Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam

On the first day of your Scottish adventure, you meet your Tour Manager at your hotel just off Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile. After checking in, you have time to explore the Scottish capital's stunning architecture, dramatic history, and vibrant cultural scene. Dinner this evening is at one of Edinburgh's popular restaurants, Loudons, where you enjoy your first night in the welcoming atmosphere of Scotland.

• Dinner

After breakfast today, you 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. Opening in 2002, the rotating boat lift connects the Forth & Clyde canal with the Union canal and is the only one of its kind in the world. There's time to admire this masterpiece and take photos.

Continuing the journey to Blair Atholl, you 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 magnificent, imposing castle and the picturesque hills that surround it or wander the charming streets spotting medieval landmarks.

Arriving in Blair Atholl, a village enveloped by ancient forests and rolling hills, you check into your hotel. Once you've settled in, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the picturesque town known for its 13th-century castle and stunning views of the River Garry.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you begin at Queen's View, one of Scotland's most famous lookouts. With stunning 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. Wander through the lovely streets and browse the delightful souvenir shops.

Next, you return to Blair Atholl to enjoy a tour of the fantastic 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 exploring the castle, the rest of your afternoon and evening is free to relax or experience more of Blair Atholl.

• Breakfast

You experience the beauty of the West Highland Line today aboard the magnificent 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 the moment you cross 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 quaint fishing port that looks over the Isle of Skye. Along the picturesque harbour, there's a choice of traditional Scottish pubs that serve delicious seafood dishes. With some time at leisure, you could enjoy lunch with a view before your return journey on the amazing Jacobite.

Please note that journeys are steam-hauled where possible - some departures may use the ScotRail scheduled service.

• Breakfast

You make the most of your final full day today and begin with a journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway. Starting from Aviemore, you follow the route of the historic Highland Railway with the scenery of Cairngorm National Park surrounding you on all sides. Wind past pine forests, heathery moors and lush fields before arriving in Cairngorm.

From here, you board the Cairngorm Mountain Railway for a spectacular journey to the summit of Cairngorm Mountain. The 2km funicular railway climbs up the steep mountainside, with breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. As you ascend, you'll see the landscape change from rolling hills to rugged mountains, with forests, lochs, and valleys below. Once you reach the summit, you step out into the crisp mountain air and take in the panoramic vistas.

The vast expanse of the Scottish Highlands stretches out before you, with jagged peaks and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of the North Sea in the distance, shimmering in the sunlight.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can take on one of the many hiking trails that wind their way through the surrounding countryside, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The summit is also home to one of Scotland's premier ski resorts, but for a more relaxed experience, you could simply soak up the natural beauty of the area from the comfort of the visitor centre, where you can get some food or a cup of tea while gazing out at the stunning views.

Your next stop, after a short coach journey, is the Highland Folk Museum - a living, breathing tribute to the traditional way of life in the Scottish Highlands. Set amidst the stunning natural beauty of Newtonmore, the museum transports visitors back in time to the 18th century, with carefully recreated buildings, costumes, and artefacts.

With knowledgeable and passionate guides, you'll experience the culture of the Highland clans and learn about the unique customs and traditions that have endured for centuries. Your fun-packed day comes to an end and you journey back to your hotel for the rest of the evening and a final dinner at the hotel.

• Breakfast, Dinner

As your holiday comes to a close after breakfast this morning, it's time to bid farewell to Blair Atholl. Heading back to Edinburgh by train via Perth, soak up the stunning landscapes that have been the backdrop for an amazing holiday. You also pass the iconic red steelwork of Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the Firth of Forth. Arriving in Edinburgh, you bid farewell to new friends and fellow travellers before making your way home with unforgettable memories.

• Breakfast