Scotland's best train routes for sightseeing revealed with rugged mountain views and enchanting glens
Scroll down to find out some of the best places to travel by train
RAIL-Y GREAT Scotland's best train routes for sightseeing revealed with rugged mountain views and enchanting glens
FROM rugged mountains to enchanting glens, one of the finest ways to experience Scotland's iconic beauty is by train.
This summer, leave the car behind and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that Scotland has to offer by booking a rail holiday instead of travelling by road.
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The Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the most iconic rail routes in the world
Credit: Getty
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Corrour Station is in the middle of the Rannoch Mour on the West Highland line
Credit: Alamy
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The Kyle of Lochalsh line is also equally breathtaking
Credit: Alamy
The top train holidays in Scotland for 2025-26 have been revealed by the travel planning site Holiday Scottish Highlands and Islands.
Travel experts have selected three of the best routes, celebrated for their stunning scenery, rich history, and exciting activities along the way.
Scotland's vibrant rail network, established during the Victorian era, provides bucket-list experiences such as the West Highland Line, which meanders through some of the most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Offering spectacular views of Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Ben Nevis, this route is considered one of the finest in the world.
Reaching iconic landmarks like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, completed in 1901 and towering above Loch Shiel, has elevated scenic rail travel to international fame, bolstered by its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
The first featured journey is a trip on the Jacobite steam train, crossing the famous arched bridge from the Hogwarts Express scene.
Departing from Glasgow along the West Highland Line, this six-day tour takes visitors into the heart of the northwest Highlands, with stops at Loch Lomond, the historic town of Inveraray, and a ferry crossing from Oban to Mull.
The second dream itinerary is the Hogwarts route, which begins and ends in London.
This self-guided seven-day ScotRail trip includes several days in Inverness and Fort William, a journey to the fishing village of Mallaig via the iconic 21-arched viaduct, and a magical return on the Caledonian Sleeper.
The third listed journey is the nine-day Edinburgh, Highlands & Islands tour, which traverses both the West Highland and Kyle railway lines, two of Scotland's most scenic routes.
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Blending standard and heritage rail, this trip includes excursions to Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, a relaxing cruise on Loch Linnhe and Loch Ness, and concludes with a grand Scottish banquet in Edinburgh, complete with pipers and dancing.
The Holiday Scottish Highlands & Islands website describes these trips as "a rail traveller's dream, offering a blend of history, culture, and wild Highland beauty.
"Scotland by rail holidays take you past ancient castles, shimmering lochs, and rugged glens—all without the hassle of driving. Here's your ultimate guide to planning the perfect Scotland rail holiday."
Further details can be found on the Holiday Scottish Highlands & Islands website.
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One of the trips is self-guided via ScotRail services
Credit: Alamy
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