5 (15)
Edinburgh
Islay Whisky Adventure: 5-Day Tour from Edinburgh
7200
Overview
The 5 Day Islay Whisky Tour from Edinburgh takes travelers to the stunning Scottish island of Islay, a true whisky paradise. This bus tour caters to whisky enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a unique Scottish adventure. With three full days on Islay, there's ample time to immerse in the island's atmosphere and sample its famed whiskies.
The tour begins with scenic stops in Callander and Inveraray before reaching Oban, home to the renowned Oban Distillery. After that, it's onward to Kennacraig for the ferry to Islay, where the whisky journey truly begins. Explore iconic distilleries like Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Kilchoman, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and Laphroaig, and even visit Islay's Newest Distillery and the historic Kildalton Cross. The Ballygrant Inn provides a taste of local hospitality.
On the return journey, enjoy stops in Inveraray, Luss, and along the scenic Loch Lomond, before concluding in Glasgow. Expect to delve into Scotland's whisky heritage, savoring the unique flavors of Islay's distilleries. Along the way, a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus ensures relaxed travel for a small group of no more than 16 people, fostering a friendly and intimate experience. Breakfast is included. The tour guides are expert, and the experience has been recognized on Viator with great reviews. 
Highlights
Islay's Finest Whiskies: Sample whiskies at up to 10 of Islay's best distilleries.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour with a maximum of 16 people.
Comfortable Transport: Travel in style in an air-conditioned minibus.
Expert Guide: Learn from a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally rave about the Islay Whisky Tour, highlighting the excellent whisky experiences and knowledgeable guides. Some wish for more free time and shorter travel times, but overall, the tour is highly regarded.
Customers loved the whisky tastings and distillery tours.
Many appreciated the knowledgeable and friendly guide.
Some really enjoyed the scenery of Islay.
Several mentioned the small group size made the tour more personal.
Some wished for more free time on Islay.
A few found the bus journeys to be long.
The Journey
Callander
Callander, the 'Gateway to the Highlands,' is a charming town nestled at the foot of the Trossachs National Park. A perfect spot to grab a coffee and stretch your legs before venturing into the rugged beauty of the Highlands. It offers a taste of Highland hospitality and scenic views.
Oban Distillery
Oban Distillery, nestled in the heart of the charming coastal town of Oban, is one of Scotland's oldest and most renowned distilleries. Experience the time-honored craft of whisky making with a guided tour and savor the distinct maritime flavor of Oban's single malt. A true taste of the West Highlands.
Inveraray
Inveraray, a picturesque town on the shores of Loch Fyne, boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Explore Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of Clan Campbell, and admire the town's elegant Georgian architecture. Enjoy breathtaking views of the loch and surrounding mountains.
Kennacraig to Islay Ferry
The ferry journey from Kennacraig to Islay is more than just transport—it's a breathtaking voyage across the Sound of Islay. Enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline, neighboring islands, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic. Relax with onboard amenities and anticipate the whisky adventures awaiting you on Islay.
Bunnahabhain Distillery
Bunnahabhain Distillery, perched on Islay's northeastern coast, offers more than just exceptional whisky; it provides breathtaking panoramas of the Sound of Islay and the Isle of Jura. Indulge in a whisky tasting while soaking in the rugged coastal beauty and the dramatic skies of the Inner Hebrides. A feast for the senses.
Caol Ila Distillery
Caol Ila Distillery, known for its subtly smoky and refined Islay single malt, offers a fascinating journey into the art of whisky making. Discover the influence of peat, barley, and cask selection on the whisky's distinctive character during an immersive tour. Conclude your visit with a tasting of Caol Ila's exceptional drams, appreciating their complexity and depth.
Ballygrant Inn
The Ballygrant Inn provides a cozy and authentic taste of Islay hospitality. Enjoy a delicious lunch at your own expense in this charming inn, popular with locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect spot to refuel and immerse yourself in the island's friendly atmosphere.
Islay's Newest Distillery
Venture into Islay's newest distillery and discover the innovative spirit of its whisky production. Explore the modern facilities and learn about the unique processes that define its character. Conclude your visit with a special warehouse tasting, sampling the distillery's distinctive offerings straight from the source.
Bowmore Distillery
Bowmore Distillery, Islay's oldest distillery, invites you on a journey through centuries of whisky-making tradition. Explore the historic distillery, witness the traditional malting floors, and learn about the unique influence of the sea on Bowmore's character. Conclude your tour with a tasting of their signature drams, experiencing the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of Bowmore.
Bruichladdich Distillery
Bruichladdich Distillery offers a unique and unconventional whisky experience. Explore the distillery's innovative approach to whisky making, from barley selection to distillation techniques. Enjoy exclusive access to their aging warehouses with a warehouse tasting, sampling whisky straight from the cask and discovering rare and exceptional flavors.
Kilchoman Distillery
Kilchoman Distillery, Islay's farm distillery, offers an intimate glimpse into the traditional art of whisky making. From malting their own barley to distilling and bottling on-site, witness every stage of the process. Enjoy a guided tasting of Kilchoman's distinctively peaty and flavorful whisky, including their famous 100% Islay dram.
Kildalton Cross
The Kildalton Cross, a monumental Celtic cross near the ruins of Kildalton Parish Church on Islay, stands as a testament to Scotland's rich history and artistic heritage. Admire the intricate carvings and elaborate designs of this remarkably well-preserved cross, dating back to the 8th century. A truly significant historical landmark.
Lagavulin Distillery
Lagavulin Distillery, nestled on Islay's rugged southern coast, is renowned for its intensely peaty and smoky single malt. Delve into the secrets of Lagavulin's whisky-making process during a tour and savor the distinctive flavors that have made it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
Ardbeg Distillery
Ardbeg Distillery, renowned for its unapologetically peaty and smoky whiskies, beckons enthusiasts to experience the bold flavors of Islay. Enjoy a guided 5-dram whisky tasting amidst the rugged landscape, immersing yourself in the distinctive character of Ardbeg. A must-visit destination for those who appreciate intense and complex whiskies.
Laphroaig Distillery
Laphroaig Distillery, another iconic Islay distillery, invites you to discover the unique peat-smoked flavor that defines its whisky. Journey through the distillery's traditional production process, learning about the art of malting, fermentation, and distillation. Conclude your visit with a tasting session, savoring Laphroaig's distinct single malt whiskies.
Inveraray (Return Visit)
Return to Inveraray for a final lunch before heading back towards Edinburgh. Enjoy the views of the Loch Fyne and the quaint village. Take some time to reflect on the trip, remembering the highlights before moving on.
Luss, Loch Lomond
Luss, a charming village nestled on the bonny banks of Loch Lomond, offers a picturesque rest stop on your journey back to Edinburgh. Admire the tranquil beauty of the loch, stroll through the quaint village, and soak in the serenity of the Scottish countryside.
Glasgow
Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern attractions. With world-class museums, stunning architecture, and a thriving music scene, Glasgow provides an exciting option to conclude your tour, rather than returning to Edinburgh. Enjoy exploring a different facet of Scotland's character.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a driver/guide, breakfast each morning, 4 nights accommodation at Bowmore House or Island Bear on Islay, all whisky tours and tastings as described in the itinerary, and transport by air-conditioned minibus. The tour is limited to a small group of 16 people. Lunch, dinner, and gratuities are not included.
Hot Tip
Reviewers recommend pacing yourself with the whisky tastings and making sure to try some of the local seafood on Islay. Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly.
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