scottish whisky tour

Whisky Tours

‘the water of life’.

So, you fancy yourself a wee dram of malt whisky while you’re here in Scotland?

Och, good on ya. It’s our national drink for a reason.

It’s hard to know for sure how long the process of whisky distilling has been around. At least the 15th century, probably long before.

We gather up the barely and soak it in water before spreading it out to germinate. After six or seven days, you’ve got green malt, perfect for the kiln. After it’s smoked in peat, it’s mashed down into a coarse grist and now its ready to ferment. Into the ‘pot’ it goes and so begins the distilling process. Only the purest liquid makes it through. Only the best .

There’s far more to it than that, but you’re just here for the drink, no?

So, go on then, enjoy yourself some uisge beatha … ‘water of life’.

Explore whisky tours

Why you'll love learning about Scotch whisky

Nuanced Flavours

Whisky has simple ingredients: barley, wheat or rye, yeast and water. The Scots drink it straight or with a dash of water.

But the drink is also complex. There's an abundance of different 'cask strengths', 'blended malts', and 'single grains'. Take a tour and learn the nuances.

Serene Surroundings

Whisky makers say distilleries are in remote locations because of fresh water sources. But this isn’t always true.

In the 18th century, distillers relocated to avoid tax collector routes. This was bad for distillers, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a dram near a delightful view.

Treacherous Tales

Distillers avoided tax by malting at night. Glaswegians rioted when Britain imposed a malt tax. And dragoons and highwayman patrolled the roads searching for whisky smugglers. Take a whisky tour and let your guide bring the history to life.

The Water of Life

Many of Scotland’s literary legends were influenced by the taste of whisky. Robert Burns penned entire poems in the drink’s honour.

Find out why the Scots call it ‘The Water of Life’ and you may be inspired to write a verse or two yourself.

Scottish Whisky Tours

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Check out our brand new 5-day Islay & Campbeltown Tour!

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Four-Day Islay Whisky Tour

Quick Details

Hour Glass Duration: 4 days
Map Marker Location: Islay
Clock Departure Time: 08:00 a.m.
Clock Estimated Return Time: Edinburgh 6:30 p.m./Glasgow 5:15 p.m.
Users Max. Number of Guests: 16
Bus Pick-Up Point: Caffe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
User Minimum Age of Participants: 18
Lagavulin Warehouse Experience
Core Range Tasting at Ardbeg
Tour and exclusive tasting at Laphroaig
Tour and tasting at Kilchoman
A visit to Bunnahabhain
Tour & Tasting at Bruichladdich
Minibus transport (max. 16 guests)
Services of a professional tour guide

Discover some of Scotland’s Finest Whisky Distilleries

All distillery tours and tastings are included in the cost !

Fall in love with Islay, home to some of Scotland’s finest whisky distilleries! This tour takes you to a Scottish island paradise. Islay is home to stunning scenery, ancient history and traditional culture.

Day 1 After departing Edinburgh, you head west into the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. Your journey will take you along the shores of Loch Lomond, the largest of Scotland’s lochs, as well as one of the countries most scenic locations. The landscape becomes more mountainous as you travel further west, crossing the impressive Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, as your guide tells you about the history and culture of this stunning part of Scotland.

As you travel through Argyll, you will make a short stop in the attractive fishing village of Inveraray . It is then a short drive down the Kintyre Peninsula to Kennacraig, where you will board the early afternoon ferry to Islay. The ferry crossing is around two hours and offers for some beautiful views of the islands of Gigha, Jura and Islay as well as the area surrounding West Loch Tarbert. There is time to relax in the ferry bar with an Islay whisky, grab some lunch from the restaurant and soak up the sea air before you arrive.

On arrival in Islay, we will visit our first distillery of the tour! Bunnahabhain Distillery. Pronounced ‘Bunn-na-ha-venn’, meaning ‘mouth of the river’ in Scots Gaelic, this distillery is in a stunning location offering gorgeous views of the Paps of Jura and offers a range of peated and unpeated drams. On occasion due to ferry timetables, a later ferry to Islay may be arranged, in this event the visit to Bunnahabhain will be replaced by an alternative distillery on the Scottish mainland, such as Auchentoshan.

Following your visit to Bunnahabhain, it is a short drive to Bowmore to check in to The Bowmore House or Island Bear for your three-night stay. On rare occasions we may need to place you in different accommodation, we will make you aware of this in advance.

Days 2 & 3 With two full days to explore, there are plenty of options for sightseeing, and your guide will share some of their favourite places with you. These can include empty beaches, whitewashed villages, ancient sites, the Kildalton Cross, medieval strongholds, fresh seafood, local wildlife and traditional cultures. With only around 3000 people and nine world-class distilleries, the chances of finding a ‘wee dram’ on Islay are pretty good.

The distillery and whisky experiences give you an insight into Islay’s most famous export. We’ve planned a wide range of tours and tastings, including a warehouse experiences, tours and exclusive tastings! Each tour is a little different and there will be lots of delicious drams to taste – you won’t be disappointed! Some of the experiences that we will typically include in our tour would be a Warehouse Tasting at Lagavulin, where you will have a chance to sample drams drawn straight from the cask, and a tour of one of Islay’s newest distilleries, Kilchoman, where you will be able to take a tour through the entire production process, including a rare opportunity to visit a working malting floor, and sample the distilleries 100% Islay whisky, where the ingredients and production is entirely Islay based. Our tours will also usually include a tour of the Laphroaig distillery, before enjoying a tasting of a unique range from Laphroaig.

Each night on Islay, there are plenty of options for eating, drinking and relaxing. Your tour guide will let you know all the best places to get the most out of your time in Bowmore. There is an eating option for all budgets and tastes, and with so much local produce on offer, you will be spoilt for choice. The whisky bars aren’t too bad either. Slainte Mhath, as they say in Gaelic.

Day 4 After a final hearty breakfast, you catch the morning ferry back to Kennacraig. Arriving on the mainland, you head to the loch-side town of Inveraray. This is the seat of the Clan Campbell, home to the Loch Fyne Whisky shop and your stop for lunch. After lunch (and some last-minute whisky shopping) your journey now hugs the shores of Loch Fyne and Loch Long before climbing up to the Rest and be Thankful pass for sweeping views.

Then it is to the shores of Loch Lomond. With time to stop for some lovely views and stretch of the legs, this is the last stop on your tour before crossing the River Clyde and into Scotland’s largest city of Glasgow. Some of our guests may be leaving the tour here, so we may make a short stop in central Glasgow (George Square) before returning to Edinburgh.

Chevron down Accommodation:

Accommodation is on a B&B basis in The Bowmore House or Island Bear, both on Shore Street in Bowmore. Spacious and comfortable rooms, a fantastic breakfast each morning and hosts that go above and beyond for every one of their guests. There’s a reason we come back here year after year!

Chevron down What to Bring:
No matter what the time of year, the weather in Scotland can be “changeable”, to say the least. We suggest that you bring suitable clothing for all conditions, including a waterproof jacket (it has been known to rain in Scotland) and plenty of layers.
Ensure you bring shoes suitable for short walks, on rough or uneven terrain.
Although all the distilleries we visit accept card payments, we would also recommend bringing cash with you.
Don’t forget a camera to snap the fantastic memories you’ll make on tour with us!
Our scheduled tours are all 18+, if you’re lucky enough to look under 25 you may to asked to provide proof of age at the distilleries.
Please limit your luggage to 1 x small/medium piece per person, along with 1 x small handbag or daypack.

Related Tours

Map Marker Islay
Hour Glass 5 days

Five-Day Islay Whisky Tour

The ultimate Islay tour is for those who want to experience as much of Islay as possible. We visit every distillery on the island, taste a range of drams and explore its secret spots.

SCOTTISH WHISKY TOURS

Welcome to whiskywheels.scot, the website of Scotland’s premier whisky tour company. If you love whisky, you’ve come to the right place.

ABOUT WHISKYWHEELS

Whiskywheels was formed in the summer of 2018. We decided to start whiskywheels.scot to provide a bespoke service that we could not find anywhere else in the Scottish whisky industry. In our line of work, we regularly speak to many local whisky enthusiasts and there is one topic that always comes up in conversation – whisky tours to Scotland’s famous distilleries! Many whisky drinkers want to design their own whisky tour and not have to worry about doing the driving! After completing extensive market research, whiskywheels.scot was born. Our goal is to provide top level Scottish whisky tours.

SCOTTISH WHISKY TOURS ETHOS

We believe our Scottish whisky tours offer a more personal experience and far better value than the average tour operator. Our aim is to provide a fantastic service to customers, combining our passion for whisky and the beautiful scenery Scotland has to offer.

BOOK YOUR SCOTTISH WHISKY TOUR TODAY

On our tours to whisky distilleries, combine the flavours of Scotland’s favourite drink with our professional transport.

We can also arrange guided transport. Why not book one of our local experts who will give you insight into Scottish history and legend, famous traditions, and world renowned sights.

Our departures can be from all over Scotland. Have a look at our Whiskywheels Scottish Whisky tours page. Let us know your requirements via 07549 839 684 (UK) CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP USA ONLY or [email protected] .

