Train Journeys

Train Journeys

Train journeys represent a classic travel option that has stood the test of time. Train holidays offer the opportunity to experience luxury, opulence and a taste of travel from times gone by.

With the seemingly endless range of train journeys available in Australia, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, the United Kingdom and more there is an option to suit even the most discerning traveller.

Some of the most popular and iconic train holidays include The Ghan in Australia, South Africa's Blue Train, The Venice Simplon-Orient Express from Europe, the newly launched Maharajas' Express in India and Asia's Eastern & Oriental Express.

Other classic rail journeys include The Rocky Mountaineer Gold Class offering spectacular views of the Canadian mountains, the Hiram Bingham Deluxe Train which travels from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, The Royal Scotsman offering luxury train holidays through the Scottish Highlands or an exclusive day trip across country Britain on The British Pullman or Northern Belle.

To find out more about the range of luxury train journeys available with Travel Associates call 1800 017 849 or enquire online.

  • Enjoy one of the most famous dates in the equestrian calendar in comfort and style on the Northern Belle

    Rail Journey on the Northern Belle from Manchester - Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

    from $855*

    Steeped in tradition, Ladies' Day is one of the most famous dates in the equestrian calendar. After brunch aboard, make your way to the grandstand enclosure where you'll be able to watch the action.
  • Travel from Toronto to Vancouver in comfort on this flagship rail journey

    5 day Rail Journey on The Canadian

    from $1,425*

    Embark on VIA Rail's flagship five-day rail journey across Canada from Toronto to Vancouver aboard The Canadian. Journey through the lake country of Northern Ontario, across the wide prairies of Manitoba and Alberta to the Canadian Rockies. The train is scheduled to ensure daylight viewing of Rocky Mountain vistas that can only be seen by train. Enjoy the comfort and elegance of the restored art-deco surroundings. Travelling Sleeper Touring Class you will enjoy comfortable accommodation, a shower in each sleeping car and exclusive use of the Park and Skyline Cars' lounges and domes. Your experience includes 4 nights in a Touring Class Upper Berth Sleeper and all meals on board.
  • Travel in luxury aboad the Northern Belle to the renowned town of St Andrews

    Rail Journey on the Northern Belle from Birmingham - St Andrews Golf or Spa Weekend

    from $1,465*

    Wine and dine aboard the Northern Belle on your way to St Andrews, Scotland's finest coastal town and the home of golf. There is also plenty to see and do in the town of St Andrews.
  • A wonderful combination of a classic rail journey and Britain's most famous sporting event

    Rail Journey on the Northern Belle from Manchester - Wimbledon Tennis Centre Court

    from $1,689*

    Watch the world's best-known tennis tournament, with complimentary access to the stylish Debenture lounge and a hamper to take with you.
  • An incomparable way to travel to the two jewels of Australia's Northern Territory - the Red Centre and theTop End

    Rail Journey on the Ghan - Rock and Rail

    from $1,859*

    VISIT: Alice Springs - Uluru - Kata Tjuta - Outback.

    Travel by rail between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin and you are embarking on one of the great train journeys of the world. An incomparable way to travel to the two jewels of Australia's Northern Territory - the Red Centre and the tropical Top End. From the sweeping Adelaide Plains unfolding before your eyes to the majestic Flinders Ranges, this first stage of the journey offers a perspective on South Australia you simply can't afford to miss.

    Each new day begins with a fresh panorama of this changing landscape. Red earth and cobalt blue skies - the essence of Central Australia takes on a character of its own with every passing hour. Entering the Top End, the landscape mellows with subtropical flora staking its claim over the passing scenery, before your rail journey concludes in tropical Darwin, the relaxed capital city of Australia's Northern Territory.
  • There is nothing like seeing Uluru for real

    Rail Journey on The Ghan - The Ghan to the Centre

    from $2,099*

    VISIT: Adelaide - Alice Springs - Uluru - Alice Springs.

    For most of us the site of Uluru, or Ayers Rock to use the European name, is pretty familiar from hundreds of documentaries, postcards and photographs. The thing is that no matter how many images of the famous monolith have been seen, nothing is quite like seeing Uluru for real. Standing at the base - touching and exploring it's folds, textures, colours and mysteries, will bring a sudden understanding of why this place is so precious to it's aboriginal custodians and why it is one of the few natural wonders of the world. "The Rock" stands close to 350 metres high, however, like an iceberg most of it is below the surface.
  • An iconic Australian experience

    2 night Rail Journey on The Ghan - Adelaide to Darwin

    from $2,109*

    Travel by rail between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin and you are embarking on one of the great train journeys of the world. Named after the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this route, The Ghan will take you from one edge of this continent to the other, through the very centre of Australia.

