Scotland: Scenic Scottish Railways 605
Scotland: Scenic Scottish Railways 605
Scotland: Scenic Scottish Railways 605
4 Days Starting and ending in Scotland
Visiting: Aviemore, Inverness, Kyle of Lochalsh, Fort William
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BSSR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 25
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Scotland's most scenic railways with the "Scotland: Scenic Scottish Railways 605" tour. Experience the nostalgia of the steam era as you travel through the heather-covered moorlands of the Cairngorms, the dramatic coastlines of the Cromarty and Dornoch Firths, and the picturesque landscapes of the Isle of Skye. Marvel at iconic sights such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the Cuillin mountain range, and the romantic Eilean Donan Castle. This tour offers a unique blend of train and coach travel, providing comfortable accommodations and the expertise of a professional tour manager. Enjoy the stunning views and rich history of Scotland, from the palm trees of Plockton to the scenic banks of the Beauly Firth, all while relishing the charm of classic rail travel.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Aviemore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Carrbridge Hotel
Depart from your chosen pick up point and travel by coach to Aviemore and the Strathspey Railway. We will board the maroon-liveried coaches which will evoke memories of train journeys in the 1950s and 60s and the train will be hauled by a lovingly restored steam locomotive from the collection which is housed in the engine shed adjacent to the station here. The line crosses heather covered moorland with the Cairngorm Mountains beyond, scenes which have changed little in the last hundred years. The train stops at Boat of Garten, a village created by the former railway companies that served the area and Broomhill, which doubled as ‘Glenbogle’ in the popular BBC TV series, Monarch of the Glen. The train will then return to Aviemore, from where we continue our journey by coach to our accommodation at the Carrbridge Hotel
Day 2
Location: Inverness
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Craiglynne Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today following breakfast we transfer to Inverness where we board the morning scheduled diesel train service to Wick. The line takes us along the shores of the Cromarty and Dornoch Firths, looping round by Lairg and back to the coast, passing the former junction with the Dornoch branch at The Mound. From Golspie the line follows the spectacular coastline as far as Helmsdale, where it turns inland, pausing at remote stations such as Forsinard and Altnabreac, before reaching Georgemas Junction, the most northerly railway junction in Britain. The driver changes ends here to take the train to Thurso before we continue to the terminus at Wick. On arrival here we will re-join our coach and return to our hotel by the more direct but equally scenic coastal route.
Day 3
Location: Kyle of Lochalsh
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: Craiglynne Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a leisurely breakfast today we will return to the station at Inverness, this time heading west to Kyle of Lochalsh on the scheduled diesel train service. Our route takes us through Strath Bran and the isolated little station at Achnasheen, on into Strath Carron to the head of Loch Carron, passing Stromeferry, the one-time terminus of the line, before we reach the current terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh.
We have time here to stretch our legs and enjoy the stunning views across to the Isle of Skye before continuing on by coach to the 13th-century castle, Eilean Donan. This must be one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, with its impossibly romantic setting on Loch Duich. The beginnings of Eilean Donan Castle reach back into the early mists of time - evidence of a pictish fort was found in vitrified rock uncovered during excavations, some of which has been kept for visitors to see. We return by coach to our hotel.
Day 4
Location: Fort William
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After an early breakfast we check out of the hotel and travel via Loch Laggan to Fort William, where we join ‘The Jacobite’ steam train and experience one of the most memorable and spectacular railway journeys in the world – to Mallaig on the famous ‘Road to the Isles’. ‘The Jacobite’ combines the romance of the steam era with the opportunity to drink in the stunning views of this wild and historic part of Scotland. From the slopes of Ben Nevis the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs and onto the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route takes you over the massive Glenfinnan viaduct overlooking Loch Sheil, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. After some free time in Mallaig we rejoin the train and return to Fort William. Thereafter we continue by coach to our original departure points where we expect to arrive late evening.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included in the tour package.
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Services of a professional tour manager
The services of a professional tour manager are included.
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Comfortable coach travel throughout
Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.
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Meals - as per the itinerary
Meals are included as per the itinerary.
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Train travel
Train travel is included in the tour.
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All visits as outlined in the itinerary
All visits outlined in the itinerary are included.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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International Travel
International travel to and from the tour starting point is not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with coach transfers and scenic train journeys, including steam and diesel services. Experience iconic routes like 'The Jacobite' and enjoy breathtaking views of Scotland's landscapes, from heather-covered moorlands to stunning coastal vistas.
Accommodation
Stay at the charming Carrbridge Hotel and Craiglynne Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations amidst the scenic beauty of Scotland. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and convenient access to the tour's highlights, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of train will we be traveling on during the tour?
During the tour, you will travel on both steam and diesel trains. On Day 1, you will board a steam locomotive on the Strathspey Railway. On Day 2, you will take a scheduled diesel train service to Wick. On Day 3, you will again travel on a diesel train to Kyle of Lochalsh. Finally, on Day 4, you will experience 'The Jacobite' steam train from Fort William to Mallaig.
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Will there be any opportunities to explore historical sites during the tour?
Yes, on Day 3, you will visit Eilean Donan Castle, a 13th-century castle known for its romantic setting on Loch Duich. The castle has historical significance, with evidence of a Pictish fort found during excavations.
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What scenic views can we expect to see during the train journeys?
Throughout the tour, you will experience a variety of stunning scenic views. On Day 1, the train journey offers views of heather-covered moorland and the Cairngorm Mountains. On Day 2, the train travels along the shores of the Cromarty and Dornoch Firths and follows the spectacular coastline near Helmsdale. On Day 3, you will see views across to the Isle of Skye. On Day 4, 'The Jacobite' train journey includes views of Ben Nevis, rugged mountains, sea and inland lochs, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel.
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What is the significance of the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the tour?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a highlight of the tour, featured on Day 4 during 'The Jacobite' steam train journey. It is famous for its iconic views over Loch Shiel and is known for its association with the historical event where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.
At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.