Private Highland whisky tour from Edinburgh- Build your own tour!

The Private Highland whisky tour from Edinburgh offers an engaging and flexible way to explore Scotland’s famous whisky distilleries. Priced at $602.23 per person, this 7 to 10-hour journey caters to whisky enthusiasts eager to craft their own itinerary. Starting early at 7:30 am, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup offered and bottled water provided. While the tour is tailored to individual preferences, it’s worth noting that admission tickets to distilleries are not included, meaning expect to purchase your tastings on-site.

This tour is ideal for those who want a personalized experience, working closely with a knowledgeable guide to select stops that suit their interests. Reviews reflect high praise for the driver’s professionalism and friendliness, though some find the overall price slightly steep for the experience offered. The flexibility and access to multiple distilleries make this a compelling choice for whisky lovers eager to learn and taste in a scenic Highland setting.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary: Select distilleries based on your interests, working with a guide.
• Comfortable travel: Ride in a fully air-conditioned vehicle across Highland country lanes.
• Visit renowned distilleries: Stops include Glen Ord (Singleton), Glenmorangie, Dalwhinnie, Oban, Glengoyne, and more.
• Learn from experts: Guides share insights into whisky history and production processes.
• Taste whisky: Sample freshly distilled whisky at some locations, with tastings generally not included in the price.
• Flexible scheduling: Tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning.

Starting the Highland Whisky Adventure

The tour begins bright and early at 7:30 am, with pickup offered in Edinburgh. The private transportation ensures a relaxed environment to enjoy the scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands. The itinerary is flexible, allowing travelers to prioritize their preferred distilleries, making this tour adaptable for both whisky connoisseurs and those new to Scotch.

With a fully air-conditioned vehicle, the journey takes you along country lanes and mountain passes, providing stunning vistas of the Highland landscape. The guide provides commentary about the area’s history and heritage, enriching the experience beyond just whisky tastings. The trip’s duration is around 7 to 10 hours, giving ample time for stops, photos, and discussions.

Visiting the Singleton Distillery in Glen Ord

The first stop is the Singleton Distillery at Glen Ord, which is a modern addition to the Highland whisky scene. Known for its single malt crafted by Diageo, this distillery aims to rival giants like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet. Visitors spend about 30 minutes exploring the facilities, though admission tickets are not included, so expect to pay on-site if you wish to sample the whisky.

Glen Ord’s modern approach makes it a fascinating starting point, showcasing current trends in Scotch whisky production. The distillery’s location in the lush Highland landscape provides an excellent introduction to Scotch making technology and innovation.

Discovering Highland Heritage at Glenmorangie

Next, the tour visits Glenmorangie in Tain, a distillery celebrating its 175th anniversary. Glenmorangie is recognized as a pioneer in the modern malt boom and has been marketing itself as a single malt since Victorian times. During your 30-minute visit, you’ll learn about its long-standing tradition and innovative methods.

The staff at Glenmorangie are noted for being great and will share stories about the distillery’s evolution. Tours here offer insight into the heritage of Highland whisky, and sampling the whisky after the tour is a popular highlight. However, admission tickets are not included, so tastings are paid for separately.

Blair Athol in Pitlochry: Malt for Bels and Single Malts

The Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry produces malt whisky used in Bells blends alongside a selection of single malts. The engaging tour lasts about 30 minutes, with guides capable of answering detailed questions about whisky production. This stop offers a mix of industrial history and craftsmanship.

The distillery’s location in the gateway to the Highlands makes it a scenic spot. Visitors can appreciate the small-scale yet historically significant operation, which has been producing whisky since the 19th century.

Dalwhinnie: Highland High-altitude Whisky and Chocolate Pairings

Dalwhinnie Distillery is notable for its height, being one of the highest distilleries in Scotland. Located in the Highland region, it offers an unusual opportunity to taste both its single malt and other Highland whiskies paired with Scottish Highland chocolate.

The 30-minute stop provides a chance to sample distinctive Highland whisky flavors and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The water source here is from the River Spey, despite the high altitude, adding a local touch to the whisky’s character.

The Intimate Experience at Edradour

Edradour Distillery in Perthshire is known as the smallest traditional distillery in Scotland, producing only twelve casks a week. The 30-minute tours are especially personal and unique, operating since 1825 as a farm distillery.

The charm of Edradour lies in its historic setting and small-scale operation, which allows visitors to see a working farm distillery. Its intimate atmosphere makes it a favorite for those seeking a more personal connection to Scotch whisky.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy: A Legacy of Marketing Genius

The Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery offers a trip back in time with a rich history of marketing. Founded in the early 20th century, Dewar’s was among the first to enlist famous figures like Thomas Edison to promote its whisky.

