Belmond Royal Scotsman - An Epicurean Highland Adventure 2026
Step aboard the Royal Scotsman and embark on a captivating four-night voyage through the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Prepare to indulge your senses as we unveil the rich tapestry of flavors that this region has to offer. Throughout this exclusive journey, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland's culinary heritage, guided by knowledgeable experts.
Experience an array of culinary delights, from tutored wine and whisky tastings that will tantalize your palate to savoring freshly caught seafood by the bay. Picture yourself amidst the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms, where a barbecue awaits, offering a taste of local fare against a stunning backdrop.
But the gastronomic journey doesn't end there. Prepare for an unforgettable dining experience as a trailblazing Michelin-starred chef graces the onboard kitchen, crafting a delectable dinner that showcases the finest ingredients sourced from the Scottish Highlands.
Throughout this epicurean adventure, prepare to be enchanted by Scotland's gourmet gems, each dish a testament to the rich culinary traditions and natural bounty of this remarkable land.
Itinerary
Day One : Edinburgh - Keith
Your culinary journey aboard the Royal Scotsman begins the moment the whistle sounds and the train gathers momentum, gliding across the iconic Forth Railway Bridge. Settle into the train's elegant Edwardian interiors as afternoon tea is served, hosted by Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker. Born and raised on the Isle of Lewis, Coinneach brings the flavours of the Hebrides to life, weaving family recipes and island traditions into stories that set the tone for the journey ahead.
As evening draws in and the train approaches Keith, dinner is served — a celebration of Scotland's finest produce, from wild halibut and hand-dived scallops to superb Aberdeen Angus beef. The night unfolds in the Observation Car, where local musicians fill the air with traditional Gaelic songs and folk melodies, creating an atmosphere that is spirited, intimate and unmistakably Highland.
Day Two : Keith - Kyle of Lochalsh
The day begins as the train heads west along the Moray Firth, rolling through Inverness and into ever more dramatic Highland scenery. This morning, the Whisky Ambassador hosts a tutored tasting in the Observation Car, guiding you through the character, craft and quiet power of Scotland's finest single malts.
Lunch is served as the train travels one of Britain's most spectacular rail routes, skirting Loch Luichart and the soaring Torridon Mountains. On arrival in the postcard-perfect village of Plockton, take to the water on a boat excursion to encounter the local colony of wild seals, before sampling the region's bounty — fresh local seafood, craft ale, and Talisker whisky from the nearby Isle of Skye distillery.
Rejoin the train at Kyle of Lochalsh and dress for a formal evening on board. Dinner is followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car, as the Highlands slip past beyond the windows and the day draws to a refined close.
Day Three : Kyle of Lochalsh – Inverness – Boat of Garten
Greet the day with an invigorating early-morning walk across the Skye Bridge, guided by your host and rewarded with sweeping views over sea and sky. Return to the train for breakfast as you retrace part of yesterday's route, rolling once more through the picturesque village of Plockton.
Later, disembark at Garve for a guided walk led by a local storyteller, bringing the area's layered history, folklore and Highland life vividly to life. The journey continues to Tomatin Distillery, where a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting reveal the craft, patience and character that define Highland whisky.
In the evening, rejoin the train at Boat of Garten and settle in for a refined finale: a tutored wine masterclass hosted by L'Art du Vin, exploring the depth and expression of organic and biodynamic wines — the perfect counterpoint to a day steeped in landscape and tradition.
Day Four : Boat of Garten – Dundee
This morning, travel by coach into the heart of the Cairngorms to the magnificent Rothiemurchus Estate, a vast, untamed landscape of ancient forest, river and moorland. Here, you'll be welcomed by food anthropologist Ghillie Basan and her son Zeki, founder of Highland Survival Skills.
The day is yours to shape, with a choice of immersive activities — from fishing, archery and clay pigeon shooting to a guided foraging walk with Zeki, where you'll learn the practical, time-honoured skills once essential to survival in the Highlands.
Lunch is served outdoors as a generous barbecue feast, thoughtfully paired with whisky, while Ghillie shares her personal story and deep-rooted insights into Highland food culture and tradition.
In the evening, return to the train for a fitting finale. Tonight, a sumptuous gala dinner is prepared by celebrated Scottish chef Lorna McNee, marking your final night on board with a meal worthy of the journey — refined, memorable and unmistakably Scottish.
About : Lorna McNee
Hailing from the picturesque town of Forres in Scotland, Lorna McNee's culinary journey began to flourish from a young age. She honed her skills and passion for cooking while working as a sous-chef at the award-winning Restaurant Andrew Fairlie within the iconic Gleneagles Hotel.
In recognition of her exceptional talent, Lorna was awarded the title of National Scottish Chef of the Year in 2017, a testament to her dedication and innovation in the kitchen. Two years later, she soared to further acclaim by clinching the prestigious title of Great British Menu champion in 2019, solidifying her reputation as one of Britain's finest chefs.
Currently, Lorna leads the culinary team at Glasgow's renowned dining establishment, Cail Bruich, where she holds the position of Head Chef. Within just five months after assuming this role, she steered the restaurant to culinary stardom, earning a coveted Michelin star in 2021. Her leadership, creativity, and commitment to excellence have cemented her status as a trailblazer in the gastronomic world, with her culinary prowess continuing to captivate diners and critics alike.
Day Five : Dundee – Edinburgh
Savour a final, unhurried breakfast on board as the train glides across the Tay Bridge, entering the Kingdom of Fife with wide estuary views unfolding beyond the windows. This last morning is a moment to reflect — on landscapes crossed, stories shared and the rare rhythm of life on the rails.
Soon, the familiar skyline of Edinburgh comes into view and the journey gently draws to a close. Disembark enriched, restored and carrying memories shaped by Scotland's wild places, fine food and enduring traditions — the kind that linger long after the whistle falls silent.
Departures
2026 :
June 29.
Prices (Per Person) 2026 :
Twin Cabin from
£9,100
Double Cabin from
£10,000
Grand Suite from
£23,000
Prices are per person and include all table d'hôte meals, all alcoholic and other beverages, all sightseeing excursions as shown in the itinerary and accommodation on board based on two people sharing a cabin or suite.
