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Daily Record
5 days ago
- Daily Record
Scotland's five best train journeys in 2025 named including 'jolly summer jaunt'
The Caledonian Sleeper and The Royal Scotsman were among those singled out. The "best train journeys" in Scotland for 2025 have been named. Luxury services and scenic routes are among the train journeys that were singled out. Travel experts at Condé Nast Traveller recently rounded up the best train journeys throughout the UK. Out of the 17 routes featured on the roundup, five are located in Scotland. The Daily Record has compiled the Scottish train journeys that appear on the experts' list. Among these are The Caledonian Sleeper, The Royal Scotsman, and the Glasgow to Mallaig route. The Caledonian Sleeper The first Scottish railway journey named on Condé Nast Traveller's list is The Caledonian Sleeper. The overnight train travels between London and Scotland. According to the experts, the service is comprised of two trains. The Lowlander connects London to Edinburgh and Glasgow, while the Highlander carries on up to Aberdeen, Fort William, and Inverness. Condé Nast Traveller praised The Caledonian Sleeper for resembling "a mobile hotel", singling out its cosy bunk beds and soft duvets. Also mentioned was the service's dining car, where passengers can enjoy "a classic meal of steaming haggis, neeps and tatties in whisky cream sauce". The Royal Scotsman, a Belmond train Also featuring on Condé Nast Traveller's list is The Royal Scotsman, which is a luxury sleeper train that departs from Edinburgh Waverley and explores the Scottish Highlands. The experts likened the carriages on the service to a "long and narrow Edwardian country house", applauding features such as its luxury sodas and curtains. The Royal Scotsman offers journeys up to seven days in length, visiting castles, distilleries, and numerous historic sites. However, the experts singled out its two-night Taste of the Highlands journey that travels into the heart of the Scottish Highlands and visits multiple sites of natural beauty. Condé Nast Traveller wrote: "There are excursions to Culloden Battlefield in Inverness, clay pigeon shooting at the Rothiemurchus Estate, and whisky-tasting at the Strathisla Distillery in the town of Keith, where the air smells of warm malt." Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh The third Scottish train journey mentioned as being among the best in the UK is the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh route. The journey, which takes approximately three hours, departs from Inverness past the southern bank of the Beauly Firth. Among the top sights of the service according to the experts are lochs and picturesque moors that are home to deer. Also singled out as being "worth a stopover" was the village of Plockton, which was noted for its charming houses and scenic islets. Newcastle to Edinburgh Another journey that begins in England, the Newcastle to Edinburgh service begins in the northeast city and ends in the Scottish capital. The high-speed train travels along England's northeast coast before reaching the south of Scotland, offering "patchworked countryside and misty-blue ocean scenes" according to Condé Nast Traveller. The experts recommend that passengers on the Newcastle to Edinburgh route sit on the right-hand side of the train to make the most of the views. Meanwhile, the route was applauded for its affordability—with Condé Nast Traveller praising the £14.90 one-way service offered by Lumo. Glasgow to Mallaig Finally, the Glasgow to Mallaig route leaves from Scotland's largest city and heads into the heart of the dramatic Highlands. One of the beauty spots the train passes by is the legendary Loch Lomond. According to Condé Nast Traveller, passengers should move to the front of the train after it journeys past Tyndrum to get the best views. The train passes by the foot of Beinn Doran, before then travelling on to Fort William. Condé Nast Traveller wrote: "It's a jolly summer jaunt—but brave the bite of wind and sleet and a winter journey brings beauty in the form of frozen rivers and daggers of ice dangling from trees. "Towards the end of the line, the train runs along the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the top of Loch Shiel—a sight commonly known to Harry Potter fans as the route of the Hogwarts Express."