The 30-minute visit showcases the distillery’s heritage and explains why Dewar’s remains a top-selling blend, especially in the US. It’s a historic site that combines heritage with commercial success.

Deanston: From Textiles to Whisky in a Unique Mill

The Deanston Distillery in Perthshire is housed in a former textile mill built in 1966. The River Teith powers the facility, which generates its own electricity. The 30-minute tour highlights this industrial history and its transformation into a whisky producer.

Notable features include the remains of the largest waterwheel in Europe and the building’s distinctive architecture. Fans of film may recognize Deanston as the setting for Ken Loach’s “The Angels’ Share.”

Oban: Coastal Charm and West Highland Whisky

Oban Distillery sits prominently on the coast, with its small, grey granite buildings surrounded by the sea and cliffs. Built in the 1790s, it was originally little more than herring storehouses.

The 30-minute tour offers a rare opportunity to taste West Highland style whisky, which balances sweetness and smokiness. Its coastal location provides a stunning backdrop, and after the tour, visitors might catch a ferry to Tobermory’s reopened distillery.

Glengoyne: Scotland’s Most Beautiful Distillery

Glengoyne Distillery is often called “Scotland’s most beautiful” thanks to its picturesque setting. Located close to Glasgow, Stirling, and Loch Lomond, it has been operating since 1833.

During the 30-minute visit, guests can enjoy a distillery tour, whisky tastings, or even create their own whisky in the Master Blender experience. The traditional craftsmanship makes Glengoyne a highlight for those seeking deep insights into Scotch production.

The Glenturret: Scotland’s Oldest Working Distillery

The Glenturret Distillery, based in Perthshire, holds the title of Scotland’s oldest active distillery. It offers a variety of experiences, including the chance to buy whisky to take home. The hours are from 10 am to 5 pm, and the location is The Hosh, Crieff.

This distillery’s long history and hands-on approach give visitors a closer look at traditional Scotch whisky-making. It’s a great stop for those interested in heritage and craftsmanship.

Additional Highland Stops and Specialities

Other notable stops include Tomatin, Knockdhu, Balblair, Ben Nevis, Dalmore, Glen Garioch, GlenDronach, Royal Lochnagar, and Tullibardine. Each offers unique features—from rare cask collections at GlenDronach to legendary stories at Ben Nevis and remote beauty at Royal Lochnagar.

Most stops last about 30 minutes and do not include admission tickets, which visitors handle separately. These distilleries showcase the diversity of Highland Scotch, from traditional to modern styles.

Practical Details and Traveler Tips

The tour concludes back in Edinburgh, with a flexible schedule. Most travelers book about a month in advance and should be aware that admission costs are not included at distilleries. The private transport means you avoid the hassle of driving, and the group discounts make this a worthwhile investment for whisky aficionados.

While reviews praise the driver’s friendliness and the scenic countryside, some mention the value for money as a concern, especially given the cost relative to the experience. Comfortable vehicle conditions and customizable stops are among the tour’s strengths.

Final Thoughts on the Highland Whisky Tour

This private, build-your-own whisky tour from Edinburgh offers the flexibility and personal attention many whisky lovers seek. It’s well-suited for those who want to explore multiple distilleries without rushing, guided by experts who share insights into whisky craftsmanship and Highland culture.

The scenic drives, variety of distilleries, and opportunity to taste whisky make this a compelling choice, especially for visitors with specific preferences or those wanting a more tailored experience. While admission costs and pricing are points to consider, the overall personalized nature and expert guidance provide significant value for those eager to deepen their whisky knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-whisky drinkers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible, allowing guests to focus on the scenery, buildings, and history rather than just tastings.

Are admission tickets to distilleries included?
No, admission tickets are not included. Guests pay for tastings and entry separately at each distillery.

Can I customize which distilleries to visit?
Absolutely. The tour is built around your preferences, working with the guide to select stops that interest you most.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning at 7:30 am.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a fully air-conditioned vehicle suited for Highland country roads.

What is the price per person?
The cost is about $602.23, which includes private transportation and bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included but can be optional for you to arrange.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 31 days in advance to secure preferred dates.

What do reviewers say about this tour?
Reviews are generally positive, praising driver friendliness and the scenic experience. Some note that the value for money could be better, and a few have had less positive experiences with comfort or communication.

Is this tour suitable for small groups or solo travelers?
Since it is a private tour, it can be tailored to small groups or individuals, offering a more intimate experience.

Can I join this tour if I want to visit specific distilleries not listed?
Yes, the customizable nature allows you to include other distilleries if they are within the scope of the tour and agreed upon with your guide.