Speyside Whisky Trail & The Cairngorms

You leave Aberdeen in the morning and travel through the vast hills of Cairngorms National Park, one of Scotland’s most stunning areas and a vital habitat for rare mountain plants and other wildlife. We then arrive in Corgarff where you go for a little walk towards the Corgarff Castle, once a noble residence that in the 18th century was turned into a military base. Its striking white facade and incredible star formation make for epic photos.

Invigorated by the walk, you head deeper into the national park, as you travel past Cockbridge and Tomintoul. This legendary stretch of road regularly sees the first of the snowy winter weather and crosses the mountain pass known locally as the Lecht. You’ll have plenty of time for photo opportunities on this unforgettable route. Then you delve into the home of whisky, the Speyside region. Here, you stop at the Whisky Castle for an optional tutor whisky tasting and lunch. This whisky emporium has been selling the finest malt whiskies for over 120 years and is stocking over 600 malts, so it’s a real treasure trove for whisky lovers.

Next, we journey through the lovely County Moray, a region of coastal beauty, historic distilleries, and outdoor adventures. Enjoy beautiful views as we make our way to the Speyside Cooperage, a famous whisky barrel maker here in Scotland, where you’ll get to know the history of Scotland’s oak casks. From shaping to charring, learn the secrets of the craft that goes back 5,000 years in this fascinating place that still uses many traditional methods.

Then you head to Cardhu Distillery, the first distillery pioneered by a woman, Helen Cumming. Today, Cardhu is the most important whisky in Johnnie Walker’s Black Label. Cardhu has come a long way in 200 years. It started as a humble piece of farmland and now creates a Speyside Malt whisky loved worldwide. Go on a flavour journey and finish up with three drams of whisky and a highball cocktail. You leave Cardhu full of appreciation for whisky and arrive in Aberdeen in the early evening. It’s now up to you whether you continue the whisky tasting into the night.