A Train Journey through the Highlands

One of the most memorable train journeys in the world is that from Glasgow to Mallaig on the West Highland Line, and part of it passes through and can be access from Garelochhead Station only 5 miles from the Knockderry House Hotel. Why don’t you let us make you a suitable picnic, so just sit back and enjoy the fabulous scenery on this magical train journey.

The West Highland Line was constructed in 1889 and today remains by popular vote one of the best train journeys in the world. Building the line was not an easy task as it passes through wild and remote countryside, but in 1894 the first passengers could travel from Glasgow to Fort William. A separate branch line to Oban was re-routed in the 1960s.

Garelochhead to Crianlarich

The journey to Oban actually starts in Glasgow but you can join in at Garelochhead Station with its panoramic view of the village below. Once on board the train, you will soon rise above Loch Long and head towards the Arrochar Alps and the head of the Loch. From Tarbet Station it heads over to Loch Lomond where across the loch is Inversnaid, the area once roamed by Rob Roy MacGregor. The line descends almost to the water's edge at Ardlui station, before climbing to Glen Falloch.

Crossing the Dubh Eas Water on a viaduct you are about the same height above the water as the Forth Railway Bridge is over the sea and soon you'll see the Falls of Falloch and arrive in Crianlarich, where the line divides, before heading west to Oban.

West from Crianlarich to Oban

The Oban line will take you through the beautiful countryside of Glen Lochy to Dalmally, beyond which stands the impressive ruin of Kilchurn Castle, before swerving round the head of Loch Awe and toward Taynuilt, a delightful village on the shores of Loch Etive. The last part of the journey tacks across the slopes of Ben Cruachan and on through an ara called “Australia”, so named due to its similarity to the Australian bush.

For further details of this route see Map of the West Highland Line.

Oban is a unique and charming coastal resort with an unusual feature - the town and curved bay are almost land-locked, making it a sheltered haven for townsfolk and boats alike. Visitors can climb Oban Hill to McCaig’s Tower which provides panoramic views of the bay and the Isle of Mull, or take a coastal walk to Ganavan Sands and relax on the beach.

For more information or to arrange accommodation booking call us on 01436 842 283, email us or use our online enquiry form