Scotland Rail Adventure
15 days/14 nights
Max group 12
Lifetime Deposit
15-Day Edinburgh Round Trip
“No restaurant, however brilliantly situated, can give you the constantly changing views that you can see from a railway.” ~ Michael Portillo.
It’s time to see Scotland the way it should be done: from the windows of a train. Journey with us through some of the most scenic landscapes you’ll surely encounter. Circumnavigating the Scottish Highlands on remote commuter lines and restored steam trains, you’ll see lochs and stone-and-thatched villages – many only visible by train.
At each destination, you’ll discover the town’s own memoirs from across the ages; grand architecture, wild and rugged nature and fairytale castles. And get ready to explore some of Scotland’s less-visited spots. With a maximum group size of just 12 people you’ll get access to places that big tour groups simply cannot get into… in between stays at comfortable hotels – and some historic, converted lodgings!
If you happen to have Scottish heritage, no matter how distant, you’ll surely feel the calling of your ancestors.
Trip Breakdown
Trip length
15 days, 14 nights
Dates
Start: 1 August 2024
Finish: 15 August 2024
Last Chance! Trip not running in 2025
Price
$15,399 AUD per person (twin share)
- $3,150 AUD deposit, per person
- 2-week cooling-off period applies
- Lifetime deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips
- Double bed or twin share options – bring a partner or friend
Single Supplement:
- Private supplement available: $2,039 AUD, max 4 spots
Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.
Meeting point
Courtyard by Marriott, Edinburgh
Ending point
Courtyard by Marriott, Edinburgh
Group size
Maximum 12 people.
Inclusions
- Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 welcome cocktail, 1 afternoon tea and 8 dinners
- Arrival and departure transfers
- 8 x train trips, 5 x specialty trains, 1x ferry
- 13 x days private coach on disposal
- 14 nights boutique accommodation
- 1 top-rated Tour Leader throughout
- All listed activities and more!
Exclusions
- International Flights and travel insurance (necessary)
- Visa info summary: At the time of publishing, Australians and New Zealanders generally don’t require a UK Visa if staying less than 6 months as a tourist.
- Additional hotel nights & late checkouts
- Drinks and other personal expenses
- Tip kitty (See FAQs for more information)
Have a group?
Contact us and we can arrange a private departure.
Trip Highlights
Enjoy a first-class, ‘bucket-list’ ride on Scotland’s famous Jacobite steam train
Ride 5 different feature trains
Visit one of the world’s most remote train stations in the Scottish moors
Admire the raw nature on the Isle of Skye
Taste your way through Scotch whiskies and gins
Experience the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Overview
Train Journeys Included
Day 2: Edinburgh – Glasgow Day Trip & Train
Day 3: Edinburgh – The Borders Day Trip by train
Day 5: Edinburgh to Rannoch by train
Day 7: Jacobite Steam Train Trip
Day 8: Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness
Day 9: Inverness to Keith, Keith and Dufftown (Whisky) Train
Day 10: Inverness – Dunrobin Castle Railway Station (Far North Line)
Day 11: Inverness to Aviemore & Cairngorm Mountain Railway
Day 11: Strathspey Railway – return with final stop at Boat of Garten
Day 13: Aberdeen to St Andrews
Day 14: Museum of Scottish Railways & Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
Accommodation Preview
All accommodation on this trip is 4 stars. Here are some examples:
THE MOORINGS HOTEL
COURTYARD BY MARRIOT
AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT INVERNESS
Trip Summary
| Trip Summary | B | L | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Welcome to Edinburgh! | |||
| Day 2 | Glasgow by Train | |||
| Day 3 | The Scottish Borders | |||
| Day 4 | Edinburgh | |||
| Day 5 | Rannoch by Train | |||
| Day 6 | Glencoe | |||
| Day 7 | Jacobite Steam Train and Isle of Skye | |||
| Day 8 | Kyle of Lochalsh | |||
| Day 9 | Keith by Train | |||
| Day 10 | Dunrobin Castle | |||
| Day 11 | Cairngorm Mountain & Strathspey Railway | |||
| Day 12 | Braemar to Aberdeen | |||
| Day 13 | Aberdeen and St. Andrews | |||
| Day 14 | Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway & The Military Tattoo | |||
| Day 15 | Farewell, friends |
Trip Map
Itinerary
Day 1: WELCOME TO EDINBURGH!
You made it!! A welcoming sight when you arrive into Edinburgh will be someone from our team, who will take care of your hotel transfer. You’ll hit the ground running, meeting the rest of the group and your guide during an afternoon orientation of your new hometown for the next four nights. There’ll be plenty of time to get excited about your journey ahead over a wee whisky and dinner at Howies.
