Itinerary Details
Arrival & Edinburgh at Leisure
Private Transfer to Hotel
Welcome to Scotland! After landing at Edinburgh Airport, complete customs and immigration formalities. A private transfer will escort you and your luggage to the hotel.
Edinburgh at Leisure
Today is entirely free to explore Edinburgh and you can choose from a wide variety of activities. For example, you may wish to visit the Scottish Storytelling Centre, which is a vibrant arts venue with live Scottish storytelling. You also may want to visit the John Knox House established in 1470, making it the oldest medieval building in Edinburgh. There's also the Royal Yacht Britannia, where you can learn about the history of Royal Yachts. You could stop at the Tartan Weaving Mill, right off of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, to see the inside of a working Scottish mill. Before you leave, you can even dress up in ancient Scottish costume and have your photo taken. Don't forget to stop at Edinburgh Castle, overlooking the city. Tonight, you may like to dine at one of the many fine restaurants or pubs scattered throughout the city.
2 Night Stay: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, Edinburgh
Perched on the edge of a picturesque private garden in the New Town, Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel blends traditional glamour with the Scotland of today. Outside, a classical Georgian exterior stands as an ode to the past while inside, past the lobby, a glass-topped central courtyard is abuzz with activity as guests unwind over gin and tonics and toast special occasions. The energy is so fresh and effervescent that you’ll want to bottle it and bring it home—but then again, it feels too distinctly Edinburgh to make sense anywhere else.
Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience - The Platinum Tour & The Taste of Scotland
Welcome to The Scotch Whisky Experience, a sensational attraction at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, where you will be inspired about the joys of Scotch whisky. Embark on a whisky lover's dream: a luxurious tour with an extended viewing of The World's Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky and a barrel ride through the production of whisky. Afterwards, enjoy a guided nosing and comparative whisky tasting. Fresh from your in-depth tour, you'll be seated in the Amber Restaurant to taste your way through a sumptuous three-course Scottish food experience with a blend of whisky and cuisine.
Highland Scenery
Meet Private Driver
Today your private driver services start. Meet your private driver in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 AM this morning. Enjoy your comfortable ride with your knowledgeable driver who will guide you through the popular and hidden gems of Scotland.
Lindores Abbey Distillery
At Lindores Abbey Distillery, we are delighted to bring our Single Malt to whisky lovers the world over. As sought after and enjoyed as much today as it was in MCDXCIV (1494).
Highlands Scenic Drive
Take a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Pass lochs and glens, as well as flora and fauna, as you enjoy some of Scotland's loveliest views.
2 Night Stay: The Fife Arms, Braemar
Built in the 19th century, The Fife Arms Hotel offers comfort and escape from your everyday. Stay in their guestrooms that are decorated to tell the many stories of Braemar. From fresh seafood and game to local whiskies and spirits, The Fife Arms' dining options showcase the finest, local produce. Featuring over 16,000 antiques, artworks, and curios, you may wish to take part in an art tour. Or, you can go fishing in the River Dee, running just past the hotel, relax with a spa treatment, or forage the surrounding area with the in-house forager.
Speyside Highlights
Speyside Cooperage - VIP Tour
Visit Speyside Cooperage where an experienced Cooper will guide you through the visitor centre, beginning with the 4D sensory cinematic presentation. You will then watch the Coopers fist hand and even try your hand at building miniature barrels! At the end of the tour, enjoy a dram along with some locally-made shortbreads.
The Macallan Estate - Discovery Experience
Welcome to The Macallan Estate in Speyside, the birthplace of every bottle of The Macallan. The Discovery Experience will take you through their proud heritage, while exploring the journey from acorn to glass, and sampling some of their distinguished single malt whiskies. You will be greeted with The Macallan roast coffee and home baked scones, before exploring Whisky Wall. You will then be led through the distillery experience, including a guided tour of the iconic Cave Priveé for a tutored tasting of some carefully selected whiskies, before visiting The Macallan Bar for a final whisky experience.
The Balvenie Distillery - Tour & Bottling Experience
A tour of The Balvenie distillery in Scotland is a unique experience. Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Dufftown, Speyside, you will see the only traditional, working floor maltings in the Scottish Highlands. Meet some of the expert craftsmen, and nose and taste some of their finest malt whisky. Conclude the tour with an exclusive experience of bottling your own Balvenie in Warehouse 24.
Glencoe Scenery & Oban
Ben Nevis Distillery
Ben Nevis Distillery is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland and is home to The Legend of the Dew of Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. Established in 1825 and nestled at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, Ben Nevis distillery is an impressive and historic place. You will encounter the mythical giant Hector McDram and a tasting of "the traditional Scottish craft."
Glencoe Scenic Drive
Visit the deep valley and towering mountains of Glencoe, carved out centuries ago by icy glaciers and volcanic explosions. Absorb spectacular Highland scenery and see Scottish wildlife. Glencoe is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. It's even featured in films such as James Bond's Skyfall and several Harry Potter movies.
