A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel

Today is long but rewarding as we journey back in time aboard the Jacobite steam train and experience one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world, the Fort William to Mallaig line. From the slopes of Ben Nevis, the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs and on to the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route also takes us over the Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. We enjoy some free time in Mallaig before returning on the Jacobite to Fort William. We then return by coach to our hotel in time for dinner.

Today following breakfast we head for Tarbet on the banks of Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest inland body of water, and depart on a 60-minute ‘Northern Highlights Cruise’ with full commentary. As we cross to the far side of the loch we hear the story of ‘Rob Roy’ MacGregor who was born by Loch Katrine in the 17th century and lived at Inversnaid here on the banks of Loch Lomond. After fighting in the Jacobite Rising he became a respected cattleman but defaulted on a loan and was branded an outlaw - legends abound of his secret prison and hiding place in local caves.

We then cross the mountain pass known as the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ and descend to the shores of Loch Fyne, a long fjord-like sea loch.

This afternoon we visit Inveraray Castle, which has been the seat of the Duke of Argyll, chief of the Clan Campbell, since the 17th century. The house is a mostly mid-18th century neo-Gothic design. Designers who worked on the house include Sir Matthew Digby Wyatt and Robert Adam; the interior includes a number of neoclassical rooms created for the 5th Duke by Robert Mylne.

Following breakfast we check out of the hotel and depart for our cruise on Loch Katrine, the tranquil freshwater loch which serves as Glasgow’s water supply. Sit back and relax on board the Steamship SS Walter Scott as we glide across the water and savour the famed charms of The Trossachs, a highly scenic area of lochs, hills and woods.