Explore the natural beauty of the Highlands and the Outer Hebrides combined with a journey on the legendary Jacobite steam train

Your Highland and Hebridean experience begins today as you meet the Tour Manager in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. After checking in to your hotel, you're at leisure to start discovering the city.

The hotel's central location makes it the perfect base for exploring everything Edinburgh has to offer. You could wander the Old Town and see the majestic castle or sip on a dram of whisky while listening to live music at one of the traditional pubs. The city's remarkable architecture, rich culture and timeless history are ready for you to discover.

This evening, we enjoy our first dinner together at a local restaurant.

Our explorations begin after breakfast, as we head by coach to the jaw-dropping Kelpies. These huge steel sculptures pay homage to the hardworking horses of Scotland that once pulled barges along the canals and worked in the fields of the area. A few miles down the road is the Falkirk Wheel. The world's only rotating boat lift connects the Forth & Clyde canal with the Union canal and there's time to admire this masterpiece of modern engineering.

The next stop is Dumbarton, a small town sitting on the banks of the River Clyde. From here, we embark on a memorable train journey on the West Highland Line to Fort William. After passing Loch Lomond, the route opens up to reveal stunning scenes of mountains and glens. Often hailed as one of the best rail journeys in the world, highlights include the Falls of Falloch, Rannoch Moor and Corrour station - the highest and most remote mainline station in the UK.

Arriving in Fort William, we check in to our new hotel and enjoy dinner this evening.

A journey on the famous Jacobite steam train* awaits after breakfast today as we travel from Fort William to Mallaig along one of the most beautiful train lines in the world.

In the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, we begin our journey along the serene banks of Loch Eil, before reaching a highlight of this dramatic route. Opened in 1898, the curved Glenfinnan Viaduct features 21 arches and is known for its role in the Harry Potter films. On arrival in Mallaig, there's time at leisure to stroll round this small port town or find some fresh local seafood for lunch.

Our return journey provides us with another opportunity to admire the scenic west Highlands. This landscape is synonymous with Bonnie Prince Charlie and the scenery evokes the tumultuous time of the Jacobite Rising of 1745. Arriving back in Fort William, we enjoy dinner at the hotel.

*Please note: trains are steam-hauled when possible. Some departures will make this journey on Scotrail's diesel service.

A coach takes us from Fort William to Uig ferry terminal after breakfast this morning. During this scenic journey, we see the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most famous landmarks that sits on a small island at the confluence of three lochs.

Crossing the spectacular Skye Bridge, we drive across the beautiful Isle of Skye where towering peaks, rolling hills and vast, empty moors stretch out in all directions. Coastal views and waterfalls guide us across the island and keep an eye out for the Old Man of Storr, a striking rock formation that rises high above us as we pass.

Arriving in Uig, a ferry ride provides the chance to spot seals or dolphins while we sail across the body of water known as the Little Minch. Disembarking in Tarbert on Harris, we continue north by coach to the Isle of Lewis and our hotel in Stornoway. On arrival in this small harbour town - the largest in the Outer Hebrides - we check in to our hotel and enjoy dinner this evening.

Today, we enjoy a full day touring the Isle of Lewis with a guide. Heading north by coach, our explorations begin at the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost point of the island defined by stunning cliffs and crashing waves.

Next, we visit the Port of Ness, a picturesque fishing village with colourful cottages lining the harbour. Continuing along the Atlantic coast, we reach Gearrannan Blackhouse Village to view the traditional thatched-roof cottages that fill the streets with reminders of a simpler way of life. After stopping for lunch at Doune Braes Hotel, we enjoy a highlight of the holiday.

One of the most iconic sights in the Outer Hebrides, the Callanish Standing Stones are ancient megaliths that date from more than 5,000 years ago. Laid out in a cross formation, with the central monolith measuring nearly 16-feet-tall, they predate Stonehenge by about 2,000 years and continue to fascinate visitors from around the world with their mysterious origins. After experiencing this magical location, we return to our hotel by coach ahead of dinner this evening.

A guided tour of Stornoway follows breakfast this morning as we uncover the history and culture of this charming town.

Known as the capital of the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway is built around its working harbour and we may even see fishermen bringing in their hauls. Keep an eye out for the Gaelic street signs as we explore, while learning about the culture and history of Lewis and the Outer Hebrides.

This afternoon, we board a ferry to back to the Scottish mainland. Our destination is Ullapool, a quaint village on the shores of Loch Broom, surrounded by wonderful scenery. Ullapool has a popular art scene and shops and, after checking in to our hotel, there's time explore the village at leisure. This evening, we regroup and enjoy dinner at a local seafront restaurant.

Leaving Ullapool behind after breakfast today, we enjoy a scenic coach journey to Inverness. Enroute, we pass rugged Highland landscapes including lochs and mountains such as Beinn Dearg and Ben Wyvis.

In Inverness, we continue by rail to Scotland's capital while our luggage travels by coach to the next hotel for our comfort. Endless hills, tranquil lochs and cascading waterfalls fly by the windows occasionally interrupted by historic towns and villages.

On arrival in Edinburgh, you have free time to view its architecture or soak up the city's history and cultural scene. From the vibrant Royal Mile to the elegant Georgian New Town, Edinburgh is a joy to discover. This evening, we gather in one of the city's restaurants for our final dinner together.

