rail tours in scotland

Train & Rail Tours in Scotland

Relax and admire breathtaking views in Scotland only accessible by train journey. With 4 Scotland train tours lasting from 2 days up to 8 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

4 Train tour packages in Scotland with 11 reviews

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Highlights of Scotland

Loch Ness, the Jacobite and Skye Guided Rail Tour

Fabulous tour guide and drivers, beautiful scenery and very nice hotels. Train was fun but there was a strike on the train so we had to go by coach a little more than we would have liked. Also would have liked to go to more castles but r do other activities other than just driving and looking at scenery. Easily could have done the other distillery as well as go inside more castles. It was nice to have time on our own as well as very few early mornings.

Jacobite Steam Train & The Great Glen

I loved the whole tour!! The Hogwarts express was definitely a highlight

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

North Highlands & Orkney Guided Rail Tour

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Glenfinnan Viaduct

Scotland by Train

Leave the car behind and enjoy a wonderful, self-guided holiday in Scotland, travelling on trains, buses and ferries. Our Scotland by Train itinerary is an environmentally-friendly way to discover our wonderful historic sites and beautiful scenery.

Click here to find out more about our Scotland by Train tour.

Selected highlights:

• Enjoy a wonderfully scenic journey on the West Highland Line
• Jacobite Steam Train - one of the Great Railway Journeys of the World
• Famous Glenfinnan Viaduct with stunning views down Loch Shiel
• The magical Isle of Skye and the Cuillin Mountains
• Mystical Loch Ness & Inverness, the Highland Capital
• Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Established in Scotland in 2004, Absolute Escapes is an award-winning specialist in tailor-made travel in Scotland. Our exceptional reputation has developed through a deep passion and knowledge of Scotland - we firmly believe that your visit should be truly unforgettable.

Our car-free itineraries offer complete freedom of choice. The itineraries and accommodation on our website is designed to give you a flavour of what is possible and can be tailored to suit your preferences. This allows you to explore your interests at your own pace, and stay in your preferred style of accommodation - with our specialists' knowledge always at your disposal.

Fair Prices

While many travel companies like to promote low prices, we believe that value for money is more important. This translates into charging a fair price for your holiday - whether staying in simple guest houses or luxurious hotels - and not compromising on quality. We want you to travel with us again and know that you will not do this if you feel that you paid too much for your arrangements.

Creating Your Perfect Trip

If you would like us to contact you with a proposal for your tailor-made holiday in Scotland, please get in touch with us via the following methods. Our holiday suggestions are individually designed to suit your personal requirements, so the more detail you can provide us with, the better.

Complete our Online Enquiry Form

Email us at [email protected]

Phone us on +44 (0) 131 610 1210

Price on Request

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0131) 6101210
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Aberdeen Airport
• Edinburgh & The Lothians
• Edinburgh - City Centre
• Edinburgh Airport
• Glasgow Airport
• Glasgow City Centre
• Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley
• Inverness Airport
• Loch Lomond Area
• Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley
• Stirling Area

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Tour company information

Absolute escapes.

Absolute Escapes is a leading specialist in self-guided walking holidays and tailor-made travel to Scotland. We offer self-guided walking holidays on some of the finest long-distance trails in Scotland, including the West Highland Way, Great Glen Way, Speyside Way, and Skye Trail. We also specialise in tailor-made travel to Scotland including self-drive itineraries and escorted tours. We customise all of our itineraries to your exact requirements based on our experience and intimate knowledge of Scotland.

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Opening times

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 17.00.

Other tours from this company

West Highland Way - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Balmaha, Drymen, Inverarnan, Bridge of Orchy, Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Edinburgh - City Centr...

The West Highland Way is one of the world’s classic long distance walks. It stre...

Price from:

£365pp

Berwickshire Coastal Path - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Dunbar, North Berwick, Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh Airport, Cockburnspath, Coldingh...

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Cateran Trail - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

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The Cateran Trail is a delightful circular route through some of Scotland’s fine...

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John Muir Way - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

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The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Scotland Rail Trips

Day trip to edinburgh from london.

Edinburgh in a Day One day tour From £215 per person

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

·          Return train travel to Edinburgh ·          Edinburgh Castle ·          Hop-on, Hop-off tour of Edinburgh ·          Free time for sightseeing or shopping

Click on picture for more information and to make your booking

London to Edinburgh 2 Day Tour

Edinburgh, Scotland’s Capital 2 day tour From £315 per person

·          Return train travel to Edinburgh ·          Edinburgh Castle ·          Overnight hotel stay with breakfast ·          Hop-on, Hop-off tour of Edinburgh ·          Free time for sightseeing or shopping

3 Day Scotland Tour from London

Edinburgh, Loch Ness and the Highlands 3 day tour From £465 per person

·          Return train travel to Edinburgh ·          Edinburgh Castle ·          Two-night hotel stay with breakfast ·          Full day excursion to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands ·          Hop-on, Hop-off tour of Edinburgh

Glasgow City Breaks by Rail

Glasgow, Loch Ness and the Highlands 3 day tour From £465 per person

·           Return train travel to Glasgow ·           Glasgow City Centre Walking Tour ·           Two-night hotel stay with breakfast ·           Full day excursion to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands ·           Hop-on, Hop-off tour of Glasgow

Harry Potter sights in Scotland

The Wizarding World of Scotland 4 day tour From £770 per person

Edinburgh and Glasgow tours

Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands 4 day tour From £555 per person

·          Return train travel to Scotland ·          Hop-on, Hop-off tours of Edinburgh and Glasgow ·          Three-night hotel stay with breakfast ·          Full day excursion to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands ·          Full day excursion to Oban and the Western Highlands

Isle of Skye tour from London

Edinburgh, Skye and the Highlands 4 day tour From £735 per person

Scottish Highlands tour from London

Edinburgh, Skye and the Far North 5 day tour From £865 per person

·          Return train travel to Scotland ·          Four-night hotel stay with breakfast ·          Cruise on Loch Ness and visit to Urquhart Castle ·          Full day excursion to Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye ·          Full day excursion to John O’Groats and the Northern Highlands

Scotland Hogwarts Train Tour

Edinburgh, Skye and the Jacobite Steam Train 5 day tour From £965 per person

·          Return train travel to Scotland ·          Four-night hotel stay with breakfast ·          Cruise on Loch Ness and visit to Urquhart Castle ·          Full day excursion to Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye ·          Full day excursion to the Western Highlands with a trip on the Jacobite Steam Train

destinations

Edinburgh Glasgow Inverness Scottish Highlands

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• Email: [email protected]
• Registered office: 272 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JR
• Company No: SC 683404

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Train Holidays in Scotland

Don't just take our word for it, read independent reviews

Find your perfect Scottish rail holiday from our unique selection

Scotland Train Tours

No matter where you want to go, our Scottish rail holidays and tours can turn your trip into a very special one, without the need to drive yourself at all. Retain freedom and flexibility on a tailor-made self-guided trip. You can choose to cover the highlights in one Grand Tour of Scotland by Train , or perhaps pick a more specific area.  We have scoured the length and breadth of the country to find the perfect lodgings– perhaps add a touch of luxury to your trip by staying in our hand-selected premier accommodation, such as Inverlochy Castle and Fonab Castle on Premier Round Scotland by Train ?

We have been designing Scotland train tours since 2003 so are experts in piecing it all together to take you beyond the end of the rails. Our favourite local guides will help you discover the unexpected gems in locations such as Skye , Orkney , Loch Ness and Perthshire. We always keep a close eye on the weather and anything which might lead to a slight change of plan – our 24/7 customer service and professional experience means you can carry on enjoying your holiday regardless.

As always, we will do all we can to tailor-make any itinerary to suit your exact requirements, so you have the flexibility to enjoy your own trip. If you like, we can even create a UK-wide rail holiday , including highlights such as Bath, Chester and York as well as the best of Scotland. Simply get in touch with our award-winning team and soon you can be sitting back, relaxing, and taking in Scotland’s superior scenery by rail.

“You could spend a month juggling maps, timetables and guidebooks without coming anywhere near the company’s expertise and astute choice of stopovers, hotels and guest houses … It has been a truly grand ‘grand tour'”.  Stephen McClarence, The Times , December 2016

West Highland Line Train Holidays

There is perhaps no more illustrious train journey in Scotland than that of the West Highland Line .  Made famous by the ever-popular ‘Harry Potter’ franchise, people flock from far and wide to take in the breath-taking scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Running between Fort William and Mallaig, the most memorable part of your trip will be the moment you cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct – renowned for its cinematic beauty.  We also provide the opportunity to add a stay on the picturesque Isle of Skye for those who want to experience a slice of island life to conclude their trip.

Far North Line Holidays

Take a rail journey north and you will discover a more remote, uninhabited Scotland. You will stop in isolated stations surrounded only by untamed scenery. Some of the country’s finest rivers, bog land and daunting mountains are nestled here. The locale is a little wilder than you may be used to – peer out the window and you might catch a glimpse of a scampering deer or a soaring eagle. Perhaps you will spend a couple of days on the mysterious island of Orkney – your journey doesn’t need to conclude at the end of the railway line, after all.

