Western Scenic Wonders Aboard the Royal Scotsman

Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh Waverley Station in the early afternoon and travels west through Falkirk, Clydebank and Dumbarton to skirt Glasgow before reaching the northern bank of the Clyde. Near the mouth of the Clyde estuary lies Craigendoran, the starting point for the majestic West Highland Line.
 
Enjoy afternoon tea as you travel along the edge of Gare Loch. Loch Long comes into sight to your left and, after vanishing for a while, returns with a view of Ben Arthur, whose distinctive outline has earned the 884m peak the nickname The Cobbler. Passing Arrochar, you gain your first glimpse of Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest lake. The train descends almost to the water's edge at Ardlui before embarking on a hard climb up Glen Falloch, whose many waterfalls provide an impressive display.
 
Continuing north, the train passes through the villages of Crianlarich and Bridge of Orchy, then on to boggy and beautiful Rannoch Moor, one of the last great wildernesses of Scotland. An informal dinner is served on the way to Spean Bridge, after which you are invited to the Observation Car to enjoy lively entertainment by local musicians.

As the train travels west, passing through Fort William, keep watch for the stunning views of Ben Nevis, at 1344m the UK's highest peak. Travelling by the side of Loch Eil you then pass Glenfinnan, with its impressive curved viaduct, and the hamlet of Lochailort, before turning north along the dramatic coastline to Arisaig. Alight here for a romantic walk along the beautiful Morar Sands, enjoying breathtaking views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye and spectacular Cuillin Mountains.

Back on board, lunch is served as the train retraces its route towards Fort William. Disembark here for a fascinating visit to historic Glenfinnan, where the Jacobite Rising began in 1745. You are joined by your local guide, who brings to life stories of the great Scottish heroes. Afterwards, enjoy a cream tea in the elegant drawing room at Inverlochy Castle Hotel before returning to Fort William.

For those who would prefer, a guided hike is available this afternoon (weather permitting). A mountain ranger will lead you through the scenic Nevis Gorge to the Steall Waterfall, the second highest in the UK. This is a moderate-grade, two-hour walk, which is steep, rocky and slippery in places, therefore requiring a reasonable level of fitness. Sturdy walking boots with a good tread and ankle support, a waterproof jacket and suitable trousers are essential. Walking boots and waterproofs can be provided, subject to availability.

Return to the train in Fort William and relax. An informal dinner is served as you travel south towards the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy. After dinner, indulge in a nightcap while listening to the evening entertainment in the Observation Car.

Leaving Bridge of Orchy this morning, soak up the dramatic Highland scenery as you journey south towards Glasgow and the west coast. After lunch, disembark in Wemyss Bay where you board the ferry for the 35-minute crossing to the Isle of Bute. The island embraces a variety of landscapes: seashore, moorland, farmland and forest. The natural history, geography, geology and ancient history of the island are revealed at every turn. From St Blane's Chapel at the south of the island to the abandoned townships in Glen More at the north, it seems every stone has a tale to tell.

Visit Mount Stuart, Britain's most spectacular Victorian Gothic house and the fantasy of the 3rd Marquess of Bute and his architect, Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. Mysterious and surprising interiors reflect the marquess's passion for art, astrology and mythology, and the mansion is home to one of the finest privately held collections of family portraits in Scotland.

After enjoying afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, you are invited to explore the magnificent house and the grounds, which include a rock garden, kitchen garden, display of rare plants and a Victorian pinetum. Stroll down the limetree avenue to discover a secluded stretch of coastline and lovely views towards the mainland.

Return to the train in Wemyss Bay, where a delicious formal dinner is served on the way to Kilmarnock, our stabling location for the evening. Relax in the Observation Car over coffee, liqueurs and traditional Scottish music.

After an early departure from Kilmarnock this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you travel east towards Edinburgh Waverley Station and your journey’s end.