Scottish Highland Railways

This morning's breakfast will no doubt be filled with excited conversation about what lies ahead. 

Suitably refreshed, we board our coach for the 60-minute journey to the Highland capital, Inverness, where our mode of transport changes from road to rail as we board our train and set off westwards on the 80-mile jaunt to Kyle of Lochalsh. 

Sit back and spend two-and-a half hours savouring spectacular scenery on one of the 'Great Railway Journeys' as recommended by Michael Palin.

Enjoy stunning views across the Black Isle as we hug the southern banks of the Beauly Firth, before passing through the charming town of Dingwall as our trip heads north. 

Once the compass points west again, we'll climb through the rugged Highlands in the shadow of the mighty 4,200ft-high Liathach and neighbouring Torridon peaks. 

As we descend from the hills, grab your camera and prepare to capture the magnificent views of Loch Carron, Attadale Estate and Plockton as we finally arrive in Kyle of Lochalsh itself. 

Nestled snugly opposite the Isle of Skye, we'll have time to explore its many charms and enjoy local refreshments before returning to our hotel to reflect on a truly exhilarating first day by rail.

We start today with a drive to the tiny post town of Boat of Garten. Awaiting us at the station is a loving restored train belonging to the Strathspey Steam Railway. The sight of the gleaming locomotive instantly transports us back to the glory days of rail travel. 

As the whistle blows to send us on our way, we take our seats excitedly and prepare to enjoy a nine-and-a half mile trip through idyllic Highland scenery. 

The gentle click-clack and rhythm of the rails is a familiar companion as we follow the twists and turns of the glittering River Spey, steaming proudly across moors and through forests before arriving in the celebrated town of Aviemore.  

Here, we will have a chance to discover the many delights of this famous outdoor activity centre and spend time enjoying tasty Highland fare. 

Later this afternoon, visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre to discover more about these fascinating animals from their handlers.

A scenic drive through dramatic mountain scenery will bring us to the Cairngorm Mountain visitor centre, which offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside.

After taking time to savour the panorama, we return to our hotel in time for dinner. 

Today our destination is the tiny fishing village of Mallaig, which we reach by the stunning West Highland Line – a route judged the World's best by subscribers to Wanderlust magazine. 

The day begins with a drive southwest to bustling Fort William, which is attractively situated on the banks of Loch Linnhe.   

Hopping aboard our carriage, the first of today's many landmarks can be seen as all 4,413 feet of the mighty Ben Nevis bids us farewell. 

The majestic Caledonian Canal is the next spectacular sight, cutting through the Great Glen complete with its feat of 19^th-century engineering, Neptune's Staircase. 

Gathering pace, we glide through steep valleys of red deer and alongside the smooth waters of Loch Eil before completing the ambition of every railfan – crossing the 21 giant arches of the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. 

As we press on through this daunting landscape where roads fear to cross, we pass Loch Eilt with its sprinkling of islands and pay a visit to the remote station at Arisaig. Skirting the gleaming white sands of Morar, we finally arrive in Mallaig, where you are free to spend the remaining time exploring its culture and sampling delicious kippers at the smokery before our coach returns us to our hotel.