Belmond Royal Scotsman Review

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Belmond Royal Scotsman Review
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Belmond Royal Scotsman Review

This Belmond Royal Scotsman Review is contributed by James MacPherson Ferguson of Yorba Linda Travel .

Dear Readers of Luxury Train Club,

Last month we experienced a "life/bucket list" journey on Belmond Royal Scotsman, and it was, without question, "beyond the brochure" most memorable 4 day/3 night Western Highlands luxury train journey.

From the moment you meet your onboard host (in our case a retired Royal Marine) during check-in at the palatial Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh, to the moment you sadly say farewell to the ever-so-caring, and most hospitable staff, the Belmond Royal Scotsman is an enriching experience for all lovers of luxury travel to partake.

The stateroom sleeping cabin are very user-friendly, proving two twins or double bed configuration (unlike the fabled Venice Simplon-Orient-Express where it is upper lower bunk beds) all with en suite facilities, including a shower (also, unlike the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express which remains unique in its own way) and with heating and cooling options. And the large picture windows provide excellent viewing for the passing landscape and wildlife...of which witnessed many new spring lambs and graceful deer.

Limited to a maximum of 40 privileged guests (we had 20 on our journey) and with two restaurant cars, in addition to the observatory lounge (featuring the only European train with an outdoor viewing platform) and brand new SPA Treatment Car, the train never felt crowded. The stunning Scottish scenery, off-train excellently orchestrated guided VIP excursions, and onboard fine Scottish hospitality were to be expected, however, the onboard meals selection from their kitchen that were graciously served were indeed superb and of Michelin-star quality featuring fresh local grown produce. Also, local grown was the delightful entertainment brought onboard to immerse in while sipping a post-meal libation...amongst which were a bountiful selection of some 35 single malt drams of the finest of Scottish whiskies.

The final gala night, some of us attired in our kilts and revered finery, was climaxed with the train's host recruiting passengers (some well lubricated) out onto the village platform for a mini Scottish ceilidh of dancing and fun. (I should mention here that the Royal Scotsman train does not travel at night, but instead pulls into a track siding for a restful night of slumber.)

Scottish people have a saying, "Haste Ye Back," and we will hopefully...on another journey of the Royal Scotsman, or new sister train Belmond's Grand Hibernian one of its classic rail journey within the Emerald Isle.

Submitted by James MacPherson Ferguson, Dana Point, CA