Overview
Discover the breathtaking beauty of western Scotland aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman - Grand Western Scenic Wonders. This luxury train journey takes you through stunning landscapes, from the enchanting hills around Spean Bridge to the serene shores of the Isle of Bute. With each stop, including the charming towns of Keith and Dundee, travelers are treated to exclusive access to Scotland's rich cultural heritage and historic sites, making this tour a perfect blend of luxury travel and immersive experiences.
As you traverse the scenic routes, revel in the plush accommodations and gourmet dining that the Belmond Royal Scotsman offers. Unwind in elegant cabins and savor exquisite meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The captivating vistas of Kyle of Lochalsh and the picturesque towns along the way will leave you in awe, ensuring that this luxury train adventure is not just a journey, but a remarkable exploration of Scotland's grand western wonders.
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
EDINBURGH & SPEAN BRIDGE
The train departs from Edinburgh in the early afternoon and heads west through Falkirk, to reach Craigendoran the starting point for the West Highland Line, while guests enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea.
Spot the distinctive peak of Ben Arthur and soon you also catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond.
After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night.
Enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.
BRIDGE OF ORCHY & SPEAN BRIDGE
As the train travels west, passing through Fort William, don’t miss the views of Ben Nevis. Travelling by the side of Loch Eil you then pass Glenfinnan, with its impressive curved viaduct, and Lochailort, before turning north along this dramatic coastline to Arisaig. Disembark here for a leisurely walk along the beautiful Morar Sands, with breathtaking views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye with its distinctive Cuillin Mountains.
Back on board, lunch is served as the train retraces its route towards Fort William.
BRIDGE OF ORCHY & THE ISLE OF BUTE
Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute, reached by ferry.
The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with a varied landscape to explore.
Guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland.
Return to the train for a formal dinner and overnight on board.
KEITH & THE ISLE OF BUTE
After an early departure from Gourock this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you travel east towards Edinburgh where this first part of your Grand Western Scenic, Westbound journey draws to an end in Waverley Station.
Spend the morning in Edinburgh by joining a guided tour and enjoying a light lunch before returning to the train for the next part of your journey. The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon and travels north, crossing the Firth of Forth via the Forth Railway Bridge.
KEITH & KYLE OF LOCHALSH
Enjoy breakfast as the train leaves Keith and heads west along Moray Firth towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Lunch is served as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on what is arguably the most scenic railway route in the UK. Disembark in Plockton, take a boat trip to see wild seals or enjoy a dram and a traditional highland welcome in the Plockton Hotel.
Alternatively, visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic sights, and learn how the castle was painstakingly restored to its former glory. Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh.
BOAT OF GARTEN & KYLE OF LOCHALSH
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 you will disembark to visit the romantic Ballindalloch Castle and its wonderful gardens. Options at Balindallocah include a private castle tour, 9 holes of golf on the castle's own course or an exclusive look at what is Scotland's only single estate distillery.
The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After dinner, our Highlander regales guests with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.
DUNDEE & KYLE OF LOCHALSH
Travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, where pursuits such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, or a guided walk through the stunning landscape can be enjoyed.
Rejoin the train at Kingussie where lunch will be served as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld. Here you will disembark for your visit to Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
Return to the train for a formal dinner and entertainment.
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 were your seven night journey ends.
Book This Tour
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Terms & Conditions
Booking Conditions
- Deposit: 35% of total price required at booking
- Final Payment: Due 180 days before departure
- Confirmation: Booking confirmed upon deposit receipt
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be in writing. Charges apply:
- More than 120 days before departure: 25% charge
- 119-90 days before departure: 50% charge
- 89-30 days before departure: 70% charge
- Less than 29 days or no-show: 100% charge
Important Terms
- Travel insurance: recommended
- Full price payable if booking is made less than 180 days prior to departure
Source: Belmond official terms
Inclusions & Exclusions
Since Belmond uses dynamic pricing, it is better if you start your booking process online and then call us we can use any special coupons or offers that may give you the best deals and best service. Please do register and start the booking process so the system can start holding the space for you without a financial commitment
Includes:
- Seven 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
- An excursion to Morar Sands
- A choice between a visit to Glenfinnan Monument or a walk to Steall Waterfall
- A visit to Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute
- A guided tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia
- A choice between a boat trip to see wild seals or a visit to Eilean Donan Castle
- A trip to Ballindalloch Castle with a choice of activities
- A visit to Rothiemurchus Estate with a choice of country pursuits
- A guided tour of Glamis Castle and gardens
- Traditional entertainment on board
EXCLUSIONS:
- Travel insurance
- Domestic or international airfare
- Transfers before or after your train journey
- Gratuities for crew members
- Items of a personal nature, souvenirs and any other items not specifically mentioned as included.
Accommodations
Accomodations
- Lower berth beds
- En suite with shower, washbasin and WC
- Dressing table
- Full-length wardrobe
- Opening windows and ceiling fans
- 220/240 voltage system
- High-quality toiletries
- Fresh white towels
- Foam pillow and hypoallergenic duvet
- Quilted cotton bed cover
- Hairdryer
- Cabin service call button
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Travel Insurance
We recommend you arrange suitable insurance to cover personal belongings, cancellation/interruption, medical and luggage. Details of cancellation policies can be found in our booking conditions.
Passports and Visas
If you are not a UK citizen, you must have a valid passport that will remain valid beyond the duration of your journey. Depending on which country issues your passport, you may need a visa for entry into the UK. Please check with your travel agent or government agency before travelling to the UK.
Pets
For safety reasons, pets are not permitted on the train. However, if you are travelling with an assistance dog please contact reservations to discuss further.
Children
Please note children under the age of 12 are permitted travel, however please contact reservations to discuss full details.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair users or those with restricted mobility are asked to contact us directly to discuss the suitability of a journey aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman.
Special Diets and Allergies
Special diets can be accommodated with our Chef. Please be sure to tell us in advance of any allergies, food related or not.
Health
Please advise Belmond Royal Scotsman office or your travel agent of any health restrictions before travelling with us. No specific vaccinations are required for entry into the UK. It is advised, however, that you consult your doctor or physician for requirements based on your travel itinerary, or for any personal health recommendations relating to your journey. Please note that there are no professional medical facilities on Belmond Royal Scotsman.
Smoking Policy
In accordance with Scottish Law, smoking is not permitted on board.
Check-In Procedure
The train departs from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Check-in is at least 40 minutes prior to departure at The Balmoral Hotel, after which our Host and Crewmembers will escort you and your luggage onto the train.
Luggage and Storage On Board
Cabins have limited space, therefore we recommend each guest travels with one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Twin State Cabins have storage space under each bed measuring 71cm x 23cm. If necessary, facilities are available at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh for luggage storage during your journey. If you are staying at another hotel, please ask the Hotel Manager. Prior to boarding, please attach a Belmond The Royal Scotsman luggage label/tag to each piece of your luggage.
What to Wear
For daytime excursions and relaxing on board, we recommend casual, comfortable clothing. In the evening we recommend a jacket and tie for informal dinners and black tie/tuxedo or kilt for formal dinners.
Electricity
There are electrical outlets in all cabins. Electricity in the UK runs on 220/240 volts. You may wish to bring an adaptor for electrical appliances.
Recommended Hotels
We are pleased to recommend a selection of hotels for your stay before or after your journey. Please contact us to make a booking or the hotel directly.
Transportation After Your Journey
On the final night of your journey, our crew can reserve taxis/limousines for onwards transfers, for example to the airport or your hotel. Please speak to the Train Manager.
Media Gallery
Royal Scotsman on Glenfinnan Viaduct