WHAT WE DO FOR OUR SCOTTISH WHISKY TOURS

We provide professional transport and guided Scottish Whisky tours to and from Scottish whisky distilleries.

Choose one of our identified routes or create your own bespoke route.

We can book accommodation for you and take you to the best pubs and restaurants around Scotland.

Why not combine a whisky tour with golf, sightseeing, fishing or a walking tour? We can tailor your tour to your requirements.

You do the drinking, while we do the driving!

We have access to a large fleet of vehicles. This helps us to take any number of people on our tours, from solo travellers and small groups to large groups of any size. We can offer luxury and premium vehicles for special occasions. Our pick ups and drop offs are flexible. Contact us for more details.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS

“Whisky Wheels put together a record breaking scottish whisky tour program for the trip, visiting many distilleries – nine full whisky tours and the rest stopping for photos. Thanks to Euan we also managed to get quite a bit of history and culture. Already planning a new visit for next year. Cheers for now!”

We provide bespoke whisky tours in Scotland.

07549 839 684 (UK)

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP

[email protected]

Experience world famous whisky

Welcome to The Scotch Whisky Experience, a five star visitor attraction at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, where we've been inspiring visitors to Edinburgh about the joys of Scotch whisky for over 30 years.

Plan your visit

To see our FAQs page click here.

Welcome to The Scotch Whisky Experience, Ceud Mile Fàilte (A hundred thousand welcomes in Gaelic)

Whether you take a tour, visit our shop and restaurant, or enjoy an event or tasting here, we guarantee you a sensational experience.

Our Experiences

The perfect journey through the world of Scotch whisky. We are storytellers; passionate about sharing with you our love for Scotch whisky and Scotland. Take one of our tours to widen your knowledge, explore flavours and create whisky memories.

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Home » Whisky Tour Scotland

Private Whisky Tours of Scotland

Discover the Taste of Scotland

Scotch Whisky is world-famous for its smokey, peaty, and smooth flavors, and with over 120 active distilleries around the country , you’ll not be short of ideas of where to visit on your private tour.

Our bespoke Scotch Whisky Tours allow you to experience the art and craftsmanship of Scotland’s world-famous whisky brands and regions – soaked in history and legend.

Choose your own perfect blend of distilleries

With so many incredible distilleries around Scotland, it can be difficult to decide where to start; our Private Whisky Tours allow you to customize your itinerary and visit all your favorite distilleries and see some beautiful sites along the way – although depending on how many distilleries you’ve visited throughout the day, you’ll likely find everything beautiful!

Our private tour expert will make recommendations and help you organize each step of your scotch whisky experience and transport you in luxurious comfort to all your desired destinations, all you have to do is decide how long you want your tour to last .

Click on some of our most famous whisky regions to see some of the distilleries Scotland has to offer and get in touch with us by clicking ‘Create my custom tour’ below and we can start planning your unforgettable whisky tour.

Please note: Alcohol is not included in the price of our private tours.

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Request Your Whisky Tour Of Scotland

All our whisky tours are completely customizable and tailor-made to suit you and your group’s needs and wants. Our tour experts can make recommendations and help you plan each and every sip of your whisky tour experience while transporting you safely from distillery to distillery.

Whether your group is new to our famous spirit, or connoisseurs looking to visit your favorite distilleries, get in touch by filling out the form below and start planning your perfect whisky vacation today!

Or Call Free +44 141 674 9535

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glenturret distillery, Famous Grouse, Highlands, Scotland

Highlands Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 47

Oldest Distillery: Glenturret (1775)

Most popular distillery: Glenturret, Famous Grouse Experience

Flavor profile: fruity, malty, spicy & swee t

The vast and wild Highland region of Scotland produces varied and unique Scotch from distillery to distillery. Some peaty, some with a strong salty presence from the coast, and some fresh, light, and fruity. The Highlands has a bit of everything: perfect for a group whisky tour with varying preferences, and taste ambitions.

Glenfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland Whisky

Speyside Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 50

Oldest Distillery: Strathisla (1786)

Campbeltown Whisky

Number of distilleries: 3

Oldest Distillery: Springbank (1828)

Lowlands Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 18

Oldest Distillery: Auchentoshan (1800)

Isle of Islay Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 9

Oldest Distillery: Bowmore(1779)

10 of the best whisky distillery tours in Scotland

Dreaming of a dram? These distilleries offer an insight into one of the world’s great drinks, and are often in stunning locations, too

Nc’nean, Morvern

It’s an adventure in itself just reaching Nc’nean, a remote and free-spirited whisky startup 12 (slow) miles down a single-track road on the Morvern peninsula on Scotland’s stunning west coast. For those that do make it, tours (with coffee and a slice of organic cake) are less about stats and more about the soul of this exciting, sustainably-minded enterprise. The team here is experimenting with different strains of yeast, curiously-shaped stills and longer mash times. To what end? We’ll find out next year when its first whisky is released. Walks in any direction offer the chance to spot otters, pine martens and sea eagles. Stay Achnacriche , doubles from £95 B&B Tours from £15pp, Lochaline , ncnean.com

Dewar’s, Perthshire

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Whisky Distillery, Scotland.

Perth’s Tommy Dewar understood the power of marketing. A globetrotting brand ambassador before that title had really been established, in the early years of the 20th century Dewar enlisted Thomas Edison to direct a film commercial for his White Label blend. It’s possibly why Dewar’s remains among the best-selling blends in the US. The remarkable story forms the heart of the interactive heritage museum at the visitor centre for Aberfeldy, the malt at the heart of Dewar’s blend. The distillery is on the banks of the Upper Tay, just outside Aberfeldy itself. Stay Brae House , doubles from £125 B&B Tours £10.50pp , Aberfeldy, dewars.com

Deanston, Perthshire

Deanston Mill now a distillery on the River Teith near Doune, Scotland.

A steady supply of water doesn’t automatically lead to whisky production. In Deanston, it once meant textile manufacturing. Which is why this distillery wouldn’t look out of place along the Rochdale canal. A Richard Arkwright-designed textile mill, Deanston was transformed into a distillery in 1966. Thanks to the River Teith, the distillery, as with the mill before it, generates its own power. Tour guides point out the ghostly remains of what was claimed to be the largest waterwheel in Europe – now replaced by turbines. Deanston is the location for film director Ken Loach’s affectionate whisky romp, The Angel’s Share. Stay Creity Hall , doubles from £90 B&B Tours from £9pp, near Doune, deanstonmalt.com

GlenDronach, Aberdeenshire

Glendronach Distillery, near Huntly, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

The stars and stripes flying high above the Aberdeenshire countryside is a clue that GlenDronach is now owned by the same American company behind Jack Daniel’s. With its row of workers’ houses and 250-year-old master distiller’s mansion, this is a thrilling distillery experience – more than 50 people lived and worked here in the early 19th century. In fertile farming country (the Valley of the Brambles responsible for its Gaelic name), you can pick a blackberries in the grounds for an appropriately sweet amuse-bouche before a tour of this Victorian whisky village and a tasting of its juicy, sherry-matured whisky in the darkly inviting tasting bar. Stay Netherdale House , doubles from £110 B&B Tours from £10pp, Forgue By Huntly , glendronachdistillery.com

Clynelish, Sutherland

Samples of Clynelish whiskey inside Brora Distillery, Scotland.

So discreet is its setting in farmland above the coast road, that many who pass en route to John o’Groats assume Clynelish is a hydro-electric plant. You can see their point. The 1960s-built distillery eschewed the traditional pagoda-style skyline of the malting roof (which is now mostly a distillery affectation anyhow, as barley is malted off site). However, the 200-year-old distillery buildings – home to the holy grail of lost malts: Brora – are being recommissioned by beverage multinational Diageo. The distillery has a dark past: it was built by one of the chief architects of the Highland clearances, the Duke of Sutherland. His hill-top statue looms over this coast, although slabs of its footing are regularly chipped away by those determined to see it tumble. Stay Clynelish Farm , doubles from £80 B&B (£70 a night for two or more nights) Tours from £12pp , Brora , malts.com

Strathisla, Moray

Strathisla distillery in Keith in the Moray District of Scotland.

Think you’ve got what it takes to be a master blender? The Chivas Blending Experience (£60) at Strathisla, the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Highlands, will put you to the test. Now owned by Pernod Ricard, whose portfolio includes Chivas Regal, the distillery’s cobbled courtyard leads to a mad professor-style blending lab, complete with bulbous burettes filled with fine malt whisky. Tours make it possible to mix (and keep) your own unique blend. The two-pagoda distillery is atmospheric, with many of its stones snatched from neighbouring 15th-century Milton Castle. Stay Isla Bank House , doubles from £130 B&B Tours from £15pp, Keith , maltwhiskydistilleries.com

Ardbeg, Argyll and Bute

Ardbeg Distillery on the coastline just east of the village of Port Ellen on the island of Islay, Scotland.

