The little-known train trip ideal for lovers of whisky, castles and stunning views

FORGET the West Highland Line, it’s a gem of a Scottish train journey that’s just as scenic but a lot less touristy.

Welcome to the Keith and Dufftown Railway, an 11 mile line linking Dufftown, known as the malt whiskey capital of the world, to the town of Keith in Moray.

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And it’s no surprise that the Dram Tram, as it’s known locally, is as popular with train watchers as it is with fans of Scotland’s national drink.

There is no doubt that Scotland offers some of the finest rail travel in the world, including the aforementioned West Highland Line and the Borders Line.

Both attract thousands of visitors each year, particularly the West Highland Line, where Potterheads flock to enjoy a ride on the iconic route Glenfinnan Viaduct which the Hogwarts Express rode in the hit Harry Potter films.

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But the lesser known historic train on the Moray route – better known as the Whiskey Line – is just as beautiful.

You’ll be amazed by the spectacular scenery you traverse, including the man-made Loch Park and Drummuir Castle.

Whiskey lovers should start in Dufftown, the ideal destination for connoisseurs, with numerous other distilleries along the route.

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The city has the highest concentration of distilleries in the world and is home to Dufftown Distillery, Mortlach, GlenfiddichBalvenie, Glendullan and Kininvie Distilleries.

Keith is also home to some top-notch whiskey venues, including Strathmill, Glenkeith and Strathisla distilleries.

The route was taken over by volunteers in 1998 and the Class 108 DMUs operate the route all season from March to September and it is well worth driving there.

The railway is proud of the route, claiming: “Travelling with KDR means experiencing the true spirit of this unique part of Scotland.”

“There are rolling hills, forests, deep valleys, fields of ripening barley and leaping deer, but it’s the living stills that provide the scent that permeates the atmosphere along the entire route.”

According to Hidden Scotland, the “captivating journey takes you past sparkling lochs, majestic castles and traditional whiskey distilleries”.

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