    The Ghan's timetable makes the most of the daylight hours to offer unsurpassed views of the passing landscape. From the sweeping Adelaide Plains unfolding before your eyes to the majestic Flinders Ranges, this first stage of the journey offers a perspective on South Australia you simply can't afford to miss.

    Each new day begins with a fresh panorama of this changing landscape. Red earth and cobalt blue skies - the essence of Central Australia takes on a character of its own with every passing hour.
  • The essence of Central Australia

    3 day Rail Journey on The Ghan - Adelaide to Darwin

    from $2,109*

    VISIT: Adelaide - Alice Springs - Darwin.

    Travel by rail between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin and you are embarking on one of the great train journeys of the world. Named after the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this route, The Ghan will take you from one edge of this continent to the other, through the very centre of Australia.

    The Ghan's timetable makes the most of the daylight hours to offer unsurpassed views of the passing landscape. From the sweeping Adelaide Plains unfolding before your eyes to the majestic Flinders Ranges, this first stage of the journey offers a perspective on South Australia you simply can't afford to miss. Each new day begins with a fresh panorama of this changing landscape. Red earth and cobalt blue skies - the essence of Central Australia takes on a character of its own with every passing hour.
  • Experience the majesty of the Mighty Murray

    Rail Journey on the Indian Pacific from Sydney - Sydney to Adelaide and the Murray River

    from $2,119*

    VISIT: Sydney - Adelaide - Murray River.

    A great tour for everyone, experience the beauty and tranquility of the mighty Murray River and visit Australia's most livable city - Adelaide. Take the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Adelaide in your Gold Twin Sleeper and watch the beauty of the Blue Mountains and the Nullarbor Plain. Once you arrive in Adelaide you will stay one night befor you embark on your two night cruise of the Murray River. Once back in Adelaide you will stay two more nights and enjoy an Adelaide Hills and Handorf tour.

    Adults from $2119*
    Pensioners from $1939*
  • From the outback to the tropics

    Rail Journey on the Ghan - Taste of the Top End

    from $2,425*

    VISIT: Alice Springs - Katherine - Darwin.

    Travel by rail between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin and you are embarking on one of the great train journeys of the world. An incomparable way to travel to the two jewels of Australia's Northern Territory – the Red Centre and the tropical Top End. From the sweeping Adelaide Plains unfolding before your eyes to the majestic Flinders Ranges, this first stage of the journey offers a perspective on South Australia you simply can't afford to miss.

    Each new day begins with a fresh panorama of this changing landscape. Red earth and cobalt blue skies – the essence of Central Australia takes on a character of its own with every passing hour. Entering the Top End, the landscape mellows with subtropical flora staking its claim over the passing scenery, before your rail journey concludes in tropical Darwin, the relaxed capital city of Australia's Northern Territory.
  • A unique food and wine experience with renowned chef Andrew Mirosch and Sirromet Winery's Chief Winemaker Adam Chapman

    Rail Journey on the Sunlander from Brisbane - Masterclass on the Sunlander in Queenslander Class with Andrew Mirosch

    from $2,679*

    VISIT: Brisbane - Townsville - Cairns.

    Masterclass on The Sunlander in Queenslander Class: Brisbane to Townsville and Cairns with Executive Chef Andrew Mirosch and Sirromet Winery's Chief Winemaker Adam Chapman

    "I'm thoroughly looking forward to spoiling all MasterClass guests with the menu that I have planned for this trip using only the most exquisite local produce. I invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy the service, delectable food and beverages as the magical Queensland scenery passes you by" - Andrew Mirosch.

    Adults from $2679*
    Australian Senior from $2595*
    Queensland Pensioner from $2455*
  • An enchanting 8 day train journey

    Rail Journey on the Palace on Wheels

    from $2,799*

    VISIT: New Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Chittorgarh - Udaipur - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Bharatpur - Agra – Delhi.