When burned as fuel to dry the malted barley, the seaweed and sea salt-infused peat of Islay produces the island’s signature whiskies. Ardbeg’s tours include a yomp over Islay’s peat-cloaked hills (perhaps by way of the eighth-century Kildalton Cross, one of the finest early Christian crosses in Scotland), with an outdoor tasting and a picnic lunch prepared by the team at the distillery’s restaurant. Round a visit off with a stay at Seaview Cottage, the former home to the distillery manager. Sipping an Ardbeg Supernova with a view of the Atlantic breakers outside your window, peat fire roaring in the stove – might that be the ultimate Islay whisky experience? Stay Seaview Cottage , sleeps six, from £200 a night (minimum two-night stay) Tours from £8pp, Ardbeg, Port Ellen , Islay, ardbeg.com

Oban, Argyll and Bute

The Ton room in Oban Distillery, Scotland.

Squeezed between the coast and the cliff that separates the harbour from the suburbs above, the Oban distillery is a tight huddle of grey granite buildings. When the distillery was built in the 1790s, Oban was little more than a scatter of herring storehouses, but since then the busy port has grown around it. This pocket-size distillery’s tours offer a rare chance to sample a west-coast style (somewhere between a sweet Speysider and the smokey islands). When the drizzle descends, the lively dramming bar is the place to settle in and see it out before catching a ferry to recently reopened Tobermory distillery on Mull. Stay Alltavona guesthouse, doubles from £115 B&B Tours from £12pp, Oban, malts.com

Springbank, Argyll and Bute

Springbank Distillery racked warehouse full of maturing whisky casks, Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK

In its prime, Campbeltown (a distinct whisky region in its own right at the end of the Kintyre peninsula) saw more than 30 distilleries pump their waste back into Campbeltown Loch, giving rise to the Andy Stewart eponymous song: “Campbeltown Loch/ I wish you were whisky”. Of the three remaining distilleries, Springbank is the oldest, producing its complex maritime dram on the same fortress-like site in the centre of town since 1828. As tours go, Springbank has more to see than most, as the entire production line takes place here, from the malting floor to the bottling plant. Stay Grammar Lodge , doubles from £90 B&B Tours from £10pp, Campbeltown, springbank.scot

Kingsbarns, Fife

A bottle of Kingsbarn whisky on display on top of bourbon barrels at the distillery and visitor centre in St Andrews, Scotland.

Easy-drinking Lowland whiskies can find it it hard to shout above the peaty monsters of Islay or the romance of the Highland drams, and a decade or so ago there were only a couple of distilleries clinging on. But a cluster of new Fife-based ventures point to a resurgence. Kingsbarns’ new visitor centre and restaurant sit within meticulously restored farmsteadings and a 200-year-old dovecot. It’s surrounded by golden fields of barley: the same stuff that you’ll see frothing away in the mash tun. Its first release, Dream to Dram, is a perfect distillation of Fife’s farming heritage, one that’s even managing to lure golfers away from St Andrews’ Old Course, just eight miles away. Stay The Old Station , doubles from £90 B&B Tours from £10pp, Kingsbarns, kingsbarnsdistillery.com

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Whisky Tours in Scotland - Whiskey Trail Tours | Go Scotland Tours

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St. Andrews, Falkland Palace and Fishing Villages Tour Experience from Edinburgh

Tour ID: 1106
Tour theme: Whisky Tours , Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) ,
Duration: 1 Day - 9 hours approx.
Starts from: Edinburgh

Day tour from Edinburgh to St. Andrews, home of golf, and the Kingdom of Fife, Falkland Palace, and Kingbarns Whisky Distillery, St. Andrews Tour Edinburgh...

Whisky Tour

Rosslyn Chapel, Scottish Borders and Glenkinchie Tour

Tour ID: 1012
Tour theme: Luxury Coach Tours , Whisky Tours ,
Duration: 1 Day - 8 Hours approx.

Day tour from Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel from the Da Vinci Code movie, Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders, and Abbotsford House...

Whisky Tour - Book Now!

Islay Whisky Adventure Tour

Tour ID: 1074
Tour theme: Whisky Tours ,
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

This tour takes you away to Scottish island paradise of Islay. Stunning scenery, ancient history, traditional culture and 8 Scotland finest whisky distilleries.

Loch Lomond, Whisky, and Stirling Castle Tour Experience from Edinburgh

Tour ID: 1102
Tour theme: Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) , Whisky Tours ,
Duration: 1 Day - 9 hours 30min approx.

Day Tour to Loch Lomond Tour and Stirling Castle from Edinburgh, including a Whisky stop at Clydeside Distillery. Castles, lochs and whisky, a perfect day out.

Speyside Whisky Trail Tour

Tour ID: 1125
Tour theme: Group Sightseeing Tours (Multi-days) , Whisky Tours ,
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

A warm welcome awaits you in Speyside, home to more than half of Scotland's malt whisky distilleries. Your 3 day tour adventure of Speyside whiskies of Scotland

The Ultimate Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

Tour ID: 1533
Duration: 1 day - 10 hours approx

Whisky tour departing from Edinburgh going to Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery for Whisky and Chocolate tasting then to Deanston Distillery, Doune Castle, Loch Leven

Speyside Whisky Private Tour

Tour ID: 1518
Starts from: Edinburgh, Glasgow

Enjoy a 3 day whisky tour to Speyside with private guide and distillery tour bookings and whisky tastings. Tailor made to your specific request. All group sizes

Highland Whisky Private Tour from Edinburgh

Tour ID: 1163
Duration: 1 day - 9 hours approx

This memorable whisky tour visits two distilleries set amidst the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Glenturret, Deanston, Doune Castle, Highlands...

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Whisky Tour Packages in Scotland

Embark on a flavourful journey with these Scotland whisky tours. Discover the rugged Highlands, visit Celtic castles and savour the finest Scotch. Trips include accommodation, local transport, 24/7 support, and more.

Try malt whisky on a tour of Scotland

Experience Scotland’s national drink at the source on a Scottish adventure. Explore your way, with the option to tour whisky distilleries on all travel styles.

Discover top Scotland distilleries with an expert local guide on a small group trip or private tour . Alternatively, you could travel at your own pace on a self-drive road trip .

Or, if you’re interested in spending more time in the Scottish capital, venture out on multi-day tours with Edinburgh as your base.

Read on for trip ideas and inspiration for your Scottish getaway.

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Visit a distillery on these small group tours

Enjoy a whisky tour and tasting as part of these guided group trips. Learn about the “water of life” and see Scotland’s top attractions in a group of up to just 15 like-minded travellers.

Wonders of Scotland

Highlights of Scotland

Try whisky on a privately guided trip.

Embark on a Celtic journey with your own private guide. Explore captivating landscapes, historic sites and vibrant cities with the option to add a distillery visit.

Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye - Private

Classic scotland - private, complete scotland - private, tour a distillery on a self-drive trip.

Take the wheel on a self-drive trip across Scotland's scenic landscapes. Enjoy the freedom to travel at your leisure and try locally made whisky on a distillery tour.

Classic Scotland

Scottish highlands & isle of skye, grand tour of scotland, scottish highlands & north coast 500, complete scotland, savour whisky on a multi-day tour.

See the best of Scotland on multi-day trips from Edinburgh. Uncover the city's top sights, venture into the Highlands and customise your adventure with optional stops at whisky distilleries.

Best of Edinburgh - Loch Ness & Highlands

Edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow, edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow - winter, best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands - winter, explore scotland your way.

No matter how you decide to experience Scotland, you’ll have a memorable stay. Pick the travel theme that works best for you.

Best sellers

Castles & royalty, culinary experience, culture & history, honeymoon & romance, north coast 500, off the beaten path, scottish heritage tours, solo travel, staycation holidays, the scottish highlands, all travel styles, about scotland whisky tours.

If you're looking for an insight into Scotland whisky trips, you're in the right place. We've gathered expert advice to help you plan your journey. Uncover all the useful information to make sure you have a memorable and enjoyable exploration of Scotland's rich whisky heritage.

Go on a small group tour complete with a distillery visit

If you’d like an introduction to whisky, join a guided small group tour that includes a visit to a distillery.

You’ll soon find out that this honey-hued tipple is more than just a drink to the Scots. In fact, it’s been an important part of Scotland’s culture for centuries. Although the oldest licensed distilleries here date from the late 1700s, the locals have been producing whisky from malted barley since the 15th century.

During your distillery visit, a local tour guide will show you how Scotland’s malt whiskies are made and talk you through a tasting experience.

Throughout the rest of your tour, you’ll explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and top attractions with your knowledgeable guide. Plus, in a group of no more than 15 guests, you’ll get to know your fellow travellers and have opportunities to ask your guide questions.

As well as being an unforgettable way to uncover Scotland without taking the wheel yourself, small group tours are perfect if you’re travelling solo . So why not embark on a tasting adventure with like-minded whisky lovers from around the world?

All guided small group tours in Scotland include: • Stays in handpicked accommodation • Transport in a comfortable minibus • Professional English-speaking guide • Daily breakfast and some meals • Welcome pack with our Scotland travel guide • Your own detailed itinerary and a map of Scotland

Add a whisky-tasting or distillery tour to your travel package

If you’d like to discover Scotland differently, there are other ways to appreciate the local whisky. For instance, you could add a visit to the highly recommended Scotch Whisky Experience to your tour package as an optional extra.

For the freedom to go at your own pace, opt for a self-drive tour of Scotland . Being able to stop whenever you like means you could check out distilleries you pass along the way.

