From Edinburgh: Speyside Whisky Trail 3-Day Group Tour

Discover the captivating whisky culture of Scotland’s renowned Speyside region on this 3-day group tour from Edinburgh. Enjoy the rich heritage and flavors of iconic distilleries, savor a unique whisky and chocolate tasting, and enjoy the expertise of knowledgeable guides. With comfortable accommodations and a small group size, this intimate excursion promises an unforgettable whisky adventure. Uncover the secrets of Lindores Abbey, Cardhu, and Dalwhinnie – just a hint of what this tour has in store.

Key Points

• This 3-day group tour from Edinburgh explores the renowned Speyside whisky region, including visits to distilleries, cooperages, and a whisky and chocolate tasting.

• The tour is priced from $682.67 per person, with a maximum group size of 16 for a small-group experience, and free cancellation up to 14 days in advance.

• Highlights include visiting the first recorded distillery, Lindores Abbey, as well as iconic distilleries like Cardhu and Dalwhinnie, with included tastings and meals.

• Accommodation is provided for 2 nights in locally owned guesthouses or B&Bs, with a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

• The tour has received exceptional customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 77 reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Speyside Whisky Trail Tour is a 3-day group excursion from Edinburgh, priced from $682.67 per person.

A 3-day group excursion from Edinburgh exploring the renowned Speyside region, priced from $682.67 per person.

This small-group tour, limited to 16 participants, offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance.

Led by a live English-speaking guide, the 3-day tour explores the renowned Speyside region, home to numerous distilleries.

Accommodation is provided for 2 nights in locally owned guesthouses or B&Bs.

The tour includes entry fees to several distilleries, such as Lindores Abbey, Cardhu, and Dalwhinnie, with tastings included.

Transportation is by a 16-seat minibus.

This immersive experience provides a deep dive into Scotland’s whisky heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, visitors explore Lindores Abbey, the site of the first recorded distillery dating back to 1494, and then tour Whisky Castle, which boasts a collection of over 600 malt whiskies.

The scenic drive through Cairngorms National Park follows.

On day two, travelers visit Cardhu Distillery, known for its female pioneer, Helen Cumming, and the Speyside Cooperage before ending at Glen Moray Distillery.

The final day features a whisky and chocolate tasting at Dalwhinnie Distillery, then exploration of Pitlochry, Hermitage forest, and Dunkeld before returning to Edinburgh.

Included Features

The tour package includes transportation by a 16-seat minibus, as well as 2 nights’ accommodation in locally owned guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, with en-suite rooms.

Distillery entries are included for Lindores Abbey, Glen Moray (or Cragganmore), Cardhu, Speyside Cooperage, and Dalwhinnie. Tastings are provided at these locations.

Meals, either dinner or lunch, are also included. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, and the accommodations are located on the outskirts, with a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

Group size is limited to 8 passengers per tour.

Important Information

Although the Speyside Whisky Trail Tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years, the accommodations are located on the outskirts of the visited areas, requiring a 20-30 minute walk to access local facilities.

To maintain the integrity of the small group experience, the tour is limited to 8 passengers per group. Plus, the Speyside Cooperage is only visited on Monday and Wednesday departures.

Lastly, Cragganmore Distillery will be observing its Silent Season from May 19 to May 27, 2025, so the itinerary will feature Glen Moray Distillery instead during that time period.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on the 77 reviews, the Speyside Whisky Trail Tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Travelers particularly praise the knowledgeable tour guides, who enhance the whisky learning journey with their expertise.

The transportation also earns high marks at 4.8/5, ensuring a comfortable and scenic experience.

While the value for money is rated 4.6/5, reviewers highlight the tour’s excellent overall quality.

With these stellar ratings, the Speyside Whisky Trail Tour offers an exceptional way to explore Scotland’s renowned whisky region from Edinburgh.

Day 1: Lindores Abbey and Whisky Castle

As the tour kicks off, guests embark on a journey to Lindores Abbey, the site of the first recorded distillery dating back to 1494.

They explore the historic abbey and learn about its significance in the origins of Scotch whisky.

Next, they visit Whisky Castle, which boasts an impressive collection of over 600 different malt whiskies.

Guests have the opportunity to sample some of these rare and unique expressions, expanding their appreciation for the depth and diversity of Speyside’s whisky heritage.

The day concludes with a scenic drive through the stunning Cairngorms National Park, setting the stage for the upcoming adventures.

Day 2: Cardhu Distillery and Speyside Cooperage

On the second day, the tour explores Cardhu Distillery, which holds significance as the pioneering work of Helen Cumming, one of the first female distillers in Scotland.

Guests will learn about Cardhu’s rich history and how Helen’s innovative approach shaped the distillery’s legacy.

Cardhu’s rich history and Helen Cumming’s innovative approach shaped the distillery’s enduring legacy.

The tour then visits the Speyside Cooperage, where participants witness the skilled craft of barrel-making, a crucial element in whisky maturation.

Visitors gain insight into the importance of cask selection and the role cooperage plays in the Scotch whisky industry.

This well-rounded day provides both cultural and technical perspectives on the Speyside whisky region.

Day 3: Dalwhinnie Distillery and Scenic Pitlochry

The final day of the Speyside Whisky Trail Tour begins with a visit to the Dalwhinnie Distillery, where participants enjoy a whisky and chocolate tasting experience.

Dalwhinnie, Scotland’s highest distillery, is known for its light, delicate Highland single malt.

After the tasting, the tour explores the picturesque town of Pitlochry and the scenic Hermitage forest.

The group then visits Dunkeld, a charming village on the banks of the River Tay, before returning to Edinburgh.

This final day provides a well-rounded conclusion to the immersive whisky journey through the Speyside region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Early Should I Arrive at the Meeting Point?

The tour recommends arriving at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This allows the tour guide to greet participants, distribute any necessary materials, and depart on schedule.

Can I Bring My Own Whisky Flask on the Tour?

The tour operator does not allow participants to bring their own whisky flasks. This is to ensure the integrity of the tasting experiences at the distilleries included in the itinerary. Guests are expected to sample the whiskies provided during the tour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?

The tour provides meals, but dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated if mentioned at the time of booking. Travelers should inform the operator of any special dietary needs to ensure a suitable experience.

What Items Should I Pack for the 3-Day Tour?

For the 3-day tour, one should pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers of clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a small backpack or bag. It’s also a good idea to bring any personal toiletries and medications.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Whisky Bottles During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase whisky bottles during the tour. Visitors can purchase bottles at the distilleries they visit, including Lindores Abbey, Glen Moray (or Cragganmore), Cardhu, and Dalwhinnie, where tastings are included.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Scotland’s celebrated whisky heritage on this 3-day group tour. Explore iconic distilleries, savor a unique whisky and chocolate tasting, and enjoy comfortable accommodations while discovering the stunning Speyside region. With expert guides and a small group size, this tour offers an authentic and unforgettable whisky adventure, priced from $682.67 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: