Home » All trips » RIDING THE RAILS IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

RIDING THE RAILS IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Highlights

Explore Scotland’s rugged beauty and remote landscapes via the Highland railway lines.

Destinations

Scotland

Budget

From $3500 per person

All highlights

The Highland railway lines not only connect you to essential destinations in Scotland but also unveil the breathtaking and remote landscapes of this stunning country. Embrace the adventure and immerse yourself in Scotland’s rugged beauty and distinctive allure, all while relishing the ease and luxury of train travel.

RIDING THE RAILS IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS - Image 3

Itinerary

Day 1: Edinburgh — Welcome to Scotland

Welcome to Scotland! One of our trusted chauffeurs will collect you at the airport and transport you to your hotel to settle in the heart of the city. Edinburgh is a relatively small capital city and easily navigable. Its skyline is dominated by the Castle, perched atop an ancient volcanic hill offering panoramic views. The contrast between the medieval streets and buildings of the Old Town and the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, creates an unforgettable experience. There are also plenty of opportunities in Edinburgh for a dram of whisky, with many fantastic bars on offer! If live music is your thing, then in the evening why not head over to the Royal Oak or the Captain's Bar for traditional Scottish folk music? Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2: Central Scotland — Fife's Coastal Charms

Continue your exploration of Scotland's capital with a walk up Arthur's Seat for great views over Edinburgh or visit the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood. If city life isn’t your thing today, head out on a day trip to Fife: visit St Andrews, explore fishing villages, Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders, or cruise the Firth of Forth to admire the iconic bridges spanning the estuary. Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3: Oban — The Railroading Adventure Begins

Begin your Scottish rail adventure with a train journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow, followed by the Western Line to the coastal town of Oban. The route passes through Argyle and Bute, offering views of Loch Awe and Connel Bridge. Oban is renowned for its seafood dining and whisky distillery. Visit McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views over Oban harbour and surrounding islands. Overnight: Oban

Day 4: Oban — Wild Islands Cruise

Set sail along Scotland’s west coast to explore the islands of Mull, Staffa, and Iona. Discover Mull’s wildlife and picturesque town of Tobermory, the sacred island of Iona with its famous abbey, and the mystical island of Staffa, home to Fingal’s Cave and its hexagonal basalt columns. Return to Oban in the evening. Overnight: Oban

Day 5: Fort William — Epic Highland Views

Travel by road from Oban to Fort William with a trusted partner. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of Britain,’ Fort William offers hiking, biking, kayaking, and winter sports. Home to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, there are options for guided hikes, wildlife exploration, or a scenic cruise on Loch Linnhe. Overnight: Fort William

Day 6: Glencoe — Nature's Playground

Explore Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, rich in natural beauty and history. Enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures guided by expert local partners. End the day with a hearty traditional Scottish meal in a local pub. Overnight: Fort William

Day 7: Skye — Via Mallaig Ferry & Glenfinnan Viaduct

Board the train at Fort William and cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct en route to Mallaig. Continue by ferry to the Isle of Skye, followed by a transfer to Portree. Enjoy Skye’s capital with its excellent dining options, including renowned seafood restaurants. Overnight: Portree

Day 8: Skye — Magical Skye

Enjoy a full day exploring the Isle of Skye using local buses or a private driver. Discover breathtaking landscapes such as the Old Man of Storr, Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen, Dunvegan Castle, Neist Point, and Kilt Rock. Skye’s weather can change rapidly, so come prepared! Overnight: Portree

Day 9: Inverness — A Day of Stories and History

Travel by train across the Highlands via the Kyle Line to Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands.’ Visit Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns with a local guide, learning about the Jacobite uprising. In the evening, enjoy Inverness’ lively dining and music scene. Overnight: Inverness

Day 10: Inverness — Legends of the Loch

Visit Loch Ness and enjoy a boat cruise on this mysterious loch. Explore Urquhart Castle and later unwind with a bike tour and whisky tasting before dinner featuring traditional Scottish cuisine. Overnight: Inverness

Day 11: Pitlochry — Exploring Perthshire's Heart

Travel by train from Inverness to Pitlochry through the Cairngorms National Park. Discover this charming Perthshire town known for outdoor activities, golfing, distilleries, and the Fish Ladder & Dam. Overnight: Pitlochry

Day 12: Edinburgh — Goodbye Scotland

Travel from Pitlochry back to Edinburgh by train. A chauffeur will take you to the airport for the end of your Scottish rail adventure. Ready for another journey by train? Discover our ‘French Panorama: The Best of France Train Trip’ for your next adventure.

Services

Included:

accommodation
transportation
visits
immersive experiences
personal crafting
unique roadbook creation
assistance on the ground (meals & flights excluded)

Receive a free quote from your local travel agency within 48 hours by e-mail. No obligation to purchase.

Pauline Mathieu

travel expert: France & Scotland

Speak to a Travel Expert

The High Point Holidays Advantage, built on expert service and personal travel planning since 2007:

We put your safety and peace of mind first
We create immersive and tailored travel experiences
We care about ethical and sustainable travel
We have 200+ 5-star reviews and secure booking

Why Travel with high point holiday?

Individually designed

Every trip is shaped entirely around you — your interests, your pace, your dreams — crafting a journey that feels unmistakably yours.

Responsible Travel

We tread lightly wherever we go — supporting local communities, protecting wild places, and ensuring every journey leaves more than it takes.

Flexible Travel

Plans change, and so do we — adapting itineraries on the move, so your journey always reflects how you feel in the moment.

In our hands

From the first spark of an idea to your safe return home, every detail is handled with care — so you can simply enjoy the journey.

Local experts

Our people live and breathe their destinations — sharing hidden corners, trusted contacts, and the kind of insight no guidebook could capture.

Finest guides

Handpicked for their passion and depth of knowledge, our guides turn every moment into a story — bringing each place vividly to life.

find similar tours

FRENCH RENDEZ-VOUS BETWEEN CULTURE & NATURE: PARIS, ALPS, PROVENCE & RIVIERA

Up to two weeks or longer

FAMILY VISIT TO ENGLAND AND WALES – CASTLES, HISTORY AND MYSTERY

Up to two weeks or longer

CELTIC CULTURE – IRELAND AND SCOTLAND

Up to two weeks or longer

BEST OF SCOTLAND TOUR

Up to two weeks or longer