Scotland’s most famous railway line – West Highland line tops world’s best rail journey!

West Highland Railway Line across the seasons!

Last year, when the Wanderlust magazine (a bible for independent minded travelers) introduced a new category “Best Rail Journey” to its list of annual travel awards, little did anyone guess who the winner would be. Speculations were that it ought to be the Trans-Siberian Express, Orient Express or the Trans-Australia. Few people even conjectured it could be the train through the fabled Alps in Switzerland, the Eurostar or the Cusco-Puno in Peru.

The winner-West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William and fishing port of Mallaig on the West coast of Scotland had more than a few surprised. But to those who have been to the place or who have experienced the 164 miles train journey themselves, the West Highland Line was the clear winner. This is the second year running that the West Highland has won this title and this accolade for sure will do wonders when it comes to publicity for Scotland Tourism.

UK’s most scenic rail route became the world’s number one outshining 400 other rail journeys nominated from across the world. Highlights of the journey included its awe-inspiring scenery, beautiful lochs, the highland cattle you get to see on the way, the 21-arch Glenfinnan viaduct which it crosses and the splendid views of the Isles of Eigg, Muck and Rum. The west Highland line and its scenery had already earned its share of fame worldwide (which of course it very well deserved) after the Glenfinnan viaduct (world’s first concrete rail viaduct at Glenfinnan) which it crosses featured in the Harry Potter movie series.

The awards attracted more than 3000 readers vote and gives travellers another reason to make this trip during their holiday. Wanderlust editor-in-chief Lyn Hughes said: “It’s great to see the West Highland Line once again topping the list – proving that you really don’t need to travel to far flung destinations to experience truly breathtaking scenery.”

Tip: The tickets are real cheap if you book in advance.

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