Royal Scotsman Scotland Grand Tour

Step aboard the Royal Scotsman luxury train for an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s legendary landscapes, from mystical isles to dramatic Highland peaks. Begin in Edinburgh, departing in the early afternoon and heading north to the ‘Fair City’ of Perth. Savour afternoon tea as the train winds through Dunkeld, Pitlochry, and Blair Atholl with its striking white castle. Rolling hills give way to the grandeur of the Highlands as you continue past Aviemore to the village of Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway, where the train rests for the night amidst the tranquility of the Cairngorms.

Dinner aboard features a feast of the finest local ingredients, followed by lively entertainment in the Observation Car. With no more than 36 guests on board, enjoy a warm camaraderie, often celebrated with a local dram.

Your seven-night luxury stay aboard the Royal Scotsman includes 24-hour steward service and fine dining with all meals provided: full Scottish breakfasts, two-course lunches, and three-course dinners with cheeseboards, coffee, tea, and petit fours. All beverages, including alcoholic drinks, are included. Highlights of the journey feature visits to Glenmorangie and Dunnet Bay distilleries, excursions to the Orkney Islands, Isle of Skye, and Royal Deeside, plus explorations of St Andrews’ landmarks, the village of Elie on Fife’s east coast, and Loch Lomond with a stop at Drumlanrig Castle.

Departing early from Boat of Garten, the train journeys north to Tain, where you disembark mid-morning for a visit to the renowned Glenmorangie Distillery. Discover why this distillery produces one of the world’s most beloved whiskies and learn about its innovative techniques before enjoying a private tasting in the warehouse.

Lunch follows at the nearby Glenmorangie House, where every lavish detail celebrates the heritage of this iconic whisky.

Rejoining the train mid-afternoon, you continue north toward Wick. After dinner on board, stop at Dunnet Bay Distillers to meet the makers of Rock Rose Gin and Holy Grass Vodka, crafted with locally foraged botanicals. Enjoy drinks on the beach, a bonfire, and lively evening entertainment, weather permitting.

Start the day with a hearty Scottish breakfast on board before a short coach transfer to Gill’s Bay, where you embark on a ferry to the Orkney Islands. Explore some of Europe’s best-preserved archaeological treasures, including Neolithic villages, burial tombs, and striking stone circles.

Visit Skara Brae, a remarkably intact stone village with a fascinating network of dwellings. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local hotel before continuing your exploration of the island’s highlights. In the early evening, return to the train via ferry and relax over an informal dinner as the journey heads south to Dingwall, where the train will be stabled for the night.

After an early breakfast, disembark for a full-day exploration of the mystical Isle of Skye, with two distinct experiences to choose from. Join RVIVAL for an immersive outdoor adventure, connecting with the wild landscape through activities like waterfall descents, wildlife tracking, and off-the-beaten-path hikes, pausing for lunch amid the stunning scenery.

Alternatively, accompany a historian on a guided journey through Skye’s legendary sites, soaking in the dramatic vistas of Kilt Rock, the Trotternish Peninsula, and the Cuillin Mountains, with time to explore the charming town of Portree, its shops, and harbour.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue by coach to Dunvegan Castle to visit the gardens, a vibrant contrast to Skye’s rugged moorlands and peaks. Return to the train at Kyle in the late evening for an informal dinner and live entertainment featuring a traditional Scottish folk band.

After a leisurely brunch, disembark to discover the regal charm of Royal Aberdeenshire. Accompanied by our historian, travel along the scenic Royal Deeside route, renowned for its castles, pine forests, and picturesque villages—a region beloved by Queen Victoria herself.

Visit the 16th-century Crathes Castle, once home to the Burnett family, and admire its turrets, towers, oak paneling, and painted ceilings. Continue to the charming villages of Braemar and Ballater, set within the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Return to the train to relax before enjoying an elegant formal dinner as the train stables overnight in Dundee.

Enjoy breakfast as the train crosses the historic Tay Bridge, then alight at Leuchars for a private tour of St Andrews on Fife’s east coast. Explore the impressive ruins of the medieval castle and cathedral, and climb St Rule’s Tower for sweeping panoramic views. Afterwards, take time at leisure to wander the charming cobbled streets, browse the boutiques, or discover additional town highlights. A light lunch is served back on board.

In the evening, savour an early dinner in the picturesque coastal village of Elie, in the East Neuk of Fife. The 16th-century harbour, once used by pilgrims heading to St Andrews, provides a scenic backdrop as you enjoy fresh local seafood at the renowned Ship Inn. Conclude the evening with a stroll along the beach, taking in the striking views over the Firth of Forth, before rejoining the train in Leven to relax with a dram or cocktail as you travel east to Wemyss Bay for the night.

After breakfast on board, embark on a private boat cruise across the 23-mile expanse of Loch Lomond, exploring its mysterious islands, abundant wildlife, and rich legends. Return to the train for lunch as your journey continues south towards Dumfries.

In the early evening, visit Drumlanrig Castle, home to exceptional collections of silver, porcelain, French furniture, and art. Its 90,000-acre estate features formal gardens, woodlands, and extensive walking paths, providing a majestic setting for the grand finale of your Grand Tour of Scotland.

Enjoy a gala dinner in the State Dining Room, followed by a drinks reception. Back on board, celebrate with farewell drinks in the Observation Car as the train travels to Kilmarnock for the night.

Departing early from Kilmarnock, the train travels east toward Edinburgh Waverley Station. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board as you reflect on the week’s unforgettable experiences, savouring the final moments of your Grand Tour of Scotland.