whisky tasting tour scotland

Mclean Scotland Whisky Tours

Guided whisky tours in scotland.

With over thirty years-experience and our extensive contacts in the whisky industry, we ensure you enjoy the best of Scottish hospitality, from the moment you arrive until your final dram. We believe the wonders of Scotland should be experienced by all, which is why we carefully design tours to meet all budgets.

Please do not compare us to the big tour companies. We have the competitively priced customised tours at good prices that create lasting impressions.

Scottish Whisky Tour Ideas

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Scottish Distilleries

Mclean Scotland

Scottish whisky tours tailored to your taste, experience the very best of scottish whisky.

We take you to distilleries, arranging tours from beginners and connoisseurs. All transport and accommodation is prearranged, from lovely local guest houses, to hotels – booked by us, with care. There are nearly 150 active whisky distilleries in Scotland and growing, split into five regions:

• Campbeltown

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Loch Lomond Whiskies

Barley – What You Need to Know to Make a Good Dram.

Peated whisky, love it or hate it, it’s here to stay.

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 in Scotland - Whiskey Trail Tours | Go Scotland Tours

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Rosslyn Chapel, Scottish Borders and Glenkinchie Tour

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

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.

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.

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...

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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‘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 barley 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 highwaymen 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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Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky - 1 day tour

Sublime lochs, smooth whiskies, and serene glens... the Highlands of Scotland are calling.

Prices from £64.00

DEPARTING FROM: Edinburgh

Discover Malt Whisky - 1 day tour

Whisky means a lot to us here in Scotland, so it's time for a dram of our "Water of Life".

Prices from £51.00

Islay & the Whisky Coast - 4 day tour

Savour the distilled essence of Scotland's fine landscapes and even finer whisky.

Prices from £389.00

A Whisky Journey: Drams & Distilleries - 1 day tour

The perfect day for whisky lover's as you explore the best Speyside distilleries.

Prices from £41.00

DEPARTING FROM: Inverness

Cairngorms National Park & Whisky - 1 day tour

Time to mix mountain magic with mouthwatering whisky as you journey through the Cairngorms and Speyside.

Speyside Whisky Trail - 3 day tour

You can't visit Scotland without experiencing a dram of Speyside's finest malt whisky.

Prices from £195.00

Whisky & Loch Lomond - 1 day tour

Two unique whisky distilleries and the beauty of Loch Lomond? What more could you want.

Prices from £45.00

DEPARTING FROM: Glasgow

Scottish Castles Experience - 4 day tour

Scotland isn't Scotland without castles. And we explore some of the best from Dunnottar to Blair Castle.

Prices from £319.00

Speyside Whisky Trail - 1 day tour

Sample the best flavours in Scotland's premier whisky region, Speyside.

Prices from £53.00

DEPARTING FROM: Aberdeen

Islay, Iona, Mull & Skye - 8 day tour

Roam Scotland's majestic Skye and explore the secrets of our wild and stunning islands.

Prices from £908.00

Scottish Island Highlights - 12 day tour

Explore the great North Western European wilderness on this journey around Scotland's greatest islands.

12 DAY TOUR

Prices from £1397.00

Prices from £219.00

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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 package .

Or base yourself in the Scottish capital on a multi-day tour with activities such as guided city tours and day trips into the countryside included.

Read on to get inspired for your Scottish getaway.

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Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible tour options
• Relax knowing you can reach us 24/7 on our helpline
• Professional service from Edinburgh-based experts

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

Scottish highlands, loch ness & isle of skye.

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.

Edinburgh Complete - Loch Ness, Highlands & Glasgow - Winter

Best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands - winter, edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow, best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands, 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.

Well-organised tour

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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! 

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.

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.

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.

The starting point of most Scottish adventures is Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, where the...

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Trossachs National Park

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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.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Scotland travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

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

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Read About Scotland

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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The Torridon

Whisky tours in scotland, grab yourself a wee dram for our guide to the ultimate scottish whisky tours.

Whisky making is serious business in Scotland; there are more than 120 active distilleries, spread across five whisky regions. The 'water of life', as it's known, is Scotland's largest export and, it's safe to say, we've been known to enjoy a dram or two ourselves.

Crafting the golden elixir is a fascinating, but lengthy process. For a whisky to officially be called 'Scotch', it must have been aged in Scotland for at least three years and made in a manner strictly specified by the 'Scotch Whisky Regulations'. There's no half measures here!

Many distilleries offer tours and tastings so you can sample their whisky's flavours, hear from their passionate team and see where the whisky's themselves are born.

And of course, in addition to being perfectly-placed to enjoy a distillery tour, many of our Luxury Scotland member properties have spectacular and well-stocked whisky bars where you can enjoy this wonderful spirit during your stay.

So, pour a wee dram and join us on a virtual tour of the five whisky regions and some of the best distilleries to visit in Scotland.

Highland Whisky Tours

We start with the largest and most northerly region, the Highlands, which boasts a wide range of whisky distilleries including some of the famous names you'll no doubt already be familiar with. Rich in diversity, flavour and style, whiskies from this region certainly reward those who venture north.

Regional highlights

The Deanston Distillery , located close to Luxury Scotland Member, Cromlix , was originally a cotton mill, which opened its doors in 1785. It was at the forefront of new beginnings as Scotland moved from agriculture to industrialisation. When the cotton industry went into decline, the mill was converted into a distillery and the first bottle of Deanston Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky was produced in 1974. The process begins with water from the River Teith, which flows over granite, making it very soft and perfect for making whisky. In 2012 the Deanston Distillery proudly opened its doors to its brand new visitor centre, offering tours, tastings, and access to exclusive limited editions.

Tullibardine Distillery stands proudly in the village of Blackford, also home to Luxury Scotland Member, Highland Spring . The iconic hotel,  Gleneagles , is located just 3 miles away. In 1947 William Delmé-Evans began converting what had previously been a brewery into The Tullibardine Distillery. Upon testing the water from the nearby springs, Delmé-Evans knew he had found the perfect location for distilling whisky. In 1979 Highland Spring began bottling the same water.

Blair Athol Distillery is one of the oldest whisky distilleries in Scotland. It stands at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, in the picturesque town of Pitlochry, also home to Luxury Scotland Member Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa . Blair Athol’s ancient source of water – the Allt Dour – flows through the grounds from the slopes of Ben Vrackie, contributing to the whisky’s quality and smooth finish.

Glen Garioch Distillery (Garioch pronounced Geery), is Scotland’s most easterly distillery and is situated in the historic old town of Oldmeldrum, near Aberdeen. It was established in 1797. Only ever produced in small, precious batches, Glen Garioch is a rare find indeed, but warmly appreciated by those who like a hearty Highland malt. The perfect base for a visit, The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa is just a 40 minute drive away.

On the West coast, you'll find The Torridon in its spectacular setting at the head of a spectacular sea loch. It's also home to a whisky Bar with a superb array of 365 whiskies, and their whisky tasting experiences are, quite rightly, a favourite of their guests. 

A little further West, on the Isle of Skye,  Talisker , is set on the shores of Loch Harport, with dramatic views of the Cuillins. This alluring, full-bodied single malt whisky is so easy to enjoy, and like Skye itself, so hard to leave. Kinloch Lodge , on the shore of Loch-Na-Dal, is just under an hour away and offers both whisky tasting as well as whisky and food pairing experiences.

Moving more central, 15 miles outside of Inverness, you'll find  Glen Ord Distillery , Scotland’s oldest distillery and the last remaining one on the Black Isle. Barley from the Black Isle meets water from the White Burn to make a Scotch of vibrant colour – The Singleton of Glen Ord. A beautifully renovated, Georgian mansion house, Rocpool Reserve , is ideally located nearby.

About 40 miles North of Inverness, you'll find Glenmorangie , the acclaimed distillery famed for smooth, rich whiskies with intriguing, complex flavours. They offer a range of tasting experiences, ideal for whisky connoisseurs. Guests of Glenmorangie House also receive a complimentary tour of the Glenmorangie Distillery visitor centre. Their Brand Home Manager, Stuart Smith, discusses the famous brand in more detail in our recent interview here.  

Lowland Whisky Tours

The Lowland region includes Edinburgh and the Lothians as well as Glasgow and the Clyde Valley, and therefore some of the more easily accessible distilleries in Scotland. Known for being light-bodied with sweeter and almost floral tones, malts from this region are considered an ideal introduction for those new to whisky drinking.

At the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you can visit The Scotch Whisky Experience , a five star visitor attraction where you can take a tour and indulge in a tasting or blending session. For a more in depth experience you can sign up to their one day Scotch Whisky Training School.

In 2021 whisky giant, Diageo, will be opening The Johnnie Walker Experience in Edinburgh’s West End. The detailed plans for inside this eight-storey building are being kept a closely guarded secret, but will include a multi-sensory, immersive visitor experience, guiding people throughout the 200 year history and the flavours of Scotland. You can pre-register to visit  here .

The Dunstane Houses , is a family-run, five-star boutique hotel in the west end, where you can enjoy the spirit of Orkney in Edinburgh. The owners, Shirley & Derek Mowat, grew up on Orkney and they have one of the most extensive rare-whisky selections in the city, with more than 70 varieties in their vintage wall cabinet, including a rare Highland Park. They can also arrange some great whisky tasting experiences.

Edinburgh's no. 1 hotel on TripAdvisor, Fingal , is a 5-star luxury floating hotel, berthed on the vibrant waterfront. You may well choose to tour the distilleries from the comfort of the spectacular on-board bar, The Lighthouse, that houses a single cask collection with some of the finest whiskies from around the country.

Head a little further north and you'll find  Eden Mill , in St Andrews. Based on the site of a historic distillery, on the banks of the River Eden, Eden Mill was the first to make spirits in the region for 150 years and in 2018 they released the first Single Malt Whisky to be distilled in St Andrews in over 150 years. The iconic golf resort, the Old Course Hotel , is just a short 10 minute drive away.

Kingsbarns distillery , about 15 minutes’ drive from St Andrews, is a family owned and operated distillery located in a restored historic farm steading, offering tours and tastings.

Finally, you have Kinross House , an exclusive use venue that has a whisky room where you can sample a wide range of premium whiskies including their own Kinross House whisky, produced by Macallan in Speyside. A whisky expert can also be arranged to take guests through a fascinating whisky tasting experience.

On Scotland's West coast, you'll find another Luxury Scotland Member, well-placed for a whisky tour in both the Campbeltown, Islay and Lowland regions. Crossbasket Castle's French-inspired Scottish cuisine and bar (with 30 whisky blends and malts) is just 20 minutes from Glasgow.

Campbeltown Whisky Tours

Scotland's smallest whisky region has just three distilleries, but still warrants a visit for those who value a malt whisky that some describe as 'fiercely enduring and distinctive'. 

