From Edinburgh: Discovering Malt Whisky Day Tour with Entry

Discover the Best of Scottish Whisky on a Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh

The Discovering Malt Whisky Day Tour from Edinburgh offers a comprehensive look at Scotland’s iconic national drink. For $135 per person, you get a full 9-hour experience that includes visits to two distilleries, whisky tastings, and a scenic drive through some of the most picturesque parts of Scotland. The tour departs from the Scottish Citylink Travel Centre, with small group sizes limited to eight passengers, ensuring an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

While the tour does not include hotel pickup, it provides a well-rounded day filled with distillery tours, tasting experiences, and stunning scenery at Loch Lomond and the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Based on numerous positive reviews, this trip stands out for its knowledgeable guides, scenic route, and the chance to sample authentic Scotch whisky. A perfect choice for whisky lovers and those seeking to explore Scotland’s countryside in comfort.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $135 per person for a 9-hour day trip from Edinburgh.
• Distillery Visits: Includes guided tours and tastings at Glengoyne (2 drams) and Deanston (2 drams).
• Scenic Highlights: Passes Stirling, visits Loch Lomond, and explores the Trossachs National Park.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 passengers for a more personalized experience.
• Guides: Expert driver/guides like Graham, Ian, Lizzie, and others bring Scotland’s whisky culture alive.
• Note: Glengoyne observes a ‘Silent Season’ from June 25 to August 1, 2025, limiting production visits during this period.

Departure and Return from Edinburgh’s City Centre

The tour begins inside the Edinburgh Bus Station, specifically at Gate J and Gate K, located at St Andrew Square. The pickup is simple and convenient for visitors staying in Edinburgh city. The trip ends back at the same location, making it easy for travelers to continue their day or head to nearby attractions. Although hotel pickup is not included, the meeting point is accessible and well-known, making coordination straightforward.

Visiting Glengoyne: A Small but Storied Distillery

The first stop is Glengoyne Distillery, located at the foot of a charming hill. Known for its small size and beautiful setting, Glengoyne offers an intimate guided tour where visitors learn about the simple but magical process of whisky making—from barley to bottle. The tour includes a whisky tasting of two drams, typically a 10-year-old and 15-year-old single malt.

Reviews highlight Rebecca’s engaging and knowledgeable presentation, which strikes a perfect balance of fun and education. Due to the Silent Season between late June and early August 2025, visitors during this time will not see the production site, but the historic grounds, cooperage, and warehouses are still accessible for exploration.

Scenic Drive to Loch Lomond for Lunch and Views

After the Glengoyne tour, the group heads towards Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for a lunch break. The itinerary includes dining at a traditional pub near the shores of Loch Lomond, allowing travelers to enjoy local food and beers in a relaxed setting.

A short walk to a viewpoint overlooking Loch Lomond is highly recommended, offering picture-perfect views of the famous Scottish lake. The scenery and peaceful atmosphere make this stop a favorite, as several reviews mention the spectacular landscapes and the delicious lunch options available.

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Exploring Deanston: An Industrial Heritage and Unique Flavours

The second distillery is Deanston, a converted cotton mill situated on the River Teith. Known for its industrial history and distinctive whisky profiles, Deanston provides a guided tour where visitors learn about its past and production process. The whisky tastings here also include two drams, which many reviewers praise for their variety and quality.

Deanston’s architecture and setting are notable, contrasting with the smaller Glengoyne. The friendly staff and informative guides ensure a memorable visit, especially for those interested in Scotland’s industrial whisky heritage.

The Guide’s Role in Making the Day Special

Throughout the tour, guides like Graham, Bruce, Lizzie, and Ian bring Scottish stories and whisky knowledge alive with their engaging narration. Several reviews emphasize the guides’ friendliness, wit, and expertise, which enhance the overall experience. Some guides even serve as bus DJs, adding a fun musical element to the journey.

The small group size allows for more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, making it suitable for those eager to learn about whisky in a relaxed environment.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers all transportation, specifically a Mercedes minibus, and guided tours with tastings at both distilleries. The tastings include two drams at each location, providing a generous sampling of Scotland’s premier single malts.

Food and additional drinks are not included in the price, so travelers should plan for their own meals outside the included lunch. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided, but the meeting point in Edinburgh is easy to reach.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, especially for the short walks at Loch Lomond. The itinerary and distillery visits may be subject to change, and some stops could involve standing or walking. The tour is not suitable for children under 18, aligning with legal drinking age restrictions.

The Overall Experience and Value

This tour delivers a balanced day of distillery visits, scenery, and Scottish culture. Reviews consistently mention the high quality of guides, the beauty of the landscape, and the good value for the price, especially considering the included tastings and scenic stops.

The limitation of not visiting the production at Glengoyne during its silent period is worth noting, but the historic grounds and tastings still make it worthwhile.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

Whisky enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed tastings and expert guides. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning scenery around Loch Lomond. The small group setting suits those who prefer a more intimate experience with plenty of opportunity for questions and personal interaction.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Scottish whisky without the hassle of planning multiple visits, and for those eager to combine cultural insights with scenic beauty.

Final Thoughts on the From Edinburgh: Discovering Malt Whisky Day Tour

The 9-hour whisky tour from Edinburgh offers a rich introduction to Scotland’s whisky heritage, complemented by beautiful landscapes and engaging guides. For $135, it provides value, especially for those keen to explore both small and large distillery styles.

While it’s not designed for children or non-drinkers, adults with an interest in whisky, Scottish scenery, or cultural history will find this trip fulfilling. The small group size ensures a personalized, relaxed experience, making it a standout option among whisky tours in Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $135 per person.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with specific start times available based on availability.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour begins at the Scottish Citylink Travel Centre in Edinburgh, inside St Andrew Square.

Are tastings included?
Yes, the tour includes guided tastings of 2 drams at each of the two distilleries—Glengoyne and Deanston.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; travelers meet at the designated Edinburgh meeting point.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking at Loch Lomond and around the distilleries.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 18.

Will I see whisky production at Glengoyne?
During the Silent Season from June 25 to August 1, 2025, production site visits are not possible, but historic grounds and tastings are still available.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of distillery tours, Scottish scenery, and expert guides makes this a well-rounded experience for whisky lovers and curious travelers alike.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a way to book now and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a reserve and pay later option, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby