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Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands

Tour/Cruise

Edinburgh → Edinburgh

Discover picturesque Scotland by rail and traverse its breathtaking highlands. Cruise to the Isle of Mull, discover Loch Linnhe and visit Loch Ness. Take exciting journeys along some of the world’s most incredible railways, including the West Highland Line and the Kyle Line, and ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train.

The Travelmarvel operated 10 Day Scotland by Rail tour is available in 2027 (refer to EUTLHT10).

Highlights
  • Join The Jacobite steam train for a return journey to and from the harbour town of Mallaig along the final stretch of the West Highland Line, travelling past lochs, moorland and mountain scenery, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

  • No visit to Scotland is complete without experiencing the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, famed for the legendary monster said to dwell in its depths. Hear the myths and history during a scenic cruise and visit nearby Urquhart Castle.

  • Enjoy the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish fare. You’ll also listen to a chorus of bagpipes and drums during a Scottish-themed evening to mark the end of your journey.

From price

$8,095
$7,595
Price per person, twin share
Number Of Days
9
Start Location
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
End Location
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Age Range
Avg. 45+
Group Size
10 to 45
Tour Style
Premium
Tour Themes
No specific theme
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

Price per person, twin share
Start End Availability Price
05 Jul 2026 13 Jul 2026 Limited $8,395
$7,895
04 Oct 2026 12 Oct 2026 Available $8,095
$7,595

Itinerary details

Day 1 - Arrive Edinburgh

Today you will arrive in Scotland’s much-loved capital, Edinburgh. Discover its fascinating history, stunning beauty, and friendly locals. Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel, ideally situated close to Waverley Station.

Day 2 - Edinburgh, West Highland Line,Fort William

All aboard for Glasgow this morning, before changing trains for a journey on one of the world’s most incredible railway lines, the West Highland Line. Travel along a hillside ledge overlooking Gare Loch before entering the spectacular Highlands, an idyllic, remote and untouched landscape. The incredible route skirts the western banks of Loch Lomond and climbs quickly from Crianlarich to Upper Tyndrum and wild Rannoch Moor, a dramatic region of peat bogs, streams and ancient forests that are only visible from the comfort of your train. On arrival at Fort William, transfer to your hotel.

Day 3 - Fort William, Isle of Mull

Venture to the town of Oban, where you’ll board a ferry and cruise to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. As you journey through the small islands and across to Mull, the incredible picture-postcard views are truly awe-inspiring—rugged coastlines, hills rising sharply from the water's edge, and the endless greens, purples, and browns of the moorland, with jagged, exposed rock faces.

On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Maclean Clan, perched magnificently on the island’s shoreline. Afterward, spend some time in the island's colourful capital. Wander the charming port and seek out its sheltered bay, where, according to legend, one of the Spanish Armada ships sank in 1588, its cargo of gold lost to the depths.

Later, return to your hotel for the evening.

Day 4 - Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase, Loch Linnhe

Today you’ll travel by coach to Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive set of eight locks operated by a team of at least three lock keepers. Situated on the Caledonian Canal, the 22-ton lock gates were originally hand-powered but are now operated by hydraulics. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours to pass from one end of the staircase to the other, where water overcomes gravity and nature to climb the hillside. From here, discover the picturesque waters of Loch Linnhe and set off on a cruise. Later, pass the stunning mountain landscapes of Glenc before returning to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner and whisky tasting.

Day 5 - Jacobite Steam Train*, Inverness

After free time for lunch in Mallaig, continue by coach through the picturesque countryside to Glenfinnan, a spot famous for its dramatic views and historic monument. Then, travel onward to Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. After some leisure time for lunch, board the Jacobite steam train for a scenic return journey to Fort William. From there, enjoy a comfortable coach ride back to Inverness.

Insider Experience – Jacobite Steam Train

Join the Jacobite Steam Train for a return journey to  and from Mallaig on the final leg of the West Highland Line. 

Day 6 - Inverness, Loch Ness

This morning, you’ll travel to the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, as famous for the elusive ‘monster’ that allegedly swims in its depths as for its natural beauty. Later, return by coach to Inverness, and enjoy some time at leisure.   

Insider Experience – Loch Ness

You can’t visit Scotland without perusing the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, famous for the elusive ‘monster’ that is said to swim in its depths. Hear the myth and mystery of Loch Ness and its monster during a cruise.

Day 7 - Inverness, Kyle Line, Eilean Donan Castle

Today, experience one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe – the Kyle Line. Enjoy countless photo opportunities as you wind through wooded hillsides and over sparse moors, climbing over the highlands and past charming loch-side and seaside towns. Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh, the end of the line, located across a short stretch of water from the Isle of Skye. Afterwards, make a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a tiny island in Loch Duich.

Day 8 - Inverness, Edinburgh

Leaving Inverness behind this morning, you’ll travel south by rail through the Cairngorms and via the towns of Aviemore and Kingussie, as well as the burgh of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh. Transfer from the railway station to your hotel.  

Insider Experience – Scottish Farewell

This evening, enjoy the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish fare. You’ll also listen to a chorus of bagpipes and drums during a Scottish-themed evening to mark the end of your journey.  

Day 9 - Depart Edinburgh

Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport today.

Frequently Asked Questions

This premium tour offers a unique way to experience Scotland by combining breathtaking rail journeys, such as the West Highland Line and the Kyle Line, with scenic cruises and historic visits. You will get to ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train, explore the Isle of Mull, and visit the legendary Loch Ness, all while enjoying traditional Scottish fare and cultural experiences like a bagpipe and drum performance.
This tour is designed for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, railway history, and Scottish culture. Those who enjoy a mix of relaxing train rides, boat cruises, and visits to historic castles and monuments will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.
The pros include a comprehensive itinerary covering the Highlands, the use of iconic steam and rail lines, and curated experiences like whisky tasting and traditional dinners. A potential con is that the tour involves frequent transfers between trains, coaches, and ferries, which may be tiring for some.
This tour is a great option for couples and solo travelers looking for a premium, organized experience through the Highlands. While it is suitable for families, the average age of participants is 45, suggesting it is well-suited for adults.
This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors as it covers the most iconic Scottish highlights, including Edinburgh, Loch Ness, and the Highlands, providing a comprehensive introduction to the country's beauty and heritage.
The physicality rating for this tour is 'Easy to Moderate.' While much of the journey takes place on trains and coaches, there are visits to castles and ports that may require some walking, so travelers with significant mobility concerns may wish to contact us for further details.
This tour provides a balanced blend of sightseeing and culture. It focuses heavily on the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands and lochs (sightseeing) while incorporating traditional food, whisky tastings, and historic clan castles (culture).
The pace of the tour is moderate. It covers a significant amount of ground across Scotland over nine days, utilizing various modes of transport to ensure you see many highlights without feeling overly rushed.
The itinerary is well-structured, offering a mix of scheduled activities—such as guided tours of Duart Castle and cruises on Loch Ness—and leisure time in towns like Mallaig and Inverness, creating a balanced feel.
Yes, the tour includes many of Scotland's most famous landmarks, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, and the city of Edinburgh.
The provided text does not explicitly mention language barriers or the specific language services of the guides; however, as a premium tour, professional coordination is provided for all transfers and guided visits.
Disclaimer:
These FAQs have been generated with the assistance of AI to provide a general overview. They are intended as a starting point only and should be reviewed based on your knowledge, current supplier information and client requirements.
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