Tailormade Scotland Train Tours

If you are starting your UK travels from London, it takes just four hours to reach Edinburgh by train, and a little longer to Glasgow. Both are easy gateway cities for a Scottish rail tour. An alternative option is to journey overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper into the heart of the Highlands . Experience the romance of leaving the hustle and bustle of England’s capital behind to awake surrounded by Highland splendour.

We plan our rail holidays to ensure you can experience a rich variety of the landscapes that Scotland has to offer, including remote areas that could not be accessed otherwise, such as the vast expanse of Rannoch Moor .

Travel to the edge of the mainland, skirting a coastline shared with many of the country’s wild and enchanting islands . We include private taxi transfers and ferry tickets where necessary to join things up, just in case the train line doesn’t go as far as your dream destination.

Small Group Guided Rail Tours

Turn your tour of Scotland into an in-depth journey of discovery on one of our unique week-long guided rail tours . With group sizes limited to a maximum of 15 and the services of a knowledgeable, McKinlay Kidd tour leader throughout, you can be sure of personal attention. Explore legendary spots, including Skye & Glencoe , the North Highlands & Orkney   and the Outer Hebrides . Absorb the spirituality of the Isle of Iona while also hearing tales of Scotland’s birth and ancient kings as you travel the West Highland Line. Unravel the mysteries of Loch Ness and take a trip on the Jacobite steam train.

With places strictly limited, early booking is strongly recommended.

We work hard to make sure the unexpected doesn’t affect your trip. On rare occasions, changes or cancellations may occur, affecting accommodation, transport or excursions, including the Jacobite Express Steam Train. We are committed to informing you of any such circumstances and will use our knowledge and resources to offer suitable alternatives wherever possible.

• McKinlay Kidd

Speak to us 0141 260 9260 1 866 922 8538 1 800 760 824 +44 141 260 9260

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• Monday to Friday - 8.30am to 6pm
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• Sunday - CLOSED

McKinlay Kidd are based in the UK and Ireland. UTC office hours are:

Or email us at:, calling from elsewhere  .

• UK 0141 260 9260
• USA & Canada (toll-free) 1 866 922 8538
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• Email hello at mckinlaykidd dot com

Rail Touring in Scotland Guide

Download our handy guide with useful information and top tips on Rail Touring in Scotland.

Scottish Train Holiday Ideas

Grand Tour of Scotland by Train

Classic Round Scotland by Train

Premier Round Scotland by Train

Slowly Along the West Highland Line

Explore Scotland by Train

Premier West Highland Line to Skye

Slowly Through the North Highlands by Train

Luxury Skye & Highlands by Sleeper

West Highland Line to Skye

Highlands, Castles and Whisky by Train

Far North Line to Orkney

Car-free Scottish Island Hopping

Small group guided train tours in scotland.

Castles, Gardens, Skye & Glencoe Guided Rail Tour

West Highlands, Iona & The Jacobite Guided Rail Tour

North Highlands & Orkney Guided Rail Tour

Loch Ness, The Jacobite & Skye Guided Rail Tour

Other holiday ideas to inspire you.

Train Holidays

Enjoy a grand tour of Scotland, Ireland England or Wales by train, all carefully planned and pre-booked for you.

Our exclusive small group tours weave the best of history and vistas into grand journeys by rail and sea, accompanied throughout by your expert guide.

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How to Tour Scotland by Train

Scotland has several train lines that are perfect for exploring the country, including the Kyle Line, the Far North Line, the West Highland Line, the Carlisle Line, the Stranraer Line, and the Borders Railway. Discover everything you need to know about how to tour Scotland by train in this ultimate guide, which includes information about the main train lines and an itinerary for an 8-day train tour of Scotland.

The Best Train Journeys in Scotland

Scotland doesn’t waste an inch of its landscapes when it comes to impressing visitors. From the dramatic coastal railway that runs between Stranraer and Glasgow to the stunning scenery of the West Highland Line, you’re never far from amazing experiences when you hop on board a train.

The sights you’ll see vary in each part of the country so you might consider combining a few routes into one holiday, or if you’re pushed for time maybe just choose your favourite line and base yourself somewhere along it.

A top tip here would be Edinburgh,, where you’ve got city attractions on your doorstep and the Highlands just a couple of hours train ride away if you fancy a day in the mountains, with the Scottish Borders less than an hour away in the opposite direction. Alternatively, you could head over to the west coast and explore Glasgow before setting off south on the Carlisle and Stranraer lines, both of which offer vastly different scenery from the standard tourist hotspots in the Highlands.

Whatever you choose, whether it’s a visit to Loch Ness to see the monster , a tour of Scotland’s whisky distilleries or an excursion into the rugged scenery of the west coast, getting there by train makes it just that wee bit more pleasurable.

The following list of scenic railway journeys in Scotland will give you an overview of each line along with recommended places to stop and visit.

Map of Train Lines in Scotland

The West Highland Line

Start and end points: Glasgow to Mallaig. Journey time: 3 hours 50 minutes. Highlights: The Highland town of Fort William. Glenfinnan and the spectacular viaduct.

Download the route map from ScotRail .

The West Highland Line – or at least the section of it from Fort William to Mallaig – has gained legendary status among Scotland’s tourists.

Everybody knows the scene in the Harry Potter films where the Hogwarts Express transports the young wizard to the magical wizardry school across a multi-arched viaduct. But not everybody knows that this is actually set in the village of Glenfinnan which in addition to the viaduct features gorgeous views from the Glenfinnan Monument across the shores of Loch Shiel.

The section of the railway track as it winds its way north towards Mallaig has been repeatedly voted the best railway journey in the world, and having taken The Jacobite Steam Train myself I have to say it lives up to the title, and then some.

The Jacobite is a 1930s steam locomotive that puffs its way on the 84-mile return journey past a series of stunning Highland vistas. Unlike the other railways, which use modern diesel and electric locomotives with brand-new carriages, the Jacobite pulls restored 1960s carriages, which makes the whole experience feel very special indeed.

The line starts near Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Britain) before heading towards Arisaig (the furthest-west train station), passing Loch Morar (the deepest freshwater loch) and skirting the River Morar (the shortest river in Britain) before arriving at Mallaig near Loch Nevis (the deepest seawater loch in Britain).

Once at Mallaig, you can take a boat trip around the coastline to see Britain’s largest birds – sea eagles – which hunt from the surrounding clifftops, or you can take a ferry over to the Isle of Skye and its extraordinary landscapes. Or, of course, you can just head back to Fort William on a return journey.

If you’d like to take this amazing train ride I recommend using Get Your Guide which is one of the biggest and best booking websites for activities and tours in Scotland.

The Borders Line

Start and end points: Tweedbank to Edinburgh. Journey time: 1 hour. Highlights: The Borders countryside. The mighty Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park .

The Borders Railway is one of the newest stretches of track in Britain and the first to be built in Scotland in over 100 years. This is a route that’s best used to explore Edinburgh and the Lothians, though I have to admit the Borders are a lovely part of Scotland as well.

The scenery isn’t mountainous and dramatic like you’ll find in the Highlands but it’s certainly picturesque, crossing lowland fields, woodland, and quaint country villages along the way.

Much of this line passes through former mining villages which admittedly don’t have much to offer visitors, but there’s a good tourist attraction in the town of Gorebridge that showcases one of the former mines with a guided tour. Having visited the mine myself I have to say it’s well worth the trip, so check out the National Mining Museum website for the current times and prices.

Once past Gorebridge, you’ll pass open farmland before stopping at Galashiels and Tweedbank. I’d personally give Galashiels a miss and get out at Tweedbank instead as you can take a short walk to visit Abbotsford House which was the ancestral home of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

Scott was one of the greatest writers of his time and was so revered that after his death the city of Edinburgh built the Scott Monument as a dedication to him.

You can’t fail to miss the Gothic masterpiece Scott Monument in Edinburgh’s Princes Street (it’s not far from Waverley train station) and it has to be one of the highlights of a visit to the city. The monument is the largest ever created in the world for a writer, and it features an internal winding staircase that allows visitors to look at the cityscape from several viewing platforms

Sticking with the Scottish Borders, another attraction not far from Tweedbank is the historic market town of Melrose which is a lovely quaint wee place that’ll give you a good taste of rural Scotland. It’s also home to Melrose Abbey which is a fascinating ruined abbey close to the River Tweed.

The only negative I have about the Borders railway is that it gets incredibly busy with Edinburgh commuters at peak times which means there’s often standing room only, but travel outside those hours and you’ll have a very relaxed journey.

The Carlisle Line

Start and end points: Carlisle to Glasgow. Journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: Gretna Green , home of untold marriage proposals. Glasgow and its fantastic shopping malls and restaurants.

Just like the Borders Line, the Carlisle Line starts in the countryside of the Scottish Borders, only this time it’s on the other side of the country and finishes in Glasgow instead of Edinburgh.

