Scotland by railway vacation
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Our bestselling tour of Scotland uses expert local knowledge to let you ditch the car in favour of ferries and world-famous trains. Rail tracks take you where the roads cannot, gifting views of absolute wilderness from your cabin window.
West Highland Line Isle of Skye Train from Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness Pitlochry The Pass of Killiecrankie gorge Edinburgh
Price
£1395To£1545 excluding flights
More info
Price (per person) based on 2 adults sharing a room for 7 nights in our hand-picked selection of small 3 & 4 star hotels.
Dinner included for your final night.
Other nights include breakfast.
Vacation includes rail, ferry and taxi travel as described.
Dinner included for your final night.
Other nights include breakfast.
Vacation includes rail, ferry and taxi travel as described.
Description of Scotland by railway vacation
Map
![](https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/wp-content/media/2016/03/round-scotland-by-train.jpg)
Price information
Departure information
This trip can be tailor made from April to the end of October.
Travel guides
Train is, without a doubt, the best way to explore Scotland. Relaxed, and wonderfully scenic as it takes you through landscapes unscarred by roads, ra...
There’s an incredible sense of space in the Scottish Highlands, whether you’re cruising across a misty loch, pausing for breath on a snowy Cairngorms ...
Vacation information
Our top tip:
Summer is lovely for this trip, but don’t overlook the magnificent seasonal changes of autumn. With roaring fires and hot toddies to boot.
Trip type:
Tailor made.
Solos:
Solo travelers welcome. Surcharge for single room.
Accomm:
Small 3 and 4 star hotels.
Included:
1 night, dinner, b&b, rail and ferry fares, taxis as necessary, first class ticket on Jacobite Express.
Dietary requirements:
We can cater for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Reviews
94 Reviews of Scotland by railway vacation
4.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed on 11 Oct 2023 by James Knowles
I loved it and now that I'm home, I'm wishing I were still there. Read full reviewReviewed on 25 May 2023 by siegfried goossens
The most memorable part of the vacation was the Jacobine train. Read full reviewReviewed on 18 May 2023 by Wayne Jackson
The accommodation was excellent, all the trains and transfers were on time and well organised. Hosts and drivers were thoughtful and friendly. The meal at Spean Bridge was excellent! We also enjoyed the tour of the Isle of Skye. Read full reviewReviewed on 26 Oct 2022 by Sharon Williams
Wonderful. Had great support all along the way. Great suggestions of things to do and see. Read full reviewReviewed on 19 May 2022 by Dave Harris
Excellent, but the cold, windy and grey weather took the shine off it Read full reviewReviewed on 04 May 2022 by Patrick McGinn
Fabulous...The journey from Glasgow to Spean Bridge was so scenic and although long, the time just passed. The Old Pines was lovely and the evening meal exceptional. Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite steam train was another beautiful journey... Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Oct 2022 by Pete Holdcroft
It was a very interesting experience. The trains worked very well and we would definitely use this mode of transport again for a vacation Read full reviewReviewed on 22 Jun 2021 by Chris Saunders
For us this has been a unique experience. We travelled up on the Caledonian sleeper and had some relaxing train journeys through beautiful countryside. Our first vacation in the UK for many years and very rewarding. Read full reviewReviewed on 28 Sep 2021 by David Lomita
Isle of Skye. Part of that was luck as we did a tour with an amazing guide with a good group. And we had a fascinating cab driver for a long ride. Other good parts but that was the most fun. Read full reviewReviewed on 21 Sep 2021 by Anne Roberts
All of it was really lovely and the scenery was breathtaking Read full reviewReviewed on 16 Sep 2021 by Mary Keating
The spectacular rail journeys. The two wonderful hotels on Skye and at Spean Bridge. The Skye tour. Read full reviewReviewed on 28 Jun 2021 by Tracy Ross
Very good - a good introduction to the Highlands of Scotland. Read full reviewReviewed on 29 Oct 2019 by Della Yaroshko
The most memorable part of the vacation was the Isle of skye. Read full reviewReviewed on 03 Oct 2019 by Elizabeth Adamson
