720 miles, including Dundee, Montrose, Aberdeen, Keith, Inverness, Plockton, Dalwhinnie and Perth • Optional activities include fishing, clay pigeon shooting, golf, a woodland walk and a boat trip • Whisky tasting at Dalmore Distillery • Visit Ballindalloch Castle and gardens • Unspoilt beaches and wildlife habitats.
Day One : Edinburgh - Keith
The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon (1:42pm) and travels north, crossing 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.
You then rejoin the train in the market town of Keith for an informal dinner and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow guests in the Observation Car.
Day Two : Keith - 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. Guests are treated to a private tour and a tasting, before returning to the train for another spectacular highlight - a delicious lunch as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on arguably one of the most scenic routes in Britain.
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. Guests 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.
Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Dinner is formal and afterwards there is entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.
Day Three : Kyle of Lochalsh - 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.
The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After a formal dinner, Highlander Ray Owens regales guests with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.
Day Four : Boat of Garten - Dundee
The day begins with an excursion to Rothiemurchus Estate, where guests 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. Rejoining the train at Aviemore, you are served lunch during the journey south to Dunkeld, disembarking 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.
Day Five: Dundee - Edinburgh
After breakfast, the train leaves Dundee you travel through the former Kingdom of Fife crossing the Firth of Forth by means of the Forth Railway Bridge to arrive in Edinburgh Waverley station at 09:46 where your journey ends.
Prices (Per Person) 2010 :
|
Twin / Single |
Single Occupancy |
2010 |
£3,720 | £5,950 |
Prices are per person and include all table d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on two people sharing a twin cabin or one person in a single.
Departure Dates 2010 :
| May 3, 10, 16, 22, 31. |
| June 21. |
| July 5, 19, 26. |
| August 2, 9, 23, 31. |
| September 6, 13, 20. |
| October 11. |
Itineraries and timings shown may be changed for seasonal or operational reasons.
