Queen of Scots

One of the original ‘Great Railway Journeys of the World’ - a magical circular tour of the Highlands of Scotland with the Isles of Mull and Iona, plus the spectacular rail routes from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh and the Far North to Thurso, along with a whiff of steam aboard the famous Jacobite train from Fort William to Mallaig, as featured in the ‘Harry Potter’ films.

DAY 1 Travelling by train to Glasgow for an early evening meal followed by an, hopefully, golden sunset journey over the West Highland line to Oban. (D) DAY 2 A most relaxing day as we cruise the Firth of Lorne to the Isles of Mull and Iona and it’s famous abbey. (B,D) DAY 3 A morning free to explore Oban, followed by a leisurely tour by private coach over the famous ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’ to An Cala Garden and Ardmaddy Castle and Gardens. (B,D) DAY 4 The famous Jacobite steam train* to Mallaig. Glenfinnan viaduct, Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument, Loch Shiel and Loch Eilt are viewed before bursting out onto the Atlantic coastline of golden white sands with distant views of Rhum and Eigg before reaching Mallaig with views across the sea to Isle of Skye. Upon return to Fort William we reboard our coach to Inverness via the Great Glen and Loch Ness. (B,D) DAY 5 One of the great railway journeys of the world to Kyle of Lochalsh and Eilean Donan castle, the stunning ‘castle in the loch’. Before returning by train with seats opposite to outward so no vista is missed. (B,D) DAY 6 By train on the scenic ‘Far North’ line through Caithness, one of the last true wilderness in Europe, to Thurso for a two hour break to stroll the seafront before returning by train to Inverness. (B,D) DAY 7 After a morning cruise on the Moray Firth to hopefully see the dolphins we have the remainder of the day free in Inverness for sightseeing and shopping. (B,D) DAY 8 Our grand circular tour concludes as we return homeward by train over the Cairngorm Mountains to Edinburgh and the South. (B) Oban Bay Hotel, Oban Delightful hotel with a prime position on the Esplanade offering dramatic sunsets over Oban Bay. All bedrooms are comfortable, stylishly appointed and furnished to a high standard. Hotel facilities include gymnasium, sauna, health & beauty treatments and outdoor hot tub. Palace Hotel, Inverness Overlooking the River Ness, within a short stroll of the city centre, this superior quality, traditional Scottish hotel has well appointed bedrooms and facilities including indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and beauty salon.