Glen Scotia is one of Scotland's smallest distilleries, while Springbank Whisky Distillers is the oldest independently and family owned distillery in Scotland.

The Crinan Hotel , on Argyll's rugged coastline, is very well placed to visit both Glen Scotia and Springbank Whisky Distillers at just a 1 hour and 20 minutes drive.

Speyside Whisky Tours

World-renowned, the Speyside whisky region in the North East of Scotland is home to over half of all distilleries in Scotland as well as the UK's only working cooperage ( Speyside Cooperidge ) where they craft American Oak casks that help mature whiskies in Scotland and around the world. Whiskies from Speyside tend to have smooth and refined flavours, often lighter and sweeter than other Scotch single malts.

Glenlivet and Aberlour distilleries offer wonderfully in-depth tasting sessions, while Macallan offers a very modern tour of their incredible distillery and visitor centre.

Glenfiddich's Spirit of Innovation Tour takes visitors on a journey through every step in the whisky making process including their innovative and experimental releases.

Islay Whisky Tours

Islay, the island known affectionately as 'the whisky island', lies just off the Argyll coast in the West of Scotland. Despite its relatively small size, it's home to nine distilleries producing whisky with a characteristic peaty, smoky flavour.

Today, Islay’s distilleries are spread across the island; Bowmore ,  Bruichladdich and Kilchoman can be found right in the heart of the island and there are three more located next to each other, collectively known as the Kildalton Distilleries . The most recently opened  Ardnahoe Distillery  launched in April 2019 and Bowmore is said to be one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, dating back to 1779.

Luxury Scotland Member, The Machrie , have organised a special whisky experience with Lagavulin Distillery . Guests can enjoy a trip to Lagavulin Distillery where they can enjoy a Core Range Tasting. Their 3-course lunch is paired with some of Islay’s famous malts to provide a variance of flavours and aromas to enhance the menu.

Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, regularly takes guests over to Islay or the Mull of Kintyre by boat to experience the whisky distilleries. Closer to Glenapp, in nearby Kirkoswald, the whisky bottlers, A.D. Rattray, have established a whisky experience where visitors can test the blends that they bottle.

Chauffer-Driven Whisky Tours with Little

Sightseeing by chauffeur-driven car is undoubtedly the best way to see Scotland. Luxury sightseeing tours are a speciality of Little’s , a Luxury Scotland Partner. From bespoke tour design services to the remarkable knowledge of their touring chauffeurs, the Little’s team is dedicated to creating a memorable experience for you or your clients. And with your own driver, you can enjoy your whisky tasting to the full.

Slainte Mhath!

All that remains from us is to wish you Slainte Mhath (pronounced Slanj-a-va), the traditional toast to say ‘Good Health’ in Gaelic, during your whisky tour of Scotland.

First published 22 September 2020. Information correct at time of going to press.

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WHISKY TOURS SCOTLAND

Experience the true taste of scotland on our small-group tours.

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• Hour Glass 4 days
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Four-Day Islay Whisky Tour

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

• 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.

Five-Day Islay & Campbeltown Whisky Tour

Our new Islay & Campbeltown Whisky Tour is for those who want to experience 2 incredible whisky regions in Scotland. We visit many distilleries on Islay, at least 2 distilleries in Campbeltown and have an overnight stay in a castle!

Custom Tour

We can organize every detail, including accommodation, attractions and events and will pair you with the perfect guide to match your interests to ensure you get the most out of your time in Scotland.

4-Day Islay & Campbeltown Whisky Tour

Glenkinchie whisky experience.

Travel from central Edinburgh and set off on an unforgettable trip to Glenkinchie Distillery. Choose from three exceptional distillery experiences, each offering a unique glimpse into the craft of whisky making. Sit back and take in the beautiful scenery while we handle all the transport, ensuring you enjoy a seamless and relaxing day out.

Themed Edinburgh Tours

Thunder dices.

Themed immersive guided tours and experiences in Edinburgh!

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Glasgow’s West End Whisky Tour

Once upon a whisky.

Discover local secrets on the West End of Glasgow on this tasting tour away from the city centre. Includes 4 premium single malt Scotch whiskies, and a dedicated and knowledgable guide.

Explore and taste Scotland with Scottish Routes! Discover the isle of Islay, the Scottish Highlands and the heart of Malt Whisky Country, Speyside, on our whisky tours. Book your tour today!

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A Taste of Scotland

A Scottish blend of whisky and cuisine. Fresh from your Platinum whisky tour, you’ll be seated in our award-winning Amber Restaurant to enjoy our renowned Taste of Scotland menu.

Taste of Scotland

This tour is strictly for those aged 18+ years old and is available in English only. Please bring ID.

Buy Taste of Scotland GIFT tickets here.

This tour includes:

The Platinum Tour PLUS

• Our three-course Scottish food experience menu in Amber Restaurant
• A ‘trio’ starter and a ‘trio’ main course, followed by dessert
• A dram of Scotch whisky matched with dessert
• Coffee or tea

The Platinum Tour includes;

• New! – Origins, The Art of Whisky Making, Maturation – an immersive whisky journey!
• Fully guided tour & tasting experience
• Sensory journey through Scotland
• Introduction to the art of blending
• Extended viewing of our world-famous Scotch whisky collection
• Membership of our Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society for 1 year
• A chocolate pairing
• Sample of a deluxe blend or blended malt in addition to 4 regional malt whiskies
• Gift bag which includes crystal whisky tasting glass and distillery map

Fantastic platinum tour with a fantastic selection of Whisky to taste too. We would also recommend the Taste of Scotland meal in Amber afterwards!

Thanks to all involved in our visit to Taste of Scotland Platinum Tour followed by traditional Scottish cuisine. All staff involved, from start to finish, were really pleasant and most informative, a real credit to The Scotch Whisky Experience.

We had the taste of Scotland tasting menu. 2 vegetarian and 1 meat eater. It was perfect. We could not fault it. Excellent flavours and the best meal I have had for a long time. The dessert was perfect - sticky toffee pudding with whisky.

We loved the haggis, vegetarian haggis, honey glazed carrots, tomato basil soup, and sticky toffee pudding for food! We also loved our whisky flight!

I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional quality and taste of the food here—it exceeded all my expectations. Plus, the location is incredibly convenient, just a stone's throw away from Edinburgh Castle. I indulged in some delicious Haggis and sampled a variety of whiskies.

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Our Taste of Scotland menu is also available to book on it's own - the perfect end to any of our tours.

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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.

Popular Braw whisky tours

Talisker Whisky

Visit the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport in the village of Carbost: Talisker.

Glenmorangie Distillery

By the tranquil shores of the Dornoch Firth, amidst the golden barley fields, lies the famous Glenmorangie Distillery…

Blair Athol Distillery

Blair Athol Distillery stands at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands in the picturesque town of Pitlochry, Perthshire…

Glenlivet Distillery

Visit one of Scotland’s favorite distilleries & enjoy a unique tasting tour with your own private guide…

Macallan Distillery

Visit the recently revamped distillery & visitor center with your private guides in the heart of the beautiful Macallan Estate…

Laphroaig Distillery

Renowned for the rich, unmistakable taste of its whisky, Laphroaig was first established in 1825 & still employs the traditional methods…

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!

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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. 

Speyside Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 50

Oldest Distillery: Strathisla (1786) 

Most popular distillery: Glenfiddich

Flavor profile: fruity, sweet, spicy & vanilla

Home to some of Scotland’s best-loved malt whiskies, Speyside is Scotch perfection! This beautiful region is filled with incredible valleys, glens, and – most importantly – over 50 distilleries producing some remarkable fine malts: truly whisky heaven and a perfect region for your private Scotch adventure!

Campbeltown Whisky

Number of distilleries: 3

Oldest Distillery: Springbank (1828) 

Most popular distillery: Springbank

Flavor profile: fruity, peaty, sweet & smoky

Steeped in flavor and history, Campbeltown is Scotland’s smallest whisky region but offers up some of the finest malts known to man. With its maritime roots, Campbeltown’s whisky is distinctive and world-renowned: truly a must-visit for a whisky connoisseur while opening the eyes of those less experienced explorers.

Lowlands Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 18

Oldest Distillery: Auchentoshan (1800) 

Most popular distillery: Glenkinchie

Flavor profile: light, unpeated, citrusy, sweet, floral

The Lowland whisky region in Scotland is famous for its light-bodied single malts that are unpeated and lighter, with a gentle, elegant palate. 

This is an ideal region for both whisky connoisseurs and those new to single malt whisky, as it’s these triple distilled malts are in great supply and are very easy to drink!

Isle of Islay Whisky Region

Number of distilleries: 9

Oldest Distillery: Bowmore(1779) 

Most popular distillery: Ardbeg

Flavor profile: powerful, peaty, smoky, sweet & salty

Situated on the west coast of Scotland, Islay is often known as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’ and is an island built on peat and improved with whisky. Renowned for its beautiful scenery and beaches as well as its fine single malt Scotch, the Isle of Islay is a must-do for any true Whisky fan. Most famous for the big smokes of Laphroaig, Lagavulin & Ardbeg.

Visit the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport in the village of Carbost, Talisker. You will see the 5 copper pot stills and the traditional worm tubs that make the Talisker so unique, then look at the casks in the warehouse where Angel’s Share is lost to evaporation during maturation.

By the tranquil shores of the Dornoch Firth, amidst the golden barley fields that border the Royal Burgh of Tain, lies the Glenmorangie Distillery where accompanied by their expert guides, you will journey through all stages of our award-winning whisky creation, from mashing and fermenting to distilling and maturation.

Blair Athol Distillery stands at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands in the picturesque town of Pitlochry, Perthshire. Set in open moorland south of the town, in the foothills of the Grampian mountains, Blair Athol’s ancient source of water – the Allt Dour – flows through the grounds from the slopes of Ben Vrackie, contributing to the whisky’s, mellow quality and smooth finish.

The Glenlivet Distillery has the distinction of being the first licensed distillery in the Glenlivet area. At one time there were around 200 illegal stills around this area and the name “Glenlivet” was used by many competing distilleries. Glenlivet’s owner, John Smith’s son of the founder, realized the importance of branding so in 1884 he took legal action to reserve use of the title “The Glenlivet”.

In the heart of the beautiful Macallan Estate sits Macallan Distillery. The Edrington Group, which owns the Macallan distillery, has taken the bold move to revamp the distillery and visitor center so it is now the most modern and high technology looking distillery in Scotland.

Where there were once large “sheds” for the mash tuns and still rooms, there are now cleverly landscaped semi-subterranean buildings that blend the distillery into the green fields of the landscape. The building is a stunning piece of modern architecture that combines functionality with organic shapes and materials. They have deliberately kept some pictures of the old distillery buildings in the gallery so you can see just how radically different the new distillery buildings are.

