The Highlands & Isle of Skye: Rail & Hike In Style

Scenic rail journeys and luxurious properties combine on this fabulous trip through the remote and rugged Scottish Highlands. Relax and let the train take the strain as you watch the world go by, drinking in some of the very best scenery the British Isles has to offer. This trip will appeal to those with a taste for the finer things in life, who also enjoy the good old-fashioned charm of travelling by train.

In Style | After a day of exciting adventures and soaking up unbeatable scenery, retreat to stylish accommodations and unwind with fine food and wine. This trip type is for those who like sophisticated places to stay and are looking for active routes but still want the holiday to feel special.

Rail and Hike | Perfectly planned itineraries discovering the best of a destination both by train and on foot.

Solo Travellers, Families with Teens

The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years

This trip is graded easy to moderate and includes optional daily walks of up to 12 miles/19km (Day 7), but most are shorter. As all walks are self-guided, you will be responsible for navigation, decision-making and safety during your trip. The terrain may be rugged underfoot with some hills but not too strenuous. You should enjoy a good level of fitness to make the most of this trip.

The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes.

Included is 7 nights accommodation in beautiful small hotels and lodges which are hand-picked for their indulgent and luxurious nature. They are often in converted castles or hunting lodges, and have charm and character with plenty of heritage.  Fine dining restaurants with fine wines and large selections of whisky’s are often also available at these properties.

You can add extra nights at any point during your stay. We particularly recommend doing so in Edinburgh and Glasgow as there is so much to see and do — please contact us for details.

Accommodation Location

We will always try and accommodate you at the properties and locations detailed in your itinerary. Occasionally, because of limited availability, there is the option to be accommodated at an alternative location. In the unlikely event that we have to accommodate you elsewhere we will advise you of this before confirming your booking. In this case you can opt to change your dates, or we can arrange transfers to and from an alternative overnight accommodation (supplement payable for transfers).

Single Rooms & Solo Walkers

This tour is available to solo walkers, although a solo supplement is payable. If you require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate your request, although it is not generally possible to secure more than three single rooms in a party. A single room supplement is payable.

Meals

Breakfast is included each morning and 4 dinners are also included. Lunch and your other dinners are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Your accommodation may be able to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked on arrival. Alternatively, you can stop at local shops and convenient lunch stops on the way. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or nearby restaurants.

The majority of the walks suggested on this trip (with the exception of Skye) are way marked. Navigation is straightforward using the Macs Adventure App which has maps, GPS tracks and daily route information. Simply download the GPS tracks for offline use and follow the route on your phone with the assurance that navigation on this tour will be made simple. You will find more information on downloading the app in your Macs Adventure Account.

Recommended Reading

If you would like more information on the route please see our recommendation below:

• Great Glen Way Harvey Map
• Skye Trails Harvey Map

This trip is available from May until mid-October. From May to late September you can start this trip on any day of the week. From September to mid October, you can begin on a Wednesday-Sunday due to a limited Jacobite Steam Train timetable. There is a national rail service available outside of the above months/times; please contact your destination specialist to discuss this option, if you are not able to be flexible with your start date.

Bookings: The properties featured on this tour are extremely popular, and book-up months and even years in advance. The summer months are particularly busy and we would urge you to get in touch with us as soon as possible if you are considering booking. If you are flexible with your dates, then this will assist us in finding you the best possible arrangements. Thank you for your understanding.

Please also note that because of limits on participant numbers on the Skye Guided tour we cannot take bookings of more than 7 people in a group. If you do not wish to take the Skye Guided tour then we can book a group of 8 or more if there is availability. 

The weather in Scotland is generally very variable all year, so it is imperative to be prepared for wind, rain, cold, warmth and sunshine! Conditions (and forecasts) can vary substantially from one day to the next, so do anticipate a variety of weathers, and embrace them as the Scots do (with a good waterproof and windproof jacket on).

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports are well-served by low-cost and scheduled airlines. From Edinburgh Airport you can travel by tram or airport shuttle bus to the city centre (approx. 30 mins). From Glasgow Airport an airport shuttle operates regularly to Buchanan Street Bus Station (approx. 30 mins). Alternatively, you can book a taxi to Glasgow Airport with some taxi companies for a fixed rate - the journey from the city centre to the airport takes approx. 25 mins. Further information will be detailed in your pre-departure information pack.

Public Transport: The website www.travelinescotland.com is handy for researching train and bus timetables throughout Scotland. Your trip includes second class travel on Scotrail train services as detailed in your itinerary. These are 'anytime' tickets that can be used at any time during the specific date of travel. Full details can be found in your pre-departure information pack.

Luggage transfers aren't necessary on this trip as you'll be able to bring your bags with you on travel days on the train, in taxis, and on the ferry. The trip is designed so that during the hikes you are free to walk with just a day pack.