From the glens of the West Highland Line to the coastal scenery of the Outer Hebrides, the colours and culture of Scotland have guided us around this beautiful country. Travelling on the famous Jacobite steam train, we explored western Scotland from Fort William to Mallaig, before driving across Skye to reach the Isle of Lewis. Uncovering the mystical Callanish Standing Stones and the small port town of Stornoway gave us a glimpse into the landscapes and lifestyles of the islands, before we returned to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, for our final night.

After breakfast, your holiday draws to a close and you are free to make your way home or continue exploring independently.

Our Discoveries range offers everything you need at a great price so you can travel with confidence. It provides comfortable, locally run accommodation*, standard rail or economy flights and expert-led group tours. You'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. *where available

Arguably one of the world's great railway journeys, the Jacobite steam train sets off from Fort William under the watchful gaze of the UK's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Travelling through stunning scenery on the northwestern reaches of the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig, the 42-mile route heads westwards along the northern shore of Loch Eil, with dramatic landscapes never far from view. Crossing the 21 arches of the curved Glenfinnan Viaduct - famed for its appearance in the Harry Potter films - the route heads into breathtaking Highland wilderness, providing great views of Loch Eilt, before crossing more viaducts as the tracks follow the Road to the Isles to the small port town of Mallaig on the coast.

Providing the entirety of mainland Scotland with transport links, Abello Scotrail is a fantastic commuter service that means even the farthest reaches of this wild and wonderful country is easily accessible. Running since 1983 under a variety of operators, this service has numerous lines, including one that stretches from the tip, Thurso, down to Edinburgh.

The lines on the Scotrail service are some of the most scenic in the world. The Kyle Line, the West Highland Line, and the Hadrian's Wall line are all services by Scotrail trains. The West Highland Line, stretching between Glasgow to Mallaig, stopping off at Fort William and with an offshoot line to Oban, is arguably the most famous of this line. There are numerous stunning sights to look out for on this route - from the breathtaking wilds of the highlands, to the peaks of the craggy mountains, to the iconic 21-spans of the beautiful Glennfinnan Viaduct.

Another famed line that we utilise on the Scotrail network includes the Kyle of Lochalsh line, running 63 miles between Dingwall and Kyle of Lochalsh. With spectacular views of the Isle of Skye as you come towards the pretty Kyle of Lochalsh, this particular line is certainly a glorious introduction to both of the Highlands of Scotland and the Hebrides. Other particularly beautiful places that the network explores include the Cairngorm National Park, on the Inverness to Edinburgh line, which passes through magnificent and verdant pine forests, as well as nearby the iconic Cairngorm Mountain.

The stock that traverses the lines are comfortable and modern, with spacious carriages and seating, as well as large windows through which to see the passing beauty of the Scottish countryside. New trains will be coming soon in the next few years, with more services, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and improved accessibility.

Also known as 'the Iron Road to the Isles', a journey on the West Highland Line is an epic rail adventure that takes passengers through some of the world's most beautiful and dramatic landscapes. In fact the line has twice been voted the world's best rail journey by readers of Wanderlust magazine.

Running from Glasgow's Queen Street station, the train runs through the city's outskirts and on to Helensburgh. From here the train begins its ascent into the famous Highlands.

Soon the train skirts the beautiful Loch Long, followed by the immense Loch Lomond, as it makes its way up the ever-increasing gradients. The journey continues alongside the Loch - Britain's largest body of inland water - whilst winding through pretty wooden slopes.

Continuing northward through charming isolated villages, the train then climbs more than 500 feet (150 m) in just five miles, before arriving at the tiny hamlet Crianlarich. Here the West Highland Line splits into two branches. One continues to Fort William and Mallaig, the other heads west to Oban.

Nestled on a small peninsula reaching into dramatic Loch Leven, the 3-Star Isles of Glencoe Hotel appears as if it is floating on the water. This stunning Highland setting also offers a superb base for exploring the region, while guests can enjoy the leisure facilities that include an indoor swimming pool. Modern guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV and tea & coffee-making equipment.

Set on the banks of the River Nevis in Fort William, this 4-Star hotel is close to Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK. This hotel boasts of an excellent restaurant, serving a wide range of cuisine. The comfortable bar offers a variety of beverages and is the ideal place to relax after a day exploring. Guest rooms are stylishly decorated in neutral shades with walnut wood accents, and all are equipped4 with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities and hairdryer.

Set within its own attractive gardens on the outskirts of Stornoway, this 4-Star hotel is also close to a golf course that leads to the historic grounds of Lews Castle. Among the on-site amenities are a restaurant serving international cuisine. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

The 3-Star Ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile is located in the city centre, conveniently located just a short walk from iconic landmarks including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Princes Street Gardens, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, ironing equipment, tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

Situated close to the town centre, this 3-Star hotel prides itself on its excellent hospitality and relaxed Scottish atmosphere. Its perfect location allows for easy exploration of the various harbours and wooded parklands which adorn the Isle of Lewis and the other islands of the Outer Hebrides. The hotel has a restaurant serving traditional Scottish cuisine and a bar. Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, ironing facilities, tea & coffee-making equipment and complimentary toiletries.

Surrounded by breathtaking Scottish scenery, this 3-Star hotel is the oldest in Ullapool. Recently renovated, it offers a blend of modern and historic, providing all the contemporary necessities in a unique location. There is a sophisticated on-site restaurant and a well-stocked bar with an outdoor terrace. Guest rooms are equipped with flatscreen TV, ironing facilities, tea & coffee-making equipment, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.