The ongoing suspension of the Jacobite Steam Train may impact the itinerary of this tour.
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Glen Coe, Loch Ness and the Jacobite Steam Train - 2 day tour
Glen Coe, Loch Ness and the Jacobite Steam Train
2 day/1 night tour
See the very best that Scotland has to offer in this action-packed adventure. Explore the vastness of Rannoch Moor and the haunting secrets of Glen Coe. Discover the many treasures of the Road to the Isles before boarding the famous Jacobite Steam Train in Mallaig to experience an unforgettable journey that includes crossing the majestic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Cruise the mysterious waters of Loch Ness and see the impressive ruins of mighty Urquhart Castle. Later, take a trip back in time at atmospheric Culloden Moor, then soak up the beauty of the Grampian Mountains, Cairngorms National Park and Highland Perthshire.
Glen Coe - experience a stunning landscape steeped in history
Jacobite Steam Train - board the real Hogwarts Express for an unforgettable journey along the West Highland Line
Ben Nevis - see the towering bulk of Britain’s tallest mountain
Loch Ness - explore this mysterious body of water renowned as the home of” Nessie”
Culloden Moor - discover the story behind Bonnie Prince Charlie’s final battle
Movie locations - Outlander, Loch Ness and Rob Roy
Guest house accommodation included
Full Tour Itinerary
Select Day:
Day 1 - Edinburgh - Jacobite Steam Train - Fort William
The streets of Edinburgh are soon a distant memory as we head towards the Highlands. As we reach the ancient city of Stirling, look out for its mighty castle, a favoured residence of medieval monarchs and the impressive monument to the famous freedom fighter Sir William Wallace.
Our first stop will be in the bustling town of Callander, which sits by the banks of the River Teith. There will be time to browse the local shops and pick up a bakery treat to sustain you for the journey ahead.
A short drive on, we’ll enter the Pass of Leny and slip from the Lowlands into the Highlands. After driving across desolate Rannoch Moor, our journey brings us to the majestic – and tragic – beauty of Glen Coe.
This haunting valley is home to centuries of bloody history, none more so than the Massacre of Glen Coe in 1692 when 30 members of the MacDonald clan were slain by the Campbell soldiers they’d been sheltering – a deed that still hangs heavy in the Highlands today.
Leaving the hills behind, we journey through Fort William and along the Road to the Isles, built by Thomas Telford. This 42-mile route is considered one of the most scenic in Scotland. Our destination is the historic port of Mallaig, where we will enjoy some free time before returning, this time aboard the famous Jacobite Steam Train.
As the real Hogwarts Express chuffs its way to Fort William, we’ll pass Arisaig, the glorious Sands of Morar and Loch Eilt, whose little island was the setting of Dumbledore’s Grave in the Harry Potter movies.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Glenfinnan Viaduct – whose 21 arches were famously crossed by Harry Potter and his chums as they headed to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Look out for the Glenfinnan Monument, erected in 1815 in tribute to the Jacobites loyal to Bonnie Prince Charlie and which now stands proudly overlooking Loch Shiel.
After passing Glenfinnan, the memorable journey follows the banks of Loch Eil to end at Fort William, where we leave this famous train and head for our accommodation.
Overnight: Fort William
Day 2 - Fort William - Loch Ness - Edinburgh
A hearty breakfast is the order of the day before making the short drive to Spean Bridge, where we pause to hear the poignant story behind the Commando Memorial and take in the vista of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain.
Next, the sights of brooding hills and glistening lochs come courtesy of The Great Glen. Travelling through this natural wonder brings us to the mysterious waters of Loch Ness.
The legend of the Loch Ness Monster is world-famous, and today there’s the chance to spot the beast for yourself on a cruise on the loch. Even if you don’t see Nessie, the ruins of 500-year-old Urquhart Castle are just as impressive.
Once ashore, we head north to the city of Inverness – the capital of the Highlands – to admire its imposing historic buildings, overlooked by stately Inverness Castle.
