Scottish Highlands and Skye by Rail
- Explore Scotland's impressive landscapes, coastlines and forested glens by rail
- Inverness, the rugged beauty of Skye, and the UK's highest mountain - Ben Nevis
- Delve into Scotland's larder; from the freshest seafood to craft gins and single-malt whisky
- The iconic West Highland Line railway and Glenfinnan Viaduct of Harry Potter film renown
- Rich traditions and dramatic tales abound as you uncover ancient history and folklore
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Ride the West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort WilliamYour rail tour of Scotland begins from Queen Street Station in the heart of Glasgow. Journey north to Fort William (4 hours) on the iconic, and incredibly scenic, West Highland Line railway. Glide along the shores of sea lochs towards the 'bonnie banks' of Loch Lomond, and continue north across the dramatically desolate Rannoch Moor. Finally, pass below the impressive flanks of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, to arrive in Fort William.
Fort William is the self-styled outdoor capital of the Highlands, and it's not hard to see why, with its position on the shores of Loch Linnhe below the Mamore Mountains. Spend the evening sampling hearty Highland fare in a cosy pub, or for the ultimate in indulgence dine at the award-winning restaurant of 5* Inverlochy Castle Hotel.
Journey time: 4 hrs
Dora welcomes you with open arms to her lovely guest house, Myrtle Bank. Overlooking Loch Linnhe and just a short stroll from the town centre and its selection of shops, pubs and restaurants, this is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploration.
A warm welcome awaits you at Guisachan House, a family run private guest house. They are situated in an elevated position off the main road with views over Loch Linnhe and surrounding hills only 5 minutes walking distance from Fort William town centre. They have 17 bedrooms and a guest lounge and bar offering wine, beer, spirits and malt whiskey. Wireless Internet is available for the guests. There is some photography dotted around the guest house taken by Phil, one of the owners.
Located in a prime residential area overlooking Loch Linnhe, the guest house is only a 5-minute walk from the shops and restaurants in Fort William town centre. You are assured a warm welcome at this splendid property with ensuite bedrooms.
A real treat is in store today as you continue on the West Highland Line to reach the west coast port of Mallaig. A highlight of the journey is crossing Glenfinnan Viaduct's 21 arches overlooking the Jacobite Monument. The monument marks the landing point of Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745 during the Jacobite uprising. To keep things flexible we include the standard train but it is possible to arrange a magical trip on the Jacobite steam train, otherwise known as the 'Hogwart's Express' made famous in the Harry Potter films. This can be booked directly at West Coast Railways.
The dramatic scenery continues with summits towering over 700m above the tracks as you glide through remote glens. Arrive in the port of Mallaig on the rugged west coast, with views of the isles of Rum and Eigg, and the Silver Sands of Morar. From Mallaig, it's a scenic 40-minute ferry ride to the Isle of Skye where a private taxi transfer (1 hr) will take you the final leg of today's journey to your welcoming accommodation in the colourful harbour town of Portree.
En route, enjoy excellent views of the Isles of Scalpay and Raasay and pass the iconic bridge at Sligachan Hotel, which marks the end of a one or two day traverse of the Cuillin Ridge for the hardy mountaineer. Soon you'll drop down into the sheltered harbour of Portree overlooking the Isle of Raasay.
Journey time: 2 hrs 40 mins
This B&B is located only a five-minute walk from the lively town centre, where there are parks, restaurants, pubs, shops and banks. All guest rooms are en-suite and have blackout curtains, complimentary toiletries and wifi.
Erisco is a most relaxing accommodation on the Isle of Skye, very close to the town centre attractions of Portree. Recently refurbished and renovated, all rooms are en-suite, comfortably furnished and have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. Jessie and John will provide you with a very warm Skye welcome at this lovely property.
The Portree Hotel has recently undergone extensive refurbishment, now offering 24 redesigned en-suite rooms, with all the expected facilities including 32” flat screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryers and irons. The new Antlers Bar and Grill and West Highland Bar have also been tastefully refurbished, this includes wood burning stoves, which creates a cosy and comfortable atmosphere.