The similarities between the railway lines continue along the length of this journey as it’s mostly low-lying farmland broken up by the occasional country town, but it does have a couple of stages that make it stand out from the other lines in this list. The first of these has to be Gretna Green which is the second stop after Carlisle.

If you’re an international visitor and are unfamiliar with this place it’s one of the most famous villages in Britain where tens of thousands of young couples fled to get married after England tightened marriage laws in the 1700s.

There’s a decent tourist attraction at the Gretna Green Blacksmiths Shop – the original site of those impromptu marriages – that includes a restaurant, museum, shops and a lover’s maze, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re romantically inclined or looking to surprise your other half with a proposal.

After Gretna Green, you’ll pass the town of Dumfries a little further up the track which is a historic market town with a lovely river cutting through it (the River Nith) and a museum dedicated to Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns . It’s worth spending extra time in this area as a little further away lies Caerlaverock Castle and the Solway Firth which are both great places to visit, especially if you’ve got children in tow.

Continuing along the Carlisle Line takes you through rolling countryside which is nice enough but not exactly jaw-dropping, but it does at least finish in Glasgow which in my opinion is one of the most exciting cities in Britain.

Glasgow has way too many attractions to list in this article so you might like to check out The Best Places To Visit in Glasgow for a few ideas on what you can do in Scotland’s biggest city. The museums are fantastic and there are more parks, galleries, restaurants, and shopping malls than you’ll ever be able to fit into a single visit, with the bonus being that all the best attractions are completely free to enter.

The Far North Line

Start and end points: Inverness to Wick. Journey time: 4 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: The historic town of Wick. The photogenic Dunrobin Castle.

Possibly the remotest railway in Scotland, the Far North Line runs from the city of Inverness to the (almost-but-not-quite) most northern point of the country at Wick.

Wide-open and desolate, much of the scenery that glides past the window is barren grassland interspersed with the occasional mountain, and it’s not surprising that this part of Scotland is one of the least inhabited regions in Europe outside of the steppes of Russia. But that’s not to say the journey isn’t worth making as there are several sights that more than make up for the apparent desolation.

Starting in Inverness the line sweeps up the northeast edge of Scotland in a gently sweeping arc, crossing the Cromarty Firth and Invergordon along the way. To be honest, I’d give Invergordon a miss, but the Cromarty Firth is lovely in the summer and makes a great starting point for cyclists keen to follow the tourist road up the NC500 towards John O’ Groats .

If cycling isn’t your thing you can continue the train ride to Tain (home of Glenmorangie whisky) and Dunrobin Castle which is arguably the finest castle in Scotland. The train station is just a short distance from this historic attraction so you may as well stop and visit it as it’s a real gem with stunning architecture that faces a drop-dead gorgeous coastline.

The Far North Line continues past Dunrobin for the majority of its journey along the northeast coast till it finally makes a diversion west to Thurso before doubling back on itself at Wick.

Thurso is an ok town and while I’ve only visited it once it was raining so it came across as being a bit… grey. Wick isn’t that much better on the looks front but it has a lot of history to be proud of because at one time it was one of the biggest herring fishing ports in the world.

They’re certainly proud of their heritage in Wick which is clearly displayed in the excellent Wick Heritage Museum that’s hidden away at the far end of the harbour. It’s an absolute Tardis in there so don’t get put off by the unassuming frontage as you’ll easily spend a couple of hours exploring the exhibits.

Finally, no train journey on the Far North Line is complete without taking a short detour to Scotland’s most northerly point at John O’ Groats . This is quite a busy little attraction that looks out across the sea to Orkney in the distance, and a selfie in front of the famous signpost is an absolute must if you’re visiting the area.

My advice after wandering around the (slightly gimmicky) tourist area is to take a short walk up the coastline to see the mighty Duncansby Stacks, which are enormous rock formations set against the backdrop of very dramatic cliffs.

The Stranraer Line

Start and end points: Stranraer to Glasgow. Journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: The beach at Ayr. The city of Glasgow.

I’d say the Stranraer Line is probably the least-used by visiting tourists, mainly because this corner of southwest Scotland doesn’t have as many attractions as the rest of the country. While the Solway Firth to the south draws visitors from far and wide who admire its attractive bays and nature reserves, the stretch of coastline further north tends to go a little unnoticed, even though it gets more attractive the further north you go.

This railway branches off at several points, but the main line from the fishing port of Stranraer to Glasgow is the focus of the journey, with the coastal towns of Ayr and Troon offering a pleasant contrast to the farmland that so inspired the poet Robert Burns .

Both towns have decent enough beaches but not much else, although Ayr is notable for the river running through it and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum . Troon, meanwhile, is worth visiting for the views across the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran and Royal Troon, which is a large golf course that regularly hosts the Open Championship.

The town is also a quick 5-minute train ride from Prestwick International Airport, so if you’re visiting and have a few hours to kill before the next flight, it makes a decent place to get some fresh air before getting onboard that stuffy plane.

From Troon, the track curves inland past Lochs Semple, Barr,, and Kilbirnie before sweeping further inland past Paisley and onwards into the heart of Glasgow. One attraction you might like to visit before the final stop in Glasgow city centre is Pollock Country Park .

This is the largest park in Glasgow and features lots of woodland and riverside walks, play parks and walled gardens, and as it’s just a few minutes bus ride from the Cardonald train station you can easily get there if you fancy a break from the busy city.

The Kyle Line

Start and end points: Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Journey time: 2 hours 40 minutes. Highlights: The Torridon Peaks, Achnashellach Forest, Ben Wyvis.

The Kyle Line stretches across North Scotland from Inverness – the capital of the Highlands – to Loch Alsh on the west coast. This is one of the most scenic train journeys in this list and it’s a firm favourite with visitors thanks to the stunning scenery.

You’ll start your journey in Inverness which is easily reached from all the main stations in Scotland, though it might take a little while to get there as the country’s other cities are either located on the east coast or much further south. Expect the train ride from Glasgow and Edinburgh to take around 4 hours to reach Inverness and around 2 hours from Aberdeen.

From Inverness, the train passes the Beauly Firth (a body of water that connects the River Ness to the Moray Firth) and Dingwall where you’ll see the hulking mass of Ben Wyvis. This sprawling mountain dominates the landscape and it’s a recommended hill-walking destination, with the undulating ridge running 3 miles to its highest point at Glas Leathad Mor which has an elevation of just over 3,400 feet.

From Dingwall, the line passes through a mountainous Highland region near Loch Garve where you’ll see the peaks of Torridon before entering a region of thick forest as the track makes its way to Loch Luichart.

There are several points on this journey where the rail track closely follows a relatively busy road (the A835) but once it gets near the loch it runs alongside much quieter roads to the final destination at the Kyle of Lochalsh. From there, you’re just a stone’s throw from the Isle of Skye so you may as well hire a car and cross the Skye bridge to explore this famous west coast island.

There’s a car hire company close to the Kyle Line end terminal if you want to extend your journey and if you do I suggest you take a short drive (about 10 miles) towards the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle while you’re in the area. This stunning castle is situated at the meeting point of lochs Long, Duich, and Alsh (one of the prettiest viewpoints in Scotland) and it’s an absolute must-do if you’re visiting the area.

One-Week Scotland Train Tour Itinerary

Now that we’ve looked at the main railway lines in Scotland, you might be wondering how to put it all together for an extended tour of the country. A quick look online shows lots of opinions about where to go and in what order to see each region, but almost all itineraries involve visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow, The Highlands, and the Isle of Skye.

Concentrating on those areas will show you the best of Scotland – from historic cities to wild mountainous landscapes – on a tour that should take around one week to complete.

Rather than just regurgitate what every other travel writer says, in the following section I’m going to show you the same train tour I took a couple of years ago which I’ve no hesitation in saying was one of the best experiences of my life.

To begin, I bought a Spirit of Scotland rail pass (details further down this page) that gave me unlimited rail travel across the country for 8 days and pre-booked hotels in the middle of each area. I then used each hotel as a base and either took public transport or hired a car to go sightseeing.

By booking everything myself I managed to get the total cost down to around £800, which admittedly isn’t the cheapest holiday in the world but it’s a lot cheaper than most of the specialist package holiday dealers are asking (£2000+ for a week-long train tour of Scotland. Ouch!).

Day 1: Edinburgh

Edinburgh needs no introduction as it’s one of the most-visited tourist cities in Europe and is full of so many world-famous attractions it simply has to be included in a train tour of Scotland.

A single day really isn’t enough to see all of Edinburgh, but because the city is so compact you can walk between the top attractions without ever feeling like you’re getting lost. To start your day I recommend walking from Waverley train station in the city centre to Princes Street Gardens which is home to The Scott Monument and the National Galleries of Scotland.

From the gardens, head to Edinburgh Castle (be aware you could easily spend most of the day at this single attraction), and then soak up the atmosphere of The Royal Mile before taking a look inside St. Giles Cathedra l. If you have time, continue down The Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace , or perhaps stretch your legs in Holyrood Park where you can climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat for unparalleled views of the city.