All the train journeys were memorable but the favorite was the trip from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh - weather was beautiful and scenery stunning. Read full reviewReviewed on 29 Sep 2019 by Ralph Lobatto
It was all great but the Isle of Skye was memorable. Read full reviewReviewed on 27 Sep 2019 by Nancy Fellows
We enjoyed scenic Isle of Skye and our ride on the Jacobite train. Read full reviewReviewed on 27 Sep 2019 by Michael Burt
The most exciting part of the trip was the sunset at Ben Nevis. Read full reviewReviewed on 25 Sep 2019 by Catherine Burns
We took a long walk through the farmland and were gifted with a picture perfect rainbow hovering over the coastal lighthouse. Every detail went smoothly. Read full reviewReviewed on 24 Sep 2019 by Peter and Janet Bennett
Travel by train was excellent Best way to see the environment and better for the environment Read full reviewReviewed on 11 Sep 2019 by Christie Craig
Every day was filled with incredible scenery. Read full reviewReviewed on 06 Sep 2019 by Barb De Wit
The most memorable part of the vacation was the Isle of Skye day tour Read full reviewReviewed on 06 Sep 2019 by Michael Springford
The most memorable part of the vacation was the sunrise over the hills above Loch Carron from our bedroom window Read full reviewReviewed on 06 Sep 2019 by Susan Dean
The most memorable part of the vacation was the people of Scotland. They are wonderful! Read full reviewReviewed on 03 Sep 2019 by Cecille Marsh
Great way to see the Highlands. Very efficiently planned tour. Read full reviewReviewed on 20 Aug 2019 by Jan Rimerman
The scenery & meeting the people in the B & B's were the highlight of the vacation. Read full reviewReviewed on 07 Aug 2019 by Hilda Reinauer Stark
We enjoyed the whole train experience, Skye was the most interesting and not to miss. Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Aug 2019 by Sue Huwitt-Dutton
The steam train journey travel was the most memorable part of the trip. Read full reviewReviewed on 07 Jul 2019 by Ulrika Bjorklund
The most memorable part of the vacation was experiencing the beauty of Scotland. Every destination was different and offered different sites, points of interest. Read full reviewReviewed on 23 Jun 2019 by Barb Cameron
We had a driver for a day in Perthshire who showed us so much and told us so much about the area. We just loved it. Read full reviewReviewed on 05 Jun 2019 by Christine Helfrich
The Isle of Skye was the most memorable part of our vacation. Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Jun 2019 by veronica ward
Seeing a lot of different areas in Scotland was exciting. We enjoyed the history of the country from Edinburgh to Culloden battlefield. The places were clean and the people friendly. Read full reviewReviewed on 30 May 2019 by Kent Handel
The whole tour was great, very well organized. We really enjoyed going around the Isle of Skye. Read full reviewReviewed on 13 May 2019 by David Gannon
The beautiful scenery and the friendly and interesting people we met were the most memorable parts of our vacation. Read full reviewReviewed on 11 May 2019 by Ken Hastings
Touring the Isle of Skye with Roddy MacDonald was memorable. Read full reviewReviewed on 05 Oct 2019 by Dennis Allen
Overall we enjoyed the highlands as they are spectacular in their beauty. Read full reviewReviewed on 06 Aug 2019 by Connie Wightman
Rannoch Moor, Staffa was the most memorable part of the vacation. Read full reviewReviewed on 25 Jul 2019 by Karen Schumacher
The most exciting part of the vacation was visiting Isle of Skye Read full reviewReviewed on 11 Jun 2019 by Alan Dulwich
The Isle of Skye with its variety of scenery was the most memorable. Read full reviewReviewed on 05 Nov 2018 by Georgia Marshall
All the small, locally owned hotels were great, the people were friendly and helpful. Also, we met so many interesting and nice people on the trains... It was exceptional. Read full reviewReviewed on 25 Oct 2018 by Tim Hellings
Excellent in terms of enjoyability and overall organisation of the package Read full reviewReviewed on 26 Sep 2018 by Terry Bazeley
(We loved)… Being able to enjoy the views from the train without having to drive! Read full reviewReviewed on 01 Sep 2018 by Clare Wee
I had a splendid time, and though I might do a few things differently next time around, overall, it was a huge success. Read full reviewReviewed on 22 Jun 2018 by Jan Pollard
Half day tour of Skye with Gordon McIntyre from Kyles Taxis was most memorable Read full reviewReviewed on 14 Jun 2018 by John Moug
One of my the best vacation experiences we have had. As independent travelers we enjoyed having organised transport and accommodation but still moving independently. Read full reviewReviewed on 03 Jun 2018 by Lisa Boner