 Laphroaig (La-froyg) Distillery is renowned for the rich, unmistakable taste of its whisky and is the favorite of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, and even bears his Royal Warrant.

Established in 1825 by brothers Donald and Alexander Johnston, Laphroaig still employs the traditional methods and time-honored skills that have been used for centuries to produce the most distinctive single malt in the world.

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Whisky Tours from Edinburgh

Discover the essence of Scotland with our whisky tours. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the beautiful Scottish scenery while visiting renowned distilleries across Islay and Campbeltown. Sample the distinctive peaty flavours of Islay’s famous single malts and savour the robust, maritime-influenced drams of Campbeltown. Each tour includes all tastings, distillery experiences, travel, ferry crossings, and accommodation, providing a seamless and memorable journey.

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From Edinburgh: Glenkinchie Distillery & Whisky Experience

Let us do the driving and enjoy a wonderful afternoon at Glenkinchie Distillery. Choose from 1 of 3 fantastic whisky experiences and enjoy your time at Glenkinchie whilst we take care of logistics.

• Hour Glass 4 days

From Edinburgh: 4-Day Islay Whisky Tour

Scottish routes.

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

• Hour Glass 5 days

From Edinburgh: 5-Day Ultimate 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.

Explore and taste whisky in Scotland with Scottish Routes! Discover the Isle of Islay, the Scottish Highlands and the heart of Malt Whisky Country, Speyside, on our whisky tours of Scotland. Book your tour today!

Would a custom whisky tour be better for your group of friends or whisky club we can put something together that fits your whisky dreams perfectly. reach out to frazer and he will happily create your perfect whisky itinerary, whisky tour request, let’s talk about whisky.

We love whisky, we love it a lot. So, my aim is to spread the love and try to walk amateur whisky drinkers through everything they need to know before falling for our beloved drink. Whisky is the world’s leading alcoholic drink; it outsells every other noble spirit in the world. Scotland is the whisky…

5 Best Whisky Bars in Edinburgh

You can’t visit Scotland without trying some whisky while you’re here. Even if you’re not a whisky person, at least try a whisky cocktail to get in the Scottish spirit. According to the Scottish Whisky Association, as of 2022, there were 141 whisky distilleries operating in Scotland. So, there’s no shortage of choice! The problem…

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Campbeltown Whisky

Campbeltown, Scotland may not be as well-known as other whisky regions like Islay or Speyside, but it is home to some of the most historic and unique distilleries in the country. With a rich history and a strong sense of community, Campbeltown offers a one-of-a-kind whisky experience that is not to be missed. In this…

Bespoke Whisky Tours in Scotland

Discover the gems off the beaten track, welcome to scotch mist.

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are famous for their excellent whisky selections which are known worldwide. The unique and flavourful whisky alongside the beautiful landscape of Scotland create a paradise for anyone who wants to experience real whisky in its home country. At Scotch Mist we believe in the art and craft that goes into making whisky in Scotland’s distilleries. We are offering you the opportunity to visit and experience this with us by offering you bespoke luxury whisky tours. Whisky lovers who want to enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside with a dram or two on the way will love our tours. Where  the whisky experience is concerned, we have done the research for you and identified the perfect distilleries for your tour. Our tours range from one day whisky tastings to various overnight tours where you will be whisky tasting with the help of trained staff members who have honed each aspect of whisky tasting and know where to take you to experience the best whisky that Scotland has to offer.

Whisky tasting tours

Our team has extensive knowledge about each whisky tasting spot and that enables us to provide the experience you have been looking for all your life. Our guides will take you to the most picturesque whisky distilleries, and the folklores and scenery will take your breath away.

In addition to whisky tasting tours, we find the best luxury hotels for you to relax in and when you feel ready for your evening meal, after all of the whisky tasting, we will help you find the perfect restaurant to suit you. 

Trust, quality, dedication and enthusiasm

We work according to the core values of trust, quality, dedication, and enthusiasm and have made them the backbone of our business operations. While we design the perfect bespoke itinerary for you, we pay attention to each and every detail to ensure that you enjoy a first class experience with us.

Our mission is to ensure that you have an unbeatable vacation experience and we endeavour to show you the best of Whisky in Scotland.  Ultimately you will enjoy the sensational Scottish scenery and diversity of Scottish whisky while we take care of everything for you!

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Scotland Whisky Trail by Luxury Train & Taste of Edinburgh

Overview of our luxury scottish whisky tour.

• Luxury Sightseeing Train Journey
• Luxury Accommodation in Edinburgh
• Private return chauffeured transfers to/from Edinburgh or Airport
• Full touring program & meals and drinks as specified onboard
• Accompanied onboard by a Whisky Ambassador & 24-hour Stewards
• Entrance to Royal Military Tattoo & Festival - August only
• Accommodation onboard Train - Luxury cabin
• Can customise length of tour & pick up/drop off location etc – simply call to find out

7 Days from £5999

per person based on 2 Adults sharing

Explore Scotland’s incredible whisky heritage on our Whisky Trail. Take a private tour of three distilleries and indulge in a unique cask whisky tasting experience with your personal whisky ambassador.   You will also have a choice of country pursuits to take part in on your visit to Rothiemurchus Estate.   There will also be traditional entertainment as well as a 24-hour steward service and, of course, all meals and drinks on board are included.   Luxury accommodation in Edinburgh is also included in this trip. Spend some time in Scotland’s capital city — take in the culture and learn about our ancient country’s fascinating history.   Entrance to Edinburgh Castle is also included in this tour and if your chosen dates coincide with the Festival in August, then a trip to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo will also be included. This really will be the trip of a lifetime and one very few people have had the privilege of sampling. If you’d like to see Glasgow as well as Edinburgh, you may like to take our Glasgow and Edinburgh Two Cities tour .

Got a question about this tour?

Simply email or call and one of our experts will be happy to help

Accommodation in a Luxury Cabin on-board the train

Whisky Ambassador from The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

Relax in the observation carriage and take in the gorgeous scenery

• Travel through the Torridon Mountains

Formal and informal dinners onboard

Visit the private Strathspey railway and stay in Boat of Garten

The train stables every evening in a quiet siding or station to assure guests enjoy a good night's rest

The onboard Bamford Haybarn Spa offers a range of indulgent treatments for guests throughout their journeys

Onboard entertainment in the form of traditional Scottish musicians

Specialist single cask whisky tasting & VIP distillery tour with a master blender

Be regaled by a Highlander with stories of the exploits of local legends and a demonstration of authentic weaponry

• Teas and coffees are served any time in the Observation Car

Visit Cairngorms National Park

Lively Scottish country dancing exhibition, or even take part if you so wish.

Edinburgh Highlights: • Entrance to Edinburgh Castle • Walk around and drink in the atmosphere of the festival (August only) • When the festival isn’t in town there are less crowds making it easier to and explore beautiful Edinburgh at your leisure • Tickets to see the spectacular Royal Military Tattoo show in Edinburgh Castle (August only)

See the gorgeous west coast of Scotland and enjoy awe inspiring views out to picturesque Isle of Skye

Journey across the Forth Railway Bridge an engineering wonder from the 19th Century

Daily table d’hôte meals & beverages included onboard

Onboard Bamford Haybarn Spa offers a range of indulgent treatments (at own expense) for guests throughout their journeys

Take part in some country pursuits, shooting, fishing or walking, or simply relax by an open fire.

A 24-hour dedicated cabin steward assists passengers with their every need 

Day 1 ITINERARY

You will be met at the airport and transferred by private chauffeur drive to the exclusive luxury of The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. If you have arrived early the concierge will keep your bags for you until official check in time, leaving you at leisure to explore Edinburgh.

Take a stroll down Princess Street and into the Prince Street Gardens or have a look around the New Town and grab something to eat or drink near St Andrews square. There is also the option of hopping onboard one of the many tour buses to help you orientate yourself and learn about the city.

In the month of August, the festival will be in full swing, from street performers on the Royal Mile to the Royal Military Tattoo at the castle, everywhere you go the place will be full of atmosphere, maybe book a show or 2 to really immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

Day 1 HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet and greet, welcomed to Scotland
• Chauffeured to your luxury hotel
• Check in to the exclusively luxurious Balmoral Hotel
• Discover beautiful Edinburgh

Day 2 ITINERARY

After breakfast you will be met by your whisky ambassador in the Balmoral Hotel and enjoy a welcome dram before departure. The train heads out of Edinburgh station and travels north to cross the Firth of Forth via the magnificent 1.5-mile long Forth Railway Bridge, which was built in the 1880s and is considered by many to be a modern wonder of the world.

You will then proceed through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Tay Bridge – during which you are served a leisurely afternoon tea.  A dram of whisky and a fascinating introduction into the world of Scotch will set the mood for the journey.  The train continues east along the coast, passing through Carnoustie, Arbroath and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith in the heart of the Speyside whisky region.

After an informal dinner relax in the Observation Car and enjoy some traditional Scottish entertainment by local musicians.

(Breakfast, afternoon tea & informal dinner included – please note there is a dress code for dinner)

Day 2 HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet your whisky Ambassador
• Board your luxury steam train
• Travel on the modern wonder – Forth Railway Bridge
• Enjoy some traditional Scottish music & Entertainment

Day 3 ITINERARY

Leave Keith this morning while enjoying your delicious breakfast, on the way through picturesque scenery to the capital of the Highlands’ Inverness, before heading on to Muir of Ord where you disembark to visit Glen Ord distillery, one of the oldest in Scotland.  Guests are treated to a private tour and a tasting and nosing session including an introduction to the smooth-tasting, 12-year-old Singleton of Glen Ord.  Return to the train for another spectacular highlight – a delicious lunch, as the train heads towards Kyle of Loch Alsh on what is arguably one of the most scenic routes in Britain.

The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon mountains, which geologists believe were formed before life began.  Later that afternoon you will reach the picturesque and quaint fishing village of Plockton.

Dinner is formal and afterwards there is entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.

(Breakfast, early lunch & formal dinner included – please note there is a dress code for dinner)

Day 3 HIGHLIGHTS

• See the capital of the Highlands – Inverness
• Enjoy a VIP private tour of a famous whisky distillery
• Stop in Picturesque Plockton
• Formal Dinner
• Majestic view over Kyle of Loch Alsh to Skye

Day 4 ITINERARY

This morning, breakfast is served as the train travels east towards Carrbridge.

Before Lunch join your Whisky ambassador for a specialist single cask whisky tasting in the Observation Car, lunch is served as the Belmond Royal Scotsman continues south to Carrbridge where guests disembark to visit Glenlivet Distillery, home of the iconic malt that inspired the Speyside region.

