There are broadly four major whisky-making areas in Scotland: Highlands, Islands, Speyside and Lowlands. The focus here is on single malt ‘Highland’ whiskies which all offer tours with tastings at various price levels. There are, of course, many more. For more info please visit their websites.
Balblair, Edderton, Easter Ross, just by the railway line linking Inverness with the far north, not far from the Dornoch Firth. Established in 1790, used as a film location in THE ANGELS’ SHARE. Would combine with parts of the Pictish Trail and a visit to Tain. More info
Dalmore, Alness, Easter Ross (2 miles from Invergordon), set up in early 19th c. by the ‘Caberfeidh’ (Gaelic for stag’s head), Chieftain of the Mackenzie Clan. More info
Dornoch Whisky Cellars, Dornoch, Sutherland; would combine with a visit to Historylinks, the delightful local museum or Dornoch Cathedral – all within easy walking distance in centre of town. Check out their leaflet here
Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain, Easter Ross; would combine well with a visit to the very interesting Tain Museum, the local pottery and/or a meal at a local hotel. Alternatively, combined with a visit to Dornoch. More info
Glen Ord Distillery, Muir of Ord, Black Isle; one of very few distilleries which still malt their own barley (and that of other distilleries in the Diagio Group). More info
Highland Park, Orkney (involves a ferry transfer), located on the edge of Kirkwall, but well worth a visit if you are planning a tour of Orkney with local guides. Further info
Old Pulteney, Wick, Caithness. This whisky is valued by connoisseurs for its maritime flavour. Would combine well with a visit to Wick Heritage Centre focussing on the Herring Boom, and a meal at a local hostelry. More info
Tomatin Distillery, tucked away in the hills and moorlands south of Inverness, en-route to the Cairngorms National Park. More info
Various Speyside Distilleries (e.g. Glen Grant, Rothes, with its interesting buildings and beautiful garden). Would combine well with visit to Elgin Cathedral and a meal at a good restaurant, and – time permitting – a detour to the sandy beach at Lossiemouth. More info on Gordon & MacPhail distilleries here
