A nostalgic mini-break with Caledonian Travel

Caledonian Travel offer a three day ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ tour to the Scottish Highlands, which includes a journey on the retro Strathspey Railway. I took my equally chaotic Dad along with me for the adventure. Find out how we got on.

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I travelled to on this tour as part of a paid campaign with Caledonian Travel to give an honest review of the experience

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How many times can you walk down memory lane in one weekend? On this trip, the lane morphed into a long-distance walking route. Nostalgia washed over me at regular intervals, and the trigger was different each time: songs on the bus which my Dad used to play in the car when I was wee, the village in the Highlands where I lived for a short while, and flashbacks to my days guiding bus tours around Scotland. These pleasant reminders of the past made me feel warm and fuzzy inside, and I’m sure I wasn’t the only one.

The Strathspey Railway was a novelty for me, but for some, this was a throwback to when these classic style trains were the norm. Our hotel in the Highlands retains its historic character, and by night, older couples gathered on the dancefloor and waltzed just as they might have many years ago.

While it’s important to be appreciate the present, and look to the future, the past deserves a wee visit on occasion. Our ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ tour was just the ticket.

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Introducing Caledonian Travel

Caledonian Travel is a long-established tour company, offering excellent value coach holidays across the UK and beyond. While their tours in Scotland include many of the tourist hotspots, they do feature some lesser known experiences and overnight destinations.

On my trip, for example, we travelled on the Strathspey Railway instead of the Jacobite Steam Train, and stayed in Strathpeffer instead of Inverness; both were new experiences for me – and very positive at that!

Caledonian Travel welcomes all ages on their tours. The Family Fun, Showcase, Sports and Special Events tours tend to welcome a younger audience, while the type of tour I traveled on typically attracts an older demographic. This is a far cry from the lively backpackers’ tours I used to guide around the Highlands. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so different…

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The Tour Experience

The ‘Lunch on a Steam Train Tour’ has pick-ups in three locations in and around Glasgow; Hamilton, Buchanan Street Bus Station and Paisley. My Dad and I booked a hotel in Glasgow for the night before, so that we could start our adventure with a day in our second favourite Scottish city – and not have to get up at stupid o’ clock for the tour.

As we stepped aboard the company branded Mercedes coach in the morning, we found our allocated seats and quickly noted how clean and modern it was. There were wee tables, footrests and USB charging points, as well as overhead storage, a fridge with cold drinks for sale, and a toilet for ‘emergencies’.

Our driver Caroline wore a smart uniform and a warm smile, and her friendly banter on the microphone set the scene for the weekend ahead. There were a few hilarious characters on board, who regularly erupted into infectious fits of laughter. The energy and interaction from our group was on a par with some of my most memorable backpacker tours in 2010!

Caroline was so kind and accommodating to everyone on board, and her excellent driving skills were apparent when negotiating windy roads and sharp corners. She loaded/unloaded bags at an impressive rate – a demanding task which shouldn’t be underestimated. My Dad offered a helping hand, and sure looked a bit rosy in the face afterwards!

The tours don’t include any detailed commentary or history; it’s more like an accompanied transport service, with all the help and practical information that you need. This didn’t take away from the experience at all, as everyone thoroughly enjoyed the playlist of golden oldies; the 1960s tunes were my favourite. As well as the music, my Dad kept me thoroughly entertained with his in-seat dancing – and ability to fall sound asleep sitting up.

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Destination Highlights

The ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ tour itinerary was relaxed and unrushed. As someone who regularly travels solo on multiple legs of public transport, the ease of travel on this trip was a real luxury. The focus was on the quality of stops, rather than the quantity – much to my appreciation. Some tours in Scotland are more like a photo safari, with limited time in each place. When it comes to travelling Scotland, less is always more.

Pitlochry

While I’m typically drawn to less touristy destinations in Scotland, Pitlochry is an exception. I never tire of visiting this busy Perthshire town, and I was delighted that we had a whopping 2.5 hours to spend there. Hettie’s Tearoom is a favourite haunt of mine (the scones are unreal), but on this occasion, we decided to visit the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre.

The modern exhibits tell the story of the hydro-electric dam and the cleverly engineered salmon ladder. The café has a balcony which overlooks the dam; a lovely spot to enjoy a salmon platter for two on a sunny day. We walked it off with a wander along the River Tummel, before a browse in the local shops.

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Strathpeffer

This charming village wasn’t previously on my radar, and it really took me by surprise. In its past life, Strathpeffer was a thriving spa town, which welcomed hoards of Victorian tourists looking for relaxation and remedies for their ailments. We read all about the town’s spa history and (often seriously wacky) treatments in the Pump Room; a quirky wee museum and gift shop.

The spa town was served by train from 1885, and the old railway station is a beautiful building, which is now home to the Museum of Childhood and a few independent businesses. There’s also a striking wooden pillar which was been intricately carved by a local carpenter; the images depict a timeline of the area’s history.

We also loved the lovely craft and gift shop in the square, where my Dad bought me a pen made from a Bowmore whisky cask. A return visit to Strathpeffer is definitely on the cards!

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Loch Ness

On the journey back to Glasgow from Strathpeffer, we drove along the length of the world-famous Loch Ness, passing the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Caroline gave us an hour in the village of Fort Augustus, at the southern tip of the loch; plenty time for tea, cake, and a wander down the Caledonian Canal to the banks of the loch. I used to live and work at the hostel in the village – as it’s owned by the same tour company I worked for – so I have fond memories of spending my summers there. No monster sightings to report, I’m afraid.

