Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

This full-day whisky tour from Edinburgh offers a comprehensive look into Scotland’s most renowned spirit. For $141.02 per person, you spend approximately 9 hours exploring two historic distilleries, enjoying scenic views of Loch Lomond, and learning about Scottish whisky’s centuries-old traditions. The tour departs from Edinburgh Bus Station at 9:30 am and features admissions and tastings at both Glengoyne and Deanston distilleries.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the small-group size, limited to 16 people, which promises a more personalized and engaging visit. Based on reviews, many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to sample well-aged whiskies. A notable highlight is the scenic drive through Trossachs National Park, offering stunning natural views and a chance for a hearty pub lunch near Loch Lomond.

While some may find the limited tasting portions at each distillery a bit brief, most agree that the overall experience delivers good value for whisky enthusiasts and visitors who wish to combine sightseeing with tastings in an intimate setting.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Edinburgh lasting around 9 hours with admissions included
• Visits to Glengoyne and Deanston distilleries with sample tastings of aged whiskies
• Scenic drive through Trossachs National Park and views of Loch Lomond
• Small group capped at 16 travelers for a more personal experience
• Departs from Edinburgh Bus Station at 9:30 am and returns by evening
• Price of $141.02 per person, with options for self-funded lunch and additional purchases

Starting Point and Transport: Edinburgh Bus Station

The tour begins at the Edinburgh Bus Station, specifically at St Andrew Square, Gate J and K. The meeting time is 9:30 am, with check-in closing 15 minutes prior. The 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach ensures comfort and easy boarding, with grab handles and non-slip steps for safety.

Traveling in a luxury vehicle, the guide leads you through the Scottish Lowlands to the first stop. The small group size helps keep the journey intimate and allows the guide to share engaging stories about Scotland’s whisky heritage and landscape.

Visiting Glengoyne Distillery: Slow Still and Copper Stills

The first stop is the Glengoyne Distillery in Dumgoyne, renowned for its slow distillation process, one of the slowest in the world. The distillery’s idyllic setting at the foot of a hill makes it a beautiful spot for a visit. The grounds include historic copper stills, warehouses, and the cooperage.

The tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes and includes admission and tastings of two drams—one of 12-year-old whisky and another of 18-year-old whisky. Visitors can expect to learn about the complex production process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging, all explained in an accessible way by knowledgeable guides. Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and the quality of the whiskies sampled.

Scenic Drive through Trossachs National Park

After Glengoyne, the tour proceeds into Trossachs National Park for a scenic drive through forests, hills, and mountains. This part of the journey offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Scotland’s natural beauty. The drive provides a peaceful break from the distillery visits and sets the scene for the next stop.

Loch Lomond and Lunch Break

The next stop is Loch Lomond, where the group enjoys about 1 hour 30 minutes of free time. Visitors can admire postcard-perfect views, walk along the shoreline, or simply relax. A pub lunch is available near Loch Lomond at the traveler’s expense, allowing plenty of time to replenish energy after a morning of tastings.

This scenic spot adds a relaxed break amid the day’s activities, and many reviews note the beautiful landscape and the opportunity for great photos. The lunch stop also offers optional purchases, giving flexibility to explore local eateries or bring back some whisky souvenirs.

Deanston Distillery: Environmentally Friendly Whisky Production

The tour continues to Deanston Distillery, located in a converted cotton mill along the River Teith. Notably, Deanston is the most environmentally friendly distillery in Scotland, having reused hydroelectric generators from its factory origins.

The visit lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes and includes a sensory tasting of two different single malt Scotch whiskies. Guides at Deanston explain the production process and help guests identify flavors like lemon zest, nutmeg, toffee, cocoa, and vanilla. The distillery’s unique setting and focus on sustainability make it a distinctive part of the experience.

Guests are encouraged to visit the onsite shop to purchase bottles before heading back to Edinburgh. Many reviews praise the informative guides and the quality of the whiskies, even if some wish for more generous tastings.

Return Journey and Tour End

After Deanston, the journey back to Edinburgh begins. The relaxing ride offers an opportunity to discuss the day’s highlights, enjoy the scenery one last time, and reflect on the distillery tours and views of Loch Lomond. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in the evening, approximately 9 hours after departure.

Practicalities and Booking Tips

This tour is ideal for adults aged 18 and over and is suitable for those comfortable with small group travel. The vehicle cannot accommodate wheelchairs, but storage is available for folding wheelchairs or walking frames. There are no restrooms on the coach, but regular breaks are scheduled.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and bring cash or cards for optional lunch and souvenirs. Tasting fees at distilleries are not included and typically range between £10 and £30.

Final Thoughts on the Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

This Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour offers a well-rounded experience, balancing distillery visits, scenic drives, and free time at Loch Lomond. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides foster a more personalized and engaging atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the entertaining storytelling and quality of the whiskies sampled.

The main limitation is the brief tasting portions at each distillery, which may leave some craving more. However, the overall value and blend of sightseeing and tasting make this tour a good choice for whisky enthusiasts and those curious about Scotland’s drink heritage.

If you enjoy scenic landscapes, small-group tours, and learning from passionate guides, this experience proves a worthwhile addition to any Edinburgh visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs and ends at Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square.

Is there any parking nearby?
Parking is difficult in town, so it’s recommended to use public transportation for the meet-up.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, but a lunch stop near Loch Lomond is scheduled, providing options to purchase a meal.

What is the vehicle like?
The tour uses a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with safety features such as grab handles and non-slip steps.

Can I bring luggage on the tour?
Yes, up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage is permitted, typically one piece similar to an airline carry-on.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs?
The vehicle is not wheelchair accessible, but storage is available for folding wheelchairs or walking frames. Guests must be able to board and disembark independently or with assistance.

This tour from Rabbies Trail Burners offers a rich insight into Scottish whisky, scenic views, and a friendly guide, making it an excellent option for those wishing to combine cultural exploration with whisky tasting.