Luxury Castle & Jacobite Express Short Break

Holiday Details

Day One – Into The Highlands

Make your way to your five star castle accommodation today, which lies in its own grounds in a beautiful setting just outside Fort William.

Fort William is well-served by trains from Scotland’s central belt or further south. Do not hesitate to let us know if we can help in booking connections for you. If you prefer, you can drive to your destination and then leave your car behind for your full-day private tour tomorrow.

Your Accommodation

Enjoy your luxury two-night stay in Inverlochy Castle. Nestling in the foothills of the mighty Ben Nevis, the castle sits amidst some of Scotland’s finest scenery. Built in 1863 by the first Lord Abinger, Inverlochy Castle is near the site of the original 13th century fortress. In September 1873 during a trip to Balmoral, Queen Victoria spent a week at Inverlochy sketching and painting where she wrote in her diaries ‘I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’. Inverlochy Castle had been a private residence for over a hundred years until 1969 when it was converted from a family home to Scotland’s finest country house hotel.

The rooms here are gloriously spacious and sumptuous, each with their own individual design and character. Enjoy the spectacular views of the castle grounds and private loch during your stay. You will find the service impeccable with every detail for your comfort and enjoyment carefully considered. We would highly recommend dining in the hotel restaurant for an exceptional culinary experience. Choose from a menu of the finest dishes using local fresh produce. The decoration is a further delight to the senses, with various period pieces and elaborate furniture which were presented as gifts to Inverlochy Castle from the King of Norway.

Day Two – First Class on the Jacobite Express

You will be collected from the castle this morning by McKinlay Kidd’s driver guide and a spectacular day awaits.

Your journey of a little over two hours on the Jacobite Express steam train in first class will undoubtedly be a memorable part of your break. As you sink into your padded armchair, drift back to a bygone era. Smoke billows, pungent smells surround you as the engine hauls its carriages through the magnificent scenery of mountain peaks and coastal views. Marvel at the Victorian engineering triumph of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, overlooking the waters of Loch Shiel.

Also included is a private tour transfer with our driver guide who will treat you to a road trip in the opposite direction to your steam train trip. This tour can be tailored to your wishes and specific interests, just let our guide know. Perhaps you will hear about the history of Bonnie Prince Charlie and Glenfinnan and gain fascinating insights into the social history and culture of the West Highlands. There will be several opportunities to stop, take photographs and stretch your legs, including at the wonderful beaches with views to Skye and the Small Isles. It’s easy to see why director Bill Forsyth chose this as the location for the 1980s film, Local Hero.

We’ve also organised lunch for you at a tucked-away spot by the shore away from the hustle and bustle of Mallaig.

Return to your accommodation this evening to relax in your luxurious surroundings and review your day.

Day Three – Homeward-bound

Do let us know if we can assist with any onward travel connections or if you wish to extend this brief tour into a longer tailor-made trip to experience more of the delights of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands.

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Location

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Pricing

The price is £950 per person and includes:

• Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation based on two people sharing a large double or twin room at Inverlochy Castle Hotel
• A first class single trip on the Jacobite Express steam train
• A private tour/ transfer from your accommodation to join the Jacobite and return journey to your accommodation accompanied by a driver/ guide
• Lunch at a West Coast restaurant on day two

Not included:

• Meals unless stated

Before your departure, you will receive detailed holiday information including full directions, recommended routes and an exact itinerary with specific timings.

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