To be honest, you’ll never fit all of that into a single day unless you fly around everything, so you’ll have to pick what interests you most. I recommend Edinburgh Castle (a must-do), The Royal Mile and the cathedral, followed by Holyrood Palace and Holyrood Park if you have any time before the sun sets.

As far as getting around the city goes, you could walk and hope to stumble across all the main sights, but I can tell you from personal experience you’ll have a much more enjoyable time by using a hop-on hop-off tour bus to visit the top attractions.

Day 2: Central Scotland

Day 2 centres around Fife, Perthshire, and Angus in Central Scotland. This is a less-visited part of Scotland but it features the gorgeous east coast, the forests of Perthshire’s ‘big tree country’, and the possibility of exploring the historic St. Andrews and Scone Palace.

On my tour, I based myself in Dundee, saw the city in the morning, and then took a train ride to Perth in the afternoon. Dundee is a historic city that borders the estuary of the River Tay and the North Sea, and it has a couple of very good attractions in the city centre.

My recommended itinerary is to book accommodation near Dundee train station and walk to the V&A Design Museum and the RRS Discovery, or get a taxi to the superb McManus Museum . Alternatively, take a train to Leuchars (20 minutes) and then take a bus to St. Andrews which is an exceptionally pretty historic town that has a lovely beachfront with a castle, St. Andrews Aquarium , and St. Andrews Cathedral .

From Dundee it’s another short train ride (20 minutes) to the city of Perth which offers lovely riverside walks along the River Tay, the Black Watch Castle and Museum, and the stunning Scone Palace (you’ll need to book a 20-minute taxi from Perth city centre to get to it). If you don’t feel like heading to Perth, another very good historic attraction is the 600-year-old Glamis Castle, which is a 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of Dundee.

Day 3: The Cairngorms National Park

From Dundee, it’s a 2-hour train ride to Aviemore which will take you into the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The park is situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is the largest national park in the UK, so if you’ve any interest in exploring the wilds of Scotland this is your best opportunity.

Aviemore is often called the gateway to the Highlands and you’ll no doubt find yourself sharing the experience with lots of walkers, cyclists, and skiers thanks to the Cairngorm Mountain Centre which is a 20-minute taxi ride from the town centre.

The centre allows visitors to walk partway up Cairn Gorm mountain where they’ll have breathtaking views across the Highlands landscape at the Coire Cas viewpoint, or they can take the easier option on a funicular railway that glides up and down the mountain slopes.

Other attractions in the area are Loch Morlich (home to the highest beach in Britain), the beautiful Glenmore Forest Park, and the wonderful Cairngorm Reindeer Centre where you can say hello to the UK’s only herd of wild reindeer.

If you have time, a 20-minute drive south of Aviemore takes visitors to The Highland Wildlife Park which features a mini safari around enclosures that house some of the animals that live in the world’s remotest cold regions (including polar bears!).

This is a fantastic tourist attraction and is highly recommended if you have children with you, as is the beautiful Rothiemurchus Estate which offers fun activities in the Highland landscape including pony trekking, quad biking, mountain biking, and white water rafting.

Day 4: Inverness and Loch Ness

This is a short train ride at around 45 minutes but it’s very pretty, so keep your camera at the ready.

Once in Inverness (the unofficial capital of the Highlands), you’ll find lots of attractions in the surrounding area, but the one essential place to visit has to be Loch Ness . Inverness sits at the northern end of the loch, where it transitions into the River Ness, which opens out onto the Beauly Firth.

A search on Get Your Guide will bring up lots of tour operators that run excursions to the Loch, or alternatively, hire a car as you’ll be able to explore the loch in your own time (try Travel Supermarket for good car hire deals).

Highlights of Loch Ness are visiting the historic Urquhart Castle and taking a boat tour to see the loch from the water (it’s the best way to see the infamous Loch Ness monster).

To get to either you’ll need to travel along the A82 which is very scenic and presents several spots to pull the car over and admire the body of water with a picnic in hand – but make sure Nessie doesn’t steal your sandwiches.

Heading back to Inverness you’ll find it’s a rather attractive city but there aren’t many attractions in the centre. However, a short (30-minute) taxi ride will take you to Fort George which is a huge 18th-century military base that overlooks the Moray Firth.

The fort features museums, a military chapel, barrack blocks, a munitions depot and much more, but the highlight has to be standing on the gunnery platform and looking across the sea to Chanonry Point which is home to Britain’s only permanent resident dolphin pod.

Day 5 and 6: The Isle of Skye

This part of the tour sees visitors hopping back on the train and heading to Dingwall before swapping onto the Kyle Line which finishes at Kyle of Lochalsh.

Before heading to Skye, I recommend heading to Eilean Donan Castle which is located a 15-minute taxi ride from Kyle of Lochalsh on the A87. The castle is one of, if not the , most picturesque castles in Scotland, so if you haven’t been to a castle by this point Eilean Donan is the place to go.

After the castle, it’s time to cross the Syke Bridge to spend time on the stunning Isle of Skye, though be aware that even two days is not enough time to see all of the island. If you do, you’ll find a hire car (Travel Supermarket) is an absolute necessity, as although it’s possible to use buses and taxis on Skye, they’re few and far between.

A car, meanwhile, means you can drive to stunning places like the Fairy Glen (a natural landscape of strange earthworks), the Fairy Pools (a series of pools and waterfalls), and the Quiraing (a dramatic landscape formed by an ancient landslide).

Other highlights of Skye are Dunvegan Castle on the island’s northwest tip, the pretty village of Portree, and the huge rock landmark of the Old Man of Storr . There are also lovely beaches surrounding the island, lots of walks into the Black and Red Cuillin mountains, and ferry trips over to the secluded Isle of Raasay.

There’s a lot to see, so if you do find yourself wondering where to go I recommend at least the Fairy Pools, Portree, the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and Dunvegan Castle. After finishing your sightseeing tour you’ll need to travel down to the southwest tip of the island to Armadale and then catch a ferry to Mallaig on the mainland where you can continue your journey on the iconic West Highland Line.

Day 7: The West Highland Line and Glasgow

I already covered the West Highland Line earlier in this article so I won’t repeat myself here, other than to say it is, without doubt, the most scenic railway in Scotland.

By far the best way to experience the route is on the restored Jacobite steam train which runs from Fort William to Mallaig and back in a single day, but sadly the train doesn’t offer one-way tickets so you can’t join it from Mallaig. Instead, visitors can clamber aboard the regular ScotRail carriages to make this journey which isn’t as historic but is certainly quieter and comfier.

The entire journey from Mallaig to Glasgow takes 5-6 hours depending on the time of travel, but there are a couple of places to break it up if you’d like to add an extra day onto the itinerary.

The first is the town of Fort William which is a superb place to base yourself for hikes up nearby Ben Nevis. Climbing Britain’s highest mountain is a dream of many people, but as the return route takes 7-8 hours on average it needs a full day to plan, complete, and recover from. The second place to take an extra day on the West Highland Line is Oban which opens up opportunities for exploring the western isles.

Depending on the ferry times I recommend sailing from Oban to Craignure on Mull as the crossing takes less than an hour and there are usually at least 3 ferries every day.

Returning to the West Highland Line and its endpoint in Glasgow, you probably won’t want to do too much sightseeing when you arrive, but there are plenty of nighttime activities to enjoy thanks to the city’s unmatched collection of bars, restaurants, late-night shopping malls and cinemas.

The best place for families to go on an early evening outing is the city centre around Queen Street and Argyll Streets as there are dozens of family-friendly places to eat, but couples might prefer to head to the Finnieston Strip which is livelier and has more traditional bars.

Highlights have to be the Riverside Museum of Transport on the River Clyde, The Tall Ship (a restored sailing ship) that’s moored outside, and the Glasgow Science Centre that’s located almost directly opposite.

History lovers will no doubt enjoy wandering around the grand Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis (a vast Victorian cemetery), while anyone who enjoys museums will have a blast at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and the Hunterian Museum at the University of Glasgow .

Day 8: Edinburgh and the Borders Line

Following a busy day of sightseeing in Glasgow, it’s now time to return to Edinburgh with another train journey that takes less than an hour door to door. The bonus here is that you’ll have plenty of time to see everything you couldn’t fit into day one of this train tour, or alternatively, you could venture outside the capital.

If that interests you I have two options to recommend.

The first is to book yourself onto a Get Your Guide tour that will take you to fascinating places like Rosslyn Chapel , and the second is to take a ride on the Borders Railway. This train line opens up the pretty countryside south of Edinburgh where quaint villages and enormous medieval abbeys appear to lie around every corner.

The Scottish Borders is a very underrated region in my opinion, and watching it glide past the window in a train carriage is, without doubt, the nicest way to see it.