Do bear in mind that Scotland’s drink-drive limit is zero. So, if you plan to do more travelling that day, make sure to ask the distillery you’re visiting if you can get a takeaway tasting pack. This will let the designated driver try the warming whisky samples once you get to your accommodation.

Head out on a road trip of a lifetime. Uncover scenic routes and iconic sights in this round-up of the best road trips in Scotland .

On the other hand, pick a Scotland private tour , and you’ll benefit from the services of your own driver-guide. If you have a favourite whisky, they'll advise you on the best itinerary that incorporates the distillery. Plus, with someone else at the wheel, you can sit back and listen to local insights as you soak up the beautiful scenery.

Alternatively, base yourself in Edinburgh on one of these multi-day trips in Scotland , where you’ll take day tours into the countryside. With a combination of handpicked excursions and free time in Edinburgh, they’re ideal for getting a flavour of Scotland.

Discover the capital city of Scotland. Make your visit unforgettable with this curated list of the top things to do in Edinburgh .

Scotland’s whisky regions

In Scotland, distilleries are everywhere. Or that’s what it feels like once you know there are over 130 active distilleries. You’ll find them dotted throughout the country’s 5 whisky regions: Speyside, the Lowlands, the Highlands, Islay and Campbeltown.

On these guided small group trips, your whisky-tasting tour in Scotland will be at either a Lowland or Speyside distillery. If you’d like to visit other areas for a Scotch tour, Scotland self-drive packages give you opportunities to stop at whisky distilleries in the Highlands as well. This includes iconic west coast distilleries such as Talisker on the Isle of Skye.

If you already know a little about whisky, you’ve probably heard that each region is known for its characteristic flavours. But go on a Scotland distillery tour, and you’ll soon find out that there’s also lots of variation between brands.

Venture to Speyside – home to the Malt Whisky Trail – and you could try whiskies with light, fruity or rich sherry notes. Tour Highland distilleries and you can expect spicy or maritime drams.

Then there’s Islay, where some of the world’s most famous whiskies come from. Here, you’ll find peaty, smoky single malts from distilleries like Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Bowmore.

Get a taste of Scottish cuisine

If you’re interested in Scottish whisky, there’s a chance you’ll also want to delve into the local food scene . Scotland has plenty of top-notch eateries dishing up mouthwatering plates.

Look for refined tasting menus at Michelin guide-listed restaurants, noteworthy seafood shacks, and cosy cafés with platters of delicious home baking. Not to mention the traditional pub serving hearty favourites like haggis, along with a selection of ales and well-stocked whisky shelves.

Plus, with restaurant picks from Nordic Visitor's travel consultants, you’ll sample the best local cuisine along the way.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

William, United States

Wonders of scotland, july 2023, well-organised tour.

Great communication, well-organised, very knowledgeable and personable guide, overall a great tour with no negatives whatsoever!

Barbara, United States

Best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands, june 2023, we were in good hands.

As first-time visitors to Edinburgh, and senior citizens, our choice to use Nordic Visitor was an excellent one. The welcome package we received at the hotel was really helpful, with our tour vouchers, maps and restaurant recommendations. We would not have known what hotel to select and the one selected for us was perfect. The choice of tours offered was perfect for a 5-day visit. So glad to learn about the Royal Mile and visit the castle. The trip through the Highlands and Loch Ness was beautiful. Our travel agent, Rebecca, always quickly responded to email questions prior to departure. Thank you! Nordic Visitor made our trip easy and rewarding. We were in good hands.

Voula, United States

Classic scotland - private, may 2023, our guide was exceptional.

Our overall experience was very good, minus some accommodation that we did not like as much as the others. What made the tour exceptional was our guide, Dave. His knowledge of Scotland and professionalism made the trip. He was awesome about tailoring each day's itinerary to our likes and taking us off the beaten path to experiences and sights that we would never have found on our own.

Andrew, United States

Classic scotland, june 2023.

The tour package materials were top notch. Spiral bound itinerary, recommended activities, restaurant recommendations and the large-scale road map of Scotland were a nice touch. Magdalena, our Nordic Visitor representative, responded promptly to our questions. Accomodation was all great.

James, United States

Outlander experience, june 2023, one of the best trips we have ever taken.

The entire experience was excellent. Nordic Visitor made it easy for us, although we are amateur travellers. Our guide was the absolute best, we couldn't have asked for a better person. He was able to convey his experience and amazing knowledge to make the trip both fun and educational. One of the best trips we have ever taken, thank you!

Frederic, United States

Scottish highlands & the west coast, may 2023, our travel consultant was a delight to work with.

Rebecca was always prompt with responses to questions and always informative, always patient. We're first time (and older) travellers and her professional manner was a delight to work with.

Mary, United States

Classic scotland - private, june 2023, our experience was so special.

Airport transfers were excellent. Drivers were on time and friendly. Accommodation was all good. You couldn't have paired our family with a better guide/driver than Dave. He made our Scotland experience so special by taking us off the beaten path and showing us some of the most beautiful natural sites and places in Scotland. We covered 1000 miles in distance in our 7 days. We learned so much from Dave.

Diane, Canada

Wonders of scotland, june 2023, we loved every day.

This was our first travel outside of North America and we loved every day! We toured around Scotland, starting in Edinburgh, to the Highlands, Isle of Skye and finishing in Glasgow. It was a busy tour, and we didn't see all of Scotland, but we saw so many interesting places, met a lot of wonderful people, ate haggis, drank whisky and had such a fantastic time that we did not want to leave. We are already saving for our next trip!

Kelsie, United States

Highlights of scotland, may 2023, the most magical trip.

From communicating with Nordic Visitor, booking my trip, arriving at the airport and be welcomed by our driver Paul, each hotel, every meal, our amazing tour guide, Anita, our drivers, Gary and Stevie… everything was so perfect! It was the most magical trip!

Shavonne, United States

Classic scotland & the orkney islands, june 2023, seamless process.

We did a self-drive tour including the Orkney islands. The entire process from booking to flying home was seamless. Our accommodation was all amazing, especially the B&Bs. Our daily itineraries were great starting points for activities, and none of our days felt rushed or slow. We also appreciated the restaurant and travel guides. Scotland is amazing, and Nordic Visitor made the entire vacation worry-free.

Kristen, United States

Scottish highlands & isle of skye, june 2023, enjoyed my tour so much.

I enjoyed my tour of Scotland so much! Booking with Nordic Visitor was so easy. Their itinerary showcased highlights across the country, so I feel like I experienced the best of the best! The communication from our tour consultant, Duncan, was prompt and detailed. It was so comforting knowing that Nordic Visitor was only a phone call away 24/7.

Jennifer, United States

Scottish highlands & isle of skye - private, may 2023.

Our private tour guide, Pete, was phenomenal, and all of our accommodation was great! My husband is disabled and Nordic Visitor took every needed step to ensure our B&Bs could take care of his needs.

Research Your Vacation

Start preparing for your trip by doing some research before your Scottish adventure.

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Our Services

Whether you travel independently or with a guide in your Nordic Visitor package, you will receive personalised service from a designated travel consultant and high-quality travel documents. What's more, all self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines the driving route, overnights and highlights along the way. Travel with ease knowing that Nordic Visitor has close professional relationships with local service providers , which are carefully selected by our staff for their consistently high standards.

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Get in touch with us to start planning your Scotland whisky tour package, or to ask about adding a tasting experience to your itinerary. Our Edinburgh-based travel experts are eager to share their local insight with you.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

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Places to eat on the outlander trail in scotland, why scotland is perfect for romantic breaks and getaways, 12 best castles in scotland that you should visit, best time to visit scotland: your complete guide.

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Guided Whisky Tours in Scotland by Mclean Scotland

Mclean Scotland Whisky Tours

Scottish whisky tour ideas.

We’re a custom built/bespoke tour company, give us your wish list and we design a tour for you, here’s some examples to whet your appetite.

We arrange everything from a three or four days, to a couple of weeks, standard and complete luxury all en-suite accommodation, all involve drams and fun! We cover the whole of Scotland – mainland and the isles, also Ireland. Simply tell us how many days/nights and how many people. Please note; we do not offer 1 or 2 day tours. All fully guided.

Luxury Tour in Scottish Highlands

A taste of your tour....

Aberfeldy, Culloden Battlefield Museum, Glengarry Castle, Bowmore, Bunnahabhain Distillery, top accommodation, and visits. Two weeks ideally.

Exclusive Tour

This whisky tour blends luxury with distilleries, superb scenery, fine food and whisky, all fully guided. Go on, pamper yourself! The best accommodation, the best visits. We work with you make this an experience, not simply a tour.

Speyside Distilleries

A wee tour that can be adapted to suit YOU. Speyside has the most distilleries in one area in the whole of Scotland. A great way to see the best. Blend some local historic sites, tasting on the beach, private tastings, whisky dinners. Tours can be adapted to suit your needs and airports – Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Inverness.

Speyside & Perthshire Highlights

Tullibardine, Deanston, Glenfarclas, Aberlour, Speyburn, Ben Riach, Cragganmore, the Speyside Cooperage, Glenallachie, Blair Atholl Distillery with lots of chance to change visits, add or delete, so many to choose from.

