We pause for refreshments at Callander, the gateway to the Highlands before continuing to Glencoe. The famous Glen features in many famous films, such as James Bond’s Skyfall, and is the backdrop to some Harry Potter scenes from the Prisoner of Azkaban. We pause here for photos and to learn all about the history of Glencoe, including the massacre of the MacDonald Clan in 1692.
From the atmospheric Glencoe, we travel further north through the Highland town of Fort William. We pause in the area for a short coffee break and to stretch our legs, before we journey on to the Road to the Isles, or “Rathad nan Eilean”. The area was run by the Clan Donald and is said to have some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, with sandy beaches, dramatic hills and unforgettable sea views; it’s one not to be missed!
At the end of the road, we reach Mallaig, a scenic port on the West coast of Scotland. Mallaig comes from the old Norse, ‘Mel Vik’, meaning a sand dune bay. Spend time here for lunch, perhaps sample some of the famous local seafood and enjoy the beautiful sea views.
After Mallaig, our Harry Potter-themed tour travels eastwards to the main attraction of the day; Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the Harry Potter Steam Train. Surrounded by mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan Monument symbolizes one of the most important events in Scottish history; the 1745 Jacobite Uprising. We spend approximately one hour at the monument, with enough time to learn the history of the Jacobites and just in time to see the famous Jacobite Steam Train crossing the bridge.
Not only is this location famous for the Jacobite Steam Train (aka. the Hogwarts Express), Loch Shiel was the location of the ‘Black Lake’; see if you can spot a ‘grindylow’ under the surface causing mischief! It’s also the setting for Buckbeak’s beautiful flight, scenes from the Triwizard Tournament and also the stunning loch where Hogwarts is based.
From Glenfinnan and its Harry Potter train, we begin our return journey to Edinburgh, stopping along the way for refreshments at the small village of Pitlochry. Enjoy time to stretch your legs and a quick bite to eat before we return to Edinburgh where our Harry Potter Train Tour ends.
