Scottish Highlands Steam Railway Holiday
Wednesday, 30th June 2021
UK
Highland Island Fling
Holiday Highlights
- As far north as Orkney for Skara Brae and the Italian Chapel
- Steam through the Highlands on the Strathspey Railway
- Cruise Loch Ness to iconic Urquart Castle
- Enjoy the majesty of the Jacobite steam train journey to Mallaig
- Scotrail train rides to Kyle of Lochalsh and Thurso – incredible scenery
- Whisk along the Whiskey Line between Keith and Dufftown
Outline Itinerary
Wednesday
The holiday starts at Aviemore Station to coincide with the arrival of The Highland Chieftain at about 19.30. We drive straight to Boat of Garten (15 mins) and check in before a welcome meal together.
Thursday
We’re not going too far today as we tour in and around the Cairngorms getting to know the locals. A flexible itinerary allows for plenty of scope and variety with wildlife, scenic and transport highlights including the Strathspey Steam Railway and (provided it is repaired by now!) a memorable trip up Cairngorm itself aboard the modern funicular railway.
Friday
The Skye Circular – to the west coast we head on what is without doubt one of the very best scenic days we do – anywhere. We start off with a gentle drive to Fort William with a stop or two on the way. Here we join the world famous Jacobite steam train for the unsurpassable ride to Mallaig – this is the most stunning steam hauled railway journey in the British Isles. From Mallaig we cross by ferry to the Isle of Skye and tour through the Garden of Skye before using the Skye Bridge to return to the mainland (not Skye!). Now, sit back and relax as we take the train back across from Kyle of Lochalsh skirting sea-lochs and passing idyllic villages before the wide expanse of the Highlands opens up around us – magic! We alight at Dingwall and drive back down to Boat of Garten reflecting on a magnificent day out.
Saturday
A super “local” day begins with the classic cruise on Loch Ness to Urquart Castle and clan history continues with a visit to melancholy Culloden. In the afternoon a rail journey to Keith transports us to the ever so friendly Keith and Dufftown Railway. We then track back along the Spey Valley, passing distilleries galore, to Boat of Garten.
Sunday
It’s time to head for the far north and we are going to enjoy another stunning rail journey and holiday highlight. The spectacular journey to Wick and Thurso traverses some of the most rugged, desolate terrain in Scotland – this is among the finest, and yet least travelled railway lines in all the land.
Monday
The Orkneys beckon today and we cross the Pentland Firth from Gills Bay this morning. Then we tour “mainland” Orkney with the main attractions being Skara Brae, the wonderful Italian Chapel and the Churchill Barriers. There’s also time in Kirkwall (the capital) for a visit to the cathedral. Our circular tour is completed from Stromness over to Thurso’s port, Scrabster, passing the iconic “Old Man of Hoy” as the sun dips in the sky – lovely!
Tuesday
Heading back south today, we take a relaxed journey that includes some interesting stops and dramatic coastal scenery on the way. But first we need to show you some of Scotland’s most northerly sights. No visit up here would be complete without dropping in at John O’Groats, Dunrobin Castle and Helmsdale.
Wednesday
Breakfast at leisure before commencing homeward bound journeys, from Aviemore Station, at the time of your choice and through the spectacular Scottish scenery.
Our Hotels
The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant,
Boat of Garten
Pentland Hotel, Thurso
The MacDonald Resort, Aviemore
What’s Included
Transport
- All heritage railway rides
- All public transport journeys, in standard class accommodation
- Private coach transfers throughout the holiday
- Luggage transfers between hotels
Entertainment
- All entrances
- Detailed itinerary/information pack
- Services of courier throughout
Accommodation
- Hotel accommodation on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis
What's not Included
- Travel to/from the holiday start point
- Personal holiday insurance
- Porterage
- Lunches
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