The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After a formal dinner, a Highlander regales guests with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.

Day 4 HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Glenlivet Distillery
• Specialist single cask whisky tasting in the Observation Car
• Stop in Boat of Garten in Cairngorms National Park
• Listen to stories from the past recounted by a Highlander
• See the authentic Highland weaponry and a possible demonstration

Day 5 ITINERARY

After breakfast, travel by coach n to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Here you can choose from activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, a guided walk through the stunning landscape or simply relax by the fire.  Return to the train at Kingussie and enjoy a leisurely lunch, served as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld.  Disembark to visit Tullibardine Distillery in Blackford village.  Here you will have private VIP tour led by the distillery’s master blender, this tour will feature nosing straight from the cask, a tour of the bonded warehouse and a tutored tasting of a range of quality Tullibardine single malts.

Once you rejoin the train in Perth prepare for and enjoy an informal dinner onboard. Overnight stay on board in Dundee. The infectious beat of the music tonight may inspire you to join some lively Scottish country dancing on the station platform, a fitting finale to your luxury train Journey.

Day 5 HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Rothiemurchus Estate
• Choose from several country pursuits
• VIP tour of Tullibardine Distillery led by the master blender
• Stop in Dundee
• Scottish Country dancing on the station platform

Day 6 ITINERARY

Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses back into the Kingdom of Fife over the Tay Bridge. After you disembark in Edinburgh Waverly Station you are invited by your Whiskey Ambassador to spend the morning in the Society’s headquarters in Edinburgh’s elegant New Town.

After which take a taxi to the Balmoral Hotel, your lodgings for the evening, once you have checked in again, you may wish to visit Edinburgh Castle and find out about its 1100-year history, you could also take in a show or 2 at the Festival or weather permitting walk along to George Square to have a drink and soak up the atmosphere.  Just remember to leave time to return and freshen up before finishing up this evening with a trip back to the Castle to witness the fantastic Royal Military Tattoo and finish your unforgettable trip to Scotland with fireworks.

(Breakfast included)

Day 6 HIGHLIGHTS

• Exclusive invite from the Whisky Ambassador to the society’s headquarters
• Check in to the Exclusive Luxury of the Balmoral Hotel
• Explore Edinburgh
• Watch the spectacular Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August only)

Day 7 ITINERARY

After check out you will have the remainder of the day at leisure, you will then be transferred by chauffeur to Edinburgh airport for your onward flight.

Day 7 HIGHLIGHTS

• Today is spent at your leisure
• Chauffeured to Edinburgh airport

WHAT TO EXPECT

When the claret carriages of Belmond Royal Scotsman roll into Edinburgh Waverley station, an enchanting rail adventure is about to begin. Escorting an exclusive gathering of just 40 guests, a journey aboard is an intimate and immersive way to discover Scotland’s magic.  There are 15 twin, three double and four single State and interconnecting Cabins in our sleeping cars, all with en-suite showers, writing desks, wardrobes and service buttons.  Fresh towels and amenities are provided daily, and hot-water bottles can be requested at turn down for guests in need of a cosy treat.

The Bamford Haybarn Spa offers guests the most unique relaxation space in Scotland.  Bamford’s bespoke treatments include rejuvenating facials, de-stress and deep tissue massages, and glamorous manicures and pedicures using eco-friendly Kure Bazaar polishes.  The Observation Car is the social hub of the train.  Stories are regaled with fellow guests over an evening aperitif from a comfy armchair, or the open-air veranda serves as a thrilling accompaniment to an inspiring sunset.

Dining is always a delight aboard Belmond Royal Scotsman.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the two Dining Cars,  Raven and Swift.  Raven seats guests on tables of four, setting a more intimate tone for dinners with friends and loved ones, while Swift offers tables of six or eight creating a lively dinner party ambience.

Regional specialities are created with the best local produce.  From hearty Highland breakfasts to the freshest seared fish and melt-in- the-mouth Aberdeen Angus beef, all dishes are freshly prepared on-board the train by top chef Mark Tamburini and his expert team.  Guests are treated to daily excursions including world renowned distillery tours, exclusive visits to country houses and estates and exhilarating sporting pursuits.

On your return to Edinburgh, once you have left the Scotch Malt Whiskey Society HQ and returned to The Belmond Hotel and checked in again, you may wish to visit Edinburgh Castle and find out about its 1100-year history, you could also take in a show or 2 at the Festival or weather permitting walk along to George Square to have a drink and soak up the atmosphere.  Just remember to leave time to return and freshen up before finishing up this evening with a trip back to the Castle to witness the fantastic Royal Military Tattoo and finish your unforgettable trip to Scotland with fireworks.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Accommodation –  Staying at the Luxury Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh for 2 nights Bed & Breakfast & Luxury Train Journey in a  Twin or Double Cabin onboard for 4 nights (see below for Luxury Train journey inclusions)
• Entrance fee to Edinburgh Castle
• Entrance to Royal Military Tattoo & Festival – August only
• Return Private Chauffeur to and from Edinburgh airport
• Luxury Train Journeys inclusions: Accommodation onboard, daily table d’hôte meals, all beverages, taxes, all offboard excursions and onboard entertainment
• A 24-hour dedicated cabin steward assists passengers with their every need
• Whiskey Ambassador from The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
• Carriage interiors are lined with rich mahogany panels, and adorned with plush fabrics and furnishings in an opulent Edwardian style
• A continental breakfast can be brought to guest’s cabins, along with tea or coffee
• On alternate nights, there are formal dinners and black-tie is recommended. Gentleman may choose to wear a tuxedo or kilt, while ladies may opt for cocktail dresses or evening gowns. For informal dinners, a jacket and tie are the norm for gentlemen, Smart casual clothing is the norm for day wear, including comfortable clothes and shoes for outdoor activities. The train stables every evening in a quiet siding or station to assure guests enjoy a good night’s rest
• Full touring program while onboard
• Please Note: This tour has been put together in conjunction with an industry partner, as such it is unlike other Inspiring Travel tours in that the tour only departs on a limited number of dates during the year, as such the demand for this tour can be very high.  The departure dates can be accessed when you proceed to book.  If the dates or journey do not suit please call and we will endeavour to find a similar journey that match your requirements.

Steam Train

Forth Road Bridge

The Lone Highlander - Statue to the Jacobite Rebellion - Loch Shiel

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Highland Country Dancing

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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 whisky 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

© Talisker Distillery / Jakub Iwanicki

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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5 of the Best Whisky Distillery Tours in Scotland

Immerse yourself in some of the best whisky distillery tours in Scotland , on your pilgrimage to our spirtual lands. Scotland has over 130 malt whisky distilleries and many of them offer fantastic guided tours. We have listed some of the best tours below where each distillery offers a unique experience or special tastings for the real whisky connoisseurs.

A Treasure Trove of the Top Scotland Whisky Tour Experiences

When you think of Scotland, what images come flooding into your mind? It may be our bonnie hairy heilan’ coos, or the rolling hills. Perhaps your mind drifts off to the magnificent mountains and lochs, Scots pipe bands or the history laden castles and rugged coastlines. I’d bet my centuries old sporran though, that our golden nectar, our famous national drink, Whisky comes near, if not top, of that list of images and associations of Scotland.

So whether you like a wee dram of a good malt, or just curious as to how it is distilled and produced, we have selected for you, what is arguably the best whisky tours available in Scotland, created for you by a true Scot, who also enjoys the occasional wee nip o’ the guid stuff. Pour yerself a wee dram, sit back, and let us take you on a virtual tour of these braw distilleries.

Auchentoshan Whisky Distillery, Lowlands

Auchentoshan Distillery Tour

Auchentoshan is considered one of the best lowland whisky distillery tours in the west of Scotland. The distillery, on the outskirts of Clydebank, is known as “Glasgow’s Malt Whisky” due to its close proximity to Glasgow.

You can discover the Unique Auchentoshan Triple Distilling Process on a whisky tour out of Glasgow. This local malt, has often been described as the “the breakfast whisky” due to it’s sweet, smooth and delicate flavours.

The Auchentoshan Ultimate Experience tour is £55 per person, taking you on a journey to parts of the distillery, not normally accessible to the general public. During the 2-hour ultimate distillery experience, you will sample whisky straight from the cask, and taste a variety of exclusive Auchentoshan whiskies.

As an added bonus, you also have the opportunity to sample the amazing Auchentoshan Whisky Cocktail. It’s a real imaginative twist, with a local Glasgow theme combining whisky and ale. Ask for a ‘hauf an’ a hauf’ in any Glasgow licensed premises and you will be served a whisky with an ale chaser. Find out more about the Auchentoshan cocktails and other Auchentoshan whisky recipes here. 

Alternative Auchentoshan Origin Tours are available, including the Classic Tour (60 mins with one whisky sample at £18 pp), and the Auchentoshan Essence Tour (90 mins with 4 whiskies to taste at £45 pp).

For an additional £90 you can fill your own bottle of Single Malt Whisky straight from the cask, making this an ultimate souvenir or perfect gift to take home from your memorable Auchentoshan whisky distillery tour.

Ballindalloch Whisky Distillery, Speyside

Ballindalloch Single Malt Whisky Distillery Tour

The Ballindalloch Single Malt Distillery in the Speyside whiskey region, offers far more than most distillery tours. True whisky connoisseurs can indulge themselves in a real ‘hands on’ whisky experience, allowing them to be involved in the art of distilling whisky for the entire day. This amazing, not to be missed 5-Star experience, must be pre-booked well in advance. This whisky tour is for a maximum of 2 people and the price is £195 per person for the full day.

Alternatively, the Ballindalloch Distillery, offers another superb shorter tour, lasting approximately 3 hours. This option is available at £35 per person. This top rated distillery tour takes place in the renovated farm steading next to the golf course, on the Macpherson-Grant ancestral family estate.

Balvenie Whisky Distillery, Speyside

Balvenie Whisky Distillery Tour

Immerse yourself in the old worldly charm of the Balvenie Whisky Distillery in Dufftown, Speyside. The Balvenie whisky distillery tour offers visitors a completely unique experience. It is the only traditional distillery in the Scottish Highlands, which still has their own working floor maltings and active cooperage onsite.

There are only 3 whisky distillery tours each day, which are limited to a maximum of 8 people. It is a truly intimate small group experience, which pays attention to fine detail on an exceptional whisky distilling master class.  

This in depth whisky distillery tour, lasts approximately 3 hours, lasting longer than most other distillery tours. The cost is £50 per person, and pre-booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.

You can take advantage of bottling your own Balvenie direct from the whisky cask in Warehouse 24. This exclusive part of the Balvenie Distillery Tour, costs an additional £30 per person.

