander up to the observation car which is dotted with sofas and little tables that are just right to hold the champagne and whisky which flow throughout the journey! The train will cross the Firth of Forth via the magnificent, 1.5-mile long Forth Railway Bridge, which was built by Benjamin Baker in the 1880s and is considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world. It then proceeds through Fife and across the Tay Bridge – during which you are served a leisurely afternoon tea – passing Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in Huntly, a town with its origins in the 12th century.

  Life on board the train is relaxed and indulgent, with the freshest, finest produce served in the dining cars. Enjoy an informal dinner and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow guests in the Observation Car. After dinner, over a wee dram, a local clansman recounts tales and legends that bring Scottish history alive, All meals, wine, alcoholic and other beverages are included.

  Accommodation: The Royal Scotsman Train

  The Royal Scotsman takes you straight to the heart of the Highlands, through landscapes of towering, pine-clad mountains reflected in mirror-still lochs. Travel through Scotland's finest countryside in private cabins, with an open-deck observation carriage behind. Life on board this luxury train is relaxed and indulgent, with gastronomic dining and the convivial atmosphere of celebrating with friends. After dinner, over a wee dram, a local clansman recounts tales that bring Scottish history alive. Travelling only during the day, the train berths at night to ensure a sound sleep.

• • Kyle of Lochalsh
  • Fresh Scottish kippers for breakfast

  Day 3: Keith - Inverness - Kyle of Lochalsh

  As the train leaves Keith you'll be enjoying a delicious breakfast.

  The next landmark is the Highlands' capital, Inverness, which you pass through before heading further north to Dingwall and then Tain, home of the famous Dalmore Distillery. Enjoy a private tour and a tasting with the other guests on board the Royal Scotsman.

  Enjoy a delicious lunch on board as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on arguably one of the most scenic routes in Britain.

  Take in the wonderful views for the afternoon relaxing in the observation car. The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon mountains, which geologists believe were formed before life began. The train then climbs to Luib summit and Achnashellach forest, descends to Strathcarron and runs along the edge of stunning Loch Carron. Alight in Plockton to explore at will; perhaps take a boat trip to see wild seals or walk through woodland to a viewpoint overlooking the loch. You could opt to visit the majestic Eilean Donan Castle for a tour, followed by drinks and canapés.

  Dinner is formal tonight and afterwards there is entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.

  Accommodation: The Royal Scotsman

  Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh.

• • Boat of Garten

  Day 4: Dingwall - Carrbridge - Boat of Garten

  After breakfast the train heads back towards Dingwall, skirting the Beauly Firth and crossing the top of the Caledonian Canal, north of Loch Ness, before reaching Inverness.

  The train continues south to Carrbridge where guests disembark to visit the romantic Ballindalloch Castle with its wonderful gardens. Golfers can play on the estate's course; clubs are available to hire.

  After a formal dinner, Highlander Ray Owens will regale you with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.

  Accommodation: The Royal Scotsman
• • Dundee

  Day 5: Aviemore - Perth - Dundee

  The day begins with an excursion to Rothiemurchus Estate, where you can choose from activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, a guided walk through the stunning landscape or simply relax with a warming dram by the fire.

  After lunch, enjoy the views as the train journeys south to Dunkeld, where you can disembark for a visit to Scone Palace, home of the Earls of Mansfield. The Palace was once home to the fabled Stone of Destiny, the crowning place of ancient Scottish kings.

  Step back aboard in Perth to enjoy an informal dinner on the move before spending the night at Dundee.

  Accommodation: The Royal Scotsman
• • Edinburgh Castle

  Day 6: Edinburgh

  After breakfast the train wends its way back through the former Kingdom of Fife to Edinburgh and the end of the adventure.

  Enjoy a private half day tour with your own vehicle and local guide to show you around the city's top sights including Edinburgh castle, St. Giles Cathedral, Holyrood palace and Scott monument. Entrance fee and guide services at Edinburgh Castle are included.

  Accommodation: Caledonian Hilton (5*)

• Day 7: Edinburgh

  Meet your driver for your private airport transfer today.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• • Caledonian Hilton Hotel

  Caledonian Hilton (5*)

  Built in 1903 and refurbished in 2008, this grand landmark Victorian hotel is centrally located on Princes Street and overlooking Edinburgh Castle. Smart, contemporary guestrooms feature high-speed Internet access, tea/coffee facilities, minibars, stylish sofas, and bathrobes and slippers. Guests of Hilton Edinburgh Caledonian can unwind at the complimentary health club with pool, sauna and gym or indulge in treatments in the spa.

  • More information
• • The Royal Scotsman Train

  The Royal Scotsman Train

  The Royal Scotsman takes you straight to the heart of the Highlands, through landscapes of towering, pine-clad mountains reflected in mirror-still lochs. Travel through Scotland's finest countryside in private cabins, with an open-deck observation carriage behind. Life on board this luxury train is relaxed and indulgent, with gastronomic dining and the convivial atmosphere of celebrating with friends. After dinner, over a wee dram, a local clansman recounts tales that bring Scottish history alive. Travelling only during the day, the train berths at night to ensure a sound sleep.

  • More information

• The Royal Scotsman

  Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh.

  • More information

• The Royal Scotsman

  The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway.

  • More information

• The Royal Scotsman

  Enjoy a comfortable nights sleep on board.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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