Islay and Speyside Highlights

Bowmore, Laphroaig and Lagavulin, Bruichladdie, Kichoman. Glenallachie, Glenlivet, Speyburn. Some local sightseeing, all day on your own Edinburgh.

Whisky and History on the Western Isles

A busy tour, highlights; Blair Athol Distillery, Dalwhinnie (views only, unless you wish to visit bar/shop), Talisker, Torabhaig, Ardnamurchan Distillery. Tobermory, Duart Castle, home to the Chief of Clan Maclean, Oban - seafood capital of Scotland, Oban Distillery we head back to Edinburgh or where you wish.

Highlights in the Highlands

Balblair, Glenmorangie, Old Pulteney, Clynelish, Dornoch, Tomatin, Wolfburn, North Point Distillery, to experience, also plenty of history, good food & drink. Ideally arrive at Inverness or Aberdeen. Fantastic scenery and good accommodations.

Blend Your Own Whisky

A unique experience.

Try out your whisky knowledge and put your tasting skills to the test? Create your own blended malt or blended scotch by mixing a combination of the 8 Scotch whiskies provided from a selection of different cask types, carried out blind with no indication of what each whisky is.

Let your senses take the lead to create your perfect blend, you will then hand fill a 70cl bottle of your chosen blend which you can take home.

These are just suggestions; we can make tours to suit YOU.

Customer Testimonials

Thank you McLean Scotland for creating and delivering the Tour of a Lifetime!!

I HIGHLY and STRONGLY recommend this company for your Scotch tour!!

This comment might seem strange, but to be honest, we didn’t really believe the quote we got for Liz and Paul. It was around 5-6k. We actually replied, 5k per person, right? We were surprised to find that was the total. The going rate for a week(ish) tour with big box (non-bespoke) companies in 2021 were 3-4k per person. If the price seems too low, it might raise red flags. It did with us, which is why we asked Liz and Paul to video chat to make sure it was real! I’m not suggesting that you jack up prices, but maybe address your pricing philosophy face up?

“We believe the wonders of Scotland should be experienced by all, which is why we carefully design tours to meet every budget. Please don’t compare us to the big tour companies. We have the flexibility to offer very competitively priced customized tours at reasonable prices that will create lasting memories."

Hi Paul. Back in Sweden and delighted to find my wonderful lab still recognises me (as does my wife). I think we had a brilliant tour, in fact the best ever, and as always it's a pleasure being on the roads with you. Apart from being a great companion, you share so much about Scottish history and culture which you know I'm always keen to learn more about.

I liked in particular the scenery going from Ballachulish to Tyndrum in Glencoe – a road I'd never travelled before. The best views I've ever had in Scotland. I think we have a solid plan for next year so let´s keep in touch about that.

First time we used MCLEANSCOTLAND. They were honest about what we would be able to see. It truly was a vacation of a lifetime. It was everything we dreamed about! And we saw as much of Scotland that we could possibly fit in 10 days. Forward five years – we decided to do a whisky tour with them.

They did all the driving, so many distilleries, so many laughs, drank so much whisky and had the time of our lives. Our whole trip was truly magical! There are not enough stars to give them rating they deserve.

MCLEANSCOTLAND are an absolute joy to communicate with. Professional, knowledgeable, courteous, friendly, and awesome with communication. The way they communicate is vastly different from the other 7 companies that I contacted for the tour. The tour schedule was WOW!! So detailed, well planned, organised and thought out.

You guys truly listened and tried your hardest to schedule events tailored to our wants and it definitely showed! Once again, totally different from the 7 other companies I contacted. The price was great! You scheduled an incredible tour to the budget that I gave.

Your long experience was evident and we very much enjoyed stories about Scotland such as details about the clans and other information he provided along the way. One hotel you chose was fantastic for us. Quirky and fun, the host seemed very energetic. The dining room and bar were surprisingly busy for mid-week and the food was excellent. It was nice to take a bit of a rest in such a peaceful place and we stood in a field looking at stars for a good hour. Breakfast was excellent. We loved every bit of Islay. Our walk on the beach was wonderful. We were happy to catch the standing stones on the mainland, definitely worth the stop at least for us. After switching drivers we were able to make a detour to the Glen Coe area and stopped at a pull-in to take some pictures...a highlight of the trip for us...it was quite impressive. Overall, we had an absolutely incredible time and made a ton of new memories. I would write more about it how wonderful it was, but I have to be off to work now!!! Thanks again, and we really are excited about our next trip...which would have to include the Isle of Skye.

Contact Mclean Whisky Tours

If you're looking for local, Scottish Whisky experts who also share a love for Scottish whisky then look no further than Mclean Scotland Whisky Tours.

For more information please email: [email protected]

Whisky Tours of Scotland

Whisky takes its name from the gaelic for â€˜water of lifeâ€™., you can find distilleries all over scotland..

Each area adds its own flavour and character to whisky. Salty sea air, peaty fires, and natural spring water: each can play a part in Scotch whisky. Follow the story from barley to barrel to bottle.

Whisky takes its name from the Gaelic for ‘water of life’. You can find distilleries all over Scotland. Each area adds its own flavour and character to whisky. Salty sea air, peaty fires, and natural spring water: each can play a part in Scotch whisky. Follow the story from barley to barrel to bottle.

The Quaich Bar of the Craigellachie Hotel is world renowned for its collection of whisky with almost 700 different single malts available.
The Royal Brackla whisky distillery, located to the east of Cawdor, was founded in 1812 by William Fraser. In 1835 it was the first distillery to be awarded the royal warrant by order of King William IV.
Drambuie is thought to have been the personal liqueur of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, "Bonnie Prince Charlie".
At 1164 ft (354 m) above sea level Dalwhinnie is thought to be Scotland's highest distillery.
Cutty Sark whisky is named after the historic tea clipper which is permanently berthed at Greenwich, London.

Things to see..

Glengoyne (lowland).

Named after its location in the wooded valley of Glen Guin, or ‘glen of the wild geese’, Glengoyne Distillery has been producing the water of life for almost two centuries. Generations of expertise go into its Highland single malts, which are uniquely matured in the Lowlands. Discover more of its secrets with a tour and taste 200 years of history for

The Glenlivet (Speyside)

Romantic tales of smuggling, jealousy and intrigue abound at the home of this famous malt. Wind your way through the intrguing and isolated Livet valley and you’ll soon be rewarded with an unforgettable tour and tasting. Learn how the distillery was founded in 1824 and how its global reputation saw it conquer illicit rivals to be christened ‘The’ Glenlivet .

Laphroig whisky distillery

Founded in 1815, Laphroaig is a peaty single malt whisky produced on the west coast isle of Islay. It is considered one of the most richly flavoured of all Scotch single malts.

Glenkinchie

Sample the very finest Lowland malt with an in-depth tour of this traditional distillery. Nestling outside Edinburgh among the rolling East Lothian farmlands, its carefully crafted whiskies are noted for their lightness of touch and sweet and malty tones. Try one for yourself and enjoy the true taste of Scotland with a distinctively dry and fruity finish.

Standing proudly amid snow-capped peaks at 1,164ft above sea level, this famous distillery is thought to be the highest in Scotland. Pay a visit to its remote and rugged location and you’ll be rewarded with the smoothest of malts, with just a touch of honey, fruit and peaty smoke. Alternatively, try a tasting matched with delicious hand-made chocolates.

Experts claim this distillery’s location beside a bustling bay give its malts a hint of brine and seaweed. So why not pay a visit and try for yourself? Tucked beneath a steep cliff, visitors are welcome to take a tour, enjoy a warming dram and learn some of the many secrets handed down since its formation in 1794 by brothers John and Hugh Stevenson.

A trip to one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries is one to cherish – and is rewarded with the chance to buy a rare malt. Combining long fermentation with slow distillation, Glen Ord has been producing whisky on the Black Isle since 1838 and still malts its own barley. Pay a visit and try its Singleton of Glen Ord , usually reserved for Asian markets only.

Glenfiddich

With its distinctive pagoda roofs and fields of golden barley, whisky heaven awaits at the home of this famous family-owned distillery. Meander through the ‘valley of the deer’ and you’ll be greeted by the world’s largest pouring collection of Glenfiddich . Learn how production has grown since 1886 and sample the innovative local fare at its restaurant.

Royal Lochnagar

Visitors to this historic distillery follow in the distinguished footsteps of Queen Victoria , who granted it a Royal Warrant after travelling from nearby Balmoral to sample its wares in 1848. With mighty Lochnagar Mountain looming over proceedings, see the traditional open mash tun and taste the finest mellow malts, made with crystal-clear Scarnock spring water.

Cross to the magical Isle of Islay and discover the many delights of this traditional distillery hidden in a secluded cove. Built on the site of a ruined castle more than two centuries ago, Lagavulin is famed for its unusual pear-shaped stills. Take a tour behind its whitewashed walls, see the distillers at work and savour a dram alive with distinctive peaty smokiness.

Tours that visit Whisky

Heart of the highlands.

If you only have a couple of days to discover the true beauty of the Scottish Highlands, then this is the tour for you.

Loch Ness, Whisky and Outlander

Sample the finest ‘water of life’; follow in Bonnie Prince Charlie’s footsteps and walk among the ancient locations of TV’s Outlander in this fascinating trip back in time.