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Cocktail and Dinner
Day 2: GLASGOW BY TRAIN
First, transfer to Waverley Station by private vehicle before heading west on a local commuter train. Glasgow isn’t much more than an hour away, but how is your ear at tuning in to the distinctive Glaswegian accent? You’ll find out after a day full of musings – from skateboards to prams, locomotive to tall ship – at the Riverside Museum with your guide. Break for lunch, then head over to the Kelvingrove Museum for viewing everything from arms and armour, to Rembrandts and Dalis!
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Day 3: THE SCOTTISH BORDERS
Get a substantial breakfast in today, as you’re in for a big day on The Borders railway line – with a couple of stops along the way. Stop number one is the intricately beautiful Rosslyn Chapel, a source of legends and theories, including Knights Templars treasures and the Holy Grail. Our second stop, Abbotsford House, was the life-long project of novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. It gives meaning to the phrase ‘a man’s home is his castle’. Our final stop is something more unusual: one of the world’s largest community arts projects. But, rather than spoil it for you, this one is best left for you to appreciate when you get there!
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Day 4: EDINBURGH
Did you know that in 17th-century Edinburgh, venturing outside the city walls wasn’t exactly a walk in the park or worry free… so when living space on the inside ran out, residents didn’t head out – they headed down. This morning you’ll follow your guide underground into the bowels of the city, to explore what life in the depths was like. You’ll be forgiven for thinking that you too have stepped back in time, as you’re swept up in tales of pestilence and murder of the bygone era.
Once you’re back in the daylight, we’ve got a treat for you. It’s time to have a taste of Scotland’s most famous traditional treat – can you guess what it is? Don’t worry, we’ve got a pint of local ale on hand for you to wash it down with if you’re not sure you’re going to like it!
The rest of the day is at your leisure. Kick back at the hotel, or if you fancy a walk – Edinburgh Castle is just a few blocks down.
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Snack
Day 5: RANNOCH BY TRAIN
A magical day ahead: get ready for a journey to Rannoch, one of the most remote stations in Scotland. But first, say farewell to Edinburgh before your next trip – on the renowned West Highland line. As we cross Rannoch Moor you may find yourself wondering how the railway builders coped in this challenging landscape. Rannoch Moor is Scottish wilderness and raw beauty with no signs of humanity, and if you get the feeling you’re going to the middle of nowhere… you’d be right!
Once you’re checked in to the local hotel, you’ll head off to explore Loch Tummel and the encircling forest park, with its nature trails. Next, the group will check out the famous ‘Queen’s View’ viewpoint overlooking the loch, which is one of Scotland’s most photographed scenes. Touristy, yes, but it’s totally worth seeing.
ACCOMMODATION: Loch Rannoch Hotel & Resort (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6: GLENCOE
Today we are giving the trains the day off. Instead, the group will be in a private vehicle with your tour leader as you continue exploring the wild beauty of Scotland. You’ll be going further up into the Highlands to admire what many say is one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in Scotland. With views of endless greenery, your soul can’t help but feel joy at being here.
Once you arrive, it’s champagne all-round to celebrate the group’s gondola ride up the Nevis Range Mountain. Rather civilised, don’t you agree?!
Enjoy a leisurely hotel dinner tonight, because tomorrow you have a full day!
ACCOMMODATION: Moorings Hotel, Banavie (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7: JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN AND ISLE OF SKYE
Possibly the highlight of the trip. The moment has finally arrived to get on board the world-famous Jacobite steam train… the centre piece of Scottish rail travel. And today, it’s first-class all the way!
Get on board and get comfortable with your camera at the ready. And, make sure it’s fully charged, because you’ll most definitely need that battery. You’re about to enjoy a great train journey through the beautiful, dramatic landscapes of western Scotland. Epic views, some of which can only be seen by train. The highlight of our highlight must be crossing the curved Glenfinnan Viaduct with its 21 arches (made famous by the Harry Potter films.) Nevermind its popularity, this could well end up being one of your most talked about travel stories ever – and for good reason.
From train to ferry, your final stop today is the Isle of Skye. A several-centuries-old hotel oozing of character right on Portree Bay is where you’ll sleep tonight. An overnight stay in Skye is the perfect way to enjoy this magical little place. Once the tourists leave on the last ferry, you’ll get to explore the colourful harbour town pretty much to yourselves.
