Speyside and Highlands Whisky Routes Tour
Description
Discover the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands and journey into Speyside, the historic heart of malt whisky. Over four memorable days, you will explore dramatic landscapes, hear stories from Scotland’s past, and enjoy exclusive experiences at some of the country’s most celebrated distilleries.
Day 1: Edinburgh to the East Coast
Your adventure begins in Edinburgh, leaving the city behind with a short stop to photograph the famous Forth Bridges. Crossing into the Kingdom of Fife, your whisky trail begins at Lindores Abbey Distillery, often described as the spiritual birthplace of Scotch whisky. Enjoy a guided tour, learn about their craft, and taste two drams of their excellent whisky. You will also have the chance to try their award winning Aqua Vitae, a beautifully spiced botanical spirit.
The journey continues north to the Arbikie Distillery on the Angus coastline. After lunch, you will discover how Arbikie produces whisky using innovative and sustainable methods, with ingredients grown on their family farm.
In the afternoon you will visit Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic cliff top fortress with sweeping views over the North Sea. After time to explore, you will travel onward to Aberdeen for an overnight stay in a four star hotel.
Day 2: Aberdeenshire to Speyside
The morning begins with a visit to the historic GlenDronach Distillery, known for its richly sherried whiskies. A guided tour and tasting will introduce you to their traditional methods and deep, complex flavours.
Next you will travel to Strathisla Distillery, one of the most picturesque distilleries in Scotland. Here you will step into the role of master blender and create your own whisky, followed by a tasting experience. The day concludes in the town of Grantown on Spey, where you will stay in a welcoming, high quality local bed and breakfast for two nights.
Day 3: Exploring Classic Speyside
Your third day follows the River Spey into the heart of Speyside. The first stop is the world famous Glenlivet Distillery for a Cask Masters Tasting Experience, where you will learn about its history of illicit distilling and its rise to global fame.
You will then visit GlenAllachie Distillery, known for its creative cask management and distinctive limited releases. Sample a selection of rare and unusual expressions, including distillery exclusives and a peated Speyside whisky.
Lunch is served at the Highlander Inn, a favourite among whisky enthusiasts. The final visit of the day is Cardhu Distillery, where you will enjoy a tour followed by a tasting challenge that invites you to identify five different whiskies.
Day 4: Cooperage Craft and Highland Scenery
After a restful night, the final day begins at the Speyside Cooperage, where you will watch skilled coopers at work and learn how casks are crafted and repaired. A dram of their ten year old single malt is included.
Your route south takes you through the stunning Cairngorms National Park to the Highland town of Pitlochry. After time for lunch and a wander through the village, you will visit Blair Athol Distillery for your final whisky experience of the tour. From here, you will return to Edinburgh where your journey comes to an end.
Important Information
Weather conditions, operational changes, or special events may occasionally affect access to certain distilleries. If this happens, suitable alternative visits will always be arranged to ensure you still enjoy a full and memorable experience.
Departure & Map
What's included
Departures 2026
May 16th
June 20th
July 18th
August 15th
September 12th
October 17th
Departure and Return Times
Departs Edinburgh: 08:15 (check in from 08:00)
Returns to Edinburgh: 19:00 (approximate)
Departure Point
Cafe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
Prices Per Person
Prices include accommodation.
Select your preferred date to view pricing for that specific departure.
Important Price Notes
Children are not permitted on this tour.
Ensuite rooms are guaranteed with the Hotel and Superior bed and breakfast options.
What Is Included
Minibus transport for a maximum of 16 guests
Services of a professional tour guide
Tour and Tasting at Lindores Abbey
Tour and Tasting at Arbikie
Tour and Tasting at GlenDronach
Blending Experience at Strathisla
Cask Masters Tasting at Glenlivet
Tasting at GlenAllachie
Tour and Tasting at Cardhu
Tasting at Blair Athol
Tour of Speyside Cooperage
Admission to Dunnottar Castle
One night four star hotel accommodation in Aberdeen
Two nights ensuite bed and breakfast accommodation in Grantown on Spey
- Need more information?
- Interested in a private tour like this one?
- Please get in touch