EDINBURGH & THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN

Day 1 Arrive in Edinburgh

Arrive in Edinburgh where you will be met on arrival and transferred to your elegant 5-star hotel in the heart of Edinburgh. You'll have the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: The Balmoral Hotel

Day 2 Edinburgh

Meet your private guide for a sightseeing tour of Edinburgh. A visit will be made to Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the capital from atop a huge promontory of rock in the city centre, and where the Crown Jewels of Scotland, older than those of England, are kept. Afterwards drive down The Royal Mile to the Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the Queen when in Edinburgh, and former home of the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots in the 16th century, where you will be able to visit the State Apartments. Lunch is at leisure and the rest of the day is free to explore independently.

Overnight: The Balmoral Hotel

Day 3 Royal Scotsman

After a morning at leisure, board the luxury Royal Scotsman train for the start of your Highland Journey. Travel northwards through the former Kingdom of Fife, then up into the dramatic scenery of the Highlands. Sample Scotland's national drink as you enjoy an informal whisky tasting in the observation car.

Overnight: Royal Scotsman

Day 4 Cairngorms National Park

Visit Rothiemurchus Estate, located in a magical setting in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. There will be an opportunity to tour the estate, then rejoin the train for lunch en route to Culloden Battlefield, where you will be taken on a private tour. This evening enjoy a visit to Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest working Whisky distilleries, then return to the Royal Scotsman for a formal dinner on board during which the journey southwards will take you through some spectacular scenery through Aberdeenshire and Angus.

Overnight: Royal Scotsman

Day 5 Edinburgh and depart

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board the Royal Scotsman this morning as you leave the Highlands behind and return to Edinburgh.