Tonight’s dinner will be rather special – a fine dining experience of local cuisine at a family-run restaurant. A fitting end to a magic-filled day
ACCOMMODATION: The Royal Hotel Portree (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8: KYLE OF LOCHALSH
There are no trains on the Isle of Skye, so it’s lucky we have a vehicle. After breakfast, you’ll head to the ‘must-see’ viewing point for Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls. Sounds touristy, we know, but trust us when we say it’s worth it! Lealt Falls are also in the plan. It’s a steep climb down (and back), but it’s only 100m… and you do have time. Worth it? You bet! We predict hearing a lot of ‘wow’s’ and ‘how beautiful’! (etc).
Next stop, a private gin tasting, because you’ve earned it. Won’t reveal too much about the establishment, but let’s just say that… it could be something out of a fairytale! (And it’s probably not what you’re thinking.)
Then, back on a train – to Inverness, the Highlands’ capital. Your little group will be here for three nights.
ACCOMMODATION: AC Marriott Hotel, Inverness (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 9: KEITH BY TRAIN
Something for the whisky lovers in the group today. (You knew this was coming!) Even the non-converted will find this interesting. You’ll travel to Keith by train, to one of the largest whisky regions in the world with over half of Scotland’s distilleries located here. Homeward bound by coach (and a little merrier) you’ll stop by Knockando – a historic wool mill that’s been operational since the 1700’s.
ACCOMMODATION: AC Marriott Hotel, Inverness (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Day 10: DUNROBIN CASTLE
Today you’re in for a castle experience that will bowl you over. And here’s a story for you… The UK’s most rural rail line, the Far North, was built during Queen Victoria’s reign as The Golden Age of rail travel was just starting to take off. The third Duke of Sutherland built it privately to service his castle as it was quite normal for the family to host 3-400 people for events. Incredibly, the estate has remained in the same family since the early 1300s making it one of Britain’s oldest, continuously lived-in houses. The current Earl (no 25) of Sutherland still resides here.
Explore the perfectly manicured grounds – not a leaf or grass blade out of place – and the castle itself. Maybe the rooms will give you inspiration for some home redecorating? But the castle’s exterior! Resembling a French château with its towering conical spires, this is the stuff of fairy tales and Disney dreams!
ACCOMMODATION: AC Marriott Hotel, Inverness (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast, Highland Afternoon Tea
Day 11: CAIRNGORM MOUNTAIN & STRATHSPEY RAILWAYS
This morning you’ll ride on Scotland’s only mountain railway. The two-kilometre funicular track takes less than 10 minutes to climb Cairngorm Mountain. Keep your fingers crossed for fine weather, because the views from the top are BIG!
Then, just like your trip to Rannoch, you’ll take a train almost to the door of your lodgings! The Boat of Garten Village is along the restored Strathspey line and as the train pulls into the station, you’ll get a sense of British Rail back in the day. If you’re lucky, you might see work being carried out in the sidings too.
Settle into village life with a stroll around the village, and a wee dram or a pint of draft in the pub.
ACCOMMODATION: The Boat Country Inn, The Boat of Garten Village (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 12: BRAEMAT TO ABERDEEN
Many of your trips until now have involved beautiful, historic sites, rugged nature and whisky. Aberdeen is still all of that, but also something quite different. Dubbed the ‘Granite City’ because of its distinct, grey-coloured buildings, it’s also referred to as the ‘oil capital of Europe’ as its economy is tied to offshore oil and gas, and now, renewable energy. All in all, today is a fairly relaxed day where you’ll travel by coach, pop by Fraser Castle and its show-stopping gardens to sneak in some late afternoon relaxation.
Tonight, we have a special evening lined up for you in the former customs house. Watch the ships sailing in and out of Aberdeen Harbour while you dine.
ACCOMMODATION: Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 13: ABERDEEN AND ST. ANDREWS
After a morning spent exploring Aberdeen with your guide, there’s another train vying for your attention and this time it’s the commuter to St Andrews. True it’s a famous golfing town, but did you know that this 15th-century village is home to the oldest university in Scotland? On your guided tour, you’ll stand in awe beneath the towering ruins that remain of the cathedral.
Tonight, back home in Edinburgh – what’s calling you more? The sound of bagpipes carried in the night’s air, or one more thrilling whistle from a steam train? Sleep well, because both are in your cards tomorrow!
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Day 14: BO’NESS & KINNEIL RAILWAY & THE MILITARY TATTOO
This may be your last full day of your trip, but we’ve still got so much in store for you! Spend the morning in Bo’ness, exploring the Museum of Scottish Railways and taking one final twirl on a steam train. This afternoon, there’s some time set aside for packing… and preparing for your gala evening. Dress to impress for your farewell dinner in a private room so lavish, it’s fit for kings and queens. By 9:30pm, you’ll be hearing those bagpipes sing through the night air from your reserved seat at the Military Tattoo — just like we promised!