The great way to travel, by train!! So relaxing and we met great people. Then we got to spend time on our own at the different stops. Unlike a bus tour where you must go to specific places and be back at a specific time, we were able to explore the towns on our terms. Read full reviewReviewed on 29 May 2018 by Anna Cheetham
Great scenery, train trips and wonderful weather. Read full reviewReviewed on 29 Sep 2018 by Patricia Clark
8/10..Pack light. There is so much moving around with your suit case yes Read full reviewReviewed on 14 Sep 2018 by Stephanie Zimmermann
The overall beauty of Scotland was awesome. The Isle of Skye hotel had a great restaurant and pub. The Blair Athol Castle in Pitlochry was really special. Read full reviewReviewed on 15 Jun 2018 by Jerry Shields
The people of Scotland were warm and welcoming... The land is beautiful in its own way and well worth a tour Read full reviewReviewed on 14 May 2018 by Donna Fahey
The most memorable moment was the train ride from Inverness to Glasgow. We liked it a lot. The breakfasts were delicious, the service was great and taxis and trains were always on time. Read full reviewReviewed on 26 Apr 2018 by Julia Kitchen
The highlight was time on the Isle of Skye - it is a very special place Read full reviewReviewed on 15 Oct 2017 by Bruce Bogue
The most memorable was staying in 200+ year-old homes, which have been meticulously maintained. Read full reviewReviewed on 09 Oct 2017 by Amanda Wright
Skye is stunning and the trip on the Jacobite Express was a lovely afternoon. Read full reviewReviewed on 25 Sep 2017 by Mary Ann Bindbeutel
Of course as always it is really the people you meet that make the journey, Scotland did not disappoint. Everyone was exceedingly friendly, helpful and a delight. Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Aug 2017 by Donald Ross
The most memorable part was the visit to the Isle of Skye where my ancestors came from, and our stay at Kinloch Lodge there, with outstanding food prepared by their chef. Read full reviewReviewed on 26 Jun 2017 by Steven Daish
The scenery and the stunning views were the highlight. An excellent trip - thanks!! Read full reviewReviewed on 21 Jun 2017 by Patrick IRLINGER
It was an excellent stay. Beautiful landscapes, Scots charming, good quality of restaurants and guest houses. Not or few traffic jams in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Read full reviewReviewed on 13 Jun 2017 by Judith Innamorato
Our vacation was exceptional, we enjoyed every aspect of the trip and the effortless planning was most enjoyable. Read full reviewReviewed on 10 Jun 2017 by Maren Child
The Jacobite Express was terrific and we had really good seats. The pub at our accommodation in Skye was great fun and good food. Best meals at Killiecrankie Hotel. Read full reviewReviewed on 23 Oct 2017 by Alison Sawyer
The most memorable was our private tour of the Isle of Skye. Good way to see a lot of Scotland without driving. Read full reviewReviewed on 01 Oct 2017 by Susan Telfer
Our vacation was well planned and ran very smoothly. The accommodation was of really good quality and we most enjoyed our visit to Pitlochry and Glasgow. Read full reviewReviewed on 20 Sep 2017 by Caroline Heathcote
Train travel is so relaxing although it does perhaps preclude some of those unplanned and impetuous detours! Read full reviewReviewed on 03 Aug 2017 by Peter Bates
We enjoyed all of the vacation... Isle of Sky was probable the most memorable Read full reviewReviewed on 04 Jul 2017 by Elizabeth Winney
Most enjoyable part was our two days on Isle of Skye. Very beautiful and dramatic scenery! Very enjoyable! Read full reviewReviewed on 28 Jun 2017 by Roger North
The most memorable moments was breakfasts, some of the greetings we got and the dinner on the last night. Add to that some fantastic scenery and the stream train. Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Jun 2017 by Derrick Horne
The highlights was probably the steam journey to Fort William and the and the final days journey over Rannock Moor the whole vacation lived up to our expectations. Read full reviewReviewed on 13 May 2017 by Marie Isabelle Cremers Tavares
The most memorable was Isle of Skye and Viewfield House. Well organised, interesting places choosen, lovely hotels. Read full reviewReviewed on 07 May 2017 by Carol Hartnett
The highlight was traveling by train thorough the moors and mountains of Scotland in the comfort of the train. We travel extensively and this rated as one of our top 3 vacations. Read full reviewReviewed on 31 Mar 2017 by Arthur Bleasdale