Daily Record
7 days ago
- Daily Record
Scotland's 'best family friendly' hotels named for summer getaway with the kids
Accommodation in the Borders and the Highlands were singled out. Scotland's "best family friendly hotels" have been named. From the Scottish Borders to the Highlands, hotels up and down the country were singled out. On Thursday, July 24, Condé Nast Traveller published a list of the top hotels in the country for a family getaway. In total, eight accommodation options are featured on the roundup. Among the hotels that were singled out by the experts is The Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street in Edinburgh. Owned by Rocco Forte Hotels, the hotel is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Scottish capital. The Balmoral features a number of rooms and suites specifically catered towards families. According to the Rocco Forte Hotels website, it also offers personalised children's passports at check-in, welcome treats, child-sized bathrobes, slippers and animal cuddly toys. The hotel is also home to the Four AA Rosette restaurant Number One, which specialises in modern Scottish cuisine. Additionally, The Balmoral has a spa where parents can enjoy a wide selection of treatments. Condé Nast Traveller wrote: "Rocco Forte's flagship sits inside an aptly big-boned Victorian building with Gothic accents, putting an elegantly modern take on tradition. Despite the grandeur and Palm Court afternoon tea antics, little ones are welcome to clamber the dramatic staircase, jump on the sumptuous beds in the family rooms and suites and press their noses up against arched Victorian windows for views of the castle. "There's no need to hassle reception for cot sheets, bibs or slip-proof bathmats; true to Rocco Forte form, the Balmoral drums up the necessary (swishy) kit according to age groups before you've even tumbled into your room. Parents can expect all the tot accoutrements (0-3), including cots, bottle warmers, highchairs and monitors." Elsewhere, the experts also selected the Schloss Roxburghe in the Scottish Borders as one of the country's top destinations for a family getaway. Situated a short distance from the market town of Kelso, the historic estate is home to both a luxury hotel and a number of self-catering cottages. The hotel accommodation at the Schloss Roxburghe is comprised of 78 rooms and suites, 20 of which are housed in the historic manor house and have been individually designed. In addition, more than 51 cottages are dotted throughout the extensive estate. The experts stated: "Lairding over the Scottish Borders' watercolour countryside, Schloss Roxburgh draws in as many families as it does golfers, a wee hour-and-a-half drive from Edinburgh airport. They come for the privacy of the self-catered cottages, with all the hotel facilities back at Baronial base, but also for ex-Norland Nanny-run 4-12 Kio Kids club (open Wednesday to Sunday), as well as the reams of estate activities (fly fishing, archery, mountain biking, clay shooting). "What it lacks for in design pitch, (Scottish hotels have a habit of losing themselves in a bright, brassy hinterland between traditional and contemporary) it makes up for with a stellar spa with two family-swim windows in the morning and afternoon and a new driving range with Toptracer facilities for supervised children, where they can master their golf swing." Moving further north, another of the best family-friendly hotels in Scotland, according to Condé Nast Traveller, is The Torridon in the Scottish Highlands. The five-star boutique resort is located in Wester Ross, around a 90-minute drive from the city of Inverness. The Torridon's hotel rooms honour Scottish heritage and feature opulent textiles and bright colours, while activities on offer include falconry, stargazing, and sea kayaking. The resort was applauded by Condé Nast Traveller for its various family-friendly walks and the kids menu at its on-site Bo & Muc Brasserie restaurant. Other hotels featured on Condé Nast Traveller's roundup include The Fife Arms in Braemar and Cameron House by Loch Lomond. The former was noted for its welcoming atmosphere and activities such as pony trekking and wildlife walks, while Cameron House was praised for its castle visits and loch water sports. The full list of the best family-friendly hotels in Scotland can be found on the Condé Nast Traveller website.