Bonnie Scotland

Discover Scotland's unrivalled beauty on this feature-packed tour that includes city stays in historic Edinburgh and lively Glasgow.

Edinburgh Tattoo Experience

Prepare for your evening visit to the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo with a relaxing day touring through stunning Highland landscapes.

Islay Whisky Connoisseur Tour

Explore the island of Islay, home to eight whisky distilleries whose lovingly produced malts boast a unique peaty aroma.

Rosslyn Chapel, Scottish Borders and Whisky

This combination of a visit to intriguing Rosslyn Chapel and the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Borders makes this tour the perfect day out.

Scotland's Highlands and Islands

Discover magical islands, sophisticated cities and the rugged beauty of the Scottish highlands on this far-reaching tour.

Scottish Clans and Castles

Discover the history of Scotland and her people on this inspiring tour through the Highlands which includes a trip on the famous West Highland Railway.

Scottish Dream

On this comprehensive tour experience many aspects of Scotland from the great cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the scenic beauty of the Isle of Skye.

Scottish Highlands, Islands and Cities

This epic tour will take you along some of the most famous routes in Scotland to visit Edinburgh, Glasgow and the islands of Skye, Orkney, Mull and Iona.

Scottish Isles and Glens

Be captivated by the beauty of the Scottish Highlands and Islands on this luxury tour that includes visits to the Orkney Islands, Skye and Bute.

Taste of Scotland

This short tour combines visits to Scotland’s two great cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow with a delightful tour through the beautiful Scottish Highlands.

The Essential Whisky Experience

Raise a glass to Scotland’s national drink with a tour of two traditional distilleries, sampling the finest drams and enjoying stunning scenery as you go.

The Scots and the Irish

This extensive tour of two Celtic neighbours focuses on the highlights of Scotland together with the north and west of Ireland

Whisky and Waterfalls

Discover the beauty of Highland Perthshire, take a waterfall walk then enjoy a tour and tasting at Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery. What an amazing day out!

Highland Whisky Distilleries

With over 50 distilleries spread across the Highlands and Islands, the Highlands are by far the largest geographical whisky producing area, but account for just 1 of 5 whisky regions in Scotland. To call Highland whiskies diverse is an understatement: it boasts probably the widest array of styles, from rich and textured to fragrantly floral - these are whiskies that refuse to be pigeonholed.

Talisker Distillery on the Isle of Skye

Explore Highland Whisky in Scotland

Isle of Raasay Distillery

In this region you'll find some of Scotland's oldest distilleries and some of Scotland's newest, all of which pack a real punch with their range of unique flavours, notes and tones.

Explore Highland distilleries and sample the region's distinctive malts and blends. You'll find some of whisky's most famous names here - and some of its most fiercely individual spirits.

Glenturret at Crieff
Balblair at Tain
Torabhaig Distillery on Skye
Ncn'ean Distillery by Lochaline

Macallan Distillery and Visitor Centre

WHERE IS THE HIGHLAND WHISKY REGION?

The distilleries of the Highland whisky region are spread far and wide and, in terms of geography, this whisky region takes the crown as Scotland's largest. Stretching from Orkney in the north to the Isle of Arran in the south, the region takes in the northern isles and most of the Inner and Outer Hebrides, Argyll, Stirlingshire, Arran, parts of Perthshire and Aberdeenshire too.

You can find out more about this vast region and how to get here and get about by visiting our Map of Scotland .

Glenlivet Distillery

HIGHLAND WHISKY CHARACTERISTICS

The Scotch produced in the untamed wilds of the Highlands is varied and unique from distillery to distillery thanks to the ever-changing landscape of coastline, moor and mountain and variable weather conditions. While some are peated, heavily sherried or have a salty tang from the sea, others are fresh, light and grassy.

It is helpful to categorise Highland single malts into four sub-regions. In the north (including Orkney), you'll find full bodied, heathery whiskies with a spicy character; lighter and fruity whiskies are found to the south, and similar drams with a touch more body are found to the east ( The Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire | PDF 3.9MB ). The whiskies from the western reaches offer full body with a peaty punch and sea air. Those from the islands tend to be sweet and smoky, with maritime influences, reflecting the heathery and salty peat that's used to dry the barley.

Explore more whisky Regions in Scotland

Ardnahoe Distillery

Speyside, Islay, Campbeltown and Lowlands

Although the Highlands as a whisky region is the largest, the other four regions of Speyside, Islay, Campbeltown and the Lowlands really pack a punch! Each region boasts whiskies that have their own unique characteristics, from bold and smoky aromas to fair and gentle tipples, there is a whisky to suit all palettes.

Wherever you venture in Scotland you'll be met by distilleries old and new that offer tours, tastings, experiences and more so you can learn all about the age old process of bringing Scotland's malt whisky to life.

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The Malt Whisky Trail is a uniquely immersive whisky experience — but the journey you’ll take along The Trail is about so much more.

As you embark along the road through malt whisky country, you’ll encounter a huge variety of sites to see and things to do.

You’ll find globally renowned textiles mills, cosy seaside cafes, and world-class outdoor pursuits.

As you follow the mighty River Spey from sea to source you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing short break or longer holiday. Learn more about what you can see and do on The Malt Whisky Trail here.

With so much to do, The Malt Whisky Trail is the perfect spot for getaways long and short. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend break or a few days on the road, inspire yourself with one of our suggested itineraries.

To the north of The Malt Whisky Trail lies the famous Moray Firth, so why not combine a visit to some of our sites with a trip to the coast?

At the south of The Malt Whisky Trail you’ll find forests and mountains, perfect for adventure lovers.

We all know the weather in Scotland can be a little unpredictable, so if you find yourself caught out, we’ve got you covered (literally!).

Consider following one of our Two Day itineraries, and add this on.

With five days, you’ll have ample time to journey The Malt Whisky Trail.

The Malt Whisky Trail puts a real sense of escape within easy reach. Wherever you’re coming from, Moray Speyside is simple to get to by air, rail and road.

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Travel | Travel: How to spend 6 perfect days in the…

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Travel | travel: how to spend 6 perfect days in the scottish lowlands.

When one dreams of vacationing in Scotland, it’s the Highlands and not the Lowlands that comes to mind. Don’t take our word for it; even the national tourism board touts the Scottish Highlands as “the Scotland of your imagination and the perfect backdrop for your next adventure” on its website. And on National Geographic’s list of “Best of the World” destinations, only the Highlands gets love.

OK, so the Scottish Lowlands isn’t home to the monstrously legendary Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park, a historically rich clan culture or the setting of Mel Gibson’s bloody good film, “Braveheart.”

But while that and more causes Scotland’s southern side to bow to its northern neighbor in terms of tourism, the Scottish Lowlands is no plaid-clad red-headed stepchild in a nation that — fun fact — has the world’s highest percentage of redheads with about 13% of the populace. Speaking of numbers, nearly one out of every four overseas visitors to the northernmost country of the United Kingdom arrives from the U.S., according to VisitScotland ( visitscotland.com ).

So, with that in mind and knowing how much we Yankees love an underdog story, let’s ponder highlights of a perfect six days exploring the Lowlands through an American’s eye — taking roads less traveled while taking in rolling hills, gentle valleys, rugged coastline and quaint towns each more gorgeous than the next.

The W Edinburgh offers amazing views of the capital city. (Photo by David Dickstein)

Breezing through Edinburgh Airport, you shuttle to the city’s newest major hotel. The 244 rooms of the W Edinburgh, the first in Scotland for the upscale brand, are spread across three buildings, and yours is in the 12-story tower that sticks out from the traditional architecture around it. Mixed as the opinions are over the building’s “walnut whip” roof, staying at a hotel topped with a giant chocolate swirl comes in handy when finding your way back after a day of sightseeing by foot. Nestled in the heart of the newly trendy St. James Quarter, the W ( marriott.com ) is within walking distance of every must-see in the city center. Refreshed from down time in your gadget-happy suite, you’re ready to see just how perfectly located your hotel is. (Rates for a standard room start at $371 a night.)

Hoofing it to Edinburgh Castle, the city’s most iconic landmark, offers a lesson in 3,000 years of history at the site of ghastly battles dating back to the Iron Age. You could spend an entire day here, but an afternoon date with some bottles of booze have you leaving the castle for a quick visit to the nearby National Museum of Scotland and its countless artifacts.

The Scotch Whisky Experience flaunts a world-record collection. (Photo by David Dickstein)

A time check of 3:30 p.m. has you scurrying to the Scotch Whisky Experience ( scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk ) for a pre-purchased tour that explains how single-malt Scotch whisky is made, but, oddly, not in the setting of a working distillery. It’s a trade-off because what you do get being in a purpose-built facility is the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky, a breathtaking visual for the core audience, and a store with a whopping 450 types of the signature stuff. Nearly as impressive is that the prices are actually fair, but you know when to say when with your purchase of potent potables. Plus, there’s more walking to do and those bottles are heavy.

Window shopping along famous Princes Street leads to a short hike up Calton Hill for stunning sunset views. Being a Harry Potter fan, you check off Victoria Street, J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley, and other sights around town believed to be connected to the global sensation.

