The best train routes in Scotland

Traveling by train is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ways to discover the Scottish landscapes. best train routes in Scotland They traverse the Highlands, skirt lochs, cross historic viaducts, and offer spectacular views in every season. Furthermore, the rail network provides easy access to some of the most beautiful regions in the country while ensuring a comfortable and environmentally friendly journey.

At Brightside Travel, we regularly incorporate these railway lines into our tailor-made trips to offer a different way to discover Scotland.

Why choose the best train routes in Scotland?

Taking the train in Scotland allows you to admire landscapes often inaccessible by car. Indeed, several lines cross wild valleys, majestic mountains and spectacular coastlines.

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Furthermore, travelling by train offers many advantages:

admire the scenery without driving; ;
to travel in a more environmentally friendly way; ;
enjoy a comfortable journey; ;
easily reach several iconic regions.

Thus, the train is an excellent alternative to the car for exploring the Highlands.

The West Highland Line: Scotland's most famous

The West Highland Line is often considered one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world.

Starting from Glasgow, it crosses the shores of Loch Lomond before reaching the Highlands. Then, it passes through Rannoch Moor, Glencoe and Fort William before reaching Mallaig, on the west coast.

Throughout the journey, the panoramas constantly change between mountains, lochs and wild moors.

The Jacobite Steam Train: Harry Potter's train

Le Jacobite Steam Train connects Fort William to Mallaig.

This steam train became famous thanks to the Harry Potter films. Indeed, it crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, one of the most photographed sites in Scotland.

Moreover, the journey offers exceptional views of Loch Shiel, the surrounding mountains and the small islands of the west coast.

The Far North Line to Thurso

If you love wide open spaces, the Far North Line is an excellent option.

From Inverness, this line crosses the northern Highlands to Thurso and Wick. Then it runs alongside wild beaches, peat bogs and vast almost desert landscapes.

This line also provides easy access to ferries to the Orkney Islands.

The Kyle Line to the Isle of Skye

The Kyle Line connects Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh.

Throughout the journey, the Highland mountains are reflected in the lochs as the valleys unfold one after another.

Finally, the arrival opposite the Skye bridge offers an exceptional panorama before reaching the island.

The Borders Railway

Further south, the Borders Railway connects Edinburgh to Tweedbank.

This line crosses the Scottish Borders, a region known for its green hills, peaceful villages and ancient abbeys.

It makes an excellent day trip from the Scottish capital.

The most beautiful landscapes to admire

The best train routes in Scotland offer the opportunity to observe an incredible diversity of landscapes:

the Highland mountains; ;
the Scottish lochs; ;
the valleys of Glencoe; ;
the beaches of the west coast; ;
the Glenfinnan viaduct; ;
the wild moors of the north; ;
traditional Scottish villages.

Thus, each season offers a completely different atmosphere.

When is the best time to travel by train in Scotland?

Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant thanks to the colours of the landscapes and lower visitor numbers.

Summer allows you to enjoy long days, while winter transforms the Highlands into particularly photogenic snowy landscapes.

Plan your train journey with Brightside Travel

At Brightside Travel LTD, we design fully customized itineraries incorporating the best train routes in Scotland.

We combine these trips with charming accommodations, castle visits, whisky tastings, hikes and the discovery of the most beautiful Scottish villages to create a unique experience.

Discover our bespoke holidays in Scotland too:

https://www.brightside-travel.com/destination/voyage-ecosse-sur-mesure/

To check timetables and plan your train journey, also visit the official ScotRail website:

https://www.scotrail.co.uk

BRIGHTSIDE TRAVEL