This dream trip explores the Scottish Highlands by steam train and boat
Always wanted to experience the Highlands' most awe-inspiring sights on a steam train in Scotland?
The Scottish Highlands are a mystical place, where majestic mountains sit next to tranquil lochs, possessing an undisturbed beauty that has inspired poets, artists and musicians for centuries.
TOUR THE HIGHLANDS WITH CAROL KIRKWOOD
It's for this reason that Country Living is bringing you an unforgettable trip through some of its most beautiful locations via a Scotland steam train experience in 2025.
Not only will you visit some of Scotland's most heavenly rural locations, you'll have the company of Scottish weather presenter Carol Kirkwood on one evening, who will give a fascinating talk and take part in a Q&A session.
What can you expect from the trip?
Sail to the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift
Beginning at New Port Downie you will sail to the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift.
A marvel of modern engineering, first opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2002, it will raise you gracefully from the Forth & Clyde to the Union Canal in just four minutes.
Stay at a charming hotel
You'll stay at The Winnock Hotel in Drymen, a stylish and cosy hotel with comfortable bedrooms, a characterful restaurant and whisky bar, a leisure club and friendly, welcoming service.
The hotel is nestled within the grounds of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. From here, you'll explore Loch Katrine and Loch Lomond, venturing further to the Highlands countryside, before returning for a warming drink by the fire in the Ptarmigan Bar.
Hear stories about Scotland from Carol Kirkwood
You'll be joined for part of the trip by Scottish weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood. Carol has been presenting the weather for more than 20 years and famously danced with Pasha Kovalev in the 13th series of Strictly Come Dancing.
She grew up in Morar on Scotland's west coast and will share memories of her childhood in this beautiful part of Scotland along with funny anecdotes from her career in TV.
Ride the Jacobite steam train ride from Fort William to Mallaig, via Glenfinnan Viaduct
One of the highlights of this steam train holiday to Scotland is taking the Jacobite train from Fort William.
You'll pass by the slopes of Ben Nevis and over the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct (as seen in the Harry Potter films), to Mallaig, a quaint harbour town where you can enjoy a seafood lunch at one of its charming portside eateries.
Maybe you'll go for fish and chips, crab sandwiches or freshly landed lobster. Whatever you choose, be sure to leave room for something bubbly though, as you'll have a champagne reception to look forward to back at the hotel.
Cruise across the tranquil waters of Loch Katrine
You'll be treated to a wonderful cruise across Loch Katrine on the SS Sir Walter Scott, a small steamship that's been taking visitors on Loch Katrine pleasure cruises for more than a century.
Sit back and relax as you glide across the water and take in the famous views of the Trossachs, a beautifully scenic area of lochs, hills and woods. It's also a haven for wildlife including black grouse, golden eagles, osprey, pine martens, red squirrels, and otters, so keep your eyes peeled during your cruise.
How to experience a steam train holiday in Scotland
Travel on the Jacobite train and experience your own Highland adventure in 2025 with Country Living. You'll spend four days discovering the wonders of the Highlands by steam, from the Jacobite to the SS Sir Walter Scott. To complete this incredible tour, you'll be in the company of the wonderful Carol Kirkwood, who will share stories about growing up in Scotland.
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