The Balvenie offers whisky connoisseurs from all around the world one of the most informative, and arguably one of the best whisky distillery tour experiences available in Scotland. For more information on booking a Balvenie Whisky Distillery Tour click here .

Bowmore Whisky Distillery, Isle of Islay

Bowmore Whisky Distillery Tour

The Bowmore Craftsman’s Tour on the magical ‘whisky’ Island of Islay is an absolute must visit for the peaty whisky lover. 

The Craftsman’s tour is a fabulous fun, memory making experience. This tour offers you the opportunity of participating in turning and raking the barley, shovelling peat into the kiln and of course, tasting the best of the Bowmore

Unlock Bowmore’s whisky secrets , in the hidden depths of the world’s oldest stone maturation warehouses, aptly named the No. 1 Vaults.

Discover the fascinating onsite kiln, where peat fuels the furnace, enhancing the smoky flavours of the Bowmore whisky.  

Extract your own dram of whisky straight from the cask, using a special device known as a ‘whisky thief’. You can then bottle and name your own unique bottle of Bowmore.

Founded in 1779, Bowmore is the oldest distillery on Islay. It’s Gaelic motto, ‘Fioghinn agus Soir Bhuanaghadh’ means ‘full and excellent quality’, just like its engaging whisky distillery tour.

You may even wish to further expand on this amazing distillery experience, and book yourself into one of their onsite,19th century authentic self-catering Bowmore cottages.

Dating from the 1840s, these unique cottages are luxurious and highly sought after. Therefore, pre booking is highly recommended. The accommodation ranges from the Distillery House, once home to the Distillery Cooper, to the old Maltman’s Cottage, thus offering you a glimpse at the lives of the Bowmore distillery workers and their families.

The Craftsman tour costs £55 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours.

Springbank Whisky Distillery, Campbelltown

Springbank Whisky Distillery Tour

The Springbank Distillery in Campbelltown, offers a quintessential whisky experience aptly named the “Wee Toon Walking & Warehouse Tour”.

This fantastic whisky tour incorporates a walk through the town, visiting both the Springbank and Glengyle whisky distilleries.

Discover fascinating stories with your whisky tour guide,as you learn how Campbeltown was considered the Whisky Capital of the World,and the origins of the famous Scottish song ‘ Campbeltown Loch’. 

This unique experience includes a delicious Scottish Platter Lunch in the tasting room, whisky tastings direct from the cask, a complimentary glass and a miniature whisky bottle to take home from each distillery. This spiritual tour costs £85 per person, requires a minimum of 4 people, and must be booked in advance.

Alternative Springbank Whisky Tours are also available. You can find more information here. 

The distillery also offers a unique opportunity to experience whisky distilling first hand in their Springbank Whisky School. Over 5 fascinating days, you can participate in all aspects of crafting whisky from floor maltings, distilling, filling casks and bottling single malt whisky. This is arguably one of the finest whisky experiences available to lovers of the finest amber liquid, available in Scotland.

Visit Scotland’s Best Whisky Distilleries

We hope you have enjoyed your wee virtual jaunt around Scotland’s most famous and popular whisky distilleries.We welcome your thoughts on our article, and be happy to include suggestions of other distilleries which offer whisky tours that go above and beyond the norm.

We would also be delighted to offer you our services, and take your group on a whisky tour to your favourite distilleries from Glasgow or Edinburgh.

You may also be interested in our Speyside whisky distillery itineraries . These tours can be tailor made for you and your group to maximise your whole whisky tour experience. These could be from a one day event, or multi day, incorporating the islands and off the beaten path locations. A wee bonus, you will have your very own kilted piper as your guide and chauffeur.

Whisky Tours of Scotland

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.

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.

• Legally whisky can be sold after three years of maturation.
• Talisker is the only distillery on Skye and is situated in Carbost.
• Strathisla Distillery (1786) in Keith is said to be the oldest working distillery in Scotland.
• At 1164 ft (354 m) above sea level Dalwhinnie is thought to be Scotland's highest distillery.
• The Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside includes 8 Malt Whisky Distilleries and the Speyside Cooperage.

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!

The Top 15 Scottish Distilleries to Visit in Scotland

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If you love a wee dram of the good stuff, then you’re in the right place because Scotland is the undisputed home of whisky. For centuries (records date back to at least the 15th century), the Scots have been distilling, refining, and drinking barrel after barrel of whisky. 

From the Scottish Highlands to the remote islands, whisky distillation is an art form that’s been shaped by the sea, the weather, the peat, and even the bog of Scotland. Without a doubt, whisky is the national drink of Scotland, and there are hundreds of distilleries to visit across the country.

But with so many beautiful whiskies to try, you might not know where to begin. That’s why I decided to compile our list of the best distilleries in Scotland. Visit these excellent distilleries, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time tasting the best whisky in Scotland!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Scottish Distilleries to Visit in Scotland

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 15 Distilleries in Scotland

1. the scotch whisky experience.

Okay, so Edinburgh ’s Scotch Whisky Experience isn’t technically a distillery – no whisky is distilled on the site – but it is the best place in Scotland for an introduction to all things whisky!

The Scotch Whisky Experience takes pride in its place on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, and if it’s your first time in Scotland, there’s no better place to learn about the ancient art of distillation before sampling the best scotch from around the country. 

This unique experience is home to a replica whisky distillery, where you’ll learn about the centuries-old processes that go into making the finest blends and malts. You’ll learn about the different ingredients, the different whisky-producing regions in Scotland, and the different flavors, tastes, and aromas that different types of whisky are known for. Oh, and there’s a fun theme-park style “barrel ride” through the experience!

You can also see the unique Diageo Claive Vidiz Whisky Collection, which is safely stored away in the vaults of The Scotch Whisky Experience. This is the largest collection of scotch whisky in the world, with the last count putting the number of bottles at 3,384. Once you’ve perused the extensive collection, you’ll be invited for a tasting session in the Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar.

2. Glenfiddich Distillery

One of the most famous whisky brands in Scotland is Glenfiddich, and you can visit their family-owned distillery in the beautiful surrounds of remote Moray, in northeast Scotland. 

Glenfiddich Distillery is unusual in a number of ways. First of all, no other distillery has won quite as many awards as this distillery for their single malts – proving the quality of their whiskies. Second, no other distillery has remained family-owned for so long, with a continuous history dating back to 1886, when the Glenfiddich Distillery was founded by William Grant. 

The distillery sources its water from the Fiddich River and employs generations worth of whisky-making experience to produce an excellent single malt. This is the classic Speyside Single Malt, and if you’re partial to a dram of this iconic tipple, then this is the best place to enjoy it!

You can tour the distillery to learn more about the family’s history of whisky production and how they’ve evolved and developed their brand over the years, surviving hardships and economic forces that put many more family-owned distilleries out of business. 

The tour ends with a tasting, where you’ll be able to sample the delectable Glennfiddich 12-year, 15-year, and 18-year aged bottles before finishing with the Glenfiddich Gran Reserva, which is aged for 21 years in old rum casks from the Caribbean. 

3. Glenlivet Distillery

Another classic Speyside distillery is the Glenlivet Distillery , where Scotch whisky has been produced going back as far as 1822. Intriguingly, the distillery itself was founded in 1824, but George Smith, the founder, had been distilling his whisky illicitly in the Livet Valley for at least two years prior to this. 

Legend has it King George IV tried the illicit whisky, loved it. When the government rules changed to allow more liberal distillation, Glenlivet Distillery instantly shot to fame once they could legally produce their excellent whisky. 

You’ll be able to delve into this fascinating history with a tour of the Glenlivet Distillery, which is located in Ballindalloch, close to the River Spey in Moray. You’ll love the remote, rural location in the midst of a beautiful Scottish glen, and you’ll love tasting the single malts, the oldest of which have been aged for decades. 

4. Highland Park Whisky Distillery

One of the best Scottish distilleries is found in one of the country’s most remote and difficult-to-reach destinations. The Highland Park Whisky Distillery is the most northerly distillery in Scotland, and you’ll need to make your way all the way to Kirkwall, on the island of Orkney, to enjoy a dram of this whisky at its source.

Highland Park Whisky Distillery dates back to 1798, and the master distillers draw on this long history, as well as the wild, untamable nature of Orkney, to produce a truly distinct array of whiskies. You might be intrigued to discover that the original distillery established here was an illicit one, but then again, given Orkney’s remote location (it’s closer to Norway than to London!), the islanders here have always done things their own way.

The whiskies here are single malt, and they are produced using barley that’s slowly smoked over peat that’s 4,000 years old (we did say this was a historic distillery). This unusual, ancient peat gives Highland Park’s whisky a characteristic taste and aroma, which few single malts from the mainland can ever match. 

5. Laphroaig Distillery

Islay is highly regarded for its single malt whisky, and if you’re looking for Islay distilleries, there are as many as nine different distilleries producing high-quality products across the island! Islay whisky has a characteristically peaty, smoky flavor, and no other Islay whisky enshrines this more than Laphroaig. 

The Laphroaig Distillery is one of the best whisky distilleries in Scotland (not just on Islay!), and we know you’re going to love exploring their visitors center and learning about the history and production process. 

The distillery was founded in 1815 by members of Clan Donald, and they made use of the abundance of peat on Islay to smoke the barley before distillation. This is where that unique peaty aroma comes from, and the tradition continues today, with much of the peat and barley being locally sourced from Islay and smoked on-site. 

The most popular Laphroaig is aged for at least 10 years, but there are many much older bottles available too. Make your way to Islay, and you can take a tour of the distillery, learning the process from the master distillers before trying the impressive range of peaty whiskies in an expert-led tasting session. If you only have time for one Islay distillery tour, this is the one!

6. Auchentoshan Distillery

You’ll find the Auchentoshan Distillery in the Glaswegian suburbs, next to the banks of the River Clyde in the Kilpatricks Hills to the west of the city. It’s a beautiful yet convenient location for a distillery, and it’s perfect for anyone who only has fleeting time to explore Scotland!

But convenience isn’t the only reason to visit because the Auchentoshan Distillery has whisky to rival any highland single malt or peaty barrel of island brew. Auchentoshan is very different from its rivals, too, given that this whisky is known for its sweeter aromas and flavors rather than the peaty, boggy, smoky whiskies found elsewhere.

The Auchentoshan Distillery is historic, too, being founded back in 1823. They’ve always had a unique approach to whisky distillation, and the unusual overtones are in part the result of a triple distillation process that few other whisky producers employ. Take a tour, enjoy a few tastings, and see what the Auchentoshan fuss is all about during your trip to Glasgow!

7. The Clydeside Distillery

It’s the Highland and island distilleries that take all the glory and fame when it comes to scotch, but did you know that some of the best whisky in Scotland is produced in Glasgow ?

