The Royal Scotsman: A Luxurious Journey with Dior Spa
22 May 2023
The Scottish Highlands are no one’s secret. This untrammeled countryside has captivated travelers since the 18th century when literary legends like Wordsworth and Coleridge celebrated its vast landscapes. By the 19th century, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had established a holiday retreat named Balmoral in Aberdeenshire, sparking a perennial pilgrimage for travelers seeking fresh Highland air.
As the Royal Scotsman chortles along railway lines through sweeping heather and glassy lochs, it feels as though you might be the only one gazing at the stunning scenery. Alongside 35 fellow passengers, you will enjoy vintage-lacquered train cars adorned with luxurious emerald velvet upholstery and plump tartan pillows, all while indulging in free-flowing Champagne.
Initially, the thought of traveling solo on a sleeper train with strangers was somewhat intimidating. However, the allure of communal experiences like cocktails in the observation carriage and communal dinners, coupled with the opportunity to try fly-fishing and whisky tours, promised wonderful days amidst picturesque views in the Highlands. Ultimately, though, it was the onboard spa that primarily drew me to this journey.
The Dior Spa Experience on Board
A spa aboard a moving sleeper train is both intriguing and unusual. With Dior taking over an entire carriage on the Scotsman this spring, they have transformed it into a luxurious spa, showcasing glossy lacquered walls and the Maison’s burgundy Toile de Jouy, along with an incredibly comfortable spa bed.
Although it may seem like a curious partnership, Dior has historical ties to the landscape. In 1955, the brand showcased a fashion show at Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, which left a lasting impression on Christian Dior. This season, the Dior Beauty team offers a curated selection of treatments tailored for train travel, including the D-Travel body massage and the D-Elements full body treatment, both inspired by the stunning Scottish environments.
A Moment of Relaxation Amidst Adventure
I opted for the D-Highlands facial, advertised as the ideal antidote to a day spent exploring the Highlands. Initially, I felt a pang of concern as my therapist mentioned focusing on pressure points, but she reassured me it would be a pleasant experience. Indeed, I emerged from the treatment feeling as if all tension had been expertly eased away, lulled into a serene state by the gentle sway of the train and a glass of Chardonnay I enjoyed during lunch.
Experiencing a Dior spa treatment is undeniably luxurious. However, enjoying it while gliding past golden rapeseed fields and ancient forests elevated the experience to new heights of indulgence.
Connecting with Fellow Travelers
Finding time to enjoy the spa can be challenging, especially on a swift two-night trip. Surprisingly, I bonded with my fellow passengers over shared meals and celebratory moments. This unique travel environment fostered friendship in a way I had not anticipated.
From fly-fishing escapades with a passionate companion to whisky tasting experiences at local distilleries, the camaraderie that developed during our journey was both delightful and enriching. On the final night, a proposal occurred onboard, which united everyone in celebration as we danced to a live fiddle player’s tunes while sipping Espresso Martinis.
Accessibility Considerations
A note on accessibility aboard the Royal Scotsman: there is an accessible twin cabin on board within the passenger car closest to the Observation and Dining cars, which are also wheelchair accessible. This cabin is designed with more space and a wet room, allowing for a wider corridor suitable for full-sized wheelchairs. The spa carriage has been renovated to enhance accessibility as well.
