Exploring a place through train is one of the best ways to see the world. Take the Scottish Highlands as a case in point: its soaring peaks, deep valleys, mirror lochs, castles and centuries-old culture of whisky production is best experienced through an immersive and slow travel journey that allows visitors to pause and savour the wild landscape and heritage.
While there are many special trains which provide this one-of-a-kind experience for visitors, there is one luxury service that is a cut above the rest: the Royal Scotsman.
Owned by the Belmond Ltd company since 2005, the Royal Scotsman first swept across the rails in 1985. Originally composed of sleeping cars and three dining carriages, its lacquer-polished wooden panels and warm tonal fabrics showcased its Edwardian country-house appeal and birthed an exclusive experience across Scotland’s most awe-inspiring natural scenery.
Just last month, French multinational luxury house Dior took guests on a four-night, three-day program of its “Dior Wellness Journey” aboard the Royal Scotsman that included private nutrition consultations and signature spa treatments.
So, what can you expect from a trip aboard the Royal Scotsman and why is it one of the most sought-after seats in town? Here’s what you need to know.
A Wide-Ranging Tour Of Scotland
The Royal Scotsman winds its way through the Scottish Highlands on two- to seven-night journeys that encompasses castles, distilleries and historic sites. For instance, its “Taste of the Highlands” tour is a two-night journey from Edinburgh that rolls through the hills of Perthshire and the rural beauty of Cairngorms National Park before turning south through Aberdeenshire and Angus.
Meanwhile, the five-night “Clans, Castles and Isles” tour stops at Arisaig for a morning stroll along the silver sands of Morar, crosses over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, takes in a visit to the Tobermory Distillery for a private tour and tasting experience and a trip to a family-run sustainable cheese farm on the outskirts of Tobermory, as well as a ferry ride to the Isle of Bute.
Accommodation And Dining Aboard The Royal Scotsman
Staying on board the Royal Scotsman is an experience like none other. Guests can choose from twin cabins, double cabins or grand suites, depending on their tastes. The latter is the crème de la crème of accommodation, blending Scottish tradition and contemporary luxury with a personal butler service, in-cabin private dining and a complimentary Dior spa treatment per guest. The twin cabins are designed for space and relaxation with lower cosy beds, ceiling fans and controlled heating ensuring absolute comfort, while double cabins come with a comfortable double bed, a mahogany writing desk, a large wardrobe and a fully-equipped en-suite shower room.
The dining experience on board the Royal Scotsman makes one feel like they are living royalty. Served in two dining cars, Raven and Swift, each meal celebrates exceptional Scottish ingredients sourced from local suppliers and crafted for a contemporary twist. Decorated with Scottish thistles and heritage marquetry, the mahogany-panelled restaurant cars create an indulgent yet intimate atmosphere. Guests can select from steaming hot beverages, wines, liqueurs and over 50 malt whiskies for an ideal accompaniment throughout the day.
Wellness Experiences On The Royal Scotsman
If the view from the windows isn’t enough to relax you, head to the Dior spa carriage which boasts two lacquered treatment rooms styled with the Maison’s iconic burgundy toile de Jouy motif.
Here, guests can choose from three unique treatments that promise to rejuvenate them from head to toe. The D-Travel Body Massage is designed to purify the body of toxins and release tension through deep, slow and soothing movements that ultimately relieve muscular pain, while the D-Elements Body Massage pays tribute to Scotland’s capricious climate where four seasons follow each other in the space of a single day. The sun shines on your back because of semi-precious hot stones, a breeze blows on the lower body thanks to a series of regular massage strokes, and the rain comes from the Bain Dior mist, warmed by hot oshibori. Finally, the D-Highlands Facial is inspired by Kobido facial massage techniques, which sculpts the face’s features and improves the skin’s appearance.
A Wild Landscape Front And Centre
Arguably the best place in the Royal Scotsman is the Observation Car. Here, guests absorb and admire the wildness of the Scottish Highlands from the comfort of a sofa or armchair with a drink in hand. Those who want to take it all in can step out onto the train’s open-air veranda as it glides past castles, villages and glens.
If you’re the type of person to chase experiences over things and memories over money, the Royal Scotsman awaits at the Edinburgh Waverley Station. See you there.
