Spirit of Speyside Whisky Tour (Starts Aviemore)

This is a bucket-list kind of day, isn’t it? If you’re a whisky lover, you’ve likely chosen this tour because of that word: Speyside. Tucked up in the northeastern part of Scotland is our most famous whisky region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest single malt Scotch whiskies. 

In this wee part of Scotland, you’ll find some 50 distilleries alone operating and producing these delectable drinks. From traditional to state-of-the-art, the distilleries calling to you each have something incredible to offer. Fine, elegant, complex whiskies… some fruity, some floral, some honeyed. Complex flavours waiting to be sampled, to be loved by you… on this tour. 

Today we depart the lovely town of Aviemore and head into the stunning Cairngorms National Park, where – among the ancient forests and majestic mountains – you’ll find some of our beloved Speyside. This region is named after the River Spey which you may just spot along the journey, so keep an eye out. You may even see Scotland’s history carved into the very landscape, haunting whispers all around you, and your driver-guide may just regale you with some of the stories. Having played a significant role in the Jacobite Uprisings of the 17th and 18th centuries, Speyside has plenty of stories to tell. 

And while some are etched into history, some are a little less certain but just as intriguing. Look around as you drive through the landscape today and keep your eyes peeled for fairy mounts, or “knockers”, which are scattered about. Keep your distance though. Legend has it that they serve as portals to the realm of the fairies… and fairies aren’t the nicest of creatures.  

But one thing the fairies approve of? A wee dram of whisky. So, we make our first stop at the Cairn Distillery, a modern home for ancient craft. Named after cairns – man-made stacks of stones – the distillery is devoted to inspiring people through their product and challenging both themselves and others to take on new paths.  

Pioneers and legacy builders, that’s who brought Cairn Distillery to life. And their mission is to build a legacy of exceptional whisky. This morning, we tour this wonderful facility and sample some of their best whisky.  

Stomach warmed and intrigue activated, we head into one of Speyside’s local villages for a bite to eat. After a fortifying feed, we dive back into the rolling hills of the east Highlands into one of the highest villages in Scotland – Tomintoul. It’s name means “Hillock of the Barn” and running close to 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 and you’ll be welcome into a wonderful place… 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 take the time to wander and see if you might need a bottle or two to take home with you.  

Best part? It’s not just a chance for you to shop and wander… you’ll receive a tutored tasting from the lovely staff at the Whisky Castle too, so you know where to start with so many amazing tastings on offer.