Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the Highlands

After boarding your train, it’s time to sit back and relax as we head north towards the capital of the Highlands, snaking through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. Leaving the bustle behind, we soon swap traffic for tranquillity as we glide past ancient forests, tumbling burns and dramatic glens. 

History surrounds us as we enter the Pass of Killiecrankie, with its echoes of a famous Jacobite battle. Close by, the white turrets of Blair Castle are another famous landmark we will see as we continue northwards.

As we climb through Glen Garry, you may spot majestic deer and eagles as we reach the lofty 1,484ft heights of Druimuachdar summit, the highest point in the British rail network.

This mountainous terrain soon gives way to the lush Cairngorms National Park and Spey Valley before we arrive in Inverness itself.

After making ourselves at home in our hotel, it’s time for our first adventure as we enjoy an afternoon cruise on the icy waters of Loch Ness. Keep your eyes peeled for the world’s most famous monster as you listen entranced to the legend of ‘Nessie’. It’s the perfect way to work up an appetite for a hearty Highland dinner!

After enjoying breakfast, we return to the banks of Loch Ness, this time winding our way beside its shores until we reach Invermoriston. Here, we’ll have plenty of time to take photos in front of the plunging waterfall and twin arches of the celebrated Thomas Telford bridge.

We continue our journey through picturesque Glen Shiel under the watchful eye of the Five Sisters mountains until we reach one of Scotland’s most iconic sights – Eilean Donan Castle. Follow in the footsteps of James Bond as you explore its famous ramparts and gaze across the depths of Loch Duich.

Next, we cross to the beautiful Isle of Skye, pausing only to admire the Cuillin Hills from Sligachan Bridge. Passing the islands of Pabay and Scalpay to our east, we arrive in the harbour town of Portree, where a lunch of fresh fish and piping hot chips could be on the menu.

Suitably refreshed, we pay our respects to the natural wonders at The Old Man of Storr and marvel at the multicoloured Kilt Rock before returning to the mainland.

Our journey home takes in some of the most beautiful Highland scenery, including Kyle of Lochalsh and Loch Carron, before we head across the Black Isle towards the city lights.

Our final day in the Highlands is all about relaxing and making the most of this beautiful part of the world, with plenty of time for sightseeing and shopping.

After a leisurely breakfast, join our special walking tour later in the morning, where an expert guide will help you discover the many secrets and surprises that lie hidden behind the imposing granite walls. Spend a captivating 90 minutes wandering the famous cobbles, learning about the bloody battles and fascinating forefathers that transformed Inverness into the busy Highland powerhouse it is today.

With your appetite for history well and truly whetted, you’re free to soak up more stories and take in the sweeping panoramas across the River Ness from the ramparts of 16th-century Inverness Castle, which has stood guard proudly for more than 500 years. 

If a traditional souvenir is on your shopping list, drop in to the Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre on your way back to learn more about Scotland’s national dress and pick out a tartan – or two!

With keepsakes safely packed, we’ll board our train for the journey home, pulling out in the late afternoon with a final backward glance at this fascinating Scottish city.