Belmond's Royal Scotsman train launches Dior retreat
The Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, has collaborated with Dior to create its first wellness retreat on wheels, featuring 'mindful movement' classes and naturopathic menus. Olivia Palamountain reports
Belmond is set to debut its first travelling wellness retreat aboard The Royal Scotsman train, running from June 20 - 23 , 2025.
The four-day, three-night Highland journey follows the successful launch of the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman in 2023 and will be hosted by Dior Wellness Experts Bryony Deery and Rose Ferguson.
The retreat draws inspiration from Scotland's natural landscapes and aims to provide guests with a holistic wellness experience while travelling through some of the country's most scenic regions. Fredrik Laseen, general manager of The Royal Scotsman, says: "We're thrilled to introduce this wellness retreat, an extension of our collaboration with Dior having launched the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman to much success, in 2023. This new offering extends the unique opportunity to unwind and revitalise from not only onboard the train but also our wellness-focused activities offboard, elevating both guest experiences."
The programme will feature mindful movement classes led by Bryony Deery, Dior's Pilates and Mindful movement expert. Her approach draws on the six principles of wellness Pilates and aligns with Christian Dior's vision of enhancing inner joy alongside physical beauty. Deery's personal journey of recovery and self-discovery informs her teaching methods, which focus on helping guests reconnect with their bodies and minds.
Nutritional guidance will be provided by Rose Ferguson, Dior's nutritional expert who specialises in functional medicine and naturopathy. Known as the "queen of reset," Ferguson has collaborated with Royal Scotsman's Head Chef Mark Tamburrini to create specially crafted menus that support guests' health goals through mindful eating practices.
The retreat will balance onboard and offboard experiences. While travelling, guests can enjoy nutritionally balanced afternoon teas, evening entertainment, breathwork sessions,and treatments at the Dior Spa. The train's Observation Car offers a space to relax and take in the Highland scenery.
Offboard activities include wild swimming, forest bathing in the ancient Rothiemurchus Forest, and private hiking expeditions led by the Dior "Wellness Experts". Additional experiences feature yoga sessions, boat rides to observe wild seals and opportunities to sample locally foraged seasonal foods.
"This retreat marks a new chapter in our commitment to redefining luxury rail travel," says Nicola Herbert, global director of wellness and guest experience at Belmond. "By integrating wellness experiences throughout our journeys, we're offering an enriching experience that fosters a deeper connection with nature, culture, and well-being, all while embracing the philosophy of slow travel."