Telegraph
17-07-2025
- Telegraph
Seven reasons why Virgin Voyages is the ultimate kid-free cruise
Sometimes the pitter-patter of little feet is the last thing you want to hear on holiday. That's why Virgin Voyages is exclusively kid-free and designed for Sailors 18 and older, for a relaxed and elevated experience that lets you cruise on an even keel. On board its stylish, mid-sized ships, you'll find some of the best food at sea, bars aplenty, dazzling entertainment, glamorous destinations and great service, all completely child-free. With more than 200 awards packing out the trophy cabinet – including being awarded the No. 1 cruise line by Condé Nast Traveller and bagging the top spot for the third year in a row in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards, for Best Mega-ship Ocean Cruise Line –, here's why Virgin Voyages has been named the world's number-one cruise line. 1 For a boutique ship experience Small enough to feel intimate and just big enough for all the luxury amenities, Virgin Voyages' Lady ships are packed to the rafters with things to do on board. There is no stuffiness here, no forced formality or dress codes. Just great experiences, friendly service and a splash of glamour. It feels like a superyacht with all the excitement of a cruise. 2 For always included luxury On every Virgin Voyages holiday, you're getting more than £750 worth of goodies built right in. That's access to all restaurants – forget about buffets, it's all about menus dreamed up by Michelin-starred chefs. You can also get your sweat on with group fitness classes and stay connected throughout with Wi-Fi. Even gratuities are covered. Oh, and captivating shows and soft drinks, too. Need to tweak your trip dates or change who's going? Virgin Voyages has got you covered. 3 For fabulous food From decadent steaks to succulent seafood, irresistible Italian to Mediterranean mezze, and flavourful, spicy Korean barbecue to pizza with pizazz, each ship has more than 20 eateries to choose from. Virgin Voyages has rejected buffets and big dining halls in favour of intimate and friendly restaurants – superb cuisine, served with no fuss or bother. Vegetarians and vegans are well-catered for, with delectable plant-based options that are more than an afterthought. Feeling pretty relaxed where you are? Onboard food delivery – what Virgin calls ShipEats – will bring fresh, made-to-order treats right to you. 4 For great nights out There's never a dull moment on a Virgin Voyages cruise. With no kids on board, adults are free to embrace their inner child. Spend the afternoon reliving the glory days in an 80s-style arcade, take a dance class for the sheer fun of it, or challenge new friends to a game of foosball. For those craving a more laid-back vibe, there are plenty of tucked-away corners to sip on craft cocktails or cold-pressed juices, or instead, indulge in some supreme relaxation in your private hammock. Whether you're looking for high-energy fun or nostalgic downtime, it's all part of the adventure. 5 For revitalising days Ready for some serious self-care? Virgin Voyages isn't just about dancing under the stars at Scarlet Night, it's about treating yourself like royalty. Head to the spa and sink into a hot stone massage, try a rejuvenating seaweed wrap or a vitamin-rich facial, or simply relax in the sauna. If you're feeling active, why not jump into a boxing or Bungee session, packed with top-notch Technogym gear? There are extensive classes on offer, too, including yoga, barre and a cycling studio where going for a spin doesn't cost a thing. Or just enjoy a breezy run on the suspended jogging track, with dramatic ocean views to help you keep going when you feel the burn. 6 For dreamy destinations Where would you like to go? In the Mediterranean, Virgin Voyages cruises the chicest shores, from Ibiza to Mykonos and the French Riviera, with longer stays and even overnights so you can make the most of every destination. Alternatively, enjoy the Caribbean's lively waters with tropical landscapes and colourful harbours. North American destinations offer a fresh look at famous cities such as New York, LA, Miami and Quebec City, or you can embark on a transatlantic journey connecting continents. At all ports, there are endless shore excursions on offer. Deep-sea fishing, submarine adventures, cool caving, or cultural safaris – whatever's your bag, Virgin Voyages has something for you. 7 For endless variety From energetic fitness classes to indulgent spa treatments, vibrant dance parties to quiet moments on a hammock, Virgin Voyages caters to every whim. Culinary adventures abound with diverse dining options, while destinations range from idyllic Caribbean islands to the cultural hubs of Europe. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure (or perhaps a bit of both?) all Sailors will find their perfect holiday on Virgin Voyages' kid-free cruises. Enjoy a sophisticated and stress-free escape, where every elevated detail is crafted to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Condé Nast Traveler
