UK city home to ‘world’s most scenic’ winter railway journey — 180 miles long | UK | Travel
A UK city has been named the setting for “one of the world’s most scenic winter train journeys.” Experts at National Geographic are praising the route as “breathtaking,” offering travellers unforgettable views. Naming their top 10 list in Europe, the expert said: “The holiday season may be the best time to ride the rails on these iconic routes through Germany’s enchanted Black Forest, and Norway’s frozen waterfalls.”
However, it is Scotland that truly captures the imagination, with misty hills, winding lochs, and dramatic winter landscapes. For anyone seeking a festive or winter getaway, this railway journey offers an experience like no other.
Where in Scotland is the most scenic rail journey?
The West Highland Line is about 180 miles long in total, running from Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William.
The expert at the National Geographic explained: “Route: Glasgow to Mallaig. Often cited as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, the West Highland Line delivers raw, haunting beauty.
“It cuts across Rannoch Moor, a vast peat bog, before tracing Loch Lomond and sweeping over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, (spectacular long before the Hogwarts Express made it Hollywood famous).”
They added: “Edinburgh and Glasgow both offer distinctive Christmas activities worth exploring. Edinburgh’s markets sprawl through Princes Street Gardens with the castle looming above, while Glasgow will unveil a Christmas lights trail this year.”
Glasgow’s Christmas market
The Winter Wonderland Christmas market at St Enoch Square runs from November 6 to December 24, with family rides, an ice rink, local vendors, and live music. Highlights include the world’s first solar-powered observation wheel and a fully licensed festive bar, reported Secret Glasgow.
Glasgow also hosts its biggest beer hall yet, seating 700 with pub quizzes, live music, and festive drinks. Indoor and outdoor spaces feature fairy lights, fire pits, mulled wine, and winter cocktails.
The city will also feature a festive light trail. With the Christmas Lights Switch-On cancelled due to George Square redevelopment, there will be a Christmas light trail instead.
Highlights include sparkling art installations along Sauchiehall, Buchanan, and Argyle Streets, as well as a large Christmas tree and crib at the Cathedral Precinct, offering a festive photo opportunity.
Top 10 scenic train routes in Europe, according to National Geographic
- The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
- Romantic Rhine Route (Germany)
- Harz Narrow Gauge Railways (Germany)
- The Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
- The West Highland Line (Scotland)
- The Rauma Line (Norway)
- The Semmering Railway (Austria)
- The Schwarzwaldbahn (Germany)
- The Arlberg Line (Switzerland–Austria)
- Munich to Salzburg (Germany to Austria)
