Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands

Today you will arrive in Scotland’s much-loved capital, Edinburgh. Discover its fascinating history, stunning beauty, and friendly locals. Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel, ideally situated close to Waverley Station.

All aboard for Glasgow this morning, before changing trains for a journey on one of the world’s most incredible railway lines, the West Highland Line. Travel along a hillside ledge overlooking Gare Loch before entering the spectacular Highlands, an idyllic, remote and untouched landscape. The incredible route skirts the western banks of Loch Lomond and climbs quickly from Crianlarich to Upper Tyndrum and wild Rannoch Moor, a dramatic region of peat bogs, streams and ancient forests that are only visible from the comfort of your train. On arrival at Fort William, transfer to your hotel.

Venture to the town of Oban, where you’ll board a ferry and cruise to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. As you journey through the small islands and across to Mull, the incredible picture-postcard views are truly awe-inspiring—rugged coastlines, hills rising sharply from the water's edge, and the endless greens, purples, and browns of the moorland, with jagged, exposed rock faces.

On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Maclean Clan, perched magnificently on the island’s shoreline. Afterward, spend some time in the island's colourful capital. Wander the charming port and seek out its sheltered bay, where, according to legend, one of the Spanish Armada ships sank in 1588, its cargo of gold lost to the depths.

Later, return to your hotel for the evening.

Today you’ll travel by coach to Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive set of eight locks operated by a team of at least three lock keepers. Situated on the Caledonian Canal, the 22-ton lock gates were originally hand-powered but are now operated by hydraulics. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours to pass from one end of the staircase to the other, where water overcomes gravity and nature to climb the hillside. From here, discover the picturesque waters of Loch Linnhe and set off on a cruise. Later, pass the stunning mountain landscapes of Glencoe before returning to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner and whisky tasting.

After free time for lunch in Mallaig, continue by coach through the picturesque countryside to Glenfinnan, a spot famous for its dramatic views and historic monument. Then, travel onward to Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. After some leisure time for lunch, board the Jacobite steam train for a scenic return journey to Fort William. From there, enjoy a comfortable coach ride back to Inverness.

Insider Experience – Jacobite Steam Train

Join the Jacobite Steam Train for a return journey to  and from Mallaig on the final leg of the West Highland Line. 

This morning, you’ll travel to the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, as famous for the elusive ‘monster’ that allegedly swims in its depths as for its natural beauty. Later, return by coach to Inverness, and enjoy some time at leisure.   

Insider Experience – Loch Ness

You can’t visit Scotland without perusing the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, famous for the elusive ‘monster’ that is said to swim in its depths. Hear the myth and mystery of Loch Ness and its monster during a cruise.

Today, experience one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe – the Kyle Line. Enjoy countless photo opportunities as you wind through wooded hillsides and over sparse moors, climbing over the highlands and past charming loch-side and seaside towns. Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh, the end of the line, located across a short stretch of water from the Isle of Skye. Afterwards, make a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a tiny island in Loch Duich.

Leaving Inverness behind this morning, you’ll travel south by rail through the Cairngorms and via the towns of Aviemore and Kingussie, as well as the burgh of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh. Transfer from the railway station to your hotel.  

Insider Experience – Scottish Farewell

This evening, enjoy the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish fare. You’ll also listen to a chorus of bagpipes and drums during a Scottish-themed evening to mark the end of your journey.  

Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport today.