12-Day Scenic and Whisky Distillery Tour of Scotland from Edinburgh

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 14, 2025

2:00pm

Check-in and relax

Arrive in Edinburgh and check-in to your hotel to freshen up after your flight.
Varies, 1h0m

3:30pm

Edinburgh Castle

Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and rich Scottish history. It is open until 6pm in July.
GBP19.50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Enjoy a fine dining experience with Scottish cuisine in a historic and atmospheric setting near Edinburgh Castle.
GBP50-70, 1h30m
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Day 2: Historic and Cultural Tour

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Elephant House

Start your day with breakfast where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter, serving excellent coffee and pastries.
GBP10-15, 1h0m

9:30am

Royal Mile Walk and St Giles' Cathedral

Stroll down the historic Royal Mile and visit St Giles’ Cathedral, famed for its stunning architecture and history.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Holyrood Palace

Explore the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, learning about Scottish royalty and politics.
GBP17, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Oink

Try traditional Scottish pulled pork sandwiches in a casual setting on Victoria Street.
GBP7-12, 1h0m

2:30pm

Arthur's Seat Hike

Enjoy a moderate hike to the summit of Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views of Edinburgh and surrounding areas. Easily accessible and open all day.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Whisky Tasting at The Scotch Whisky Experience

Engage in a guided whisky tasting and learn about the production process at one of Scotland’s top whisky attractions.
GBP20-30, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Howies Victoria

Enjoy locally sourced Scottish dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
GBP25-40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Edinburgh to Stirling

Stirling, Scotland on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Loudons

Trendy café serving hearty breakfasts with locally sourced ingredients.
GBP10-15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Stirling

Head northwest to Stirling, about a 1-hour drive, to explore Scotland’s historic heartland.
Car rental and fuel, 1h0m

10:30am

Stirling Castle

Visit one of Scotland’s grandest castles steeped in history and stunning views over the River Forth. Open until 6pm.
GBP18, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Bothy

Enjoy traditional Scottish fare in a charming setting in Stirling town centre.
GBP20-30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Wallace Monument

Climb the monument dedicated to William Wallace for beautiful panoramic views and history.
GBP10, 1h30m

4:00pm

Drive to Loch Lomond Area

Drive about 1 hour southwest to the shores of Loch Lomond for your next night's stay surrounded by nature.
Car rental and fuel, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Drovers Inn

Historic inn offering hearty meals with live music near Loch Lomond.
GBP20-35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Loch Lomond and Distilleries

Loch Lomond, Scotland on July 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in your accommodation to prepare for the day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Loch Lomond Scenic Drive and Walk

Explore the natural beauty with a scenic drive alongside Loch Lomond and short walks around the national park.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Glen Ord Distillery Tour

Drive about 1.5 hours to Glen Ord on the Black Isle, famous for its fine whisky; tours and tastings available by appointment.
GBP15-25, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at nearby Cromarty

Enjoy fresh seafood in the coastal village of Cromarty after your distillery tour.
GBP20-30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive back towards Glencoe

Travel about 2 hours west toward the famous Highlands and scenic Glencoe area.
Car rental and fuel, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in and unwind

Relax in your Glencoe accommodation after the drive and enjoy the views.
Varies, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Clachaig Inn

Rustic, iconic Highland pub serving hearty meals with great local whisky selections.
GBP20-35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Glencoe Hiking and Exploration

Glencoe, Scotland on July 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up on a locally sourced hearty Scottish breakfast to prepare for your hike.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Hiking in Glencoe

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Glencoe with recommended hikes like the Lost Valley or part of the West Highland Way. Open all day, check the weather.
Free, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch picnic or at a local café

Enjoy a packed picnic with local produce or visit a café nearby such as the Glencoe Café Company.
GBP10-15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Fort William

Short 30-minute drive to Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis.
Car rental and fuel, 0h30m

3:00pm

Visit Ben Nevis Distillery

Enjoy a distillery tour and whisky tasting at one of Scotland’s oldest licensed distilleries.
GBP12-20, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Grog & Gruel

Casual dining in Fort William featuring seafood and Scottish favorites.
GBP20-30, 1h0m
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Day 6: Fort William to Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, Scotland on July 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Crofter

Enjoy a solid breakfast at this well-reviewed Fort William spot before heading out.
GBP10-15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Isle of Skye

