A rail journey is a great way to take in your destination, as you glide through scenic countryside and ever-changing vistas pass you by. There's no better way to explore the Scottish Highlands and on this five-day tour, you'll take in three different journeys.
Your first rail journey is a spectacular 80-mile, two-and-a-half hour journey from Inverness, west to Kyle of Lochalsh. This beautiful location is situated opposite the Isle of Skye, and during the trip, take in the remote northern Highlands and magnificent scenery of Loch Carron. On your way back, stop off at Kyleakin in Skye, as well as one of Scotland's most iconic castles, Eilean Donan.
Your second rail journey may be shorter, but it's by no means any less spectacular. This time, board the Strathspey Steam Railway, and be transported back to the Golden Age of travel on a wonderful journey. You'll glide through moorland and forest, alongside the River Spey, before making your way back to Aviemore, and later exploring Cairngorms National Park.
Your final rail journey will be a memorable one - travelling from Fort William on the last stretch of the famous West Highland Line, to the tiny fishing village of Mallaig. Often described as "the world's best train journey", you'll cross the Caledonian Canal before reaching the Glenfinnan Viaduct - made famous by the Harry Potter films.
Choose between two hotels to stay in for the duration of your trip - whichever you choose, will be back by beautiful scenery, and you'll have breakfast and dinner included.
Fly to either Edinburgh or Inverness and meet your tour manager. Transfer to your chosen hotel - either the Coylumbridge in Aviemore, flanked by the Cairngorm Mountains and Glenmore Forest Park; or the Highlander Hotel in Newtonmore, a short walk from the highly acclaimed Highland Folk Museum. Enjoy dinner this evening.
After breakfast, transfer by coach to Inverness and embark the train for a spectacular 80-mile, two-and-a-half hour journey west to Kyle of Lochalsh. The line travels south of Beauly Firth, with views back across to the "Black Isle" before turning north to the market town of Dingwall. Climb through the remote northern Highlands and descend to the magnificent scenery of Loch Carron.
Your return journey by coach begins with a stop at Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye, before stopping at the iconic Eilean Donan castle - be sure you capture the picture-perfect image. There will also be a photo stop on the banks of Loch Ness. Enjoy dinner this evening.
After breakfast, board the Strathspey Steam Railway for a delightful journey through the Highlands, past the River Spey. Explore the famous resort town of Aviemore before continuing on to the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, where you'll meet the deer and their handlers. Drive through the twisting mountain roads to the Cairngorm Mountain visitor centre and be awed by the views of the surrounding region. Enjoy dinner this evening.
After breakfast, enjoy your final rail journey - on the last stretch of the famous West Highland Line, from Fort William to the tiny fishing village of Mallaig. Often described as "the world's best train journey", you'll take in some amazing sights - from Ben Nevis towering above, to crossing the Caledonian Canal and reaching the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct. Further highlights include the island-studded loch Eilt and the white sand beaches of Morar. There will be time to explore Mallaig, before your return coach to the hotel. Enjoy dinner this evening.
Bid farewell to the Highlands today, and after breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
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