Overview
Embark on a five-night journey exploring the wild and rugged west coast of Scotland, including Oban and the Isles of Mull and Bute.
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
EDINBURGH & SPEAN BRIDGE
The train departs Edinburgh in the afternoon, heading west past Loch Lomond and the great wilderness of Rannoch Moor.
Take time to settle into your cabin and savour the views as we make our way to Spean Bridge for the night.
As evening sets in, enjoy a splendid informal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.
FORT WILLIAM & SPEAN BRIDGE
This morning the train continues west, sweeping past Britain’s highest mountain en-route. Look out for majestic Ben Nevis from the Observation Car. Disembark the train at Arisaig for a morning stroll along the silver sands of Morar. Marvel at soft white beaches and breathtaking views of the Cuillin mountain range. Lunch is served as the train travels back to Fort William crossing over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
This afternoon presents two choices. Join our Highlander to explore Glenfinnan and discover the history of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s rebellion. Alternatively accompany our mountain guides for a hike through stunning Glen Nevis to the Steall Waterfall.
FORT WILLIAM & ISLE OF MULL
Today you’ll arrive in Oban, the gateway to the Western Isles.
Breakfast will be followed by an exclusive visit to the Oban Distillery, producer of one of the world’s finest single malts.
Afterwards, we cross to the Isle of Mull to visit the iconic 13th century Duart Castle, historic seat of the Clan Maclean.
Return to Belmond Royal Scotsman, and prepare for tonight’s fabulous formal dinner as the train heads back east towards Kilmarnock.
ISLE OF MULL & THE ISLE OF BUTE
Savour a leisurely breakfast this morning as the train journeys to Wemyss Bay.
From here you’ll venture to the Isle of Bute for a visit to Mount Stuart House. This imposing gothic mansion is surrounded by expansive landscaped gardens and wild woodlands.
Back on board, indulge in an informal dinner followed by traditional entertainment.
DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY & THE ISLE OF BUTE
This morning we make our way to Drumlanrig Castle, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. Discover sweeping views across the Nith Valley and the turreted sandstone of the ‘Pink Palace’.
Here you have a choice of tours. Explore the imposing architecture, roam the lavish formal gardens, or discover the incredible Buccleuch collection of fine art.
Return to the train for your final dinner aboard, a formal affair and gastronomic treat. Then make your way to the Observation Car for a musical farewell.
DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY & EDINBURGH
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the train makes its way back to Edinburgh.
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Terms & Conditions
Booking Conditions
Deposit: 25% of the total fare confirms your booking. Balance: due 120 days before departure; bookings made within 120 days of departure are payable in full at booking.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made in writing and take effect when acknowledged. Charges apply as a percentage of the total fare for the person(s) cancelling:
- 120 days or more before departure: 25%
- 119–90 days before departure: 50%
- 89–30 days before departure: 70%
- 29 days or less before departure, or no-show: 100%
Date changes follow the same charge schedule as cancellations. A booking may be transferred to another guest up to 14 days before departure (an amendment fee plus any supplier costs apply); name changes require at least 7 days' written notice. No refunds are made for unused services or no-shows.
Important
Comprehensive travel insurance covering cancellation is strongly recommended. Schedule per Belmond's Trains & Cruises booking conditions (world excluding EEA/UK, last updated 11 February 2026). Palace Tours' terms and conditions also apply.
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
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
A Day Aboard
Days follow an unhurried rhythm: a full Scottish breakfast, a two-course lunch and afternoon tea on scenic runs, then a three-course dinner with cheeseboard, coffee and petits fours. Dinners alternate between informal evenings (smart casual) and formal or gala nights, when a dark suit, tuxedo or kilt is customary for gentlemen and a cocktail dress or tartan for ladies. All meals, all drinks - including an extensive whisky selection - excursions and nightly entertainment in the Observation Car are included in the fare. Most evenings the train stables in a quiet country station, so you sleep to stillness rather than motion.
Know Before You Go
Boarding: journeys depart from Edinburgh Waverley station. Check-in is at The Balmoral Hotel beside the station; deposit your luggage with the concierge between 11:00 and 12:15 and it will be transferred to the train for you.
Luggage: cabins are compact - one suitcase and one carry-on per guest is recommended. Under-bed storage measures roughly 71 x 23 cm; larger cases can be stored at The Balmoral for the duration of the journey.
Packing: bring a warm waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for Highland excursions, comfortable clothing for the train, and formal wear for gala evenings. UK electricity is 220/240V - pack an adaptor.
Wi-Fi: available in the Observation Car, though coverage drops in the remoter stretches of the Highlands.
Mobility & health: excursions involve coach transfers, uneven ground and some walking; optional guided hikes require a reasonable level of fitness. There are no medical facilities on board. If you or a companion need special assistance, contact us before booking and we will advise on the best-suited departures.
Children & pets: children may travel at the Train Manager's discretion (infants under two travel free); the atmosphere is geared to adults, and families are advised to book interconnecting cabins or a Grand Suite. Pets are not permitted, with the exception of assistance dogs.
Dietary requirements: vegetarian, vegan and allergy-aware menus are available when requested at the time of booking.
Smoking: not permitted anywhere on board, including electronic cigarettes.
Documents & insurance: overseas visitors need a passport valid for at least six months beyond the journey; check UK visa requirements for your nationality. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Fares do not include gratuities or insurance.
Media Gallery
Inverlochy Castle
Clans, Castles and Isles
Scenery of Scotland
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From $23,842 per person (double occupancy, USD) — live dates and rates are in the Book This Tour section above.
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