The most memorable was walking up to the Old Man of Storr. Amazing views. Top class. Read full reviewReviewed on 21 Sep 2016 by April Maxwell
The entire trip was absolutely breath-taking and well planned. The highlight was Killiecrankie, beautiful scenery and magnificent food. Read full reviewReviewed on 28 Jul 2016 by Bruce Hemingway
Excellent enjoyed every minute so keep up the great service to visitors to your country. Read full reviewReviewed on 21 May 2016 by Doris Burke
This was a first-class tour which is very well thought out and planned. The trains were comfortable and a great way to travel about. Read full reviewReviewed on 23 Sep 2015 by Carol Evans
Excellent. We loved everything about it except that it was over too soon! Read full reviewReviewed on 27 Sep 2015 by Kathy McLeod
Excellent. Accommodations, hosts, meals, and travel arrangements all exceeded our expectations. Read full reviewReviewed on 07 Sep 2015 by Dimity Lawrence
Excellent ... so easy, comfortable and enjoyable. Read full reviewReviewed on 12 Jul 2015 by Alan Warr
Very good indeed. In general and excellent vacation and a good way to see Scotland. Read full reviewReviewed on 27 Jun 2015 by Lynn Furness
It was very enjoyable and I recommend it for train enthusiasts. Read full reviewReviewed on 24 Jun 2015 by Valerie Deunk
Simply ONE OF THE BEST vacations that I have every been on Read full reviewReviewed on 08 Jul 2014 by Michael Rose
Excellent...particularly the West Highland Line Read full reviewReviewed on 18 Jun 2014 by Joy Wessels
Excellent vacation with wonderful hotels and superb organization, the sun followed us around Scotland ! Read full reviewResponsible Travel
As the pioneers of responsible tourism, we've screened this (and every) vacation so that you can travel knowing we've worked to maximise the benefits of your vacation to local people and places, and minimise any negative impacts.
Planet
We are continually increasing our range of public transport vacations for those who actively choose low-carbon transport. This vacation has been carefully-designed to allow you to explore much of Scotland, from the cities of Glasgow, Inverness and Edinburgh to rural Perthshire and even the magical Isle of Skye without a car. It takes you beyond the end of the train lines, through the careful addition of short taxi transfers. We recommend that you explore further on foot or by public transport in each local area. The accommodation chosen takes you a little off the beaten tourist track, so that you will have a more authentic experience. In each place, there are plentiful local walks, and some short trips available by local bus - we will provide suggestions and recommendations in your vacation pack, but do check the most up-to-date information with the staff at your hotel.We take the utmost care to choose local business partners who share our values and commitment to sustainable travel, preferring to work with locally-owned and managed businesses wherever possible. Your hotel in Spean Bridge is committed to home-cooked organic food, while the country house hotel in Perthshire has its own kitchen garden and prides itself on making the most of locally-sourced produce. We build long-term relationships based on mutual trust with our business partners, with a joint commitment to excellent customer satisfaction and care for the environment.
People
For us, true sustainability means promoting and helping to maintain a way of life, where the economic benefit from tourism can make a genuine difference. That’s why we work almost exclusively with local, family-run businesses, not with large corporate organisations. We build close and lasting relationships with our business partners, based on mutual trust and an unerring commitment to customer satisfaction. We carefully select these partners to ensure that they share our values of sustainable and responsible travel. For example, the small hotel featured in this vacation on the Isle of Skye is based in the heart of a Gaelic community, and all staff are encouraged to learn the language, whatever their original native tongue.All of our vacation packs include "Robert's Recommendations", our specific tips on places to visit, places to eat and places to shop locally, all of which have been researched by us, and many of which are off-the-beaten track.
We are corporate members of the John Muir Trust, an organisation committed to protecting the wild land of the Scottish highlands and islands.
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