Wild Spirit of Scotland
The Route
Board Royal Scotsman to experience the legends and elements of Scotland in motion. On this three-night journey, discover ancient mountains, flourishing gardens and captivating wildlife. Tour a famous distillery and a majestic castle and be immersed in the wonders of Highland heritage.
Estimated departure: 13:45 – arrival: 09:40
Our train is subject to national railway constraints and timings are purely indicative. Please check your final itinerary or the Royal Scotsman departure boards for confirmed timings.
Includes
Luxury Accommodation
Three nights aboard the Royal Scotsman luxury train with 24-hour steward service
Fine Dining
All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, two-course lunch, three-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petit fours. All beverages including alcoholic drinks
Historical Tours & Wellness Experiences
A private visit to Ballindalloch Castle, Attadale Gardens, and a historic tour of the Cairn Distillery. A forest bathing experience in wonderful woodland, and guided afternoon hike near Kyle of Lochalsh.
Entertainment
Traditional ceilidhs on board, evening entertainment in the Observation Car and a gala dining experience
Day One
Edinburgh
Your journey on Royal Scotsman begins as the whistle blows. The train gathers speed through the magnificent beauty of Scotland’s ancient, rugged landscapes. On board, elegant Edwardian interiors wrap you in the warmth of cashmere and tartan, allowing you to explore the land of the brave in the finest modern comforts. Travel north to the 'Fair City' of Perth while indulging in afternoon tea and continue through Dunkeld, Pitlochry and Blair Atholl.
The rolling hills of Perthshire are replaced by more dramatic peaks and valleys as you travel north into the Highlands. Glide past Aviemore, gateway to the glorious Cairngorms National Park with its towering peaks, swathes of Caledonian forest and array of adventurous pursuits.
Just beyond Aviemore is the village of Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. The train stops here for the night, surrounded by the peace and tranquillity of the Cairngorms.
After a dinner onboard, enjoy lively entertainment in the Observation Car. Musicians and performers join the train, blending sweet, slow Gaelic songs with lively folk melodies. With no more than 38 guests on board, expect kinship and hearty camaraderie, best celebrated over a local dram.
Day Two
KYLE OF LOCHALSH
Departing Keith this morning, the train travels north towards Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Lunch is served on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh, on what is arguably the most scenic route in Britain.
Then, travel onwards through Achnasheen and commence the climb to the Luib summit and Achnashellach Forest before descending to Strathcarron, where you'll visit Attadale Gardens. This huge, 30,000-acre estate has been home to the Macpherson family since the 1950s. Your visit includes the Water Garden, Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden. Later, enjoy some light refreshments with your hosts.
Alternatively, stay on the train and alight in Plockton, where you can see the colony of wild seals and enjoy magnificent views across the bay to the Applecross Mountains. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Highland welcome and a dram or two in the seafront Plockton Hotel.
You can also choose our wellness option and stride out on a guided afternoon hike close to Kyle of Lochalsh. Meander through glorious woodland, look out over ancient castles and rolling hills, and maybe even spot red deer and golden eagles as you approach the calm, beautiful waters of the freshwater loch. Return to the train in Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the mystical Isle of Skye, for overnight stabling.
Day Three
Aviemore
The train leaves Kyle early in the morning and retraces part of yesterday's route. Journey towards Inverness and disembark in Aviemore for a choice of country pursuits at the Rothiemurchus Estate.An array of activities await, from fishing to clay pigeon shooting, or wild swimming – for those who have pre-booked. Alternatively, opt for a forest bathing experience, a guided sensory walk where you can practice mindfulness surrounded by wonderful woodland. Afterwards, enjoy refreshments in the hunting lodge as you learn about the fascinating history of the estate.
Return to the train for lunch, then disembark for an afternoon visit to a renowned Speyside distillery. Enjoy a private tour and tasting of their precious whisky. Alternatively, you may prefer to pedal off on a leisurely cycle ride from the village to discover the magnificent River Spey or beautiful nearby lochs.
Rejoin the train in Boat of Garten early evening and, as it makes its way to Perth, prepare for a splendid dinner to mark your last night on board. After your celebratory feast, you may feel inspired to join in with the dancing in the Observation Car – a fitting finale to your tour.
Day Four
Edinburgh
Breakfast is served as the train leaves Perth and crosses the Tay Bridge into the former Kingdom of Fife. At Edinburgh, your journey’s end, we bid you farewell and wish you safe onward travels.