My advice for places to visit on the Borders Railway is to ride it to the last station at Tweedbank and then take a taxi to Abbotsford House which is a stunning Victorian mansion set in an incredibly scenic location. The house was built by famed Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott and is full to the brim with collections of books, artefacts from Scott’s travels, curios, and vintage books, while the extensive grounds outside offer pleasant walks through manicured gardens.

The Borders Line takes an hour each way from Edinburgh to Tweedbank and Abbotsford House has enough things to see to keep visitors busy for around 4 hours, making this wee adventure a nice relaxed end to a busy week of touring Scotland by train.

Resources for Scotland Train Tours

The Trainline : The Trainline is the UK’s favourite train ticket booking service, mainly due to the fact they make the process so easy.

Once you’ve registered you can enter your credit card details and book your tickets online with the minimum of fuss, and being able to reserve a ticket when you’re late is an absolute godsend. Not only that but you’ll usually get a big discount by purchasing your ticket through them – sometimes up to 60% or more compared to buying at the station.

ScotRail : ScotRail is Scotland’s main train operator that provides the majority of the routes detailed in this article. While you’ll frequently hear weary commuters complaining about the service, I have to admit I’ve never had any problems using any train in Scotland whether it’s been for work or pleasure.

As a whole the carriages are clean and they’re usually on time. Not to Japanese or Swiss ultra-efficient standards or anything, but never more than a few minutes deviation from the stated time (again, this is purely based on my personal experience here in Edinburgh).

ScotRail gets top marks for its website which seems to offer more and more information the deeper you delve into it. It’s a great resource for rail travel in Scotland and it’s a website that you should definitely bookmark if you’re a new visitor to this country.

Traffic Scotland : Where would the humble commuter be without Traffic Scotland ? Probably gnawing their steering wheels in frustration at being stuck in yet more roadworks I’m guessing, or seething at the fact the fast lane has been closed for repairs AGAIN.

Traffic Scotland distributes real-time information about closures, delays, accidents, and general annoyances on the country’s road network, but it also provides information on the rail network.

It’s not the easiest website to navigate admittedly and the design looks like it’s straight out of 1995, but the information is reliable nonetheless. For rail travel, click the Further Travel Information > Travel information Links section in the sidebar and then the ‘Are you interested in air, rail…’ link at the top of the next page.

You’ll find links to all the main train stations in Scotland along with details of any line closures and whether the next train is on time or not.

Traveline Scotland : The one website I go back to time and time again when planning a train journey is Traveline Scotland . This website has a very useful journey planner that you can access from their homepage which allows you to enter a beginning and endpoint along with a departure time, after which it displays the travel time and train route on a big map.

It really helps to be able to see the journey you’ll be taking and makes it a breeze to see which attractions are located around each station – which is essential when planning a whistle-stop tour of Scotland. Take my advice and bookmark it ASAP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to see on a train tour of scotland.

The Borders Line : The Borders countryside and Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park . The Carlisle Line : Gretna Green and Glasgow city centre. The Far North Line : The historic town of Wick and Dunrobin Castle. The Stranraer Line : The beach at Ayr and Glasgow city centre. The Kyle Line : The Torridon Peaks, Achnashellach Forest, Ben Wyvis. The West Highland Line : Fort William and Glenfinnan.

Which train tickets can I buy in Scotland?

Off-peak  tickets are restricted for use between the morning and evening peak times. Anytime  tickets are valid for use at any time of the day and are usually more expensive than off-peak tickets. First-class  tickets are more expensive than the other two types but offer a higher standard of service, including free Wi-Fi and refreshments.

Which railcards can I use in Scotland?

Two Together Railcard : Gives a third off all rail travel on off-peak journeys for any two people over the age of 16 when they travel together. 26-30 Railcard : Gives a third off all rail travel on off-peak journeys for people aged between 26 and 30 years. Senior Railcard : Saves a third off train fares for anyone aged over 60 years. Highland Railcard : Offers a 50% discount for people who live in the Scottish Highlands.

What are the best rail travel planning websites?

The Trainline is the UK’s favourite train ticket booking service. ScotRail is Scotland’s main train operator and operates the majority of the lines in the country. Traffic Scotland distributes real-time information about closures, delays and accidents. Traveline Scotland has a journey planner that displays the travel time and train route on a map.

What is the best train journey in Scotland?

The most beautiful train journey in Scotland is The Jacobite from Fort William to Mallaig which has been described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world.

What is the nicest way to travel to Scotland by train from London?

The most luxurious train journey is the Caledonian Sleeper train to Scotland which operates overnight between London and multiple destinations between Edinburgh and Inverness. It is called a sleeper train because it has sleeping compartments where passengers can sleep while the train is in motion. Some of these compartments have double beds and en-suite bathrooms.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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Strikingly handsome cities, breathtakingly beautiful lochs and glens, noble malts, tranquil romantic isles, white sandy beaches and some of the world's best railway journeys - Scotland has it all!

Build up a head of steam, uncovering Scotland’s heritage from a different angle. Enjoy the Bo’ness & Kinneil Steam Railway, soar above the canals by boat on the remarkable Falkirk Wheel, cruise Loch Katrine, and steam through the Highlands on the Strathspey Railway. This great railway holiday also features The Kelpies, a distillery tour, and a brewery visit.

Discover the peace, tranquility, and rich heritage of the beautiful islands of Orkney & Shetland on our mini cruise to the northernmost reaches of the UK, part of a wider grand tour visiting John O’Groats, historic Stirling, and Edinburgh, Scotland’s proud capital.

The Highlands of Scotland are a joy to behold and our adventure filled short break combines the glorious West Highland rail route with the fabulous "Harry Potter" Jacobite Steam Train, steaming over Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig, plus a relaxing Loch Linnhe cruise, a scenic mountain gondola, and a ‘wee dram’ at the Ben Nevis Distillery!

Treat yourself to this Railtrail tour offering the ultimate island-hopping experience in the Outer Hebrides and visiting an impressive eight islands. Discover an area of unspoilt natural beauty offering spectacular scenery, impressive mountain ranges, and miles of golden beaches.

A truly magical circular tour of the Highlands of Scotland, also taking in the magnificent Isles of Mull and Iona, along with spectacular rail journeys, sensational scenery, and steam train nostalgia. With time in Edinburgh at the start of your tour.

Enjoy a summer circular tour of the spectacular ‘Great Railway Journey of the Scottish Highlands’. You may have seen them on TV and now you too can experience some of the most stunningly beautiful scenery in the UK. This superb summer rail holiday offers a wealth of wonderful landscapes from the comfort of your seat and includes two of the world’s greatest railway journeys - the Kyle Line and the West Highland Line with the fabulous Jacobite Steam Train.

A delightful Railtrail tour inspired by the original BBC "Great Railway Journeys of the World" TV series which saw Sir Michael Palin travelling through the spectacular Scottish Highlands to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Our popular Romantic Highlander tour is based at one of Railtrail's best loved hotels and includes the fabulous Jacobite Steam Train.

This tour celebrates the diversity of the east coast of Scotland from royal life at stunning castle retreats to iconic waterfronts, from wildlife cruises to heritage transport, this nostalgic tour has something for everyone and is perfectly combined with a couple of wee drams!

A truly magical circular tour of the Highlands of Scotland in 2024, also taking in the magnificent Isles of Mull and Iona, along with spectacular rail journeys, sensational scenery, and steam train nostalgia.

Treat yourself to a Railtrail tour offering the ultimate island-hopping experience in the Outer Hebrides and visiting an impressive eight islands. Discover an area of unspoilt natural beauty offering spectacular scenery, impressive mountain ranges, and miles of golden beaches.

Discover four delightful and diverse Scottish cities on our all-rail holiday to Stirling, Perth, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. The tour visits fascinating attractions in each city including the Riverside Transport Museum, Stirling Castle, Black Watch Museum and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Travel coast to coast from Land's End to John O'Groats, including many of Britain's great scenic rail journeys along the way. Explore England, Scotland & Wales on a one off, once in a lifetime, grand rail tour of mainland Britain!

Escape from it all as you island hop from Arran to Skye on this magical Railtrail tour of the West Coast islands. Every day is different as each sublime, rugged, and breathtaking landscape unfolds before you. This superb rail holiday takes you from the stunning architecture of Glasgow through magical landscapes, across to the beautiful Isle of Arran. Journey on the famous West Highland Line and cross to the stunning Isle of Skye to discover ancient and fascinating history.

A wonderful tour that combines Scotland's Far North and the beauty of the Shetland and Orkney Isles. From the dramatic rugged coastlines and fascinating wildlife to the ancient history and unique blend of Scottish and Scandinavian culture.

The Highlands of Scotland are arguably at their most glorious during the golden weeks of Autumn. This superb rail holiday offers a wealth of spectacular autumnal scenery out of your window, including two of the world's greatest railway journeys - the Kyle Line and the West Highland Line with the fabulous Jacobite Steam Train.

Based in picture-postcard Pitlochry, in the beautiful Perthshire Highlands our rail holiday includes a variety of wonderful attractions combined with outstanding Scottish scenery, painted in glorious colours. The tour includes visits to The Enchanted Forest, a royal retreat, an iconic expedition ship, and Britain's first military airfield. Enjoy a wee dram at one of Scotland's oldest distilleries plus steam on the Strathspey Railway, this nostalgic tour has something for everyone!