As Skye's 'capital' Portree is a bustling town with plenty to see and do. Enjoy a relaxed day of sightseeing; tour local craft shops, take a short walk along the coast or opt for a wildlife-watching boat trip. The adventurous may wish to hike up to the Old Man of Storr, a short bus/taxi ride away, to experience this incredible rock formation. This renowned needle of rock is visible on the horizon from Portree and is well worth a visit, but make sure to bring along your hiking shoes for the 4.5 km walk. Alternatively, we can arrange a small group tour with a local guide exploring the island's sights; from Neist Point to Dunvegan Castle and the Fairy Glen.
There are plenty of dining options in Portree, try fish & chips by the harbour or sample delicious local cuisine in one of the town's great restaurants, then while away the evening listening to traditional music in a lively pub.
This B&B is located only a five-minute walk from the lively town centre, where there are parks, restaurants, pubs, shops and banks. All guest rooms are en-suite and have blackout curtains, complimentary toiletries and wifi.
Erisco is a most relaxing accommodation on the Isle of Skye, very close to the town centre attractions of Portree. Recently refurbished and renovated, all rooms are en-suite, comfortably furnished and have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. Jessie and John will provide you with a very warm Skye welcome at this lovely property.
The Portree Hotel has recently undergone extensive refurbishment, now offering 24 redesigned en-suite rooms, with all the expected facilities including 32” flat screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryers and irons. The new Antlers Bar and Grill and West Highland Bar have also been tastefully refurbished, this includes wood burning stoves, which creates a cosy and comfortable atmosphere.
An early morning transfer whisks you south along the coast, across the Skye Bridge and back to Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland. From here another epic railway journey awaits. Ride the remote Kyle Line to Inverness, Scotland's most northerly city.
Journey time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Ballifeary Guest House is an impressive Victorian Villa with many original features. It is ideally located only a matter of yards from Eden Court Theatre and a short walk from the River Ness where you can find many restaurants, Inverness Castle and the cathedral. Rooms have been refurbished to a high standard offering every comfort you would expect.
Your hosts assure you a warm and friendly 'highland' welcome at the Award-Winning Acorn Guest House. The ambiance throughout this guest house is one of comfort and relaxation - from the moment you walk through the entrance you will discover a warmth and friendliness unrivalled in Inverness. They have Free wi-fi and all rooms have en-suite bathrooms.
Built in 1842, your accommodation is a well-appointed Victorian villa with stunning views over the River Ness and Cavell Gardens. All rooms have TV, hospitality tray, hairdryers and free wireless Internet. They also have available on request bathrobes, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, iron and ironing board and DVD player.
Today presents you with plenty of options, history buffs prepare to be spoiled for choice! Head to Culloden Battlefield - the sombre site of the final 1745 Jacobite Uprising battle. Explore your clan history at the visitor centre's ancestry hub or detour to nearby Cawdor Castle for a stroll in the peaceful gardens, reachable by local bus or a short taxi ride. Lovers of legend should make for the shores of Loch Ness, Scotland's most storied loch, where we can recommend local tours and cruises on the loch. Home to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster ("Nessie"), the loch also has positioned on its shores the 13th-century ruins of Urquhart Castle. On a clear day, there's nothing like a boat trip for taking in the scenery!
Ballifeary Guest House is an impressive Victorian Villa with many original features. It is ideally located only a matter of yards from Eden Court Theatre and a short walk from the River Ness where you can find many restaurants, Inverness Castle and the cathedral. Rooms have been refurbished to a high standard offering every comfort you would expect.
Your hosts assure you a warm and friendly 'highland' welcome at the Award-Winning Acorn Guest House. The ambiance throughout this guest house is one of comfort and relaxation - from the moment you walk through the entrance you will discover a warmth and friendliness unrivalled in Inverness. They have Free wi-fi and all rooms have en-suite bathrooms.
Built in 1842, your accommodation is a well-appointed Victorian villa with stunning views over the River Ness and Cavell Gardens. All rooms have TV, hospitality tray, hairdryers and free wireless Internet. They also have available on request bathrobes, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, iron and ironing board and DVD player.