Meandering in the direction of the W, you pop into one of many intriguing restaurants for dinner. It’s a quick one as the jet lag you’ve been fighting since seeing the “Welcome to Scotland” sign at baggage claim is finally winning.

A traditional Scottish breakfast at the W Edinburgh includes haggis and black pudding. (Photo by David Dickstein)

Of course, you order the “Scottish Breakfast” at the W’s Sushisamba restaurant, which by night serves up a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavors. Your cardiac-challenging platter comes with haggis, Lorne sausage, grilled back bacon, fried eggs and black pudding, which you know as blood pudding. You also are aware that haggis is banned in the States as the USDA frowns upon ingesting stomach fluids from slaughtered livestock. Despite sheep lungs being a key ingredient in haggis, you give it a nibble and realize that this Scottish staple isn’t half baaaad.

Abbotsford is the former estate of novelist Sir Walter Scott. (Photo by David Dickstein)

After check-out, you walk with your luggage to busy Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. A comfortable, hour-long ride on the Borders Railway terminates at Tweedbank, and you take the public bus to Abbotsford ( scottsabbotsford.com ), former home of 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. The estate is so extraordinary, you add “Ivanhoe” and “Rob Roy” to your reading list.

Relying on mostly taxis and hired drivers for the rest of the trip — the countless roundabouts, alone, make driving on the left side not worth the risk — you transfer to Schloss Roxburghe ( schlosshotel-roxburghe.com ) for two fairy-tale-like nights at this luxury countryside escape in the heart of scenic Scottish Borders. A tasty welcome with champagne and canapes is followed by a stroll around the historic property. On the sprawling resort surrounded by rolling hills and flowing rivers are 130 units (52 of them cottages), a championship golf course and other sporty activities, a Finnish-inspired spa, and nooks aplenty to enjoy libations made with the handmade gin created from botanicals sourced on the estate.

Schloss Roxburghe is a luxury country escape in the Scottish Borders. (Photo by David Dickstein)

Wisely deciding to spend the day here, just as the Duke of Roxburghe often did in a past life of the picture-perfect property once owned by him, you book fishing, archery, croquet and clay shooting with the resort’s country sports manager. A few minutes later you pinch yourself in disbelief you’re staying where someone actually has the title of country sports manager.

A full day of activities and therapeutic R&R has you hungry for a night topped with “Scottish bistronomy” at the new, on-site Charlie’s. From the venison and pigeon to the scallops and ham hocks, the restaurant’s estate-to-plate approach pleases the senses.

Breathtaking are the grounds of historic Glenapp Castle. (Photo by David Dickstein)

A yummy buffet breakfast at Charlie’s coupled with an early checkout and on-time hired driver, found on VisitScotland’s website, make for a great start to what promises to be a long, but great day. Appropriately, the first stop is The Great Tapestry of Scotland ( greattapestryofscotland.com ) in the Borders town of Galashiels. On permanent display here since 2021 is the story of Scotland’s history, heritage and culture as told through 160 linen panels hand-stitched by over 1,000 nimble-fingered volunteers.

Leaving the 155 miles of driving to someone else today allows you to make a pitstop at the Moffat Distillery ( moffatdistillery.com ), where an American-born proprietor and her English husband are making a go making wood-fired whisky and gin. Tours and tastings — their blended-malt scotch is a winner — are conducted daily.

The poached turbot served in Glenapp Castle's dining room is exquisite. (Photo by David Dickstein)

After traveling along what motor enthusiasts deem as the most drivable roads in the U.K., passing adorable villages and where ferries to Northern Ireland run back and forth day and night, you come up to the electronically gated entrance of your five-star home for the next two nights. One mile beyond — and one mile off Scotland’s western coast — is Glenapp Castle ( glenappcastle.com ) in the bonny Ayrshire countryside. Built in 1870, this prime example of Scots baronial, an architectural style of 19th-century Gothic Revival, has 17 luxury units (as low as $419 a night) and a 4,500-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse that sleeps eight and starts at $4,000 a night. The 36 acres of perfectly manicured gardens, lush woodland and stately structures have hosted dignitaries from Churchill to Eisenhower, and since you’re sleeping like a VIP and got a classy bagpiper welcome, you might as well eat like one, too; dining at Glenapp is an experience fit for royalty.

A farm tour features Scotland's iconic Highland coos. (Photo by David Dickstein)

Leaving the castle for a day of sightseeing had better be worth it, and it is at the very start thanks to the adorable namesake animals at Kitchen Coos & Ewes ( www.kitchencoosandewes.com ). Getting up-close and personal with the iconic Highland coos and their sheepish pals is a treat, as are the traditional homemade breakfast and lunch that come with the more in-depth tours of this working farm. Next on the schedule is a much different tour up the coast in Alloway; Robert Burns Birthplace Museum pays tribute to Scotland’s favorite son, whose poetry and songs are beloved worldwide. That includes one sung every New Year’s Eve, at least in days of auld lang syne. Despite the museum’s name, Burns’ actual birthplace is a tiny room in a cottage located at another site a 10-minute walk away.

Dinner is in nearby Troon, specifically at The Rabbit restaurant inside the new, 89-room Marine Troon ( marineandlawn.com/marinetroon ), a destination hotel that prides itself as “representing the nexus between land and sea, sport and soil, and man and nature.” Burns might have done better, but one thing that can’t be improved is the Old Course of the adjacent Royal Troon Golf Club. Perhaps one day you’ll return to play 18 here, but for now you behold what you can of links that will host the 152nd Open Championship in July, the 10th time the hallowed course will have this honor.

You’ve had fun storming the castle for two exquisite days, and now it’s time to return to reality — but not through Edinburgh this time. On the way to Glasgow Airport, a more hectic, but closer option from the west, the art lover in you prompts a visit to The Burrell Collection ( burrellcollection.com ). This Glascow gem houses more than 9,000 pieces spanning 6,000 years of history, and if it weren’t for a plane to catch, you could see yourself spending more than the two hours already given.

But the Burrell Collection isn’t the only place you didn’t get your fill over these six amazing days in the Scottish Lowlands. With luck and a replenished travel budget, you hope to return, and soon. Or as the old Scottish saying goes, “haste ye back!”

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Unlock the Best of Scotland: Your 72-Hour Glorious Guide

I f there’s one thing to know about Scotland, it’s that 72 hours isn’t nearly enough time to take in this epic country and its variety of experiences. Nevertheless, we found ourselves with approximately three days to do exactly that and we definitely made the most of it. As one might expect, we weren’t able to visit certain cities or entire regions so we’ll throw them on our bucket list for next time (here’s looking at you, Islay). Until then, may our little travel guide offer you a glorious glimpse into this unique and incredible nation.

Where we visited in scotland.

Our brief journey through Scotland spanned multiple cities and towns and made up part of a broader UK-based experience. We ended up cramming an impressive amount of activity into a 72-hour window but easily could have spent twice as much time in any given area, which isn’t to mention all the other areas we would have liked to visit. Here’s a quick rundown:

Flew into the city of Aberdeen and drove to Dufftown.
Spent the night in Dufftown and drove back to Aberdeen the next day.
Spent the night in Aberdeen and took the train to the city of Edinburgh the next day.
Spent the night in Edinburgh and took the train to London the next day.

Located in the historic Speyside region, Dufftown—aka ‘The Malt Whisky Capital of the World’—reportedly produces more whisky than any other burgh in Scotland. Visitors come from near and far to visit a bounty of distilleries, including Mortlach, Glenfiddich , Balvenie , and others. Fun fact: a number of these distilleries take their names directly from geographical areas and landmarks. For instance, Glenfiddich was founded in the glen (i.e. valley) of the River Fiddich.

The drive into Dufftown from Aberdeen is almost exactly what someone would expect if they’ve ever heard anything about Scotland. Picture green hills filled with grazing sheep and cattle, rolled haystacks dispersed across dry farmland, and the occasional stone cottage and you get the idea. Should you be coming in from a city, the landscape provides a welcomed respite from any urban hustle and bustle.

Eat – Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge

If you’re hoping to grab a delicious meal in Dufftown, this semi-private whisky lounge and restaurant would be the place to do it. Within a restored building, chef and co-owner Patrick draws from French and Scottish influences to whip up a menu of culinary delights. An adjoining whisky lounge and its impressive selection round out the one-of-a-kind experience.

Drink – Quaich Whisky Bar at The Craigellachie Hotel

Just a few minutes outside of Dufftown is the small village of Craigellachie, home to both the namesake distillery as well as Speyside legend The Macallan. It’s also where one will find ‘Scotland’s oldest whisky hotel,’ wherein lies the historic Quaich Whisky Bar. To enter this cushy domain is to spoil yourself silly with a selection of over 1,000 single malts from around the world.

Stay – The Highlander Inn

This modest inn across the street from The Craigellachie Hotel is more affordable and understated by comparison. Yet what it lacks in sophistication it makes up for in terms of authentic experience. Book a room upstairs and head down to the bar to discover another smorgasbord of whisky, including mega-rare expressions that you probably won’t find anywhere else. And when we say anywhere else, we mean anywhere else .

