The Speyside Whisky Day Tour from Inverness offers a captivating journey through the heart of Scotland’s renowned whisky country. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and flavors of this iconic region, exploring two premier distilleries and uncovering the secrets behind the production of Speyside’s finest drams. With personalized attention and a comfortable mode of transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave whisky enthusiasts and novices alike craving more.
Key Points
- Full-day whisky tour from Inverness visiting two renowned whisky distilleries, Glen Moray and Tomatin.
- Includes admission to both distilleries with tasting flights and tours.
- Transported in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with a professional and friendly driver guide.
- Provides a personalized experience for up to 16 people.
- Includes a 30-minute stop at Elgin Cathedral for additional sightseeing.
Tour Overview
This full-day whisky tour from Inverness typically takes visitors to two renowned whisky distilleries, where they can enjoy the local culture and history.
The tour is conducted in a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, providing a personalized experience for a small group of up to 16 people.
Along the way, guests will learn about the region’s rich whisky heritage from a professional and friendly driver guide.
The tour also includes a photo stop at the iconic Elgin Cathedral, allowing visitors to explore the area’s historical landmarks.
With admission to the Glen Moray and Tomatin distilleries, this tour offers a comprehensive whisky experience for travelers.
Inclusions
The tour includes admission to both the Glen Moray Distillery, where visitors can enjoy a tasting flight, and the Tomatin Distillery, which provides a tour and tasting experience.
Plus, the tour is led by a professional and friendly driver guide, and transportation is provided via a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach. This ensures a personalized experience for a small group of up to 16 people.
While the tour package covers the distillery admissions, it doesn’t include any food or drinks, nor does it provide hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests will be responsible for their own meals and any additional expenses during the tour.
Exclusions
Besides the included distillery admissions and guided transportation, the tour doesn’t cover a few other expenses. Entrance fees to any additional sites beyond the two distilleries and the Elgin Cathedral aren’t part of the package.
Visitors will also need to cover their own food and drinks throughout the day. Finally, hotel pickup and drop-off services aren’t provided, so guests are responsible for getting themselves to and from the meeting point.
While the tour covers the key highlights, travelers should budget for these extra costs to fully enjoy the Speyside whisky experience from Inverness. The tour provides a convenient way to visit the distilleries, but allows flexibility for participants to customize their day as desired.
Meeting and Pickup
At the tour’s meeting point, participants gather next to Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
This ensures a prompt start to the day’s activities.
Once everyone has checked in, the friendly driver guide welcomes the small group and provides a brief overview of the itinerary.
The 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach is comfortable and well-equipped, making for a pleasant journey through the scenic Speyside region.
With a maximum of 16 people, the tour offers a personalized experience, allowing the guide to engage with each traveler and share insights into the local culture and history along the way.
Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre
Visiting the Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre marks the first stop on the whisky tour, where participants spend an engaging 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the facility. Travelers explore the history and production processes of this renowned Speyside distillery, gaining valuable insights from the knowledgeable on-site guides.
Key Offerings | Highlights |
---|---|
Guided Tour | Learn about Tomatin’s heritage and craftsmanship |
Whisky Tastings | Sample a variety of the distillery’s renowned expressions |
Visitor Centre | Browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs |
Participants leave the Tomatin Distillery with a deeper appreciation for the art of Scotch whisky-making and a newfound fondness for this iconic Speyside distillery.
Elgin Cathedral
After exploring the Tomatin Distillery, the tour continues with a picturesque stop at the historic Elgin Cathedral, where participants spend approximately 30 minutes.
The once-grand medieval cathedral, now in ruins, offers visitors a chance to marvel at its impressive architectural features and learn about the site’s captivating history. Towering arches, ornate carvings, and the remaining nave and choir provide a glimpse into the cathedral’s former glory.
Guests can wander the grounds, snap photos, and soak in the serene atmosphere before moving on to the next distillery. This brief respite allows travellers to stretch their legs and appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage alongside the whisky tasting experience.
Glen Moray Distillery
The tour then heads to the historic Glen Moray Distillery, where participants spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the facility and sampling its renowned whiskies.
Founded in 1897, Glen Moray is one of Speyside’s lesser-known but highly respected distilleries. Visitors will learn about the distillery’s unique production methods and the role that the local Elgin climate plays in imparting the whiskies’ distinct flavors.
The tasting flight allows guests to sample a variety of Glen Moray’s core expressions, from the light and fruity Classic to the richly sherried Elgin Classic. With knowledgeable guides on hand, this stop provides an in-depth look into the art of Scotch whisky-making at one of the region’s hidden gems.
Tour Duration and Itinerary
This full-day whisky tour from Inverness covers two renowned Speyside distilleries over the course of approximately 6 hours.
Guests begin their journey at Tomatin Distillery, where they embark on a 1 hour and 30 minute tour and tasting experience.
Afterward, the tour makes a 30-minute stop at the historic Elgin Cathedral before continuing on to Glen Moray Distillery for another 1 hour and 30 minute exploration and sampling.
The itinerary includes:
- Touring Tomatin Distillery and sampling their whiskies
- Visiting the impressive ruins of Elgin Cathedral
- Exploring the Glen Moray Distillery and tasting their signature expressions
- Traveling between sites in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not include food and drinks, so guests are welcome to bring their own. However, any food or drinks brought must be consumed outside of the distilleries during the scheduled stops.
Is There an Option to Join the Tour From a Different Location?
The tour departs from the meeting point at Inverness Cathedral, but travelers can arrange to join at a different location along the route. Advance notice is required, and an additional fee may apply for this service.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Within 24 hours, a 50% refund is offered. Check the tour provider’s website for the most up-to-date cancellation and refund details.
Can We Request a Specific Pickup Time or Location?
Guests can’t request specific pickup times or locations for this tour. The tour departs from a designated meeting point near Inverness Cathedral, and guests must arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students on the Tour?
The tour website does not mention any discounts for seniors or students. While discounts may be available, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly to inquire about any special pricing options before booking.
Recap
The Speyside Whisky Day Tour from Inverness is an immersive journey into the heart of Scotland’s renowned whisky region.
Visitors will explore two iconic distilleries, indulge in tastings, and discover the rich history and culture of the area.
With personalized service and comfortable transportation, this tour offers a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Speyside’s finest whiskies.