ACCOMMODATION: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 15: FAREWELL, FRIENDS
The final dinner turns into the last breakfast. You don’t want this to end! But now you have some new friendships and contact details to be exchanged, and it’s bye-bye until next time!
A departure transfer to Edinburgh Airport will be arranged to suit your departure time.
INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner
Frequently Asked Questions
Note: prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change if there is significant variation in the AUD:GBP exchange rate; this trip pricing is based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD:0.0.51 GBP.
A deposit of $3,150 is required to hold your spot. Payment can be made by credit card (fees apply) or bank deposit.
There is a cooling-off period of 2 weeks. (Applicable to all bookings made 110 days in advance.)
We have implemented a ‘lifetime deposit’ guarantee. Deposits are not refundable, but they are transferable at any time, right up until the first day of the trip.
The final balance of the trip is required 95 days in advance of the departure date. Our suppliers require upfront payment well in advance to guarantee availability.
Australians generally don’t require a UK Visa if staying less than 6 months as a tourist.
Most of our trips have a tip kitty because many cultures have interesting and diverse rules when it comes to tips. We’ve found it to be the easiest way to combat over-tipping, under-tipping or having the tip fall into the wrong hands. Our goal is for guests to relax and know that the complexities of tipping are taken care of, on their behalf.
Your trip has been designed by Mat & Lisa, the two cultural adventure experts behind Magnificent Rail.
Magnificent Rail is brought to you by the same team who built Patch Adventures, a boutique women-only adventure company.
Lisa is a travel guidebook author and photographer. Mat’s first rail journey was an epic adventure through Europe at the age of 13 (accompanied by parents of course.) He has since organised highly successful tours to far-flung destinations around the world. Between them, they have put together this well-balanced adventure for you.
The preparation of this trip has taken months and months of work.
Your trip will be led by local experts that have been selected by our team for their knowledge and experience.
So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. There’s no specific exercise planned for this trip, but there will be days when you’ll be walking and spending a lot of time on your feet. Daily activities may include city walks and getting on and off various forms of transport.
Some hotels in Scotland dont have elevators and you may be required to climb a flight of stairs or two to reach your room. Some showers may also be over-the-bath. Porterage is included for two pieces of luggage per person at hotels when it is available, however you will still need to manage your own luggage on occasion for short periods of time.
All activities are optional, meaning that if you don’t feel like it, you can skip it, but it will be impossible to enjoy your trip if you’re not able to do a walking tour for a full afternoon. Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate people requiring walking aids.
Will we be picked up at the airport?
Yes! One of our friendly team will be waiting for you in the public arrivals area of the airport. You’ll transfer directly to the hotel. The transfer is free and in a private and air-conditioned vehicle, which you will only share if there is anyone else on your flight joining the tour.
When should we arrive?
Try to arrive before midday on the start day, although earlier would be recommendable. If possible, come one day early to settle in. We can organise additional hotel nights for you at cost.
Being tour operators (not travel agents), we are not licensed to sell flights. We recommend contacting your trusted local travel agent to book flights, if you’re in need of assistance.
Return flights to Edinburgh typically cost in the range of $1,500-$2,900. Please note that these prices are subject to change and availability, and it’s generally a good idea to book your flights 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
It’s also recommended to check various flight booking platforms for the best deals.
Scotland is not only famous for Scotch Pies, Scottish haggis, neeps and tatties and fried mars bars (yes, really!), it’s well known for fresh seafood, particularly in the coastal port towns you’ll be visiting. There are also renowned foodie regions to enjoy where artisans offer local produce like Angus beef, cheeses, and all manner of freshly-grown seasonal vegetables and fruits.
Whether you are a couple, or a couple of friends, or travelling solo, our Magnificent Rail journeys will appeal to anyone who is inspired by the charm of scenic rail travel and wants to see the best of a country.
Our adventures are designed to appeal to those in their 50s, and 60s and early 70s (but of course, everyone is welcome!) Our clients are curious and active, and want to find the magic of travel again, but with some modern comforts in unique and interesting places along the way. They’ve often avoided tours in the past because they’re not attracted to being herded around in large groups.
They prefer insider perspectives and lingering longer in the right places for a deeper experience.
Send us an email at contact@magnificentrail.com.au or give us a call at +61 482 095 648. A deposit is required to reserve your spot.