Enjoy views of the rugged landscape as you ride through Scotland's largest National Park – The Cairngorms. Glimpse Ruthven Barracks as you glide past en route to Perthshire. The barracks were built in the early 1700s to quell the Jacobite rising and occupy an imposing hilltop lookout.
Arrive in the charming Victorian spa town of Pitlochry, your base for the evening. This afternoon we heartily recommend a distillery visit and a couple of drams in either Blair Athol or Edradour distilleries – the latter is said to be the smallest traditional distillery in Scotland. There are also plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs on nearby forest trails or stroll along the banks of the River Garry.
The castle enthusiast may wish to take a 10-minute train journey to Blair Atholl village. Here you will find the gardens and grounds of Blair Castle, ensconced in the forested valleys of Perthshire. Ancestral home to the Clan Murray, this 13th-century castle is home to Europe's only remaining private army, now used solely for ceremonial purposes. If you have had your fill of castles then we recommend exploring the many little shops in Pitlochry before indulging in afternoon tea in Fonab Castle Hotel's sophisticated lounge.
Journey time: 1 hr 30 mins
The Acarsaid is a small family-run 3* hotel in the heart of Pitlochry. Enjoy a great night's stay in one of their 19 warm and welcoming bedrooms. The hotel also has a cosy bar with a great range of whisky.
Tucked away in secluded wooded grounds in the Highland Perthshire town of Pitlochry, this beautiful Victorian house has now been transformed into a 14-bedroom boutique B&B, providing a unique blend of the traditional with the luxury of contemporary design.
On Lower Oakfield – an elevated position with unrestricted views over the town and the Tummel valley and distant views of the South end of the Cairngorm National Park. Derrybeg is approximately 350m from the centre of Pitlochry’s famous High Street and all of the amenities of the town centre. A large Edwardian building with 8 ensuite letting bedrooms, a large dining room and large guest lounge – both with spectacular views over the town and surrounding countryside.
Continue your journey south through the heart of Perthshire as you travel from Pitlochry to Stirling. This small city, known as the 'gateway to the Highlands', was once the country's capital. Today it is presided over by Stirling Castle. The castle dates largely from the 15th and 16th centuries and occupies an imposing position atop an ancient volcanic rock formation. Not just a defensive structure, the castle was also used a royal palace before the union of Scotland and England. Multiple royals were crowned there, including Mary Queen of Scots!
The National Wallace Monument is another iconic landmark that dominates the city's skyline. The monument was built in the mid-1800s to honour the memory of William Wallace, an icon of Scottish independence. The monument overlooks the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge where Wallace's forces defeated the English in the year 1297 as part of a joint effort to oppose the invasion of King Edward I of England.
Journey time: 1 hr 25 mins
Ravenswood Guest House offers comfortable accommodation and is conveniently located close to the train station and city centre. The premise was built in 1890 as a family home and has been converted into a guesthouse with four ensuite bedrooms offering bed and breakfast.
Stay in the recently renovated B&B, situated in the historic city of Stirling, within walking distance of The National Wallace Monument and the city centre. A perfect base to explore Stirling and the wider area.
Located in the heart of Stirling, The Allan Park offers refurbished accommodation in a historic property with a bar, restaurant and coffee house.
After a hearty breakfast begin your final railway journey of the trip to Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh. This cosmopolitan and historic city is the perfect place to spend an extra night or two discovering a different side of Scotland. Speak to our team about adding nights to your trip.
Journey time: 45 mins
This trip has a carbon score of 12kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 12kg is equivalent to 5 bunches of flowers (grown in the Netherlands). Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?Ideal for those seeking an all-encompassing, car-free Scottish adventure taking in the country's highlights, best-loved locations and a smattering of hidden gems. Ride the famous West Highland Line railway, the remote Kyle Line and travel south to Edinburgh via a rail journey through Scotland's largest National Park and the romantic Perthshire countryside. Allow our local expertise to guide you on a hassle-free trip where we have included rail and ferry journeys, along with transfers on the Isle of Skye. Experience Scottish hospitality at it's finest, not just at your accommodations, but as you tour the sights and meet the local historian en route.
