Scenic Scottish train journey crowned among top 10 rail routes on the planet

Mark Connor & Alexander Smail

22 August 2024 at 9:49 am·2-min read

The Belmond Royal Scotsman — -Credit: (Image: Business Insider)

Scotland's stunning landscapes are a major draw for tourists, with the Highlands being renowned globally for their breathtaking beauty.

One of the best ways to experience the Scottish Highlands is with a train journey. A new list of the top 10 luxury rail routes all over the world has been shared by Japan Rail Pass, and one of them takes in the spectacular scenery of the Highlands.

As reported by the Scottish Daily Express, the Royal Scotsman ranked as the ninth best train journey across the globe by the experts. The journey between Edinburgh Waverley and Inverness is on many travellers' bucket lists, featuring iconic Scottish beauty spots such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The Royal Scotsman includes luxury private cabins that include features such as full-size beds, writing desks, and large wardrobes. All cabins also benefit from the one-of-a-kind views out over the Highlands.

Other features of the train include the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman, which is described as a "unique spa on rails where you will revel in indulgence". It offers three unique treatments, including full body massages and facials.

Elsewhere, the Rocky Mountaineer journey in Canada clinched the top spot on Japan Rail Pass's list. The operator runs four rail routes in British Columbia, Alberta, Colorado, and Utah, offering passengers awe-inspiring mountain views.

Belmond Royal Scotsman

Taken from company website

Free to Use — The Royal Scotsman's interiors are traditional and opulent -Credit:UGC

Meanwhile, the GoldenPass Express in Switzerland placed second. The breathtaking journey connects the resort of Montreux with the picturesque lakeside town of Interlaken.

The experts at Japan Rail Pass considered many factors when putting together their list of the world's best train journeys. These included Tripadvisor reviews, Instagram hashtags, and global search volumes.

See below for the full list of the top 10 luxury train journeys in the world. Meanwhile, more information can be found on the Japan Rail Pass website.

Top 10 luxury train journeys in the world

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
GoldenPass Express, Switzerland
The Ghan, Australia
Rovos Rail, South Africa
Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
The Blue Train, South Africa
Venice Simplon Orient Express, England
British Pullman, England
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
Maharajas’ Express, India

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Top 10 luxury train journeys in the world

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