Belmond's Scottish Sleeper Train is the pinnacle of luxury and relaxation
A trip on Belmond's Royal Scotsman allows you to see the outstanding beauty of the Scottish Highlands from the luxurious comfort of a legendary sleeper train.
The following is based on the Taste of the Highlands 2-night journey
Picture the scene: You arrive at Edinburgh's Waverley Station where you are greeted by a traditional kilted bagpiper who leads you and the other passengers to the red carpet running alongside this stunning train. Your journey begins with a sparkling wine reception as the Royal Scotsman pulls away from the station and onto its first exciting destination.
Next, you are shown to your cabin; each one fully equipped with a dressing table, wardrobe and en suite bathroom.
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Familiarise yourself with your new quarters but don't get too comfortable because, down the hallway, the public cars are already stirring with excitement.
All drinks are included on The Royal Scotsman so, if you're a whisky fan, take the opportunity to sample the unique selection of single malts this train has to offer. If whisky isn't your thing, there are plenty of local gins, wines and exclusive cocktails to try instead!
Use this time to relax, chat with your fellow travellers or even step out onto the observation deck and enjoy seeing the cityscape quickly turn to rolling hills. Now is the perfect opportunity to abandon all concepts of time and responsibility.
After some time, you will be called to the dining car for dinner. Every table is laid beautifully and the attention to detail is second to none - which is unsurprising for Belmond. Fine embellished china, crystal glasses, crisp white linen tablecloths and fresh flowers.
The meals served feature only the best local produce and each dish is crafted with passion by head chef Mark Tamburrini; a native Glaswegian. Think perfectly smoked Scottish salmon, succulent West-Coast scallops or a mouth-watering fillet of Aberdeen Angus beef. Authentic Scottish cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Each course comes with its own perfect wine pairing, but even if you aren't a wine lover, your server will be able to provide you with many delicious alternatives.
The atmosphere is spirited and buoyant and even more so when you suddenly remember that you are on a moving train speeding towards some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
After dinner, you and your fellow travellers are invited to enter the observation car for more drinks and traditional entertainment. Two local musicians; a guitarist and a fiddler provide lively Scottish merriment!
Drinks are flowing all night and the bartenders will not retire until the final guest has gone to bed.
The Royal Scotsman reaches the village of Boat of Garten, its stabling point for the night. After an eventful first night of local delicacies, whisky, wine and dancing, it's time to make your way back to your cosy cabin for a comfortable night's sleep before your first activity tomorrow.
The next day you are awoken by the morning sun creeping in through the curtains of your cabin. The train is on the move again.
You head to the dining car for a feast of warm pastries, traditional Scottish porridge and a selection of delicious options from the grill. The smell of fresh coffee fills the air.
It's then time to disembark for a short coach transfer to the Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Glimmering Lochs, vibrant purple heather and ancient ruins make this the perfect backdrop for whichever activity you decide to do today. Try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, fishing or even just meandering around the estate, breathing in that pure highland air.
After a leisurely afternoon of activities, it's time to rejoin the train for lunch. Lunch today is light and fresh; a vine cherry tomato and basil risotto with roasted asparagus and pesto accompanied beautifully by another wine pairing.
As the sun begins to set, it's onwards to Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest working distilleries in the world, for a guided tour and tasting.
After a day seeped in history, nature and plenty of whisky, it's time to make your way back onto the Royal Scotsman and change into your smartest clothes for this evening's Gala Dinner. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear kilts (you can hire these in advance to be delivered to your cabin) whilst the ladies are emboldened to don their finest cocktail dresses.
Meanwhile, the train speeds through the spectacular landscapes of Aberdeenshire and Angus.
Once dinner is over, you make your way to the bar car for live music, storytelling and dancing. The staff will ensure that the glass in your hand will never be empty.
After another restful nights sleep, you enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you make your way back to Edinburgh. You take this opportunity to step out onto the viewing deck for one last look at the immeasurable beauty of this one-of-a-kind country.
We are now taking bookings for 2024. Please see available journeys below:
Taste of the Highlands - 2 Nights
Western Scenic Wonders - 3 Nights
Scotch Malt Whisky Tour - 4 Nights
Scotland's Classic Splendours - 4 Nights
Heritage Homes and Gardens - 4 Nights
Clans Castles & Isles - 5 Nights
Grand Taste of The Highlands - 4 Nights
Grand Taste of The Highlands Northbound - 4 Nights
Grand Western Scenic Wonders Northbound - 7 Nights
Grand Western Scenic Wonders Westbound - 7 Nights
Our concierge team are on hand to help find the perfect journey for you.