This unique Scottish distillery overlooks the old Queens Docks in Clydeside, Glasgow, where whisky from Scotland was once exported around the globe. The distillery is located within the former Pump House Building, which supplied the necessary power to operate the docks during the Victorian era.

The Clydeside Distillery , though, is relatively new to the whisky game. They only opened in 2017, but rest assured, the owners and distillers draw upon generations of whisky distillation experience. The owners previously owned Auchentoshan Distillery, Bowmore, and Glen Garioch Distilleries and they were inspired to create a dedicated single malt distillery (The Clydeside Distillery) that could return Glasgow to its former whisky-distilling glory. 

The owners’ family were former whisky brokers, and they worked here at Clydeside in days past, forging a whisky trading empire. Now, their descendants are forging a new single malt empire in Scotland’s most innovative and exciting city. You can learn more about the unique story and regeneration project on a tour of The Clydeside Distillery, which obviously includes plenty of tastings. 

8. Ben Nevis Distillery

Travel to Fort William, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, and you can hike to the summit of the tallest mountain in Britain. Looming over the town is Ben Nevis, which rises to a height of 1,345 meters.

On your way down the mountain, you can stop off at the Ben Nevis Distillery , which sits in the shadow of this iconic natural attraction. Alternatively, if you’re not in the mood for a long hike to the summit, why not spend the day tasting the excellent whisky instead of climbing a mountain?

This is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, with a distinguished history dating back to 1825 when it was founded by “Long John” McDonald, a descendent of rulers of the old Highland clans. The whisky was prepared using fresh water from the mountains, a tradition that continues to this day. 

The Ben Nevis Distillery produces a single malt whisky that typically is aged for 10 years. You can learn more at the distillery’s visitors center, where of course, you can also try their best whisky. 

9. Jura Distillery

The Inner Hebrides is home to many distilleries, but one of the most famous is the Jura Distillery . You’ll find the distillery on the island of Jura, which for most of the year, has a permanent population of less than 200, although numbers swell in the summer when the tourists arrive from the mainland. 

This isolation has always given Jura whisky a certain allure, and it’s an allure that’s matched by the whisky’s unique island-inspired flavors. Jura whiskies can be peaty, non-peaty, smoky, and even spicy, and there are a number of different varieties that you’ll need to try when you visit the distillery.

Actually reaching the Jura Distillery is all part of the experience, with the island being notoriously difficult to travel to, even when the waves are calm and the summer ferries are running. In the summer, you’ll first need to travel to Tayvallich, from where you can catch the community ferry. If that ferry isn’t running, you’ll need to travel to the island of Islay, then onto Jura. 

It’s well worth it to experience one of Scotland’s best and oldest whiskies, with the Jura Distillery having a long history dating back to 1810. 

10. Talisker Distillery

The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations. It’s an almost mythical island where you can hike to spectacular, natural chimney stacks and swim in Fairy Pools. But as beautiful as the island is, the real reason you’re here is for the Isle of Skye whisky at Talisker. 

The fabled Talisker Distillery is the Isle of Skye’s oldest distillery, with a history that can be traced back to the 1830s. The distinctive Talisker whisky with its peaty flavors is produced using much the same process as the founders, Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill, used almost 200 years ago. The stills are replicas of the originals, and although the distillery was destroyed by a fire in 1960, it was restored as faithfully as possible. 

The Talisker Distillery produces a number of different malts, with the classic 10-year-aged being the most popular (and it’s won awards). If you visit the distillery, you’ll be able to tour through the old production areas and see the impressive vaults, where much older barrels (some aged 35 years) are kept in the cool.  

11. Cardhu Distillery

If you love a dram of whisky with a side of history, then you have to visit the Cardhu Distillery in Moray. This is one of Scotland’s most fascinating whisky stories, and unlike many other distilleries, this narrative is dominated by women. 

The Cardhu Distillery was founded by whisky smuggling duo Helen and John Cumming in 1824. As the story goes, Helen would produce whisky, run the distillery, and sell the bottles from their farmhouse – all while avoiding the police. Their daughter, Elizabeth, took over the family business (by now, it was a legitimate whisky producer) and greatly expanded their production levels. 

In 1893, they were bought out by Johnnie Walker, who continues to own the distillery today. Cardhu Whisky remains a distinct product, although you may recognize the aromas if you’re a Johnnie Walker fan because Cardhu is one of the whiskies used in classic Johnnie Walker blends! 

You can learn about this fascinating past on a distillery tour before sampling a few wee drams of the Cardhu Distillery’s excellent Speyside single malt whiskies, which are aged from 12 to 18 years. 

12. Glenmorangie Distillery

Up north in Ross-shire, they know how to make an excellent whisky, and nowhere else is quite so famous as the Glenmorangie Distillery . 

This is highland distillation at its finest. The Glenmorangie Distillery believes that their whisky has been produced using a similar recipe since as early as the 1730s, when the first recorded distillery was established on the Morangie Farm. They still use the same Tarlogie Spring, located up in the hills, as a source of freshwater for the distillation process today. 

Glenmorangie is classified as a single malt whisky, and uniquely, the copper stills where the whisky is produced are the tallest such stills to be found anywhere in Scotland. The distillery recently constructed a 20-meter-high, glass-covered still named the “Lighthouse,” as it aims to be at the forefront of distillation for many years to come.  

The Glenmorangie Distillery is an impressive sight indeed, where modern architecture blends with 18th-century stone walls. You can see it all in person when you take a tour of the distillery, finished off with, of course, a tasting that includes a few wee drams of their signature 18- and 25-year whiskies. 

13. Old Pulteney Distillery

The small, coastal town of Wick lies just 15 miles to the south of John O’Groats, the most northerly point in mainland Britain. That makes the Old Pulteney Distillery one of the most northerly (and windswept) in Scotland, and we know you’re going to love venturing here in search of their famous “maritime malt.”

Old Pulteney Whisky has been shaped by the sea salt and sea spray from the rough North Seas that whips through Wick, and for much of its long history, this was one of the most inaccessible places on the mainland. You don’t need to arrive here by boat as you did when the distillery was first founded in 1826, but you will feel the keen sense of isolation that lingers throughout the town as you head for a tasting. 

Old Pulteney whiskies are characterized by their salty, almost briny aromas, and the taste of this malt really is unique. The classic 12 years aged whisky is a beautiful whisky, but you can step it up with a dram of the 15 years, 18 years, and much rarer 25-year-aged barrels. 

14. Wolfburn Distillery

If you’d love to visit the most northerly distillery on the mainland (not counting the Orkney Islands further to the north!), then you need to take a trip to the Wolfburn Distillery in Thurso. 

The Wolfburn Distillery first opened in 1821 and soon became known for its smooth blends distilled at the end of Britain. But the distillery was forced to close in the 1860s, and for over a century and a half, Wolfburn Whisky was all but forgotten. 

But in 2013, the distillery was resurrected, and the name and brand were brought back to life in Thurso. The distillers at Old Pulteney weren’t too happy, though, as they could no longer claim to be the most northerly distillery on the mainland!

Wolfburn Whisky has more to its name than its location, though. True to their, at one point, lost heritage, the distillery takes a slow, methodical approach to distillation. Everything here is done by hand, including the bottling, and you’ll appreciate every sip when you see how much work and expertise goes into the process during your distillery tour.

15. The Isle of Harris Distillery

The Isle of Harris Distillery is the most unusual addition to our list of the best distilleries to visit in Scotland because their most famous product isn’t whisky, but gin. Yes, gin is distilled in Scotland, too (not just whisky!), and if you make your way to Tarbert on the remote Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, you can see how it’s done!

The Isle of Harris Distillery only opened in 2015, but its products draw on centuries of community, culture, and history on the island. The distillery was founded not just as a way to produce a delectable bottle of gin but to save the local islander community, which was slowly declining as the younger generations left due to a lack of work in the isolated region. 

The distillery now provides many locals with an opportunity to stay and also provides visitors with a fascinating tour through the gin distillation process. 

Isle of Harris gin is prepared using local seaweed, as well as other (more traditional) gin botanicals, including junipers and coriander. Every bottle is labeled by hand and quality checked by the master gin makers, so you can rest assured that this unique gin is of the finest quality. 

If you are more of a whisky drinker, though, then don’t worry because the Isle of Harris Distillery also has you covered. While gin is their most famous product, they do also distill a single malt whisky named The Hearach .

There you have it! The 15 best Scottish distilleries to visit in Scotland. What’s your favorite distillery in Scotland?

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Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the Scotch Whisky Experience offers visitors a captivating journey through the rich history and diverse flavors of Scotland’s national drink. Guiding guests through an impressive collection of over 3,500 bottles, the tour provides an immersive exploration of whisky’s origins, production, and regional distinctions. From the stunning glass and marble vault to the interactive tasting sessions , the experience caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers, ensuring a memorable encounter with Scotch whisky’s enduring legacy. With a range of tour options and language accommodations, the Scotch Whisky Experience invites travelers to uncover the secrets behind this beloved spirit – a true highlight of any visit to the Scottish capital.

• The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a guided tour of one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections, lasting 50-75 minutes.
• Visitors can choose between a Standard Tour and a Gold Tour, with the latter including a comparison tasting of four regional single malts.
• The tour provides an interactive and educational journey into the art of Scotch whisky, including an exploration of distinct aromas from Scotland’s five whisky-producing regions.
• The experience takes place in a stunning glass and marble vault with nearly 3,500 bottles, allowing visitors to deepen their appreciation for Scotch whisky-making.
• The tour is designed to be accessible and inclusive, with audio guides available in multiple languages and the venue being wheelchair accessible.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town
• Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise From Edinburgh
• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Tour Overview

The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour offers visitors a guided exploration through one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky.

Lasting 50-75 minutes, the tour immerses guests in the origins, production, and maturation of Scotland’s celebrated spirit. Participants discover the distinct aromas of the country’s five whisky-producing regions and enjoy a tutored dram in the stunning glass and marble vault housing nearly 3,500 bottles.

This interactive and educational experience promises an engaging journey into the art of Scotch whisky.

Visitors can further enhance their tour by opting for the Gold Tour , which includes a comparative tasting of four regional single malts.

Tour Options and Inclusions

Two tour options are available for visitors to the Scotch Whisky Experience.

The Gold Tour includes a comparison of four regional single malts . All tours come with a guided experience , Scotch whisky tasting or soft drink, and a crystal tasting glass for visitors over 18.

The Gold Tour option offers an additional tasting tray of four single malt Scotch whiskies.

Key inclusions are:

• Guided tour and Scotch whisky tasting
• Gold Tour with comparison of four regional single malts
• Crystal tasting glass for visitors over 18

These options provide an interactive, educational, and immersive experience for whisky enthusiasts .