Discovery | Think of it as a ‘local’s guide’ to the best of the region. It includes a combination of activity and transportation to give you the freedom to explore and cover more ground at your own pace. We do all the research and organisation for you. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy!
Rail and Hike | Perfectly planned itineraries discovering the best of a destination both by train and on foot.
Solo Travellers
Overnight in hand-picked small hotels, B&B's and guesthouses, all of which have been chosen to ensure you experience warm Scottish hospitality at its best! We regularly use the properties listed in the itinerary but may use alternative options if these are unavailable.
Single Rooms
This holiday is available to solo travellers but as all our tours are priced per person based on two sharing there is a single supplement payable to cover the additional costs. If you require single rooms within your party we will, of course, try to accommodate your request subject to availability.
Meals
Breakfast is included each morning and normally consists of a continental buffet with tea and coffee, fresh fruits, yoghurt, cereals, eggs and bread with jams. Often also on the menu are cooked options like freshly made porridge, a traditional cooked Scottish breakfast and smoked fish with scrambled eggs.
We don't include lunch and dinner so you are free to choose from the available options. Your information pack includes details and recommendations of convenient lunch stops, cosy cafes and restaurants along the way. The food scene in Scotland has improved significantly over the past few decades, so now you'll find a range of high quality, varied options with everything from award-winning fish and chips to intimate Michelin-listed dining experiences, and casual restaurant menus showcasing delicious locally-sourced produce.
Additional Nights
You can add additional nights wherever you please along the route. Of course we highly recommend additional nights in the capital city of Edinburgh at the end of your trip. If arriving from further afield you may like to add a night in Glasgow at the start of the trip also.
Recommended Reading
If you would like more information on the route please see our recommendation below:
- Lonely Planet Scotland
- Train travel on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 & 8
- Ferry from Mallaig to Armadale (Skye) on day 2
- Taxi transfers as per your itinerary (days 2 & 4)
- Detailed information pack brimming with our local knowledge
- Our daily recommendations for places to see and visit
- Our daily recommendations for top places to eat and drink
- 24/7 Emergency support from our UK office
- 7 Nights in 3-4* B&B's, guesthouses and small hotels
- 7 Breakfasts
- Travel to Glasgow or from Edinburgh
- Accommodation in Edinburgh or Glasgow
- Entrance to attractions/historic sights
- Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
- Personal equipment
- Travel insurance (required)
- Additional nights at the start/end or along the route
- Guided small group tour of the Isle of Skye on day 3
You can start this tour on any day of the week from March to November, subject to availability. The busiest times of the year are around Easter and May when accommodations fill up quickly, so book as early as possible if you are planning to travel then. If you travel before Easter, and after mid-October it is worth noting that some attractions may either be closed, have limited access (i.e. castle interiors may be closed but the gardens open), or may open later and close a little earlier in the day. We always recommend checking the links in our information pack for up-to-date opening times to avoid disappointment.
During the shoulder season - March to early April and after mid-October - the Scottish weather tends to be more unpredictable and is often colder and rainier. However, attractions and popular viewpoints will generally be quieter.
Scotland enjoys a temperate climate, meaning it's relatively mild all year, except in winter when temperatures dip below 0 degrees Celsius and it snows regularly in the Highlands. The Highlands are renowned for variable weather so you should be prepared for everything; from 'dreich' days (a Scottish word for rainy days that are a bit bleak) to days with beautiful blue skies and warmer weather. Whatever the weather it tends to be breezy so spare layers are always recommended.
From the end of April to October average daily temperatures vary from 9-15 degrees Celsius. Monthly rainfall varies from 10-16 mm per month on average. Generally, May to July are the driest and mildest months, but exploring later in the year from September to October is pleasant in cooler temperatures and the autumnal scenery as the leaves begin to change colour is spectacular. Alternatively, to see the purple heather blooming on the hillsides the best time to travel is from late July to early September.