    The Palace on Wheels is a splendid journey through the grand era of royal times. Experience the charming hospitality while relaxing in the comfort of pure luxury. The journey commences at Delhi, goes onto discovering the colours of royal Rajasthan, then the wildlife train and to India's most exciting desination, the Taj Mahal in Agra. Relive the mystery, romance and intrigue, nobility and grandeur of each location.
  • An 8 day journey across the heart of India

    Rail Journey on the Deccan Odyssey

    from $2,899*

    VISIT: Mumbai - Sindhudurg Nagari - Goa - Kolhapur - Aurangabad (Ellora) - Wardha (Sevagram) - Jalgaon (Ajanta) - Nashik - Mumbai.

    Allow us to take you on a journey you'll never forget. A heritage train tour on the Deccan Odyssey through the kingdom of the Marathas - Maharashtra. Travel through time and cultures. Taking in the heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora, Pilgrim places at Nashik, the bustling cities of Mumbai, Goa, Kolhapur and Aurangabad, and more. Savour the cuisines, worship at the shrines, or just relax on beach and let the beauty wash over you.
  • There is no better way to reach this magnificent spectacle than in the comfort of the Indian Pacific

    Rail Journey on the Indian Pacific from Sydney - Perth, Margaret River and the Wildflowers

    from $3,095*

    VISIT: Sydney - Perth.

    This spring the wildflowers of the west will be in full bloom again. Parts of Western Australia become a carpet of over 12,000 different species of wildflower and there is no better way to reach this magnificent spectacle than in the comfort of the Indian Pacific. Enjoy the fine dining, welcoming social atmosphere and excellent service aboard one of the world's great train journeys.

    Adults from $3095*
    Pensioners from $2445*
  • Experience Namibia, a country of compelling beauty, abundant sunshine and unconfined space, on this 12 day journey

    Rail Journey on the Shongololo Express - Dune Adventure Route

    from $3,299*

    VISIT: Windhoek - Etosha National Park - Omaruru - Spitzkoppe - Henties Bay and the Cape Cross Seal Reserve - Walvis Bay - Swakomund - Sossusvlei - Epupa Falls / Ovahimba - Luderitz and Kolmanskop - Fish River Canyon - Augrabies National Park - Johannesburg.

    Shongololo Express operates two 12-day adventures, each traversing great stretches of Southern Africa to let you experience the wonderful topographic, social, historic, floral and wildlife diversity of these distinctive areas - south and west coast - the central and southern regions - and the northern and north-eastern areas of this richly endowed sub-continent.

    Namibia is a country of compelling beauty, abundant sunshine and unconfined space. The wide horizons, the clear unpolluted skies and a population density, which is among the lowest in the world, generate a sense of freedom. This feeling of tranquility and stillness compliments a landscape, which is singular in its colours, full of contrasts of light and shade. The Dune Adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the harsh realities of the desert landscapes as well as the extraordinary natural phenomena resulting from millions of years of erosion and volcanic activity.
  • Spend Valentines Day on one of the world's most awe-inspiring journeys

    4 day Rail Journey on the The Indian Pacific from Sydney - Valentines Day

    from $3,575*

    VISIT: Sydney - Adelaide - Perth.

    Travelling between the Indian and Pacific oceans for over 40 years, and truly is one of the world's great train journeys, the mighty Indian Pacific traverses 4,352km between Perth and Sydney. This epic journey spans a continent, travelling the whole distance in three days and three nights. With so many wonderful sights to enjoy, this isn't just one of the longest train journeys in the world, but also one of the most memorable.

    Platinum Service offers a new level of comfort to elevate your onboard experience to a truly global standard of luxurious travel. Enjoy our new spacious private cabins complete with plush, high quality fittings and en suite; elegant dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car, along with flourishes of service, attention and indulgence that turn a holiday into a life-enhancing experience. Our new Platinum Service typifies the hospitality and attention to detail that have made Australia's Great Train Journeys world famous.
  • Spot bears, eagles and mountain goats on this journey

    Canadian Rockies Getaway

    from $3,999*

    VISIT: Vancouver - Kamloops - Banff - Summit Helicopter Tour - Lake Louise - Columbia Icefield - Jasper - Kamloops - Vancouver.

    Mountain goats, eagles and bears - oh my. Watch for wildlife on this fantastic journey that includes a Yoho Park Tour and flightseeing with a Summit Helicopter Tour.
  • A luxurious 8 day voyage through Karnataka

    Rail Journey on The Golden Chariot - Pride of the South

    from $4,035*

    VISIT: Bangalore - Kabini - Bandipur - Mysore - Hassan - Hospet - Badami - Goa - Bangalore.