Whisky Tasting Experience

At the heart of the Scotch Whisky Experience lies the captivating whisky tasting session . Guests can choose the Gold Tour option , which includes a comparison of four regional single malt whiskies.

The expert guide leads an interactive and educational tasting, guiding visitors through the aromas and flavors of Scotland’s distinct whisky-producing regions.

The tasting takes place in the glass and marble vault, surrounded by nearly 3,500 bottles, creating an immersive and memorable experience .

Whether a whisky connoisseur or a newcomer, the guided tasting offers an opportunity to deepen one’s appreciation for the art of Scotch whisky-making.

Guided Tour Highlights

Interwoven throughout the Scotch Whisky Experience is a captivating guided tour that immerses visitors in the rich history and artistry of Scotland’s national spirit.

During this 50-75 minute exploration, guests will:

Learn about the origins, distillation process, and maturation of Scotch whisky, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craft.

Discover the distinct aromas and flavors that characterize Scotland’s five whisky-producing regions.

Venture into the stunning glass and marble vault containing nearly 3,500 bottles, enjoying a tutored dram while marveling at the impressive collection.

This interactive and educational experience is sure to delight whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike, leaving them with a newfound understanding and respect for the art of Scotch whisky making.

Accessibility and Languages

The Scotch Whisky Experience is designed to be accessible to visitors from all backgrounds and abilities.

The tour is wheelchair accessible , allowing everyone to explore the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky.

For those who don’t speak English, the experience offers audio guides in a variety of languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Scots Gaelic, and Swedish.

This multilingual approach ensures that the rich history and intricacies of Scotch whisky can be appreciated by a diverse global audience .

Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a curious first-time visitor, the Scotch Whisky Experience caters to all.

Booking Information

Booking the Scotch Whisky Experience tour is highly recommended , as it’s likely to sell out from Kč680 per person. The tour offers several booking options:

Reserve now and pay later – this allows you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Scotland’s Challenge 25 policy requires official photo ID for those participating in the whisky tasting.

To ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free experience, it’s wise to book your tour in advance.

The tour’s popularity and the comprehensive booking policies make it a convenient and reliable choice for whisky enthusiasts visiting Edinburgh.

Visitor Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the Scotch Whisky Experience, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 2,500 reviews. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and approachable guides, creating a fun and informative atmosphere. The experience offers great value for money, with the organization and service receiving high marks as well.

Unique whisky tasting sessions and stunning visuals of Scotland further contribute to the overwhelmingly positive visitor experience at the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Whisky Collection Highlights

One of the highlights of the Scotch Whisky Experience is its impressive collection of nearly 3,500 bottles, housed in a stunning glass and marble vault .

Visitors can explore this unique glass and marble vault and discover the aromas of Scotland’s five whisky-producing regions.

The tour offers several key highlights:

• An in-depth look at the origins, art of whisky making , and maturation process of Scotch whisky.
• A tutored dram, allowing guests to savor and compare the distinct flavors of regional single malts.
• An interactive and educational experience that brings the world of Scotch whisky to life.

This immersive tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the rich history and craftsmanship of Scotland’s most iconic export.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends
• The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English
• Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh
• Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands With Lunch From Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour With Entry Ticket

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Whisky to the Tour?

No, visitors can’t bring their own whisky to the tour. The experience includes a guided tour and tasting, and the tour operator provides the whisky samples as part of the package. Outside alcohol isn’t permitted.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the duration of the Scotch Whisky Experience tour. The standard tour lasts 50-75 minutes, but visitors can opt for a longer, customized experience by booking the Gold Tour, which includes additional tastings.

Do You Offer Any Private or Group Tour Options?

The Scotch Whisky Experience offers private and group tour options. Guests can book a private tour for a more personalized experience, or join a group tour to share the tasting and learn with others.

Are Photography and Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and recording are allowed during the tour, though visitors are politely asked to avoid disturbing other guests. Guides encourage capturing the experience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning visuals and educational sessions.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Whisky Tasting?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 18 for the whisky tasting. Visitors under 18 can participate in the tour and enjoy a soft drink option instead of the whisky tasting.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

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• Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour & Royal Yacht Britannia
• Edinburgh: Ghost and Dark Side of the City Walking Tour
• Edinburgh: Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour
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• Edinburgh: 5-Day Outer Hebrides and Highlands Tour
• Edinburgh: Christmas Walking Tour With Gingerbread Treat
• Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Ghost Bus Tour
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• Private Edinburgh Day Tour
• Edinburghs Best Harry Potter Tour & Premium Whisky Tasting

The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh offers an immersive journey through the world of Scotch whisky. With its vast collection of nearly 3,500 bottles, interactive tastings, and expert-led tours, the experience caters to both enthusiasts and newcomers, providing a memorable exploration of Scotland’s whisky heritage . Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just curious about the "water of life," this tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of Scotch whisky.

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Welcome to Tasting Scotland, the country's leading luxury tour specialists in food, drink & culinary travel and tasting events.

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The Dalwhinnie distillery sits at the heart of the majestic Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. It is one of the highest Whisky producing distilleries in Scotland. Read more about it below.↓

The Dalwhinnie distillery sits at the heart of the majestic Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. The distillery does a range of official bottlings, with its signature Single Malt being the 15 year-old although the distillery also produces a 20 year-old and a 36 year-old, among other Distillers Editions. Almost all bottlings are official ones. Independent bottlings haven't been seen for decades. Only a minor percentage of the Single Malt distilled at Dalwhinnie is marketed as Single Malt, with the majority being used in the Diageo-owned Buchanan and Black & White blends. Due to its high altitude setting, the distillery today also fulfils a dual function as a working meteorological station, with readings being taken daily.

The Production

When you’re one of the highest distilleries in Scotland, you can be sure that the water you’re going to be working with will be pretty special. The Allt an T’Sluic Spring, which provides the water used in Dalwhinnie’s production, is wonderfully clear and fresh, thanks in part to the fact that a large proportion of it comes from snow melt. As the spring is a tributary of the river Spey, there has been a great deal of discussion over the years about whether Dalwhinnie should be classified as a Speyside Whisky or not. Dalwhinnie’s location in the Western Highlands lies almost at the geographical heart of Scotland, resulting in conflicting opinions on which region it should technically belong to. Dalwhinnie is a relatively small distillery, with a capacity of 1.3 million litres of pure alcohol a year. Additionally, the distillery is one of the few sites in Scotland still using wooden worm tubs. Most sites today use metal ones, if they use them at all. 

The Pot Stills

Dalwhinnie operates with only a single wash still, at 17,000 litres, and a single spirit still at 14,000 liters. Both stills are made by Abercrombie & Co and have a “traditional” still shape with a large bulbous base and a gradually narrowing neck. The neck of the pot still is very tall. This allows the Whisky to separate very well, and it creates a very fine distilled spirit.

The distillery used its own floor maltings until they were shut down in 1968. Today, Dalwhinnie sources its malt from one of Diageo’s industrial malting sites. The malt is very lightly peated, but only enough to give it a hint of a smoky flavour. The malt also has a hint of heather in its flavour, which the distillers say is due to the heather that surrounds the site. 

The Dalwhinnie distillery has two racked warehouses on site, which have room for over 5,000 casks of aging Whisky. Dalwhinnie predominantly uses Bourbon casks. Some of the distillers edition, however, are aged in Oloroso Sherry casks. 

The Victorians described Dalwhinnie as being “madly located”. Even through modern eyes, it’s possible to see where they were coming from. Dalwhinnie is the third highest located distillery in Scotland, and the meteorological station that has the distinction of observing the lowest recorded temperature in Britain. The distillery maintains the ability to be completely self-contained in the event of high snows, with an entire hostel located on site to house the staff. 

Dalwhinnie’s isolated location is a key part of its history. “Dalwhinnie” means, “meeting place” in Gaelic, a nod to the distillery’s excellent central location. The Strathspey Distillery Company founded the distillery in 1897 and originally operated under the name “Strathspey”. Less than a year later however, the company went into liquidation, and the name of the distillery was changed appropriately as it switched hands to the Dalwhinnie Distillery Company. 

Production continued, with the architect Charles Doig, who is responsible for the famous pagoda shaped roof, contributing to the expansion of the distillery. The distillery changed hands twice more during the first half of the twentieth century, and was briefly owned by an American company, Cook & Bernheimer, making it the very first foreign-owned scotch distillery. In 1934, a fire destroyed the majority of the distillery and production had to be halted for four years while the site was being rebuilt. After the rebuild was completed in 1938, the distillery had to remain closed until 1940, due to wartime restrictions on barley. Since 1940, the distillery has produced Whisky almost uninterrupted, save for a brief period in 1986 when the distillery underwent a complete refurbishment.

Today, Dalwhinnie is owned by Diageo and is part of its Classic Malts range. The brand has reached great critical acclaim, with the 15-year old and the Distillers Edition being awarded the Monde Selection Gold Medals. 

Visitor Centre

Dalwhinnie’s visitor centre opened in 1992 as part of a 3.2 million refurbishment of the distillery and includes a shop and café. It is also possible to take a 45-minute tour of the distillery facility. The distillery also offers an acclaimed “Whisky and chocolate” tour, where it’s possible to taste chocolate and Whisky side-by-side, observing how they complement each other. 

The Dalwhinnie Distillery Dalwhinnie Inverness-shire PH19 1AA Tel: +44 (0)1540-672219 Email:  dalwhinnie.distillery@ remove-this. diageo.com  

User Notes about the Distillery

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The scenic island distillery with amazing food and beautiful views that's been named 'best whisky experience in Scotland'

This popular island distillery is well worth a visit, but don’t just take our word for it - it has recently been named ‘best whisky experience in scotland.’.

Ardbeg Distillery, located on the iconic whisky island of Islay, has been named as the 'best whisky experience in Scotland', according to a new Whisky Travel Index used to rank over 50 whisky tourism experiences across the country. 

Ardbeg Distillery scored 92.2 out of 100 and fought off stiff competition from 49 other distilleries and experiences. 

The Whisky Travel Index by London’s original whisky specialists, Milroy’s of Soho, is a first-of-its-kind tool for whisky lovers planning a trip to Scotland, ranking over 50 whisky experiences to provide an unrivalled tool for planning trips. 

The Whisky Travel Index uses metrics including the cost of tours and tastings, the variety of experiences offered, visitor feedback, nearby amenities and the quality of the whisky they produce.

Each whisky experience was scored across 15 areas, with over 80,000 visitor reviews analysed to provide a comprehensive score from 0 to 100, ranking the best whisky experiences that Scotland has to offer. 

Milroy’s note that Ardbeg’s win comes down to achieving top-five finishes across several categories, including average whisky review score, number of reviews, total tour and tasting experiences on offer and recent industry award wins; propelling Ardbeg to the number one spot on The Milroy’s Whisky Travel Index for 2024. 

