Belmond Royal Scotsman Highland Journey
8 Days, 2 Destinations: London + Edinburgh
Enjoy faultless service and gourmet dining as you travel aboard the Royal Scotsman into the majestic scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Start with two nights in London, discovering all the sights of this iconic city. Then enjoy two nights in historic Edinburgh before boarding the opulent carriages of the Royal Scotsman for two unforgettable nights touring the Scottish Highlands. Explore a 13th-century castle at the Rothiemurchus Estate, discover the verdant scenery and fascinating past of the Culloden Battlefields, and enjoy a whiskey tasting session at the famous Strathisla distillery. Relax in the opulent surroundings of the Royal Scotsman as the breathtaking Scottish landscapes roll past your window on this journey of a lifetime.
DAY 1: Arrive In London
Your vacation begins in the vibrant capital city of London. On arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Why not head out into town using your 48-hour city hop on and hop off card then enjoy a meal in one of the city's incredible restaurants, offering a wide range of international cuisine in every corner of the city. Take an evening stroll down the South Bank of the River Thames and you'll be treated to picturesque views of the Palace of Westminster and Tower Bridge, and the modern skyscrapers embroidering the skyline. (Overnight in London)
DAY 2: London
Today have a light breakfast and wear comfortable shoes as this walking tour last over three hours with your tour guide telling you lots of history on the way. There are lots of stops and you will have the opportunity to eat traditional British food (such as award-winning Fish & Chips, World Famous Sausage Rolls and traditional Bacon & Egg Baps), sample tasters from street food vendors, enjoy English cheeses paired with local beer/cider and try a classic British Dessert alongside a Fresh Pot of Tea. Plus, with all our tours, there is our Secret Dish, which you can only find out about on the day. Come the evening, why not treat yourself to an exciting West End show or have drinks at the opulent Ritz hotel. (Overnight in London)
DAY 3: Edinburgh
Take the train to Edinburgh today, the wonderfully historic Scottish capital, and check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Once you've settled in, use the rest of the day to explore the city, perhaps strolling the grounds of the imposing Edinburgh Castle, shopping along the Royal Mile or discovering the delights in the National Museum of Scotland. (Overnight in Edinburgh)
DAY 4: Edinburgh
After breakfast at your hotel this morning, see the best of medieval yet modern Edinburgh on your walking tour with skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle. As you walk, listen as your guide shares the history of this formidable city with ancient Roman roots and UNESCO-listed pockets. Explore atmospheric cobbled walkways along the Royal Mile, breeze into Edinburgh Castle to witness royal opulence, and pass iconic locations like St Giles Cathedral, Parliament Square and John Knox House
Sample traditional Scottish fare in the evening before retiring for a good night's rest in anticipation of your marvelous train journey tomorrow.
DAY 5: Board The Royal Scotsman
After breakfast in your hotel and a leisurely morning, board the opulent carriages of the Royal Scotsman in the early afternoon. Watch the magnificent city scenery transform into verdant plains as you journey north through the former Kingdom of Fire, and marvel at the dramatic scenery of the highlands as you roll through leisurely. Enjoy a delicious, informal dinner in the evening before settling in for some entertainment in the Observation Car. Settle into your comfortable sleeper compartment before you spend the night in Boat of Garten, a tiny highland village. (Overnight aboard the Royal Scotsman)
DAY 6: Aboard The Royal Scotsman
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast accompanied by wonderful views this morning, before transferring by coach to the Rothiemurchus Estate, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Explore the magnificent grounds, perhaps trying out a bit of clay-pigeon shooting or fishing. Enjoy lunch back on board the train as you travel to Culloden Battlefield, where you'll be treated to a private tour of the area. Come the evening, enjoy a visit to the Strathisla Distillery, one of the world's oldest distilleries and home to Chivas Regal whiskey. You will be served a sumptuous formal dinner this evening as you make your way south through Aberdeenshire and Angus to Dundee. Chefs make the most of local cuisine and regional specialties, so you know you'll be in for a treat. (Overnight aboard the Royal Scotsman)
DAY 7: Disembark The Royal Scotsman
Leave Dundee behind this morning, tucking in to a leisurely breakfast as you make the journey back to Edinburgh. Disembark the train and check in at your hotel for an overnight stay. (Overnight in Edinburgh)
DAY 8: Depart Edinburgh
Check out of your hotel after a tasty breakfast this morning and continue with your journey. If you would like to extend your travels around Scotland, one of our Rail Specialists can help you with all the details.
Please note: Pricing starts at $6,999 per person, double occupancy. Rail tour. Prices subject to change.
Guided by RB