    The Pride of the South is an enchanting way to explore Karnataka. The journey takes one through legendary stone architecture, historical sites, stunning palaces, natural wonders, wildlife parks and golden beaches. One can recline and relax in the comfort of sublime luxury while southern India unfolds outside the window.
  • See iconic Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon

    Rail Journey on The Ghan - The Complete Red Centre

    from $4,155*

    VISIT: Adelaide - Alice Springs - Uluru - Kata Tjuta - Kings Canyon - Alice Springs - Darwin.

    There really is no town like Alice - geographically isolated by miles of beautiful red earth, Alice Springs stands proud as a beacon of outback hope and optimism. The town itself offers fascinating sites and surrounding natural beauty but the undeniable attraction of the region is the iconic Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. So consider starting your NT adventure by taking an Alice Springs holiday.
  • Experience the majesty of the Rockies

    Canadian Rockies Circle

    from $4,215*

    VISIT: Vancouver - Kamloops - Banff - Summit Helicopter Tour - Lake Louise - Columbia Icefield - Jasper - Kamloops - Vancouver.

    See for yourself why Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff are the iconic destinations of the Canadian Rockies. This journey features a Summit Helicopter Tour (who doesn't want a bird's eye view of the Rockies?) as well as a Jasper Highlights Tour.
  • Explore South India in style on this 8 day journey

    Rail Journey on the The Golden Chariot - Southern Splendor

    from $4,219*

    VISIT: Bangalore - Chennai - Mamallapuram - Pondicherry - Thanjavur - Madurai - Kanyakumari - Kovalam - Backwaters - Kochi - Bangalore.

    The Southern Splendor is an enchanting voyage covering South India's most exclusive and exhilarating destinations, across the state of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. The voyage originates at Bangalore, onto the modern city of Chennai that is exceptional for its allegiance to ancient traditiona. Kovalam will enchant you with its clean white sandy beaches and the coconut trees that create a scenic background. Enjoy a cruise aboard a houseboat, sail through the narrow canals and channels of Kerala's picturesque backwaters.
  • This 13 day journey offering an amazing and comprehensive view of South Africa

    Rail Journey on the Shongololo Express - The Good Hope Adventure

    from $4,239*

    VISIT: Johannesburg - Pretoria - Soweto - Kruger National Park - Swaziland - Zululand - Durban - Midlands - Kimberley - Bloemfontein - Winelands - Cape Town.

    Shongololo Express operates exciting adventure train trips, each traversing great stretches of Southern Africa to let you experience the wonderful topographic, social, historic, floral and wildlife diversity of these distinctive areas - south and west coast - the central and southern regions - and the northern and north-eastern areas of this richly endowed sub-continent.

    The Good Hope is a 13-day journey offering an amazing and comprehensive view of South Africa, incorporating virtually every internationally regarded 'must see' sight and highlight. As the train travels the length and breadth of the country, guests can enjoy the great variety of landscapes, shorelines, cultures, lifestyles and cuisine that the South African Rainbow Nation has to offer.
  • A regal 8 day journey in magnificent Rajasthan

    Rail Journey on the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

    from $4,385*

    VISIT: : Delhi - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Chittaurgarh - Sawai Madhopur - Jaipur - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Agra - Delhi.

    The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is designed in a contempory royal style to experience the existing regal luxury. The journey is a magical experience to the land of kings, majestic forts, incredible palaces, temple towns, diverse cultures and varied landscapes, beginning at New Delhi, India's capital and major gateway to the country.
  • Explore the Rockies and beautiful Whistler

    Golden Circle Via Whistler, Canada

    from $4,409*

    VISIT: Vancouver - Kamloops - Banff - Summit Helicopter Tour - Lake Louise - Columbia Icefield - Jasper - Quesnel - Whistler - Vancouver.

    The ultimate rail and Rockies experience featuring three of our rail routes, an overnight stay in Whistler, and plenty of time to explore Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff.
  • The complete Western Canada experience

    Grand Rail Circle, Canada

    from $4,579*

    VISIT: Vancouver - Kamloops - Banff - Summit Helicopter Tour - Lake Louise - Columbia Icefield - Jasper - Quesnel - Whistler - Vancouver.

