3 days From Edinburgh

Group size Max 14 people

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Whisky connoisseurs, this one is for you. Because Speyside exists for people who want to wake up in a whisky lover’s paradise. Speyside is home to over half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries, names you’ll recognize from Cardhu to Speyburn. And now is your chance to explore not just one but four distilleries, while learning how whisky is intertwined with Scottish culture, as you venture through the beautiful Cairngorms National Park.

Day 1:

Pick up time: 8.45am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Morning Edinburgh to Lindores Abbey Distillery, Fife

Today, you embark on a journey through Scotland with a quest to learn more about whisky, or as we call it, “uisce beatha”the “water of life.” Leaving Edinburgh, we travel over the Queensferry Crossing, enjoying views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We journey through the Kingdom of Fife, graced with rolling hills and fertile farmlands to our first distillery of the day: Lindores Abbey.

Mid-Morning Lindores Abbey Distillery, Fife

The oldest written reference to whisky mentions Lindores Abbey and the Cistercian monks, who were among the first to distill spirits in Scotland in the late 15th century. Explore this modern Scottish distillery, built on the site of the first recorded distiller in the country in 1494. Discover the area’s rich historical legacy, combined with innovative and sustainable practices, all reflected in their fine Lowland whisky.

Afternoon Travel through Cairngorm National Park to the Whisky Castle

Continuing north, watch the scenery transform into forested hills and mountains in Perthshire. The journey features classic Highland landscapes as we approach Cairngorms National Park, heading toward Braemar for lunch. This charming village has close ties to the British royal family. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert fell in love with the area and purchased nearby Balmoral Castle, which remains a private residence today. Next, you will visit the Whisky Castle, a whisky emporium that has been selling fine malt whiskies for over 120 years, with an impressive selection of over 600 malts. Enjoy tasting three Speyside whiskies to appreciate the distinct flavors of the region.

Early Evening Free evening in Grantown-on-Spey, Speyside

After warming up with “the gentle spirit,” we’ll continue our journey through the Cairngorms National Park to Grantown-on-Spey, a charming town nestled along the River Spey, which will be your base for the next two nights.

Accommodation

Your overnight accommodation will be in Grantown-on-Spey.

Day 2:

Morning Grantown-on-Spey to Cardhu Distillery, Speyside

Get ready for a fun day exploring Speyside, Scotland’s most famous whisky region. Known for its lush landscapes along the River Spey, this area is home to over half of Scotland’s distilleries. The whisky produced here is characterized by its smooth, sweet, and fruity notes, often featuring hints of apple, pear, and honey, setting it apart from other Scotch whisky regions. We leave Grantown-on-Spey and journey to the first distillery of the day: Cardhu.

Mid-Morning Cardhu Distillery

Cardhu has come a long way in 200 years, evolving from a humble piece of farmland to a producer of beloved Speyside malt whisky. Discover the stories of Helen Cumming, a pivotal figure in the distillery’s success, and learn how Cardhu became a key component in popular blends like Johnnie Walker. Most importantly, embark on their exclusive Bespoke Tour, featuring a specially selected cask tasting offered exclusively to Rabbie’s customers. After warming up with your first dram, we continue to Aberlour for lunch.

Afternoon Lunch in Aberlour, Speyside Cooperage, Speyburn Distillery

After lunch in nearby Aberlour, we travel along the Spey River to Craigellachie for a visit to the Speyside Cooperage, where you see another aspect of the whisky making process. This is one of the last barrel-making places in Scotland that still uses traditional methods as well as modern techniques. From shaping to charring, learn the secrets of the craft that goes back 5,000 years as you explore this unique place. The last stop of the day, the charming Speyburn Distillery, is where tradition, craft and nature come together. Join their guided tour and uncover a legacy that dates back to 1897 and learn how the crystal-clear waters of the nearby stream help shape a bold, distinctive whisky full of character.

Early Evening Free evening in Grantown-on-Spey, Speyside

After a day full of new whisky revelations, you return to Grantown-on-Spey with some new thoughts; whisky is not just a drink. It’s an experience, a connection to the land, the craftsmanship, and history.

Accommodation

Your overnight accommodation will be in Grantown-on-Spey.

Day 3:

Morning Grantown-on-Spey to Dalwhinnie

Say goodbye to Speyside as we start our return journey through expansive moorlands and dramatic peaks of Cairngorms National Park to Dalwhinnie Distillery.

Mid-Morning Dalwhinnie Distillery and journey through the Cairngorms

By now you’ve become well-versed in whisky tasting, so a visit to Dalwhinnie will take you to the next level as you enjoy a masterclass experience arranged especially for our customers, whisky and chocolate tasting. This delectable combination will make you discover the nuances of flavors so characteristic to Dalwhinnie’s spirits. You will also get your own souvenir glass to take home with you to commemorate the experience. We continue south to Perthshire, often referred to as “Big Tree Country”, towards the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry for lunch.

Afternoon Lunch in Pitlochry and journey to Edinburgh

After trying some tasty local food and exploring the quaint streets of Pitlochry, we head to the Hermitage, where you can take a fantastic woodland walk amongst majestic Douglas firs and ancient oaks leading up to the stunning Black Linn Falls. Next, we find the gorgeous cathedral town of Dunkeld situated on the banks of the River Tay. You have the chance to explore the architecturally fascinating cathedral or walk the quaint streets of this picturesque village.

Early Evening Return to Edinburgh

It’s time to say goodbye to the Highlands as we continue south through the rolling hills and fertile farmlands of the Kingdom of Fife and then cross the Firth of Forth and return to Edinburgh.

You return to Edinburgh at approximately 6.30pm.

Contact Us at 800-621-2259 or info@tourcrafters.com to book today!

*Package descriptions and pricing are subject to change without notice.