A RAIL experience through the heart of the Scottish Highlands has been named one of the world's best.
The publication has today revealed that the experience of taking the Royal Scotsman train through the Highlands is ranked 14th and the only UK destination to make National Geographic’s "Best of the World - Top 20 Travel Experiences" for 2024.
Other experiences include a horseback safari in Kenya, bear watching in Alaska’s Katmai National Park, diving with sharks in Western Australia, hiking a volcano in Panama and wandering tea trails in Sri Lanka.
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Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland chief executive, said: “The breathtaking scenery and landscapes of the Highlands is one of the top reasons that people visit this region, so it’s no surprise that National Geographic has highlighted a journey that takes in this natural splendour.
“It’s fantastic that Scotland has been recognised once again in the Best of the World list, shining a spotlight on our world-class experiences. It is particularly welcome, as we encourage visitors to explore our country across the seasons using sustainable transport.
“VisitScotland is committed to the development of Scotland as a globally recognised responsible tourism destination. We are working with the industry, communities and visitors to preserve and protect the natural, social and cultural assets which are so vital to Scotland’s brand and its future prosperity.”
Best of the World 2024 was created, researched, reported and written in collaboration with National Geographic’s international editorial teams.
National Geographic wrote: “Exploring Scotland’s wild, scenic Highlands doesn’t have to mean roughing it. The Royal Scotsman train glides among the moody lochs and dramatic peaks in style. New suites debuting in May 2024 sport interiors that reflect the compelling landscapes through dark woods, wool tweeds, and richly patterned bespoke tartans crafted by Scottish brand Araminta Campbell. After a day spent hiking to waterfalls or playing rounds of golf (a sport inextricably tied to the nation), guests can wind down with a massage at the onboard spa.
“Departing Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, the two to seven-night rail journeys cross the heart of the Highlands, from Perthshire to Inverness to the rugged west coast. During stops guests can tour castles, stargaze in Cairngorms National Park, sample whisky at revered distilleries, and even take a dip in a loch.”
The Scottish Highlands was previously named as one of National Geographic’s Best of the World destinations for 2023 in the ‘nature’ category. The region was one of only two UK destinations to make the annual list and referenced areas such as Alladale Wilderness Reserve and the Affric Highlands project.
Top 20 Travel Experiences for 2024:
1) Go on horseback safari in Kenya
2) Run an Olympic marathon in Paris
3) Ski tour UNESCO sites in Georgia
4) Bear watch in Katmai National Park
5) Hear legendary live music in Kyoto
6) Cruise and epic river in Columbia
7) Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico
8) Explore ancient art in Algeria
9) Dive with sharks in Western Australia
10) Hike a volcano in Panama
11) Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls
12) Trek a glacier in Chile
13) Step back in time on Menorca
14) Ride classic rails in Scotland
15) Find authentic flavour in Thailand
16) Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka
17) Gallery hop in Sao Paulo
18) Raft the rapids in West Virginia
19) Go antiquing in Hudson Valley
20) Sleep on the water in British Columbia
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