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Strathspey Railway

The highlight on our ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ was, of course… the steam train! Despite being an avid fan of train journeys in Scotland, this was my first experience on a steam train. The Strathspey Railway is a 10-mile section of the original railway which was restored and reopened in 1978. The journey from Aviemore to Broomhill boasts bonnie views of the Cairngorms and surrounding countryside – complete with sunbathing coos.

The train itself is a sight to behold; vintage, inside and out. The ticket office at Broomhill Station and the Waiting Room at Boat of Garten were like scenes from the past, and ‘Monarch of the Glen’ fans will appreciate the ‘Glenbogle’ sign at Broomhill. My Dad was shocked I’ve never seen it!

The tour includes a light lunch and hot drink on-board. I had the lentil soup and a pulled pork sandwich which was tasty and filling, and my Dad went for the Scotch broth and a cheese & ham sandwich. The food and excitement must’ve been too much for him however as, on the return leg, he was sound asleep with his mouth hanging open. I obviously took plenty of photos, much to the amusement of the other passengers.

In a world of automation, advanced technology, and even Artificial Intelligence, experiences like the Strathspey Railway are really special; giving us a glimpse into the past, and a simpler way of life.

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The Bay Highland Hotel, Strathpeffer

The Bay Highland Hotel was originally owned by the LMS Railway and was later used as a hospital during WWI. The hotel is shamelessly Scottish with traditional furnishings, wooden panelled walls, and pictures of Highland clansmen – even Bonnie Prince Charlie. The inside of the lift is fully clad in tartan carpets, including the walls. Our bedroom was surprisingly bright and modern, with a bathroom big enough to host a party in! There were bottles of water and wee bars of Green’s chocolate to welcome us – a very nice touch indeed. The beds were really comfy, and I loved waking up to views of the trees outside – as well as the village square.

Breakfast and dinner at the hotel are included in the tour price, and the dinner was 3-courses chosen from a set menu. The meals were all prepped and ready to go, as each course arrived quickly from the kitchen. For the price that you pay, the food was plentiful and decent – you can’t expect anything more. Seasoned foodies may need to lower their standards, as it’s far from fancy-pants dining, but it was satisfying and I enjoyed everything bar one dish.

Breakfast was buffet style with cereals, yoghurt, porridge, toast and various hot breakfast items; bacon, sausages, eggs, beans, and hash browns etc. We were impressed by the quality and selection – it was a great start to the day.

Each night, the live entertainment had a brilliant turn-out from our group and the other hotel guests. There was a mixture of famous songs and traditional music for those who wish to get their dancing shoes on. I tried to coax my Dad into doing the Gay Gordon’s with me but he would have none of it! For those who wish to venture out at night, we enjoyed a spot of people watching outside The Deli with a glass of red; this is also where we made friends with a super-cute wee dog called Lulu!

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Costs & How to Book

The ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ tour starts from a very reasonable £149 per person. The tour price includes all transport with reserved seats, two-night’s accommodation, breakfast, dinner and the Strathspey Railway with lunch. The only things you need to budget for are any snacks along the way and drinks in the hotel. There are no hidden extras for you to worry about.

• To check dates and book visit the Caledonian Travel tour page

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Final Thoughts

The ‘Lunch on a Steam Train’ tour was pitched perfectly to an older audience; from the food and accommodation, to the music and entertainment. The trip was comfortable, relaxed and excellent value for money. I wouldn’t hop aboard with a group of my pals, but it was ideal for this Dad/Daughter duo. It was a perfect stress-free weekend, allowing us to enjoy our surroundings, and our time together.

My experience with Caledonian Travel was filled with feel good vibes. The time spent with my Dad was priceless; from his comical Dad-style antics, to our bickering on me being terrible at Scrabble. There was a wee boy loving the adventure with his Mum and Gran, and the super-cute couple in front of us cuddled into each other throughout the journey.

Trips like this shouldn’t be judged or pigeon-holed by the age of the passengers it attracts. Travel is timeless and age is irrelevant when everyone is having a good time. Shared experiences evoke a sense of joy, and create memories that can be revisited forever. That’s the real magic of travel.

I would honestly recommend this tour to anyone craving some bonding time and adventure with loved one. I wonder where my Dad fancies next?

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Competition Terms & Conditions

If you would like to enter a competition to win the same tour for you and a loved one, please read everything below and submit your entry on my Facebook page. 

The available departure dates for the Lunch on Steam Train tour are:

• Friday 30th Aug
• Friday 20th Sept
• Friday 18th Oct

Please read the following before entering: 

• You must be 18+ to enter.
• UK entries only.
• All rules must be followed to be entered.
• The winner will be contacted by The Chaotic Scot within two days of the competition ending.
• If the prize is not claimed within 28 days, the winner forfeits the prize.
• The holiday must be taken within 12 months of the prize winner being announced.
• The dates and pick-up destinations are limited based on availability.
• Prize includes coach travel throughout, two nights hotel dinner, bed & breakfast at The Bay Highland Hotel an Inclusive journey on the Strathspey Railway with a light lunch served on-board and free time in Pitlochry.
• The prize is as stated and cannot be exchanged for an alternative trip or a monetary value. The prize is non-transferable.
• Travel to the departure point is not included.
• It is the winner’s responsibility to ensure they have travel insurance.
• One winner will be drawn at random on Sunday 14th July

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This post is sponsored by Caledonian Travel. As always, all content, opinions & chaotic behaviour are my own.

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Happy travels!

Kay 💙