    A complete experience, featuring three different rail routes, together with the highlights of the Canadian Rockies and two nights in the resort town of Whistler, one of Canada's premier year-round destinations.
  • See Scotland's wild and beautiful west

    4 day Rail Journey on the Royal Scotsman - The Western Journey

    from $5,909*

    VISIT: Glasgow - Wemyss Bay - Loch Lomond - Fort William - Isle of Bute.

    660 miles, including Glasgow, Wemyss Bay, Loch Lomond and Fort William. View Glenfinnan Monument, hike Glen Nevis (optional), visit Mount Stuart House, Britain's most spectacular Victorian Gothic house, take a ferry ride to the Isle of Bute, and see picture-perfect glens, majestic mountains, beautiful beaches and seemingly bottomless lochs.
  • A leisurely 16 day journey between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls

    Rail Journey on the Shongololo Express - The Southern Cross Route

    from $5,999*

    VISIT: Johannesburg - Pretoria - Soweto - Swaziland - Maputo - Kruger National Park - Mpumalanga - Nelspruit - Panorama Route - Mpumalanga - Gauteng and Limpopo Province - Bulawayo - Matobo National Park - Hwange National Park - Livingstone - Zambezi River - Chobe National Park - The Victoria Falls.

    Shongololo Express operates 16-day adventures tours, each traversing great stretches of southern Africa to let you experience the wonderful topographic, social, historic, floral and wildlife diversity of these distinctive areas - south and west coast - the central and southern regions - and the northern and north-eastern areas of this richly endowed sub-continent.

    This 16-day journey enables participants to visit six countries. The route is carefully crafted to deliver stunning experiences every day. The train travels leisurely between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, allowing numerous calls at destinations in South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. As the tracks unfurl you will gain rare insight into the cultural and geographical cocktail that makes Southern Africa so vibrant and exciting.
  • Visit some of the most beautiful and historically rich destinations in Southern Africa on this 12 day journey

    Rail Journey on the Shongololo Express - The Dr Livingstone Tour

    from $5,999*

    VISIT: Dar es Salaam - Bagamoyo - Selous Game Reserve - Makambako - Iringa - Kasama - Livingstone Memorial - Kundalila Falls - South Luangwa National Park - Lusaka - Chobe National Park - Victoria Falls.

    Shongololo Express proudly re-introduces their Premier trip into some of the most beautiful and historically rich destinations in Southern Africa. Our multilingual tour guides, and vehicles, which are carried on board, will transport you to tour and experience all these areas have to offer. If an adventurous, yet relaxing trip is what you are looking for, come aboard the Shongololo Express
  • A classic Scottish itinerary

    5 day Rail Journey on the Royal Scotsman - Classic Journey

    from $7,449*

    VISIT: Dundee - Montrose - Aberdeen - Keith - Inverness - Plockton - Dalwhinnie - Perth.

    Enjoy the ultimate Royal Scotsman experience, travelling through some of the UK's finest scenery. 720 miles, including Dundee, Montrose, Aberdeen, Keith, Inverness, Plockton, Dalwhinnie and Perth. Optional activities include fishing, clay pigeon shooting, golf, a woodland walk and a boat trip. Enjoy whisky tasting at Glen Ord Distillery, visit Ballindalloch Castle and gardens, visit Glamis Castle.
  • A once in a lifetime cruise and rail journey

    European Indulgence 21 night cruise, rail and stay package on the Queen Elizabeth and Venice Simplon Orient Express

    from $9,995*

    VISIT: Athens - Mykonos - Mytilene - Istanbul - Ephesus (Kusadasi) - Rhodes - Santorini - Olympia - Corfu - Dubrovnik - Venice - Prague - Frankfurt - Paris - London.

    The harmony of classic and contemporary strikes an elegant chord throughout this magnificent ship, the Queen Elizabeth. Images and features from her predecessors, Queen Elizabeth and QE2, sit comfortably alongside her modern charm. Within Queen Elizabeth's sleek lines, the lavishness of eras past meets the thrilling future of ocean travel. Welcome to the next elegant chapter in Cunard history.

    Depart from Venice late afternoon for your overnight journey to Prague on the Venice Simplon Orient Express, where you arrive the following afternoon for a two night stay. Rejoin the train in Prague during the afternoon for your overnight journey to Paris, where you arrive just after breakfast the following morning.
  • A combination of two of Royal Scotsman's finest journeys - the Classic and the Western

    8 day Rail Journey on the Royal Scotsman - Grand North Western

    from $12,019*

    VISIT: Edinburgh - Spean Bridge - Arisaig - Glenfinnan - Bridge of Orchy - Isle of Bute - Wemyss Bay - Keith - Plockton - Kyle of Lochalsh - Carrbridge - Boat of Garten - Dunkleld - Perth.