Oban Distillery - Cask Signature Experience
Founded in 1794, the distillery is the heart of the Oban. The distillery only has two pot stills, making it one of the smallest in Scotland, producing a whisky that has been described as having a 'West Highland' flavor. Taste the signature Oban 14 year old, while listening to a discussion that immerses you in the craftsmanship and expertise involved in making the single malt. Conclude the tour in the filling store where you will enjoy a unique cask drawn sample of Oban whisky.
Oban at Leisure
Surrounded by miles of dramatic coast and beautiful countryside, enjoy the seaside town of Oban at leisure this afternoon. While in Oban, explore castles, gardens, villages, beaches, forests, and more. Wander along the seafront to the ruined Dunollie Castle or visit McCaig's Tower. Or, take a tour at Oban Chocolate Company and taste their delicious products. There are plenty of small galleries and independent stores to browse through as well. You may also choose take a day trip to one of the surrounding islands and discover the splendour of the Inner Hebrides. In the evening, take your pick from the town's offering of pubs, cafés, and restaurants.
Overnight: Perle Oban Hotel, Oban
Perle Oban is a luxury hotel in Oban that boasts beautiful views over the harbour. Designed with the perfect combination of Victorian charm and modern style. Breathe in the refreshing sea air, taste authentically local produce, and explore the awe-inspiring Oban.
Oban to Islay
Departure
Kennacraig to Port Ellen Ferry
This afternoon, take the ferry from Kennacraig over to Port Ellen.
Lagavulin Distillery - Warehouse Experience
Situated at the picturesque Lagavulin Bay, this is an experience not to be missed. Take a tour of the distillery, see the distillers at work, and view the unusual pear shaped stills. Peated malt, slow distillation, and long maturation together ensure Lagavulin develops a complex, rich, peaty character. Sample the maturation process of the spirit while enjoying a complimentary glass.
2 Night Stay: The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links, Islay
Set in the dunes of Islay, The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links enjoys an enviable location, nestled beside seven miles of pristine beach in the Inner Hebrides. The Machrie Hotel features beautifully designed rooms and offers guests the perfect place to meet and relax. It also boasts: 18, the impressive restaurant with stunning views, PureGray, the spa, and of course, the award winning Championship Golf Links.
Distilleries of Islay
Ardnahoe Distillery - Whisky & Food Pairing
Ardnahoe Distillery is one Scottish family’s dream unfolding as well as being the next chapter in the captivating story of the Whisky Isle of Islay. Ardnahoe is Scottish Gaelic for “Height of the Hollow,” which perfectly describes the beautiful setting in which the distillery lies. Enjoy a tutored tasting with tasty nibbles prepared by the kitchen team. These have been matched with selected expressions from the Hunter Laing range of whisky.
Caol Ila Distillery - Luxury Chocolate & Whisky Tasting
Pronounced 'Cull-Eela', the distillery is situated on the North-Eastern shores of Islay with magnificent views across the Sound of Islay to the spectacular Paps of Jura. Sit back, relax and enjoy a verity of their exceptional whiskies served with a selection of luxurious chocolates crafted by the award-winning Highland Chocolatier.
Kilchoman Distillery - Roving Tasting
As the only independent farm distillery on Islay, Kilchoman Distillery is proud to have all stages of the whisky-making process taking place right in one place. The roving tasting tour promises to be a treat for all your senses. As you work your way round the distillery, you’ll be offered tastings of 5 carefully chosen drams. You’ll experience an overwhelming variety of sights, smells and sounds, as you walk through the different stages in production, including the traditional Malt Floor, peat filled Kiln, and atmospheric Warehouse.
Loch Lomond & Auchentoshan
Departure
Port Ellen to Kennacraig Ferry
This morning, take the ferry from Port Ellen back to Kennacraig.
Loch Lomond Scenic Drive
Journey through the area surrounding the celebrated Loch Lomond, Scotland's longest loch. It is renowned in song and known for its unsurpassed beauty. The loch is located within Trossach National Park, which was designated by Scottish Parliament in 2002 as one of two national parks.
Auchentoshan Distillery
Visit Auchentoshan Distillery, established in 1823. Auchentoshan, meaning 'corner of the field', produces a delicate, smooth and light single malt whisky. The subtle aroma and flavour of its spirit is achieved by the unique triple distillation process, producing even greater refinement to its character. Take a guided tour of the distillery, sample a wee dram, and browse around the gift shop which stocks the full range of Auchentoshan Lowland Single Malt Whiskies and a selection of branded merchandise.
Overnight: Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow
Check into the luxurious Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, conveniently located in Glasgow's bustling city centre. The hotel offers guests comfortable rooms, a delicious seafood restaurant as well as a cocktail bar. Enjoy your time relaxing in your room, grabbing a bite to eat or setting out to explore the lively city.
Private Driver Services Conclude
Your private driver services will conclude at the end of the day. Ask your driver to reconfirm your return airport transfer, if applicable, before parting ways.
Glasgow Departure
Private Transfer to Glasgow Airport
Your vacation ends after breakfast with a private transfer to Glasgow Airport. We hope you had a wonderful vacation, and wish you a safe flight on your journey home. We can’t wait to hear all about your trip! Check in with us on any of our social media and website to share your pictures and stories.