This great value short break is a wonderful introduction to ‘Bonnie Scotland’. Roam the glorious Highlands and discover one of the "Great Railway Journeys of the World". Relax as magnificent vistas glide past your window and the sensational views unfold. Enjoy free time to explore Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, and discover all the fascinating attractions this ancient city has to offer.

Our great value pre-Christmas Scottish tour stays at the Alexandra Hotel in Fort William and is packed with fantastic attractions and stunning scenery. This winter warmer in the western Highlands includes excellent excursions, great rail journeys on the West Highland and Kyle Lines, Half board at the hotel, a bubbly drinks reception on arrival along with Scottish themed singing and dancing entertainment.

The West Highland Line, the Kyle Line & the Cairngorms Line - experience a truly magical pre-Christmas circular rail tour of the Scottish Highlands in all their wintry glory, followed by a relaxing and homely Christmas in Stirling with all the trimmings and an excursion to the Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh.

Experience a magical Scottish rail adventure on this fantastic short break in Fort William combining the glorious West Highland Line with the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Highlands on the Nevis Range Gondola, cruise across Loch Linnhe, and indulge in a tour and tasting at the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Build up a head of steam and uncover Scotland's heritage from a different angle. Steam through the Highlands on the nostalgic Strathspey Railway, experience the scenic Bo'ness & Kinneil Steam Railway, sail through the sky on the remarkable Falkirk Wheel, and enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine. Visit the magnificent equine sculptures of The Kelpies and the fantastic Stirling Castle plus indulge in a whisky distillery tour and a brewery tasting.

Experience a relaxing circular tour of the spectacular Scottish Highlands. Discover some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes from the comfort of your seat, steam on the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train across the fantastic Glenfinnan Viaduct, journey on Scotland's "Great Railway Journey of the World" plus enjoy free time to explore the picturesque city of Inverness.

Discover the diversity of Scotland on this fantastic tour in Aberdeen and Dundee. From royal life at stunning castles to iconic waterfronts, from wildlife cruises to heritage transport, this nostalgic tour has something for everyone. Explore the rich history and beauty of two wonderful coastal Scottish cities perfectly combined with a couple of wee drams!

Join us on a brand new and exclusive tour in Inverness including a seven-night leisurely cruise along the endlessly beautiful Caledonian Canal aboard the stunning Lord of the Glens. Journeying through the heart of the Highlands along the intricate inland waters, hidden sea lochs, ancient and historic sites, and breathtaking scenery with fascinating excursions at every stop. Indulge yourself in exquisite cuisine, First Class travel, and relaxation on this luxurious, small group tour.

Embark on a brand new and exclusive tour in Glasgow including a six-night leisurely cruise along the endlessly beautiful Caledonian Canal aboard the stunning Lord of the Glens. Journey through the heart of Scotland along the intricate inland waters with breathtaking scenery and fascinating excursions at every stop, enjoy a guided tour of Glasgow, and taste some of the finest whisky. Indulge yourself in exquisite cuisine, First Class travel, and relaxation on this luxurious, small group tour.

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Explore Scotland by Rail

Scotland Rail Tour – Experience some of Britain’s most spectacular and scenic rail journeys as you explore Scotland and the Scottish Highlands by train.  Your epic Scottish rail trip will take you from the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to Scotland’s scenic West Coast, through the dramatic Scottish Highlands and over the sea to the remote Isle of Skye. A hand-picked selection of small-group day tours will allow you to discover the remote landscapes and sites of the Highlands and Skye which cannot be reached by rail alone.

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Arriving in to Edinburgh Airport (or Glasgow Airport), board the train to the thriving city of Glasgow. Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and home to modern Scottish culture. Explore the Victorian monuments of George Square, the bustling Sauchiehall Street and the imposing Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis. In the leafy West End you can visit the Kelvingrove Park and Museum set around the university quarter or head to the Merchant City to enjoy a host of modern Scottish bars and restaurants.

Overnight: Glasgow

Journey details: 1 hour 10 minutes from Glasgow Airport / 1 hour 20 minutes from Edinburgh Airport (approx.)*

Today embark on one of Scotland's famous rail journeys as you travel the West Highland Railway to Fort William. On route you will pass scenic coastline, the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond and through the heart of the desolate expanse of the Rannoch Moor. Arriving in Fort William you can spend the afternoon walking the harbour overlooking Loch Linhe, visit the Ben Nevis Distillery or the West Highland Museum for a candid history of the region. Alternatively, the brave might choose to take a hike in the foothills of the towering mountain of Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest peak.

Overnight: Fort William

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 3 hours 50 minutes (approx.)*

Departing Fort William, continue your rail journey North on the second leg of the stunning West Highland line. Your journey will take you over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (which features in the "Harry Potter" movies) offering panoramic vistas over the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel beyond. Arriving in Mallaig, board the ferry to the beautiful Isle of Skye. Here you’ll enjoy a private transfer from Armadale port to the island’s main town of Portree where you can spend the balance of the day wandering this charming port town of pastel fishing cottages overlooking the tiny harbour with the Cuillin mountains in the distance.

Overnight: Portree, Isle of Skye

Journey details: 1 hour 20 minutes to Mallaig (approx.)*

Meet a local guide and join a small-group tour for a journey dedicated to exploring the very best of Skye. Your journey will take you to the farthest reaches of the small island on a journey of discovery of its dramatic natural landscapes; spot sea and bird-life in the chilly Atlantic waters from Neist Point, pass through the enchanting Fairy Glen and tour the Trotternish Peninsula which is home to a host of unique geological features such as The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. There’ll be ample photo-stops and the opportunity to take in some of Skye’s cultural highlights including Dunvegan Castle and Talisker Distillery.

Today, you’ll enjoy a private transfer from Portree over Skye Bridge to the Kyle of Lochalsh on the Scottish mainland. Here you can board the train and pick up yet another of Scotland’s magnificent rail journeys as you travel the North Highland Line. Your journey takes you over the barren wilderness of the Northern Highlands with views of the Torridon peaks before descending to Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Straddling the banks of the River Ness, explore this picturesque Highland town from the cobbled Mercat Cross and St Andrews Cathedral to the hill-top castle and museum.

Overnight: Inverness

Journey details: 2 hours 40 minutes (approx.)*

Meet a local guide and join a small-group tour dedicated to exploring the Highlands and the scenic area surrounding Scotland’s most famous loch, Loch Ness. Your journey will take you along the dramatic shores of the loch with an opportunity for a boat rip on the chilly waters and a stop at the iconic Urquhart Castle perched on the loch-side. There’ll be stops at various points of interest including the Highland towns of Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus and the picturesque Falls of Foyers.

This morning your rail ride takes you east through another of Scotland's scenic routes as you traverse the Grampian Highlands and Speyside region of Scotland to arrive in Aberdeen, the "Granite City". Spend the afternoon exploring this affluent maritime city from the 13th century cobbled square of Castlegate, to the Georgian spires and turrets of Union Street and the granite Marchar Cathedral. Don't miss a visit to the harbour and traditional fish market or a stroll along the promenade with its sweeping sandy bay and views over the wild North Sea.

Overnight: Aberdeen

Journey details: 2 hours and 15 minutes (approx.)*

Today meet a local guide and join a small-group tour taking you in to Scotland’s Eastern Highlands. Your journey will take you south to the dramatic ruins of Dunottar Castle perched overlooking the North Sea before heading inland deep into the Cairngorms National Park. Following a lunch stop in the Highland town of Braemar you’ll return east to Aberdeen through the scenic Royal Deeside region taking in various point of natural beauty such as the dramatic Muir of Dinnet and the Falls of Feugh. On selected days an alternative tour to Speyside Whisky region is available.

Board the train for a journey south which takes you along the rugged east coast of Scotland with views of the North Sea before turning inland and passing through the Perthshire countryside to historic Stirling. Explore the cobbled old town and historic jail before climbing to the stunning Stirling Castle which, once the royal seat of Scotland, rivals that of Edinburgh for its historic significance and beauty. Time-permitting you may choose to head to the nearby Wallace Monument for spectacular views across to the castle and over Bannockburn Battlefield.

Overnight: Stirling

Journey details: 3 hours (approx.)*

This morning, make a final rail journey south to nearby Edinburgh the capital city of Scotland. Explore this magnificent city from the winding streets of the cobbled Old Town to the wide avenues of the opulent Georgian New Town. Stroll past the Gothic Burns Monument and through Princes Street Gardens before climbing the Royal Mile to the city's centrepiece at the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and St Margaret's Chapel.

Overnight: Edinburgh

Journey details: 45 minutes (approx.)*

Today explore Edinburgh in more depth; perhaps enjoy a spot shopping along Princes Street, visit Scotland’s national museums and galleries or discover royal Edinburgh with visits to the Palace of Holyrood House, the Queens Edinburgh residence, or the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith Docks, the official royal yacht for over forty years. You may choose to visit the seat of Scottish Parliament at Holyrood, climb Arthur’s Seat for amazing cityscape vistas or simply soak up the Edinburgh’s excellent pub scene.