    A combination of the Classic and Western journeys. This trip may also be taken in reverse order - the Western journey followed by the Classic. This is purely dependant on the schedule. The Royal Scotsman travels the scenic West Highland Line to Spean Bridge, Arisaig, Bridge of Orchy, Wemyss Bay for Isle of Bute, and back to Edinburgh where you have time to explore the city. Rejoin the train to then call at Huntly, Keith, Invergordon for the Glen Ord Distillery, Plockton, Kyle of Lochalsh, Ballindalloch, Boat of Garten, Rothiemurchus Estate, Dunkeld (for Glamis Castle), Dundee and finally back to Edinburgh.

    Day 1 - The train departs from Edinburgh in the early afternoon and heads west through Falkirk, to reach Craigendoran the starting point for the West Highland Line, while guests enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea. Spot the distinctive peak of Ben Arthur and soon you also catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond. After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night. Enjoy a splendid formal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

    Day 2 - As the train travels west, passing through Fort William, don't miss the views of Ben Nevis. Travelling by the side of Loch Eil you then pass Glenfinnan, with its impressive curved viaduct, and Lochailort, before turning north along this dramatic coastline to Arisaig. Disembark here for a leisurely walk along the beautiful Morar Sands, with breathtaking views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye with its distinctive Cuillin Mountains. Back on board, lunch is served as the train retraces its route towards Fort William. Disembark here and enjoy a visit to historic Glenfinnan in the company of our Highlander who brings to life the stories of Scottish heroes before afternoon tea. Alternatively, a guided hike is available (weather permitting). A mountain ranger guides you through the scenic Nevis Gorge to The Steall Waterfall. Return to the train in Fort William and relax on board before an informal dinner is served as you travel south towards the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy. Afterwards, enjoy a nightcap whilst listening to the evening entertainment in the Observation Car.

    Day 3 - Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute, reached by ferry from Wemyss Bay. The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with a varied landscape to explore. Guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland. Return to Wemyss Bay for a formal dinner and overnight on board.

    Day 4 - After an early departure from Wemyss Bay this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you travel east towards Edinburgh where this first part of your Grand North Western journey ends in Waverley Station. Spend the morning in Edinburgh by joining a guided tour and enjoying a light lunch before returning to the train for the next part of your journey. The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon and travels north, crossing the Firth of Forth via the Forth Railway Bridge. It then proceeds through Fife and across the Tay Bridge – during which you are served a leisurely afternoon tea – passing Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith. In the evening enjoy an informal dinner and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow guests in the Observation Car.

    Day 5 - As the train leaves Keith you'll be enjoying a delicious breakfast. Next you pass through Inverness, before heading on to Muir of Ord where you disembark to visit Glen Ord distillery. Guests are treated to a private tour and a tasting, before returning to the train for a delicious lunch, as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on what is arguably one of the most scenic routes in Britain. The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon mountains. The train then climbs to Luib summit and Achnashellach forest, descends to Strathcarron and runs along the edge of stunning Loch Carron. Guests alight in Plockton to explore at will, take a boat trip to see wild seals or walk through the woodland. After there is time to enjoy a dram or two in the Plockton Hotel, or choose to simply have a wander through this charming village. Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Dinner is formal and afterwards there is entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.

    Day 6 - After breakfast the train heads back towards Dingwall, skirting the Beauly Firth and crossing the top of the Caledonian Canal, north of Loch Ness, before reaching Inverness. The train continues south to Carrbridge where guests disembark to visit the romantic Ballindalloch Castle with its wonderful gardens. The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After a formal dinner, our Highlander regales guests with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.

    Day 7 - The day begins with an excursion to Rothiemurchus Estate, where guests can choose from activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, a guided walk through the stunning landscape or simply relax with a warming dram by the fire. Rejoin the train at Kingussie where lunch will be served as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld, where you disembark for your visit to Glamis Castle. After rejoining the train in Perth, relax and enjoy informal dinner onboard.

    Day 8 - Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge into the former Kingdom of Fife and on to Edinburgh where your seven night journey ends.
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