Your trip begins in the well-connected city of Glasgow with good links across the UK, Europe and beyond by flying into either Glasgow or Edinburgh international airports. Glasgow and Edinburgh are just over an hour apart by road and it doesn't take much longer to travel between the two by an express bus or train service. If you are driving or traveling from further afield, we recommend an extra night in Glasgow at the start of your trip so you can make the most of your first day of sightseeing.
If arriving in Glasgow by public transport, please see the excellent Traveline Scotland website for timetables and fares and more information regarding public transport in Scotland.
By Air: Located 8 miles west of Glasgow, the international airport is served by routes from around the UK, Europe and beyond. A regular shuttle bus service runs from the city centre to the airport.
By Rail: Glasgow is connected to central Scotland and England by good rail links. See the Scot Rail website for Scottish locations and National Rail for UK-wide locations.
By Bus: Services from UK destinations are operated by National Express. Services from Scottish destinations are operated by Scottish Citylink.
By Road: Glasgow is served by an excellent motorway network. It's a 1h 15m drive from Edinburgh to Glasgow on the M8 motorway. Newcastle is approximately a 2 hr 50 mins drive from Glasgow, and Manchester, Birmingham and London are 3hr 40 mins, 5 hours and 7 hours respectively. If arriving in Folkestone from France and the Channel Tunnel it's an 8 hour drive via the M20, M40, M6 and M74 motorways. However, please note that if you plan to drive to Glasgow with your own vehicle, please note that parking and leaving your car in the city could be expensive as monitored carparks aren't common outside airports.
Your trip ends in Edinburgh, which is easily accessible from across the UK via great public transport and road links, or from Europe and beyond by flying into either Glasgow or Edinburgh international airports. If continuing your onward journey by public transport we recommend breaking the journey by adding an extra night in Edinburgh. For specific information regarding public transport in Scotland, please see the excellent Traveline Scotland website for timetables and fares.
By Air: Located 8 miles east of the city of Edinburgh, the international airport is served by routes from around the UK and the world. There are regular shuttle bus and tram services running from the airport into the city centre, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. There is also a taxi rank outside the airport to take people into the city centre.
By Rail: Edinburgh is also connected to central Scotland and England by good rail links. See the Scot Rail website for Scottish locations and National Rail for UK-wide locations.
By Bus: Services from UK destinations are operated by National Express. Services from Scottish destinations are operated by Scottish Citylink.
By Road: It is a 1h 15m drive from Glasgow on the west coast to Edinburgh on the M8 motorway. Newcastle is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Edinburgh, and Manchester and Birmingham, 4 and 6 hours respectively.
This trip does not include luggage transport, as you carry your luggage with you on the train or coach.
On confirmation of your booking, you will receive a personalised itinerary and comprehensive information pack. This carefully curated pack, designed with our own local knowledge and expertise, will include notes on the must-see places and attractions to stop at en route, and our suggestions for the best places to eat and drink.
Taxi Transfers
The Isle of Skye can get extremely busy over the peak summer months and there are only a few transfer companies available on the Island. At peak times, your taxi transfers as detailed in your itinerary may be shared with other Macs Adventure customers. This avoids long wait times in the morning and afternoons and ensures we are being as environmentally friendly as possible.
Online Documents
At Macs Adventure we care about the environment! We’re taking action to minimize the impact we have by converting the majority of our tour documentation for online delivery.
On this tour, all your detailed tour information will be digitally delivered. You will have access to this documentation via “My Account” on our website.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Yes, of course! We can add extra nights not just in Glasgow and Edinburgh at the start/end of the route, but anywhere along the route. Speak to your Destination Specialist who will be able to recommend where to spend extra time depending on your interests.
We don't include any lunches or dinners, so you are free to choose from nearby options. In your trip information pack we provide daily recommendations on places to eat and drink en route and at your overnight destination.
On confirmation of your booking, you will receive an information pack including a day-by-day itinerary, detailing our recommendations for attractions and sights to stop off at. This will include links to websites with up-to-date opening times of attractions.
WHY MACS?
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At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided walking or cycling adventure.
This is active travel led by you.
You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.
We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.
We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.
Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.