Ardbeg prides itself on being the ultimate Islay Malt Whisky, established in 1815 and revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all Islay malts, with a passionate following who visit the distillery year-on-year. 

Jackie Thomson, Visitor Centre Manager, said: “We’re really proud to have ranked as the best whisky experiences in Scotland.  We welcome thousands of visitors from all over the world each year and the entire team works so hard to ensure every visit is unforgettable.

“We’d like to thank Milroy’s for praising the quality of our tours and tastings, as there really is no better way to learn about our whisky or sample some of our incredible portfolio of peaty drams.” 

Ardbeg Distillery experiences can be booked via the Ardbeg website.

Second to Ardbeg was the purpose built Johnnie Walker Princes Street, which technically isn’t a whisky distillery.

Glenkinchie Distillery, also known as Lowlands home of Johnnie Walker, finished in third place with a score of 83.97 out of 100.

The best three sustainable distilleries were: Nc’Nean, Bruichladdich and Arbikie.

Established in 2017, Nc'nean is a small independent distillery with a focus on crafting organic and sustainable whisky.

Nc’nean has been recognised with multiple industry awards for its sustainable process and is a registered B-Corp - meaning that they have been independently verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Second place in our sustainability category is Bruichladdich. While Bruichladdich is also registered as a B-Corp, it earned a slightly lower score from the independent body with an impact score of 100.7 compared to 135.6. 

While the third-place Arbikie Distillery may not be a B-Corp, it has been recognised with multiple industry awards for its sustainable practices.

Find out more about the index here.

The Scotsman

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Experiences

Whisky wanderlust: What makes Scotland’s independent distilleries worth visiting

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A road trip to visit to indie bottlers and smaller distilleries in Scotland showcases unrivalled Scottish hospitality and can offer a deeper appreciation for the craft of whisky making.

Tomintoul Distillery's master distiller Robert Fleming. (Photo: Tomintoul Distillery)

This audio is generated by an AI tool.

I never imagined I would be spending a night in a Scottish manor once owned by legendary American singer-songwriter and Nobel laureate Bob Dylan.

But there I was in the stately 16-room 18,000 sq ft Edwardian mansion overlooking the picturesque Cairngorms National Park in the central highlands and admiring its carefully preserved century-old features like its wrought iron staircase banister and marble fireplaces.

Today, the estate, which Dylan had owned since 2006, has been bought over by Angus Dundee Distillers and converted into Tomintoul House to showcase the Tomintoul Distillery range of whiskies and host “friends and family of the brand”.

I was there as part of a small group trip organised by Singapore-based whisky retailer The Whisky Store who frequently sends its own staff on Scottish whisky road trips to learn more about the artistry and heritage behind independent whisky making. It also organises similar trips for clients on an ad hoc basis.

The Whisky Store, co-founded by husband-and-wife duo Chua Khoon Hui and Joyce Ng, is one of Singapore’s pioneering whisky retailers of independent labels. Their company TSH Corporation also runs several bars in Singapore including Quaich Bar Collector at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore; The Other Room at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel and Signature Reserve at Fullerton Hotel.

Since 2005, they have been making trips to Scotland to deepen their ties to the distilleries and bottlers that supply their business with rare and interesting bottles. It is this carefully forged network that has made it possible for us to gain access to this exemplary example of Scottish hospitality.

I soon learned that Dylan was not just an absentee lord of the manor – in fact he used to visit the estate with his brother for a few weeks every year but had decided to sell it because he was no longer using the space. So of course, I had to spend some time in a drawing room where Dylan had left a baby grand piano behind. I sat on the piano bench, hoping his creative genius would spark long forgotten muscle memory and inspire me to tap out a tune but obviously that did not turn out well.

Never mind, whisky awaits.

In the grand dining room, our hosts, master distiller Robert Fleming from Tomintoul Distillery and master blender Iain Forteath for both of Angus Dundee Distillers brands – Tomintoul and Glencadam – were eager to share some of their most interesting bottles.

Over a multi-course dinner of delights featuring local delicacies such as roast Scottish salmon and chicken Balmoral where chicken breasts were stuffed with haggis, we savoured too many drams to count. That included Tomintoul’s Five Decades Speyside-Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky, which Fleming had blended from casks across each of the five decades of the distillery's history.

Chua and Ng also contributed an ultra-special bottle – a 40-year-old Tomintoul single sherry cask whisky that was distilled in 1977 and bottled in 2017. This “rare gem”, as characterised by Chua, was uncovered during a previous visit thanks to Fleming’s expert advice. They ultimately decided to bottle this mellow and gently floral, sweet and fruity whisky to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Quaich Bar, the first bar they launched.

In fact, one of the duo’s aims of this trip was to sample whisky from several of their casks which are currently maturing in Scotland and to possibly select at least one more cask for their bottling programme.

Additionally, the team can also source suitable casks for interested clients, a unique proposition given that whisky cask investments are all the rage in recent times but have been fraught with several large risks.

Still, Chua himself advises against viewing cask buying through a purely monetary lens. As with any other alternative investment class such as art, watches or designer handbags, there are inherent risks to note.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Whisky Store (@thewhiskystore)

Factors like evolving preferences or economic conditions can impact the price of whisky. A physical cask, in which the distilled whisky matures until it is ready for bottling, requires proper care and storage to ensure the precious liquid within remains intact. There have also been reported instances when unknowing individuals have invested in casks only to discover that the same cask has been sold to multiple people – or that it did not even exist in the first place.

Instead, Chua frames a cask purchase as a way for an enthusiast to delve deeper into the world of whiskies. He said: “A cask purchase is about the passion for whisky and the experience of witnessing the art and science of whisky-making, the deep-rooted heritage of the brands and the unique qualities that each distillery possesses.”

Besides helping to narrow down the selection of casks, The Whisky Store can arrange for samples, where available, to be sent to the client for tasting and will handle logistics like designing the label and bottling the liquid (since it is not quite practical to ship a whisky barrel halfway around the world).

The Whisky Store also consults with whisky legend Frank McHardy, a respected industry veteran with over six decades of experience at distilleries including Invergordon and Springbank. Together, they have collaborated to release a Signature Reserve Collection known as The Frank McHardy series featuring single cask bottlings, bottled at cask strength that have been personally chosen by McHardy.

This is why when we visited the Speyside Tomintoul Distillery, a 20-minute drive from Tomintoul House, the experienced trio of Fleming, Forteath and McHardy were enlisted to sample five whiskies that had been freshly drawn from casks that Chua and Ng are considering for their next cask purchase.

These whiskies are part of the cask collection at Tomintoul and each of them dates back to 1990 or 1991 from distilleries including Laphroaig, Bowmore and Caol Ila. The selections are so enticing that as of press time, Chua and Ng are still pondering their choices.

Still, there was more to explore. Fleming brought us on a tour of the distillery where he explained how Tomintoul’s tall stills contribute to the smooth, complex single malt that they produce.

It is a geeky fact that whisky lovers will appreciate, especially in juxtaposition to a separate visit to Glencadam Distillery, also owned by Angus Dundee Distillers and located in the highlands about three hours’ drive from Tomintoul. Here, Forteath offered a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery, which is currently undergoing renovations. His aim? To show how the stills are instead built with lyne arms at a 15-degree incline that results in its signature style of orchard and tropical fruity notes.

The renovations are expected to be completed by 2025 and will include a new visitor’s centre to allow more people the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of how whisky is made.

In the meantime, Glencadam has an ongoing partnership with The Rookery, a restaurant situated at the edge of the Carnoustie Golf Links Championship Course.

Located about an hour’s drive away from the distillery, this Scottish town is known for its golf championship and is an ideal stopover on a whisky road trip. The Rookery’s Glencadam private dining room is available for groups of up to 12 and has several of its award-winning range on the menu, including the American Oak, Reserva Andalucia and the 10-year-old single malt.

Our final stop on our road trip was to Huntly, a charming town in Aberdeenshire. It is the headquarters of Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky, an independent bottler which owns one of the largest privately held collections of aged single malt and single grain Scotch whisky casks in the world.

It is known for its various series of whiskies like the Dimensions, Tantalus and The Octave, which are bottled in Huntly (a selection of bottles are available at The Whisky Store and the group’s bars in Singapore). For The Octave series, whiskies are finished in smaller 50-litre octave casks to impart more flavours to the liquid.

In Huntly, Mark Thomson, Duncan Taylor’s private client manager and brand representative had curated a series of activities to offer an insiders’ perspective into the business of bottling rare whiskies.

We visited the company’s cooperage, where barrels – they play a crucial role in the maturation of whisky – are repaired and maintained and watched in awed silence as a skilled cooper assembled the pieces of a barrel within minutes. Then we dropped by the warehouse where these precious casks are stored, eyes straining to pick out rare names, including some from distilleries that no longer exist.

Up next is the bottling centre, where bottlers were meticulously hand-labelling a vintage single grain Scotch whisky distilled at Invergordon Distillery in 1965 to commemorate McHardy’s 60 years in the business. (He started his career at Invergordon.) Bottled in collaboration with The Whisky Store, this will be available in Singapore by the end of the year.

Duncan Taylor is also currently in the process of renovating Castle Hotel, once an 18th century country house built for a duke and now reimagined as a luxury boutique hotel. It will feature interiors designed by Scottish Highlands based designer Fiona Rupert and is slated to open next year. For now, we returned to Duncan Taylor’s Club Room, situated within a former bank, to put all that we had learnt to the test with a whisky blending session.

Featuring a selection of five whiskies from Duncan Taylor’s own range, including a selection of single malts as well as a bottling from its popular The Octave series, Thompson briefed us on what a blend should comprise.

A grain whisky is a carrier of flavour that lays the foundation of everything to come, while layers of fruit, floral and rich malts build complexity and finally, depending on the blender’s requirements, a peated malt helps elevate, extend and bind a blend. A typical flavour profile uses peat in delicate amounts to extend the aftertaste of the entire blend – or in high amounts, will create a smokey whisky.

It was time to get creative.

I was tempted to sneak a peek at McHardy’s notes – this was child’s play for him after all – especially when I tasted how finely balanced his blend was.

But I was inspired by the fresh dessert Fortheath had made for us at Tomintoul House. Called cranachan, this traditional Scottish dish has cream mixed with fresh seasonal berries including raspberries and strawberries and bolstered with oats and Scotch.

As it turned out, the resulting light, fruity and floral flavours of my blend did evoke the summery delight of this dessert. However, with a gentle body and a short finish, I strongly doubted it would stand up to a connoisseur's palate. But that didn’t not matter.

What I had was infinitely more precious – a bottled memento of a picturesque road trip through Scotland learning about the ins and outs of what many have been moved to call liquid gold.

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