17-07-2025
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
These 10 Cities Have More Skyscrapers Than Anywhere Else in the World
From soaring skylines in East Asia to vertical expansions in the Middle East, skyscrapers have become defining features of modern urban landscapes. Some of these metropolises are even best known the world over for reaching for the heavens, like New York or Hong Kong. But not all cities build upwards equally. Some have turned high-rise architecture and once-impossible feats of modern engineering into a signature, driven by population density, land constraints, and economic ambition. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), which maintains a database of high-rise structures, the following destinations below are the cities with the highest number of completed buildings over 150 meters (roughly 492 feet) in height. The rankings, updated as of July 2025, offer a fascinating glimpse into where and why the world is building tall. These are the cities with the most skyscrapers on the planet. A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India. What counts as a skyscraper? As per this data, a skyscraper refers to a completed building that is at least 150 meters (about 492 feet) tall. This benchmark is widely accepted in urban development and architectural databases as the minimum height for a high-rise structure to be classified as a skyscraper. Where is the data from? The rankings are based on the latest figures (as of July 2025) from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). The CTBUH tracks the height, construction status, and structural details of buildings worldwide, including commercial, residential, and mixed-use towers. Does this data change often? Yes. In fast-growing cities, especially in Asia and the Middle East, new skyscrapers are completed regularly, shifting the rankings every few months. The data in this story reflects the most recent available snapshot from CTBUH at the time of publication. 1. Hong Kong: over 550 skyscrapers A shortage of flat land has made vertical development inevitable in Hong Kong. CHUNYIP WONG No city in the world has embraced vertical living like Hong Kong. With over 550 completed buildings taller than about 490 feet, the skyline is a forest of high-rises squeezed between mountainous terrain and the sea. A shortage of flat land, coupled with rapid economic growth in the late 20th century, made vertical development inevitable. Many of Hong Kong's residential skyscrapers are tightly packed and uniform, while commercial landmarks like the International Commerce Centre and Bank of China Tower punctuate the skyline with dramatic architectural flair. 2. Shenzhen, China: over 380 skyscrapers
Condé Nast Traveler
16-07-2025
- Condé Nast Traveler
How to Beat the Heat When Traveling in Europe This Summer
Millions of tourists heading to Europe this summer, particularly around the Mediterranean, are trying to figure out how they will handle their vacations in the middle of massive heatwaves. Tourist hotspots like Spain and France are facing record-high temperatures of 114.8°F. The crowded nature of these destinations during summer months doesn't help either, with everyone crowding popular venues in cities like Barcelona and Paris. And with temperatures getting increasingly higher each summer, the heat is becoming something we have to find a way to deal with as each year wears on. How then to not let the heat wilt your summer travel? It all comes down to planning. Firstly, it's important to order activities throughout the day based on when peak temperatures will occur. Make sure to plan all outdoor activities earlier in the morning when it's coolest. As soon as the temperature starts to ramp up—typically between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.—there are still a whole lot of activities that will help you keep your cool without missing out on the sights. Here is our list of things to do while staying cool in the hottest European cities travelers are heading to this summer. A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK. Cooler than outside and usually free to access, libraries are, of course, quiet. Getty Images Get lost in a library Europe's cities are home to some of the most beautiful libraries in the world, where you'll find vast, maze-like spaces with marble walls and high ceilings to gaze up at. Cooler than outside and usually free to access, libraries are, of course, quiet. Browsing books in solitude can be a great moment away from both the heat and crowds bustling around outside. In Venice, large arches and pillars guard the grand Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana where you can peruse ancient Italian, Greek, and Asian manuscripts. The largest monastery library in the world is in Austria; the Stiftsbibliothek Admont is a gilded, high-Baroque style building making for a palatial tour as peak temperatures persist outside.
