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A holiday filled with stunning nature and captivating history as we explore the wonders of the Highlands aboard magnificent railways.5 DAYS from%u00a31,099ppDay 1. Inverness and an evening with %u2018Mr Loch Ness%u2019Your holiday begins in Inverness where we meet the Tour Manager at our hotel, which overlooks the River Ness in the centre of the city. With time before dinner, you could familiarise yourself with the city on a riverside stroll. This city is considered the cultural capital of the Highlands, and is crowned by the stunning Inverness Castle. Its most famous resident, King Mac Bethad mac Findl%u00e1ich, was the inspiration for one of Shakespeare%u2019s most famous tragedies, Macbeth. After dinner at the hotel, we%u2019re treated to a wee dram during an Inverness storytelling session. The storyteller, Willie Cameron, known as %u2018Mr Loch Ness%u2019, shares tales and insights about the Highlands. Day 2. The enchanting Jacobite steam trainOn the first full day of our holiday we head to Fort William by coach. The drive takes us through stunning Highland scenery of breathtaking mountains, rolling hills, and rugged terrain. In Fort William, we board the restored vintage carriages of the Jacobite steam train* ready for our scenic journey to Mallaig. As we leave the station, look out for Ben Nevis, the UK%u2019s highest mountain, and enroute, you may spot local wildlife, such as red deer. The railway played a role in the Harry Potter movies, and %u2013 if you have seen the films %u2013 you%u2019ll immediately recognise the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Our train journey ends in Mallaig where there%u2019s some time to find lunch independently. Driving to our hotel, we pass Loch Ness, known for its legendary monster, Nessie.*On early/late season departures the Jacobite steam train is replaced by the scheduled Scotrail service.Day 3. Eilean Donan Castle and the beautiful Kyle LineThis morning, we visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most striking castles in Scotland. Perched atop a tiny island, this iconic fortress has played a role in several films. After looking around and soaking up the views, we return to Inverness on the Kyle Line %u2013 one of Scotland%u2019s most stunning railways. Skirting beside lochs, travelling through wild mountain landscapes, we experience glorious displays of nature from our windows. This evening is at leisure in Inverness. There%u2019s no scheduled dinner at the hotel, so you are free to dine independently at one of the inviting pubs or restaurants.Day 4. The Strathspey Steam Railway and Culloden BattlefieldTravelling to Aviemore, we join the nostalgic Strathspey Steam Railway for a trip through the stunning Cairngorms National Park. The beautifully restored carriages have comfortable seats and large windows, to look out at the breathtaking scenery. As we travel beside the snaking River Spey, we pass rolling hills blanketed by heather, the craggy Cairngorm Mountain, dense forests and wooded glens. Leaving the train at Broomhill station, we are driven to Aviemore where you are at leisure over lunchtime. Our next stop is the historic Culloden Battlefield, where the final battle of the Jacobite Rising took place in 1746. We take a private guided tour of the battlefield with access to the visitor%u2019s centre, with its 360-degree battle immersion theatre, unique weapons and artefacts on display. There%u2019s also time to enjoy panoramic views from the roof garden. We return to our hotel with time to relax before dinner. Day 5. Homeward boundAfter breakfast, you are free to check out and make your way home, or may decide to explore the stunning Scottish Highlands further at your own pace. YOUR ITINERARYSecure your place now with a %u00a3250pp deposit2025 Departures: MAR, APR, MAY, JUN, JUL, AUG, SEP, OCTTour Code: HAS | %u00a3 per person based on 2 sharing. Supplement for solo travellers from %u00a3250.WHAT%u2019S INCLUDED:%u2713 4 nights%u2019 4-Star hotel accommodation %u2713 Standard Class rail travel%u2713 All rail and coach travel throughout your tour%u2713 Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish%u2713 Breakfast each day, 3 dinners%u2713 All guided tours and excursionsSCOTLANDKyle of Lochalsh EileanDonanCastleInvernessMallaigFort WilliamCullodenBroomhillAviemore4Mobility Rating 1 2 3 4SCOTLAND 13Search greatrail.com/HAS25Classic