Do – Take a Tour of the Glenfiddich/Balvenie Distilleries

In an era where virtually every major distillery is owned by a massive conglomerate, Glenfiddich and The Balvenie make for brilliant exceptions. Founded by William Grant & Sons over a century ago, both distilleries are still family-owned and operated to this day. They also happen to sit right next to each other, allowing one to take two separate tours without leaving the general area.

At Glenfiddich, past and future collide by way of an operation that’s firmly committed to tradition while also continuing to expand. Over at The Balvenie, meanwhile, painstaking craftsmanship goes to superlative extremes (for example, they’re among the few whisky-makers that still perform their own floor maltings). Separately or together, the distilleries take up enough acreage to render the impression of a full-blown campus. No trip to Dufftown is complete without a stop here.

After an unforgettable experience in Dufftown and its surrounding environs, we cruised back to Aberdeen. Unfortunately, we arrived late in the day, spent the night on the outskirts of the city, and then disembarked the next morning. But we’ll be damned if we can’t throw out a few solid suggestions for any future travellers.

Stay – Maryculter House

Perched on a river bank and across from a golf course, Maryculter House has the unique power to make time stand still. This is the kind of hotel where a brass key gets you into your spacious room and where you’re always close to an epic view. Grab a delicious meal, sip on whisky, take in the surroundings, chat with strangers in the courtyard, and prepare to remember your stay for a long time to come.

Do – Take the Train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

The train ride from Aberdeen to Edinburgh clocks in at about two hours and twenty minutes and frequently runs adjacent to the Scottish coastline, thereby offering no shortage of breathtaking views. It’s a seamless and comfortable ride that brings the country further into focus by way of land, sea, and quaint village alike.

And now for the main attraction! Voted by Time Out as the “best city in the world” in 2022, Edinburgh blows your mind from the moment you arrive. In any given direction is visually sumptuous and historic architecture, which doesn’t so much blend with the modern businesses as much as it does swallow them whole. Yes, you’ll find plenty of contemporary shops, bars, restaurants, municipalities, and businesses, and yet the centuries-old vibes persist via the clock towers, churches, castles, and cobblestones.

Speaking of castles, they’re so high in number that to visit them all would take up an entire day (if not more). Given that we were on a time crunch, we regrettably didn’t visit a single one and, therefore, didn’t include any in our guide. But based on reputation alone, landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are surely worth checking out should you have the time.

So what did we do during our brief stay? Drank plenty of whisky, naturally. We also enjoyed an incredible dinner and toured a local distillery, amongst other things. Here are some suggestions.

Eat – Wedgwood the Restaurant

You wouldn’t expect Scotland to deliver one of our best dinner experiences in recent memory, but that’s exactly what we encountered at this fine dining establishment. The team of Paul and Lisa Wedgwood combines local ingredients with global influences to redefine Scottish cuisine for the modern era, bringing in an expertly curated wine selection and all-hands-on-deck service. We opted for a seasonal tasting menu and left no bite behind, as to do so would be to miss out on some truly spectacular flavours. We can’t recommend this restaurant highly enough.

Drink – The Waverley Bar

Edinburgh is absolutely littered with high-quality whisky bars so it’s hard to isolate one over the others. But if you’re looking for a nice selection at good prices in a no-frills setting, The Waverley Bar in Old Town easily fits the bill. It’s located just a short walk uphill from the Royal Mile, the area’s main thoroughfare.

Do – Take a Tour of Holyrood Distillery

If we told you there was just a single whisky distillery operating in all of Edinburgh, we wouldn’t blame you for Googling it to be sure. That distillery goes by the name of Holyrood and it’s so new that its most- anticipated output is still resting in the barrel. That debut single malt is right around the corner and its arrival is called…well…Arrival. In the meantime, they’ve been churning out a fantastic selection of gin, vodka, and new-make spirit (i.e. young whisky).

Do – The Scotch Whisky Experience

If you love whisky not just for the taste but for everything from the history to the bottle designs and more, then The Scotch Whisky Experience belongs on your list of things to do. It goes down near Edinburgh Castle and offers whisky-themed tours and tastings as well as an acclaimed restaurant. Oh, and did we mention it’s also home to one of the world’s largest bottle collections?

Stay – Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian

By Waldorf standards, this one on Princes St. is relatively affordable but still predictably luxurious. It’s also right next door to the Johnnie Walker Experience, which we visited —and absolutely loved—on a previous trip. When in Rome, drink whisky.

Unlock the Best of Scotland: Your 72-Hour Glorious Guide

Stravaigin Scotland Offers Luxury Small Group and Speyside Whisky Tours

Holidays are periods when individuals and their families or couples can travel, sharing special moments and building unforgettable memories together. Stravaigin Scotland is a reputable luxury tour service that provides customised tour packages in Scotland. The luxury tour service offers tour packages that align with the needs of their clients. They have been in operation since 2009. Thus, their tour packages include Glencoe, Oban, & Kilchurn Castle, St Andrews & Fife Coast, Glasgow City, The Scottish Borders & Abbeys, and 3 Day – The Isle of Skye.

In response to a query about their services, the spokesperson of Stravaigin commented,

"We have wide-ranging tour packages, including 6 or 8 Day North Coast 500 & Orkney tour, 7 Day Outlander Private Guided tour, 3 Day – Speyside Whisky Trail, Custom Itinerary Shore Excursion, and New 3 Day Outlander tour. Scot Ian Byers established our travel and tour platform. There are numerous places to visit here in Scotland, and our professionals are always available to guide and assist you with your tour needs. Our tour guides will work with you from your arrival till your departure. You can count on us to provide you with a memorable tour experience."

Stravaigin Scotland has several tour packages. The tour service company provides packages that are designed to fit the requirements and preferences of clients. They pay proper attention to their services, and they always want to ensure clients get the best and most satisfactory tour packages from their platform. The birthplace of Glasgow, the Glasgow Cathedral, is one of the places their tour guides take clients to, as they also provide them with little information about the place. Those interested in their luxury small group tours Scotland can visit their website.

The spokesperson added, "We can take you to various places with amazing views. We prioritise the needs of our clients and ensure they enjoy hassle-free tours. The Glasgow Cathedral is a well-recognised place in Scotland's history, and it was dedicated by St Mungo in 1136. Glasgow Green is one of the city's 26 public parks, where people can see their own 'stone circle' before going into the magic of The Peoples Palace. We are here to offer top-notch tour services."

Stravaigin Scotland provides its clients with qualified professionals as their tour guides. The tour service company's 6 or 7-day Speyside & Islay Scotch combination tour is offered at affordable prices. This tour and some special Stravaigin Scotland touches are reserved for this tour only. This seven-day tour is packed with exceptional Whisky experiences available anywhere in Scotland. For more information, people can visit their website.

About Stravaigin Scotland:

Stravaigin Scotland is a leading tour service company in Scotland. The tour service company offers different tour packages to clients. They are committed to providing quality services. This has driven them to improve their services constantly. People who are interested in their Speyside whisky tours can contact them for more information.

Contact Information:

Stravaigin Scotland

Website: https://stravaigin-scotland.com/

IMAGES

Scotland Whisky Tour from Edinburgh: Review, Itinerary & Tips
The Scotch Whisky Experience, Edinburgh
Edinburgh Whisky Tour in Edinburgh
7 of the best Scottish whisky distillery tours
10 of the most beautiful Scottish whisky distilleries
Whisky Tour in Scotland: Distilleries, Landscapes and Scottish Humour

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Scotch Whisky Experience Guided Tour in Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotch Whisky Trail
🔥 Islay Whisky Trail
Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour Guide Doesn't Give A F**k
Scotland's Smallest Whisky Distillery Tour
Scotch Whisky: Explained

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Plan your tour of the Highland whisky distilleries with tours, tastings and a guide to this vast whisky region. ... but account for just 1 of 5 whisky regions in Scotland. To call Highland whiskies diverse is an understatement: it boasts probably the widest array of styles, from rich and textured to fragrantly floral - these are whiskies that ...
Malt Whisky Trail
The Malt Whisky Trail is a uniquely immersive whisky experience — but the journey you'll take along The Trail is about so much more. As you embark along the road through malt whisky country, you'll encounter a huge variety of sites to see and things to do. You'll find globally renowned textiles mills, cosy seaside cafes, and world-class ...
Travel: How to spend 6 perfect days in the Scottish Lowlands
The Scotch Whisky Experience flaunts a world-record collection. (Photo by David Dickstein) A time check of 3:30 p.m. has you scurrying to the Scotch Whisky Experience (scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk) for a pre-purchased tour that explains how single-malt Scotch whisky is made, but, oddly, not in the setting of a working distillery.It's a trade-off because what you do get being in a purpose ...
Unlock the Best of Scotland: Your 72-Hour Glorious Guide
Dufftown. Located in the historic Speyside region, Dufftown—aka 'The Malt Whisky Capital of the World'—reportedly produces more whisky than any other burgh in Scotland.
Stravaigin Scotland Offers Luxury Small Group and Speyside Whisky Tours
The tour service company's 6 or 7-day Speyside & Islay Scotch combination tour is offered at affordable prices. This tour and some special Stravaigin Scotland touches are reserved for this tour only. This seven-day tour is packed with exceptional Whisky experiences available anywhere in Scotland. For more information, people can visit their ...