Grand Scottish Rail Adventures

Mon 24th May 27

Departing from the local area this morning, we begin our journey north towards Inverness, with comfortable stops planned along the way.
As we continue through some of the country’s most scenic landscapes, the journey itself offers plenty to enjoy. We anticipate arriving at our hotel in the late afternoon, giving you time to settle in, refresh, and unwind before your evening meal.

Tues 25th May 27

After breakfast today, we’ll board the Jacobite Steam Train for a spectacular journey from Fort William to the fishing port of Mallaig. The route passes close to the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar, and the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis.

Widely considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world, the line is also famously known as the real-life inspiration for the "Hogwarts Express."

The journey covers approximately 41 miles each way (84 miles round trip) and takes around two hours in each direction. On arrival in Mallaig, there will be time to explore the harbour town and enjoy lunch before boarding the return service to Fort William.

This evening, we’ll head back to the hotel for our evening meal.

Wed 26th May 27

After breakfast this morning, we’ll travel to Inverness Marina to embark on a 2-hour wildlife cruise across the Moray Firth. These cruises provide an excellent opportunity to spot bottlenose dolphins, seals, otters, porpoises, and a wide range of seabirds in their natural environment.

As we sail, you’ll also enjoy beautiful coastal scenery along with relaxed, informative commentary covering the area’s wildlife and local history. The vessel offers comfortable seating, indoor cabins, and multiple viewing areas to make the experience enjoyable in all weather conditions. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the Moray Firth is one of Scotland’s premier locations for marine wildlife, making this a memorable and family-friendly excursion from spring through autumn.

After the cruise, there will be free time to explore Inverness at your leisure, perhaps to relax, browse the shops, or enjoy a café. Keep an eye out as well for a glimpse of "Nessie," the legendary Loch Ness Monster from Loch Ness.

Later in the day, we’ll return to the hotel for our evening meal.

Thurs 27th May 27

After breakfast this morning, we travel to Aviemore to experience the Strathspey Railway.

Also known as the Strathspey Mountain Railway, this nostalgic heritage line operates steam-hauled (and occasionally heritage diesel) services from Aviemore to Broomhill, with a stop at Boat of Garten along the way. The route follows part of the historic Highland Railway through the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, passing moorland, forest, and stretches of the River Spey, all framed by impressive Highland scenery.

The full return journey from Aviemore to Broomhill and back takes around 1 hour 40 minutes and covers approximately 20 miles, with opportunities to step off and explore at both Broomhill and Boat of Garten if you wish. It’s a relaxed and atmospheric experience that captures the charm of the golden age of rail travel and offers a wonderful way to take in the Highland countryside.

Later in the day, we return to the hotel for our evening meal.

Fri 28th May 27

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Scotland and the wonderful experiences it has provided as we begin our journey back to Cumbria. Travelling in comfort, we will make regular stops along the way, ensuring a relaxed and pleasant journey home.