Today enjoy breakfast at your hotel and any final sightseeing or souvenir shopping in Edinburgh before either taking a flight from Edinburgh Airport or boarding the train for an onward rail journey within Britain. Let us know if you need additional rail travel to London and accommodation in the English capital.

Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, Scotland

Fort William, Scottish Highlands

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Highlands, Scotland

Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Inverness, Highlands, Scotland

Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Scotland

Aberdeen, Scotland

Stirling Castle, Stirling, Scotland

Panoramic view of Edinburgh castle from Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Edinburgh, Scotland, big cover

*Journey times and distances are estimates and are based on the direct route between the start location and end location for each day of the itinerary, where applicable. They do not include detours or stops for sightseeing.

What's included

• 11 nights accommodation (suggested accommodations listed below).
• Full cooked Scottish breakfast each morning.
• BritRail Spirit of Scotland (8 in 15 day) Rail Passes – Passes offer 8 separate days of travel on the Scottish Rail Network within a 15 day period. Travel is fully flexible and completely unlimited on each day of use and will cover all outlined rail journeys. Rail pass also covers your ferry crossing to the Isle of Skye.
• Private transfers to / from Portree on the Isle of Skye.
• Best of Skye day tour from Portree on the Isle of Skye.
• Loch Ness day tour from Inverness.
• Royal Deeside day tour from Aberdeen.
• Stirling Castle
• Edinburgh Castle
• Adeo travel documents pack and suggested rail schedule information for each of your point-to-point journeys including journey durations and departure stations and travel departure times etc.
• Toll-free calls (from USA and Canada) to your Britain vacation specialist whilst planning your trip.
• Expert assistance during the planning of your trip and local out-of-hours number for use during travel.

Our Selected Lodging

• Hotel Indigo Glasgow (or similar), Glasgow x 1 night
• The Garrison Hotel (or similar), Fort William x 1 night
• The Marmalade Hotel (or similar), Portree x 2 nights
• Inverness Palace (or similar), Inverness x 2 nights
• Norton House Hotel (or similar), Aberdeen x 2 nights
• Stirling Highland Hotel (or similar), Stirling x 1 night
• Bonham Hotel (or similar), Edinburgh x 2 nights

Wherever possible we select characterful accommodation representative of the destination where you're staying. We regularly personally visit and quality-check hotels across the country. The hotels listed are a representative selection of just some of the properties we work with, ask your consultant for their personal favourites and recommendations. Read more about the accommodation we offer by  clicking here .

Optional extras

• Add a city sightseeing open top bus tour in Inverness or Edinburgh.

Customize this tour!

• Add an extra night in Glasgow and enjoy a small group day tour to the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
• Travel on the Glasgow Subway rail networks – these are separate to the national rail network and your Britail Passes will not be valid.
• Taxis / transfers from train stations to your hotels (except on Skye) – taxis are readily available at all major train stations in the UK and hotel receptions / concierges will be happy to call local taxi firms for collection on days of departure.
• Trip Insurance – we ask that our guests purchase suitable cover in case planned travel is affected or disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances. More information on the benefits of trip insurance can be found here .
• Flights – adeo Travel do not book air travel but are happy to offer advice on where to seek competitive airfare.
• Meals and/or sightseeing other than that outlined above.

Departure Dates 2023/2024

This self-guided tour is customizable and can be taken at any time throughout the year and starting and ending on any day of the week - simply let us know your preferred dates of travel!

Pricing 2023/2024

Twin/Double - from GBP £2,345 per person. Single supplements apply for single occupancy rooms, please ask for a quotation for details.

Pricing Notes

• Above pricing is an estimated "from" price based on shoulder-season travel (April/October). As this tour can be taken at any time pricing will vary dependent on departure day, date of travel, selected accommodations etc.
• Above pricing is based on suggested accommodations listed however please note that we can tailor your specific quote to accommodate your budget and preferences.
• Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room with one adult BritRail pass per person as specified. (Please enquire for single supplement)
• Prices are for land only travel and do not include flights.
• Prices are in GBP£ currency, for approximate amounts in other currencies please contact us.

RB ITALIA Blog

These Are the World's 12 Most Beautiful Train Rides That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Posted: May 5, 2024 | Last updated: May 5, 2024

The West Highland Line, Scotland

On your way to Mallaig from Glasgow, you will pass beautiful scenery, like mountains and lochs, within a 5-hour journey. You will also cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was featured in the Harry Potter films. You can catch the train from Glasgow's Queen Street Station. It is considered one of the most scenic train routes in Europe.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

This train ride from Vancouver will take you through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. This family-friendly train runs through the daylight with a night stay at Kamloops to ensure you don't miss any scenery along the way. The following day, the train continues toward Alberta, passing through canyons and lakes and ending the evening in Lake Louise. There are also many other routes available to choose from depending on the duration and sights. 

Andean Explorer, Peru

Hop aboard the Andean Explorer for an unforgettable ride through Peru’s stunning landscapes, from Cusco to Puno. The train makes a night stop in Puno and then makes its way to Lake Titicaca the next morning. The journey ends in Arequipa on the third day, where you can explore its charming colonial streets and volcanic landscapes.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Those who want to see the Swiss Alps in all their glory must travel between Zermatt and St. Moritz by train. You can board the train at either stop and get ready for the journey that crosses over 250 bridges, takes you through 91 tunnels, and passes between mountains. It’s a slow-paced journey, giving you ample time to capture the beauty of Switzerland. The train offers comfortable seating suited for people traveling with kids.  

TranzAlpine, New Zealand

The passengers on board this train get to see some incredible sights as they roll through the Southern Alps on the South Island of New Zealand. Watch out the window as you pass by towering mountains, winding rivers, and lush forests on your way from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass, ending at Greymouth. 

California Zephyr, United States

California Zephyr offers one of the greatest train journeys in America, taking around 51 hours from Chicago to San Francisco. Starting in Chicago, you’ll travel through the plains of Nebraska and the Rockies to Denver and many other beautiful destinations before ending in San Francisco. It's a long ride, which may be tiring for people with families, but the cabins are very comfortable, and you can also book a family bedroom with meals. 

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

This fancy train journey is truly a treat for the eyes. This trip isn't just about the destination but also the luxurious experience of early 20th-century rail travel. You can catch the train from multiple cities, such as Paris, Florence, Amsterdam, and many others. The duration of this train ride can be one day to many, depending on what you would like to see.

Train To The Clouds, Argentina

Starting from Salta, this one-day round trip takes roughly 15 hours to ascend the Andes in Argentina. You can board the train at Salta in the morning and spend a day journeying through tunnels and viaducts over 13,000 feet above sea level. Among these 13 viaducts, the Viaduct Polvorilla is the most famous and is considered one of Argentina’s greatest engineering works of the last century.

Palace on Wheels, India

Another luxury train, ‘Palace on Wheels,’ not only offers beautiful scenery but also provides the feeling of traveling as a “Maha Raja.”, meaning a Prince in the Indian language. This train lets you explore India's rich history and culture, stopping at cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Agra. Book your cabin, board New Delhi, and embark on this luxury train ride.

Bernina Express, Switzerland – Italy

Switzerland is a paradise on earth, so imagine how it would feel to discover it by train. The train goes from St Moritz or Chur to Tirano, and your eyes won’t be able to handle the beauty of glaciers, mountains, lakes, and Swiss Alps scenery. It's a short four-hour journey but offers an incredibly scenic route linking Switzerland and Italy.

Train des Pignes, France

Take a short yet captivating three-hour journey through Provence from Nice to Digne-les-Bains. Starting in Nice, this train takes you through olive groves and pine forests, offering a peaceful side of the Riviera away from the crowds. It's perfect for a day trip into the center of Provence.

GoldenPass Express, Switzerland

From Montreux to Interlaken, you can travel through GoldenPass Express in about five hours. You can board in Montreux in the morning, and by afternoon, you'll be in Interlaken after passing through picturesque towns like Gstaad and Gruyères. The train has comfortable seating, which is ideal for families traveling with their little ones.

More For You

Beware of these European tourist traps . We’ve put together a list to help you avoid disappointing experiences when visiting some parts of Europe.

This article was first published at Rbitaliablog .

The post These Are the World’s 12 Most Beautiful Train Rides That Should Be On Your Bucket List  appeared first on RB Italia Blog .

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Rail strikes restart as Aslef train drivers embark on new action

Union to roll out 24-hour strikes across England’s train operators for three days this week and six-day overtime ban from Monday

Rail passengers face a week of disruption as train drivers embark on another round of industrial action on Monday, despite tentative attempts by the industry to restart talks.

Drivers in the Aslef union will strike for 24 hours at each of England’s national train operators over the course of three days from Tuesday until Thursday, while an overtime ban will apply nationwide from Monday until Saturday.

