Scotland and Whisky: Journey to the Heart of the Distilleries
Scotland and Whisky: Journey to the Heart of the Distilleries: what to see?
The Scotland and Whisky: Journey to the Heart of the Distilleries self-drive tour is an immersive 11-day journey that combines mythical landscapes, Scottish culture and the discovery of the greatest whisky-producing regions. From the wild island of Islay to the prestigious distilleries of Speyside, via the mountains of Glencoe, Loch Ness and the Highlands, each stop reveals the authentic soul of Scotland. The journey alternates tastings, cultural visits, awe-inspiring scenery and the discovery of Edinburgh, to offer a complete, varied and deeply Scottish experience. An ideal itinerary for whisky lovers and lovers of the great outdoors.
Scotland and Whisky: Journey to the Heart of the Distilleries: itinerary
First steps in Scotland: History, Lochs and Castles
On arrival in Edinburgh, collect your hire car and begin your whisky adventure. Stop off in Stirling to admire the castle and the William Wallace monument, offering spectacular views of the city and the Highlands.
Continue along Loch Lomond and stop off in the picturesque village of Luss, with its stone cottages and views of the loch islands.
Finally, discover Inveraray Castle, a neo-Gothic castle on the shores of Loch Fyne, surrounded by gardens and green hills.
You'll spend your first night in a charming guest house not far from the harbour for your crossing to Islay tomorrow morning.
Islay, Queen of the Hebrides: Between sea and whisky
Early in the morning, board the ferry from Kennacraig and let the sea rock you. Soon, the mysterious contours of Islay, the Queen of the Hebrides, will appear on the horizon.
The island has a wild and authentic atmosphere: steaming peat bogs, windy moors and a salty fragrance, the birthplace of Scotch whisky.
Visit Caol Ila, overlooking the sea, then pause at Ardnahoe to admire the coast and hills. Finish in Bunnahabhain, famous for its sweet and fruity whiskies, in a picturesque setting perfect for photos.
You'll spend the night in a charming little hotel, ideal for resting after your first immersion in the heart of Islay.
Whisky day on Islay: Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg
Start at Laphroaig, famous for its iodised whiskies. Discover the traditional stills and the art of peated whisky, then enjoy a guided tasting overlooking the sea and the island of Jura.
Continue with Lagavulin, on the bay of the same name. Savour its intense, smoky whisky while admiring the panoramic view of the sea and surrounding hills.
Finish the day with Ardbeg, renowned for its powerful single malts. Explore the distillery, discover its history and enjoy a guided tasting revealing the full complexity of its whiskies.
Between visits, enjoy Islay's wild and picturesque landscapes, windy coastlines and breathtaking panoramas.
Another Whisky Immersion on Islay
Start at the Bowmore distillery, one of the oldest on Islay. Discover the traditional methods, stills and ageing warehouses, then enjoy a guided tasting of its fine whiskies.
Continue on to Bruichladdich, famous for its unpeated whiskies and innovative experiments, with magnificent views over the loch.
Finish the day at Kilchoman, the island's only farm distillery, where the barley is grown on site. Learn about the production process and enjoy a tasting while admiring the surrounding moors and hills.
Take a break at Machir Bay, famous for its golden sands, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
En route to Glencoe, the wild heart of Scotland
Board the ferry and leave the shores of Islay for the mainland. Enjoy the seascapes one last time before setting off for Oban, the charming gateway to the islands.
Stroll along Oban harbour, past colourful boats and local shops, then enjoy a fish & chip or fresh seafood platter overlooking the sea.
Your day ends in Glencoe, the mythical valley of the Highlands. Surrounded by majestic peaks and waterfalls, it embodies all the wild grandeur of Scotland.
Settle into a charming guest house nestling in the heart of this magnificent natural setting, and enjoy a peaceful evening in a warm, authentic atmosphere.
From the mists of Glencoe to the banks of the Ness
Start your day with a morning walk through the magnificent valley of Glencoe, the jewel of the Highlands, where the mountains seem to touch the sky.
Then take the road to Glenfinnan, an iconic place where the famous viaduct stands in a picture-postcard setting. Watch the steam train pass through its arches.
Continue your adventure to Loch Ness, whose dark waters are home to more than just legends. Embark on a peaceful cruise to discover this mythical loch.
Finish the day in Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Enjoy a friendly local dinner before settling into an elegant Victorian hotel.
Inverness, Victorian elegance and malty flavours
Stroll through the Victorian Market, a historic gem where craftsmen and traders perpetuate the soul of the Highlands under a splendid 19thᵉ century glass roof.
Continue to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which reveals the history and culture of the Highlands through collections of Celtic art and captivating exhibitions.
Treat yourself to a moment of tranquillity in the botanical gardens, an oasis of greenery with carefully landscaped tropical greenhouses and rose gardens.
Finish the day on the whisky trail: discover Glenmorangie, renowned for its fruity single malts, then Dalmore, whose powerful, refined whiskies bear witness to exceptional Scottish craftsmanship.
Head for Speyside: history, nature and distilleries
From the heights of the Cairngorms to the beauty of Edinburgh
Stroll through the Cairngorms National Park, a setting of majestic mountains, ancient forests and sparkling rivers.
Then visit Blair Castle, an iconic white castle surrounded by elegant gardens and populated by majestic deer.
On arrival in Pitlochry, immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of this lively Victorian village.
Stop off at South Queensferry to admire the famous Forth Bridges, three masterpieces of engineering that stand majestically above the Firth of Forth.
Return to Edinburgh, where you will spend the night in a city-centre hotel, ideal for exploring Scotland's capital on foot and enjoying its unique atmosphere.
A magical day in Edinburgh: historic streets and enchanting views
Immerse yourself in the magic of Edinburgh as you stroll its charming streets. Start on garden-lined Princes Street, with the Old Town perched on its volcanic rock.
Victoria Street and Grassmarket offer colourful facades and quaint cafés, while the cobbled streets and Writers’ Museum reveal Scottish history and writers. Edinburgh Castle offers impressive views, and St Giles Cathedral marvels at its Gothic architecture.
To finish, a traditional pub welcomes you with folk music, then Calton Hill offers a magical view of the illuminated city, an unforgettable moment to end your day.
Last magical moments in Edinburgh: panoramic views, villages and gentle bohemia yes
Start the day by climbing Arthur's Seat, a dormant volcano in the heart of Holyrood Park, which rewards your efforts with breathtaking views over Edinburgh.
Continue your exploration with Dean Village, an enchanting neighbourhood nestling on the banks of the Water of Leith. A haven of tranquillity, it seems frozen in time. Continue on to Stockbridge, a bohemian, artistic district where galleries, bookshops and markets create a gentle, authentic atmosphere.
After these moments rich in discovery, it's time to head home. Return to the airport with lasting memories and a heart full of the spirit of Scotland.
- Accommodation, with or without breakfast, as indicated on your itinerary (subject to availability at the time of confirmation).
- French-speaking assistance on arrival.
- Car hire Medium 4/5 doors - automatic gearbox - for 9 days with comprehensive insurance.
- Islay return ferry
- Luggage allowance at the hotel, tips and any services not mentioned.
- Meals.
- The activities.