Whisky Tour
A Full Day of Highland Flavour
You’ll enjoy the journey in a private vehicle, with time at each stop for tastings, photos, and learning more about the process from mash to cask. If you have a favourite distillery in mind, we’re happy to adjust the plan to suit your interests.
- Tour Duration: Approx. 8+ hours
- Start Time: 9:00 AM
- End Time: Around 5:00 PM
- Pickup and Drop-off: From Inverness or surrounding areas Distilleries You May Visit
North Highland Distilleries
Glenmorangie Distillery
Set beside the Dornoch Firth, Glenmorangie is known for producing smooth, floral single malts. Their tall copper stills and centuries of tradition make this a highlight of any whisky tour. The peaceful setting and light, citrusy profile of the whisky make Glenmorangie a welcoming start to your day.
Clynelish Distillery
One of the Four Corners of Johnnie Walker, Clynelish crafts a rich, waxy Highland malt. With views over coastal Sutherland and a modern visitor experience, it’s both scenic and insightful. It is particularly appreciated by those who enjoy subtle tropical fruit notes and a dry, slightly salty finish.
Balblair Distillery
Dating back to 1790, Balblair is one of the oldest distilleries in the Highlands. The pace here is unhurried, and the focus is on traditional methods, creating characterful whisky worth taking your time with. The stone buildings and slow-paced production give a real sense of stepping into the past.
The Singleton (Glen Ord) Distillery
Located near the Black Isle, this picturesque spot offers a fresh take on whisky-making with a newly updated visitor centre and wide-ranging tasting options. Its smooth, rich flavour is well-suited for those new to whisky as well as seasoned drinkers.
South Highland Distilleries
The Tomatin Distillery
South of Inverness, Tomatin offers warm hospitality and award-winning Highland malts. It’s known for its smooth style and the chance to fill your own bottle at the distillery shop. Tomatin’s light and fruity expressions are ideal for easing into the world of Highland whisky.
Dalwhinnie Distillery
As one of the highest distilleries in Scotland, Dalwhinnie delivers both altitude and attitude. Expect gentle notes of honey and heather, paired with spectacular Highland views. Its altitude contributes to the slower maturation, producing a softer, more refined character.
Kinrara Distillery (Note: Gin Distillery)
While best known for gin, Kinrara adds variety for those who enjoy small-batch spirits. Set near Aviemore in the Cairngorms, it’s a creative stop for those open to something different. The artistic labelling and alpine setting give it a unique charm that sets it apart.
Speyside Whisky Distilleries
Glenfiddich Distillery
Based in Dufftown, the heart of Speyside, Glenfiddich is one of the most iconic names in whisky. Their visitor centre is extensive, and the distillery tour covers every stage of production. Their 12, 15 and 18 year expressions are widely loved and offer clear differences in depth and finish.
The Balvenie Distillery
Balvenie stands out for keeping all traditional craft elements in-house, from floor malting to cooperage. A great choice for those who want to understand the full process. It is one of the few distilleries where you can still see hand-turned barley in action.
The Macallan Distillery
The Macallan Estate combines architectural brilliance with whisky excellence. With personal service and beautifully curated surroundings, this is a luxurious stop on any whisky tasting tour. Their sherry-cask matured whiskies offer a richer, deeper flavour that’s instantly recognisable.
Aberlour Distillery
Tucked beside the River Spey, Aberlour offers rich, complex whiskies. It’s smaller and more intimate than some neighbours, with a warm welcome for guests. It is particularly praised for its double cask maturation and balance between spice and sweetness.
Glenlivet Distillery
This historic distillery was the first to gain legal status in the parish of Glenlivet. Set in a remote and scenic part of Speyside, the tour highlights its pioneering spirit. It became the benchmark for smooth Speyside style, with a light and clean character.
GlenAllachie Distillery
An independently owned gem, GlenAllachie was named Visitor Attraction of the Year in 2022. Their Speyside single malts are gaining recognition for bold flavour and character. Their small batch releases have earned a growing reputation among whisky collectors.
Strathisla Distillery
One of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, Strathisla is the spiritual home of Chivas Regal. Tours include the opportunity to create your own blended whisky. The red-brick facade and twin pagoda roofs give it instant visual appeal.
Speyside Cooperage
Not a distillery, but a vital part of the whisky-making process. The cooperage shows how casks are made and maintained, with live demonstrations and a visitor centre. Visitors often find the coopers’ skill as captivating as the distilleries themselves.
Group Prices for Private Whisky Tours
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 to 4 people | £595.00 |
| 5 people | £645.00 |
| 6 people | £705.00 |
| 7 people | £765.00 |
| 8 people | £795.00 |
What Makes This Whisky Tour Stand Out?
- Local guide with insight into whisky production and Highland heritage.
- Private transport, allowing flexibility and comfort.
- Time at each distillery for tastings, photos, and questions.
- Personalised route options based on your preferences.
- A relaxed pace suited for both connoisseurs and newcomers.