Rail & Hike Scotland

With a few itineraries to choose from we have pulled out some of the at-a-glance highlights to help you choose the trip that is right for you.

1) The Highlands & Isle of Skye

• The best choice for a week long bucket-list walking holiday - take in those truly classic Scottish sights from Blair Castle in the forests of Perthshire to Loch Ness and stunning walks on the Isle of Skye.
• Ride the West Highland Line railway on the Jacobite steam train and cross Glenfinnan viaduct, made famous in the Harry Potter films. 

2) Luxury Highlands & Isle of Skye

• Following the same route as above and complete with all the classic route stop offs, but think overnighting in luxurious accommodations, some included dinners, a wonderful private guided tour of Skye, and private transfers. 

3) Edinburgh to Inverness

• Best for those on a shorter timescale, at only 4 nights, this trip really packs a punch!
• Begin in the historic and cosmopolitan capital city of Scotland, spend two nights in Perthshire and explore the castle and whisky distilleries of the charming villages of Blair Atholl and Pitlochry. The trip continues with a scenic rail journey through the Cairngorms National Park to arrive in Inverness where you can walk the Caledonian Canal, visit Loch Ness, or Culloden Battlefield.

4) West Highland Line

• Sample the highlights of Scotland's west coast, all while journeying north on one of the world's best-ranked railways - the West Highland Line.
• Not only will you walk sections of the famed West Highland Way trail, but you'll hike in the forests of Glen Nevis in the shadow of Scotland's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, all before riding the Jacobite steam train over Glenfinnan Viaduct to the seaside village of Mallaig. 

5) Skye Highs Short Break

• In just 5 days immerse yourself in the wild landscapes of Skye, overnight in the colourful harbour town of Portree in a cosy B&B, and no west coast Rail & Hike would be complete without a trip over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Line railway.  
• If part of a longer trip in Scotland this tour is perfect for adding onto the end of your walking holiday on the West Highland Way trail.

6) Best of Skye In Style

• Ideal for those with just a few days to spare, or as part of a longer trip, this 5 day walking holiday begins in easily accessible Glasgow, before you find yourself being whisked off by train and ferry to the Isle of Skye to overnight in stylish accommodations with delicious dining options. 
• In addition to beautiful coastal walks, discover the island via a private and customisable guided day tour stopping at Talisker Distillery, Neist Point, the Fairy Glen and more!

If you have specific questions regarding our range of Rail & Hike trips please get in touch with one of our knowledgeable specialists. 

Q: When is the best time to travel in Scotland?

A: Spring and autumn are often considered to be the best seasons for walking in the Scottish Highlands. Temperatures are cooler, ideal for daily walking and tend to be drier than summer which can be a mixed bag. If you are lucky it could be dry and warm, but you are more likely to get dry days in spring and autumn. Another advantage of traveling in the spring and autumn is that the trails and visitor attractions will be quieter than during the peak tourist season in summer.   

Q: Will I need a map and compass?

A: The trips have detailed route notes, points of interest and maps available digitally on our easy to use app. Once yo have booked you can download our app, which has the trips pre-loaded. 

Q: Are midges a major problem?

A: There is no denying that midges (a small swarming insect similar to a north American gnat) can be a nuisance in the summer when there is no breeze. They can bite if they find bare skin but they do not cause illness. Some people can suffer from itchy bites though.

The worst time for midges in Scotland is June to August on warmer humid days. The best solution is to carry midge repellent, and a midge hood if you are usually susceptible to bad insect bites, with you. See our Say Goodbye to the Midges blog for repellent ideas.