A Classic Scottish Steam Break

Today, following an early start, we will journey back in time on the Jacobite steam train and experience one of the most memorable and spectacular railway journeys in the world - the famous Fort William to Mallaig line following The Road to the Isles. "The Jacobite" combines the romance of the steam era with the opportunity to drink in the stunning views of this wild and historic part of Scotland. From the slopes of Ben Nevis the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs and onto the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route also takes us over the massive Glenfinnan viaduct overlooking Loch Sheil, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. There is time to enjoy lunch (not included) in Mallaig, whether you choose fish and chips, crab sandwiches or freshly landed lobster. On arrival in Fort William we return by coach to our hotel for dinner, after a long but most rewarding day.

After breakfast today we will head for Tarbet on the banks of Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest inland body of water, and depart on a 90-minute ‘Rob Roy Discovery 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.

Dinner will be served back at our hotel this evening.

Following breakfast we check out of the hotel and depart for a cruise on Loch Katrine, which serves as Glasgow’s water supply and is also one of the most attractive fresh water lochs in Scotland, set amid the famed beauty of the Trossachs.

Following our cruise we continue by Aberfoyle, the Duke’s Pass and Loch Venachar to Callander where we will have some free time before continuing on to our original departure points.