Inverness: Craigs Luxury North Highland Private Whisky Tour

Inverness: Craigs Luxury North Highland Private Whisky Tour – An Insider’s Look

The Inverness: Craigs Luxury North Highland Private Whisky Tour offers a personalized journey through Scotland’s famed whisky country. Priced with a 7.5-hour duration, this tour departs from Inverness, taking visitors on a scenic drive along the A9 route. It includes an admission to the production areas of a distillery of your choice—either Balblair, Glenmorangie, Glenord, or Clynelish—plus tastings at other distilleries.

This private, customizable experience is ideal for those eager to explore world-famous Scotch whisky distilleries while enjoying the spectacular Highland scenery. The tour features luxury transportation, snacks, bottled water, and a guide, giving it a relaxed yet informative vibe. The flexible schedule lets you spend as much time as you like at each stop or make extra unscheduled stops, making it a flexible way to enjoy Scotland’s whisky heritage.

While tastings are not included in the package, the production area tour at the distillery of your choice makes this experience particularly engaging. The tour is best suited for adults over 18, and it’s especially popular during weekdays when distillery availability is higher.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable whisky tour starting from Inverness
• Includes a production area tour at one distillery of your choice, subject to availability
• Duration of 7.5 hours, with flexible timings
• Luxury transportation and a professional guide included
• Stops at Dornoch’s Whisky Cellars and other distillery visits
• Tastings are not included, but opportunities to sample whiskies at distilleries are offered

Scenic Drive Along the Scottish Highlands on a Private Vehicle

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Inverness, where a luxury vehicle awaits. From there, the journey follows the A9 route, renowned for its stunning Highland views and picturesque landscapes. The drive itself becomes a highlight, offering sweeping vistas of mountains, lochs, and rolling hills.

This scenic route is considered one of the most beautiful in the UK. The comfortable private vehicle ensures a quiet, relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the views without the hustle of larger group tours. The flexibility of this arrangement allows stops wherever desired, whether for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

Traveling in a private car means the pace is tailored to your preferences, making this a comfortable and personalized experience. The journey sets the tone for an indulgent day immersed in Scottish culture and natural beauty.

Visiting Iconic Highland Distilleries: Balblair, Glenmorangie, Glenord, or Clynelish

A core component of this tour is the production area tour at one of the selected distilleries. This visit includes a behind-the-scenes look at how whisky is made, providing insights into the production process. The choice of distillery depends on availability and your preferences.

Other distilleries visited during the day offer the chance to sample whiskies—though tastings are not included in the tour price. The opportunity to explore multiple distilleries or enjoy tastings at the remaining locations makes this experience both educational and enjoyable. The flexibility to spend as much time as you wish at each site allows for a relaxed, unrushed exploration.

The distilleries are well-known in the industry, and the guided tours are led by knowledgeable staff who explain the craftsmanship behind each whisky. This aspect of the experience is especially appreciated by connoisseurs or those eager to learn more about Scotch production.

Stop at Dornoch and Discover the Carnegie Whisky Cellars

A notable stop during the tour is Dornoch, where visitors can check out the Carnegie Whisky Cellars. This shop offers an impressive selection of Scotch whiskies, perfect for browsing or purchasing a bottle to take home.

This stop adds a touch of local charm and offers a chance to expand the whisky experience beyond the distillery visits. Depending on your timing, this could be a great opportunity to find a unique bottle or simply enjoy the quaint atmosphere of Dornoch, a town known for its historic charm.

The visit to Carnegie Whisky Cellars is a highlight for whisky enthusiasts, providing access to rare and quality whiskies that might not be available elsewhere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customization and Flexibility During the Tour

One of the key strengths of this experience is the flexibility it offers. You can spend as little or as much time at each distillery or Dornoch stop. The guide ensures your day suits your interests, whether you want to focus on distillery tours, tasting sessions, or sightseeing.

You also have the option to make unscheduled stops at other attractions along the route. This flexibility makes the tour adaptable to your mood and preferences, whether you’re a whisky fan or simply want to enjoy the Highland scenery.

This level of customization is especially appealing for those who prefer a tailored experience rather than a rigid itinerary. It allows a more relaxed pace and personal attention, perfect for travelers seeking an intimate exploration of Scotland’s whisky country.

Logistics and Practical Details of the Tour

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Inverness, where guests should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The private transportation is included, along with snacks and bottled water to keep you refreshed throughout the day.

The guide leads the journey, providing context and answering questions about whisky and Highland scenery. Since the tour is private, it is suitable for small groups or families wishing for a personalized experience.

It’s important to note that tastings are not included in the price and must be purchased separately at the distilleries. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years and alcohol consumption is only permitted for those over 18. No smoking or intoxication is allowed in the vehicle.

Booking is flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The live English-speaking guide enhances the experience through their knowledge and storytelling.

The Distillery Choice: Clynelish, Balblair, or Glenmorangie

At the core of this experience is the production area tour at a distillery of your choice. These include Clynelish, Balblair, and Glenmorangie—all highly regarded in the Scotch whisky scene.

Your selection depends on availability and your personal interest. The distillery tour provides an educational look into whisky production, giving insight into the craftsmanship behind each brand. Following the tour, you will have the opportunity to sample whiskies at other distilleries visited during the day.

This aspect highlights the customization of the tour, ensuring you visit the distillery that appeals most to your taste or curiosity.

Who Should Consider This Private Whisky Tour?

This tour is perfect for whisky enthusiasts eager to explore famous Highland distilleries in a relaxed, personalized setting. The luxury transportation and flexible schedule make it suitable for those who appreciate comfort and customization.

It is especially appealing for adults over 18 who want an in-depth look at whisky production and tasting opportunities. Because it’s a private tour, it’s also well-suited for families, couples, or small groups looking for an intimate experience.

While it offers excellent value for those interested in whisky and Highland scenery, it is less suitable for children under 10 or anyone seeking a structured group activity with fixed timings.

Inverness: Craigs North Highland Whisky Tour – Final Thoughts

The Craigs Luxury North Highland Private Whisky Tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, whisky education, and personalized service. The private nature allows for tailored stops and a relaxed pace, making it stand out among Highland tours.

While tastings are not included in the price, the production area tours and visits to renowned distilleries make this a compelling choice for whisky lovers. The scenic drive and stops like Dornoch add additional charm, making it a well-rounded Highland experience.

This tour is best suited for adults over 18 who want a luxurious, customizable day exploring Scotland’s whisky heartland. It provides excellent value, especially for those looking for a more intimate and flexible alternative to larger group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Inverness: Craigs North Highland Private Whisky Tour?
The tour lasts 7.5 hours, with departure times varying based on availability.

What distilleries can I visit on this tour?
You can choose to visit Balblair, Glenmorangie, Glenord, or Clynelish, depending on availability.

Are whisky tastings included?
No, tastings are not included but are available at the distilleries during your visit.

Can I spend more time at a particular distillery?
Yes, the tour allows you to spend as little or as much time as you wish at each stop.

Is there an opportunity to buy whisky during the tour?
Yes, at Dornoch’s Carnegie Whisky Cellars, where a selection of Scotch whiskies is available.

What is the minimum age for this tour?
The legal age for alcohol consumption in distilleries is 18 years or older.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 10 years.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing is recommended; bring proof of age if necessary. Snacks and bottled water are provided.

How do I book and pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later. Full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available for the guide?
This experience is conducted in English.

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