The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Tour

If you’ve come this far north, you’ve likely been drawn up here for a number of reasons. Nessie is one, the Highlands another. The stunning Cairngorms National Park, UK’s largest, brimming with ancient Caledonian forests and majestic mountains hiding in the clouds… some of which you’ll spot today. 

And then there’s the Speyside Region and its famous, delicious, must-have-immediately whisky. We have a saying here in Scotland: ‘Today’s rain is tomorrow’s whisky.’ 

It’s a lovely way of reminding ourselves to get through the hard times, because it’s the rain that we can make something wonderful out of. Something like whisky.  

Within the Speyside Region, you’ll find some 50 distilleries working hard to produce these delectable drinks. From honeyed to fruity, every whisky packs its own punch. With each sip, you can taste the history, the landscape, the years of passion, and hard work. 

So, can you understand why we’re so passionate about sharing that experience with you? 

We say goodbye to Inverness for now and head into Speyside. This area is more than its whisky, mind you. It played a significant role in the Jacobite Uprisings of the 17th and 18th centuries, and there’s more than enough stories to keep any history-buff entertained. Why not ask your driver-guide for some stories as you traverse the landscape on your way to your first stop: the Cairn Distillery.  

Pioneers and legacy builders, that’s who brought Cairn Distillery to life. And their mission is to build a legacy of exceptional whisky. Named after those man-made stacks of stones we all know and love, the distillery is devoted to inspiring people through their product and challenging both themselves and others to take on new paths. This morning, we tour this wonderful facility and sample some of their best whisky. 

Stomach warmed, we make for one of Speyside’s local villages for a bite to eat. After a classic Scottish feed, we head back into the striking east Highlands landscape towards one of the highest villages in Scotland – Tomintoul. Tucked up near the banks of the River Avon, it’s a lovely wee spot for a visit. You may even recognise it from the 2004 film One Last Chance starring Kevin McKidd and Dougary Scott. 

But we’re here for the whisky so we head straight for The Whisky Castle. This shop has been selling over 600 of the finest malt whiskies of Scotland for over 120 years. Whisky is what they do, it’s what they love, so pay close attention to the tutored tasting you’ll be lucky enough to experience.