Most operators will not run any trains on their strike days, affecting some cross-border services to Wales and Scotland. The overtime ban will also reduce schedules and severely disrupt some operators who depend on voluntary shifts to run their services.

On Tuesday 7 May, the first wave will affect commuter routes into London, with drivers striking at c2c, Greater Anglia, Great Northern, Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

It will be followed on Wednesday by a 24-hour strike at Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains; and at LNER, Northern and TransPennine Express on Thursday.

The union said it would continue to strike for an improved pay offer, with some of its members now going five years without a pay rise and the last talks breaking down a year ago.

A hint of movement came when the Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, emailed Aslef late last week to suggest discussions about a framework for formal talks, which the union said it welcomed.

An RDG spokesperson said it had “written to the Aslef leadership to try and find areas of common ground that will allow us to move to formal negotiations”.

The Aslef general secretary, Mick Whelan, told members he would “explore this avenue in an effort to resolve this dispute”.

The drivers’ union rejected a two-year deal in early 2023 worth 4% annually, but with changes to working conditions attached. In percentage terms, the rise was less than that offered to other parts of the industry.

Speaking before this next set of rolling strikes, Whelan said: “We don’t want to be doing this. Nobody wants to be losing money, but unless we do this, nobody is going to come to the table and talk to us. So we’re left in a position whereby the only way that we can articulate our voice is to take action.”

Aslef members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue industrial action.

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Whelan added: “I’m out there talking to my people most nights of the week in branch rooms and elsewhere, and they want to keep going. They want a resolution. And after 22 months, why would you stop? We have to believe there will be an endgame; we have to believe there will be a resolution to this.

“After half a decade without a pay rise, should we stop and go another half a decade without?”

The government has argued that the offer would take the average pay of a train driver to £65,000, but it also demanded “modernisation” and workplace changes as part of the settlement.

Whelan said: “There was no workplace reform. Nobody could explain to me how cutting people’s sick pay makes a railway run quicker, or more resilient, or improves performance. It was a land grab for Ts & Cs [terms and conditions].

“We’ve done 17 pay deals in the last 12 months across the rest of the rail industry,” including in Scotland and Wales, the Elizabeth line, and for freight and open access rail operators . “None of them required any of these changes – this has got nothing to do with running a railway.”

An RDG spokesperson said the strikes would “inflict further damage on an industry that is receiving up to an additional £54m a week in taxpayer cash following the Covid downturn”.

They warned there would be reduced services from Monday, with the overtime ban’s impact varying across the country, and advised passengers to check before travel.

The wave of action is the fourth week of rolling strikes staged by Aslef since December, after it altered its tactics in a dispute that has lasted almost two years.

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Aslef drivers to hold more train strikes in early May

Only 40 LNER intercity rail services to run on Saturday as train drivers strike

Aslef’s final strike day disrupts rail services in south and east England

Aslef says more train strikes likely as drivers’ pay row continues

Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

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Weekend rail strikes: travel disrupted across Great Britain

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Lunch in Paris, dinner in Lyon: Taking the train from Edinburgh to France's foodie haven

As the channel tunnel celebrates 30 years, it remains one of the best ways to travel flight-free from the uk to europe.

Breakfast in Edinburgh, lunch in Paris and dinner in Lyon, the Channel Tunnel affords a a culinary, flight-free feast. Photo: Simon Williams

On May 6, 1994, the Channel Tunnel was inaugurated, forming a direct link between Britain and mainland Europe and connecting the people of Scotland, England and Wales to a seemingly endless web of railways across the continent and beyond. Three decades on, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a multi-culinary journey to Europe, eating breakfast in the Scottish capital before exploring the foodie haven that is France for lunch and dinner.

Just before 7am on a Saturday morning, a cluster of people with backpacks and trolley bags wait impatiently for the Pret a Manger to open at Edinburgh Waverley Station. I'm one of them – ordering a chocolate croissant – before leaving the cafe to gaze at the departures board through bleary eyes. Bathgate; Dunblane; Tweedbank. It’s wild to think that these regional stations in Scotland are linked by rail to Europe and Asia, all thanks to the Channel Tunnel.

The Edinburgh to London LNER train is the first on my three-leg journey to travel flight-free to Lyon in a single day from the Scottish capital. Sunshine blazes down on the east coast of Scotland as the train skirts the side of towering cliffs between Dunbar and Berwick-upon-Tweed. A denim-blue sea stretches for kilometres on the left-hand side of the train.

The volume in the carriage increases as we stop at Newcastle and speed through the North of England. Day-trippers embark at Darlington, chatting excitedly about the sights of York. Then it’s a straight shoot to London.

We arrive on time at King's Cross and, although an hour and a half may seem excessive for the two-minute walk to St Pancras International, the queue for the Eurostar’s ticket check, airport-style security and passport control eat up the time like a starving man at a banquet. By the time I’m in the packed-out departure lounge, the train before mine – at 12.31pm – is already departing.

The journey on the Eurostar to Paris won’t make any “most scenic train journeys in Europe” list – it’s mostly black tunnel with the odd light whizzing past the window. But it gets you into Paris in a little more than two hours.

Bursting forth from the tunnel after 35 minutes of blackness, the concrete entrance from France is emblazoned with the words “30 years”. Digging for the Channel Tunnel began on both sides in 1987 and the undersea link between England and France officially opened seven years later.

My dad, an avid train enthusiast, was keen to be one of the first through it. I recall taking LeShuttle – the car train from Folkestone to Calais – in 1994, heading over to France and visiting a huge warehouse where we loaded up on frozen snails and other French delights, before returning to England on the same day.

As a seven-year-old, I was severely disappointed that the tunnel was just a long stretch of darkness, not an illuminated glass tunnel like those in an aquarium with schools of fish swirling above our heads, as I had pictured. As an adult – I can balance the visual disappointment with the joy of the culinary delights awaiting on French soil.

Arriving into the Gare du Nord, don't expect to step off the Eurostar and into the Haussmann-style romance of Paris straight from the platform. The train station is in a slightly dubious part of the city, but it's easily connected with a 10-minute journey on the Gare de Lyon. Very soon, I emerge into the bistro-filled, Haussmann-style Paris of postcards and Instagram grids.

The Gare de Lyon boasts one of the most lavish and beautiful train station restaurants in the world, so I’ve allowed enough time for a late lunch at Le Train Bleu, before the final leg of my journey. I can’t stop staring up in awe at the frescoed ceiling with gilded trim, even as my perfectly crisped filet mignon arrives and a trolley of local mature cheese is wheeled up to the table.

The jaunty “ba ba ba ba” of SNCF's (France's national state-owned railway company) announcement declares the platform ready and I board the fast train to Lyon, which takes a little less than two hours. Powering across countryside of vast fields, villages become more and more idyllic in honey-hued prettiness, and church staves pierce the sunset sky.

I arrive in Lyon to a balmy evening, just in time for a nightcap in one of the many cave-like wine bars by the Saone in Vieux Lyon. The Basilique Notre-Dame of Fourviere is illuminated against the night sky, presiding over the old rooftops.

I revel in the fact that I’ve made it all the way to the banks of the Rhone from Scotland without having to go anywhere near an airport. An 8.30pm arrival means I arrive hungry, so I head directly to a rustic cafe-bar on the Soane, to feast on a creamy cheese board and charcuterie platter.

After an overnight stay in the quirky, four-star College Hotel, I step straight into Vieux Lyon to explore the old city streets. The time-worn pavements are sleek with rain, but the weather doesn’t detract from the beauty of the city.

The best way to start the day in France is with a freshly baked pain au chocolat from a local bakery and the buttery layers paired with a rich black coffee, overshadowing my Pret a Manger choice in Edinburgh the day prior.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bouchon Palais Grillet (@bouchonpalaisgrillet)

I wander the streets of Lyon, pop into the marionette museum, where a collection of weird and wonderful stringed characters stare blankly back at me, and poke about in chichi little shops. It seems like every street is home to a vast selection of bouchons – traditional Lyonnaise restaurants serving the delicious, rustic cuisine the city is famous for.

Lyon is home to more than 4,000 restaurants, including 16 with Michelin stars. To work up an appetite, I hike up to the stunning, bone-white facade of Basilique Notre-Dame of Fourviere, visible from nearly every part of the city. The views over the shambling old streets and grand boulevards beyond is worth the climb, and the glorious interior of frescoes and gold inside the basilica offers a quiet moment of respite on my whirlwind tour.

I’ve chosen the traditional Bouchon Palais Grillet for a lunch of pistachio sausage, potatoes dripping with meat juice and rich onion gravy. Full of Lyon’s heartiest gastronomy, I’ve just enough energy to visit the Museum of Cinema for a surreal journey through the special effects of Hollywood and beyond.

Still stuffed from lunch, I opt for a casual bar for dinner, and people-watch as I slowly devour a plate of cured meat, cheese and pâté with plenty of crusty, homemade bread – the perfect ending to a flight-free escape in the foodie haven of France.

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