More landmarks await as we reach the site of Britain’s last-ever battle – Culloden Moor. Here, you’ll learn how Highland history was altered in 1746 when Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jacobite army were soundly defeated by Government forces led by Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland.
The more peaceful surroundings of the Cairngorms National Park are the next destination, where you will enjoy spectacular scenery and breathtaking natural wonders as we pass through the Spey Valley in the shadow of the 4,000ft high Cairngorm Mountains.
Descending through the ancient Drumochter Pass, keep those eyes peeled again for the wildlife that has lived here for centuries – you may even see an eagle soaring above the crags.
As we sweep into rural Perthshire, you’ll spot the distinctive turrets of Blair Castle – the seat of the Dukes of Atholl – before we stop to explore Pitlochry, located amid the rolling glens.
The final part of the journey takes us towards Perth and then through the Kingdom of Fife. Our approach to Edinburgh takes us over the Firth of Forth, where incredible views of the mighty Forth Bridge can be enjoyed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Signature Multi-Day Tour?
For the discerning traveller, a Signature Multi-day Tour offers fantastic value for money, comfortable accommodation, well-paced sightseeing and luxury travel. All of this combines to create the definitive Scottish experience.
Each tour is hosted by a professional driver/guide, chosen for their extensive knowledge and driving skills. Being locals, you are sure to get that extra insight, too.
If you should have any problems during your stay, they’ll go out of their way to help.
You will want to see as much as possible, but don’t want to be rushed. Our tours are carefully planned to strike the right balance. As well as comfortable mini/midicoach travel, many feature memorable railway or ferry journeys.
Having somewhere pleasant to stay after an exciting day of discovery is an essential part of your holiday experience. Comfortable hotel accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, tv and other amenities is included in the price of this tour.
A tasty Scottish breakfast is included each morning of your stay.
What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?
To give you maximum flexibility the cost of admission fees and other optional extras are not included in the tour price. This gives you complete freedom to choose as the mood takes you. On this tour the optional visits are:
Loch Ness Cruise
Culloden Moor Visitor Centre
Following the links above will give you more information on each attraction including current admission prices. At some locations a special discount is offered to tour participants, your driver/guide will give you more information if this applies. Credit/debit cards are not always accepted so you should plan to have sufficient cash with you should you wish to make any visits.
How much luggage can I bring?
Luggage space on the tour is restricted so the amount of luggage that you can bring is limited to 1 bag per person that weights no more than 15kg and has maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20cm.
Luggage larger than this will only be carried if space is available.
Do you offer a hotel pick-up service on this tour?
We know that you will want to start your tour straight away rather than spending valuable time travelling around hotels.
By offering a single centrally located departure point we can get you to Scotland’s best scenery as quickly as possible .
Can I reserve specific seats on the coach?
Seating on this tour is on a first come, first served basis and cannot be pre-booked.
If you are travelling as part of a group please make sure that all members of the party arrive at the departure point together.
Inclusions
Accommodation
- 1 nights hotel accommodation
- Location: Fort William
Meals
- Scottish/Continental breakfast (1)
Visits, Admissions and Experiences
- One-way Jacobite Steam Train trip on the West Highland Railway Line
Tour Essentials
- Transportation by luxury air-conditioned mini/midi coach
- Live commentary in English
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Admission charges
- Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
60 High Street
Edinburgh
EH1 1TB
Check-in: 08:45 hrs
Tour Departs: 09:00 hrs
Tour Returns: 18:00 hrs
Child details
Concession discounts apply to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 5 to 16 years inclusive.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 5 years cannot travel on this tour.
Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.
Price Notes
Book Assured
Book by paying a 20% deposit. Make date changes or get a full refund with 8 days notice before travel. Click here for more information.
Accommodation
The price of this tour includes hotel accommodation with en-suite bathrooms.
Single room accommodation is not available on this tour.
Luggage Allowance
One medium-sized suitcase/bag per person (maximum weight: 15 kilos)
Admission Prices
In order to give you maximum flexibility, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQs
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
HET 03004
