Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam

On the first day of your Scottish holiday, meet the Tour Manager at our hotel just off Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile. After checking in, you have time to explore the Scottish capital's stunning architecture, history, and cultural scene. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the Old Town's historic Royal Mile and the New Town's renowned Georgian architecture. Wandering the streets, it's easy to see why the city came to be regarded as the 'Athens of the North'. This evening, our first dinner together as a group is at one of Edinburgh's popular restaurants, Tolbooth Tavern.

• Dinner

After breakfast, we head to the magnificent Kelpies by coach. These towering sculptures were designed by the talented Glasgow-based artist, Andy Scott to pay homage to the hardworking horses of Scotland that once pulled barges along the canals and worked in the fields of the area.

A few miles down the road is a wonder of modern engineering, the Falkirk Wheel. The rotating boat lift connects the Forth & Clyde canal with the Union canal, and is the only one of its kind in the world. We get the full experience with a boat trip that includes two turns on The Wheel and a canal ride when we reach the top.

Continuing the journey to Blair Atholl, we stop in the historic city of Stirling where you can take some time to relax and explore. Enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in views of the imposing castle and the picturesque hills that surround it or wander the streets spotting medieval landmarks. We then board the train to Blair Atholl and check into our hotel with time to settle in before dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

We begin at Queen's View today, one of Scotland's most famous lookouts. With panoramas stretching out across Loch Tummel towards the Glencoe Hills, you can see why this was Queen Victoria's favourite view. Continuing to Pitlochry, set against the backdrop of mighty Ben Vrackie, take some time to discover this quaint town. We then return to Blair Atholl to explore Blair Castle, one of Scotland's premier stately homes. A vision in white stone, the castle has a fairytale quality, with exquisite gardens and interiors that showcase Scottish design through the ages. After wandering the castle, the rest of the afternoon and evening is free to relax or experience more of Blair Atholl.

• Breakfast

Experience the beauty of the West Highland Line today aboard the Jacobite Steam Train.* Travelling in restored carriages, this journey is renowned as one of the best and most scenic in the world. A highlight of the route is crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, a marvel of engineering with 21 arches that you may recognise from the 'Harry Potter' films. The train continues towards the coast, unveiling wild and wonderful views across the vast Scottish countryside. After passing through Arisaig, the line descends towards Mallaig, a fishing port that looks over the Isle of Skye. Along the picturesque harbour, there's a choice of traditional Scottish pubs that serve seafood dishes. With some time at leisure, you could enjoy lunch with a view before our return journey on the Jacobite. The evening is free to dine independently.

*On early/late season departures the Jacobite Steam Train excursion is replaced by the scheduled Scotrail service.

• Breakfast

Today, we make the most of your final full day, starting with a journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway. From Aviemore, we follow the historic Highland Railway route through the scenic Cairngorm National Park to Cairngorm. Here, we board the Cairngorm Mountain Railway for a spectacular ascent to the summit.

The 2 km funicular railway climbs steeply, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. At the summit, step out into the crisp mountain air and take in the panoramic vistas. For the adventurous, there are numerous hiking trails winding through the countryside. The summit also hosts one of Scotland's premier ski resorts. For a more relaxed experience, soak up the natural beauty from the visitor centre, where you can enjoy food or a cup of tea while gazing at the stunning views.

Next, after a short coach journey, we visit the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore. This living museum is a tribute to traditional Highland life, with recreated buildings, costumes, and artefacts from the 18th century. Knowledgeable guides share the culture of the Highland clans and their enduring customs and traditions. Afterwards, we return to the hotel for the evening and a final dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

The 3-Star Atholl Arms Hotel is a historic hotel located in the picturesque town of Blair Atholl, Scotland. The hotel's elegant and traditional décor, including its grand staircase, wood-panelled walls, and roaring fireplaces, create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort.

The hotel's restaurant, The Bothy, offers a relaxed and informal atmosphere, where guests can enjoy meals made with local produce, including fresh seafood, game, and traditional Scottish dishes. The hotel also features a cosy bar where guests can enjoy a wide range of locally sourced beers, wines, and spirits.

Conveniently located with easy access to some of Scotland's most stunning natural scenery, guests can explore the nearby Cairngorms National Park, home to some of the UK's highest peaks.

• Breakfast