About 2.5-hour drive with spectacular views through the Highlands, crossing the Skye Bridge into the Isle of Skye.
Car rental and fuel, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Oyster Shed

Famous for fresh oysters and seafood, with views over the water near Carbost.
GBP15-25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Talisker Distillery

Tour the only distillery on Isla of Skye, renowned for its peaty and maritime whiskies. Open 10am-4pm; book in advance.
GBP15-20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Fairy Pools

Hike to the magical Fairy Pools, famous for crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls. Open all day, best to visit late afternoon for light.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Old Inn, Carbost

Cozy pub serving local dishes and great whisky selections in Carbost.
GBP20-35, 1h30m
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Day 7: Isle of Skye Touring

Isle of Skye, Scotland on July 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a Scottish breakfast before embarking on a day of scenic touring.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Neist Point Lighthouse

Drive to the westernmost point of Skye for breathtaking cliff views and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Dunvegan Castle

Visit the historic seat of the MacLeod Clan with beautiful gardens and heritage exhibits.
GBP12, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Stein Inn

Enjoy traditional Scottish fare at one of the oldest pubs on the Isle of Skye.
GBP15-25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Quiraing Hike

Take a scenic hike in the Quiraing, an area known for its dramatic landscapes and geological formations.
Free, 2h30m

5:30pm

Return and relax

Return to your accommodation and enjoy some downtime with views.
Included, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Three Chimneys

Dine at one of Scotland’s most famous restaurants, offering exquisite dishes with local ingredients on Skye. Reservation recommended.
GBP60-90, 2h0m
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Day 8: Skye to Inverness

Inverness, Scotland on July 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a breakfast to start your drive to Inverness.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Inverness

About 2.5-hour drive crossing some beautiful Highland scenery on the way to Inverness.
Car rental and fuel, 2h30m

11:00am

Culloden Battlefield

Visit the historic site of the last battle fought on British soil with interactive visitor center. Open daily 9am-5pm.
GBP10, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at The Kitchen Brasserie

Modern Scottish cuisine located in the center of Inverness offering fresh local produce.
GBP20-30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Loch Ness Cruise

Embark on a 1.5-hour cruise exploring the famous Loch Ness, searching for Nessie and enjoying stunning views.
GBP18-30, 1h30m

4:00pm

Drive to Glen Ord Distillery

About 20 mins from Inverness, enjoy an afternoon whisky tasting at Glen Ord if missed earlier or repeat the experience.
GBP15-20, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Family-run restaurant in Inverness with focus on fresh, local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
GBP20-40, 1h30m
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Day 9: Whisky Distilleries Day

Inverness Area, Scotland on July 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before the distillery tours.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Tomatin Distillery

Tour the Tomatin Distillery 30 mins south of Inverness, known for its smooth Highland single malt. Book tours ahead. Opens 9am-5pm.
GBP15-20, 1h0m

11:00am

Drive to Dalwhinnie Distillery

About 1h 15m drive south to the highest distillery in Scotland.
Car rental and fuel, 1h15m

12:30pm

Dalwhinnie Distillery Tour and Lunch

Enjoy a tour and tasting at Dalwhinnie Distillery, followed by a light lunch at the Trumpers Bar & Restaurant onsite.
GBP20-30, 2h0m

2:30pm

Drive back to Inverness

Return a little over 1 hour drive to Inverness.
Car rental and fuel, 1h15m

4:00pm

Leisure time in Inverness

Relax or explore Inverness city center, Victorian Market, or riverside walks.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rocpool Restaurant

Contemporary Scottish cuisine in a stylish setting near the River Ness.
GBP30-50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Inverness to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for your drive back to Edinburgh.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Inverness to Edinburgh

Approximate 3.5-hour drive south through scenic Scottish countryside with stops as desired.
Car rental and fuel, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Dome, Edinburgh

Arrive in Edinburgh for upscale lunch in an iconic landmark building.
GBP25-40, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit National Museum of Scotland

Explore diverse exhibits from Scottish history, natural world, science, and art. Open until 5pm.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Walk Princes Street Gardens

Relax with a stroll in these beautiful gardens with views of the castle and cityscape.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Coffee and Snack at Clarinda’s Tearoom

Experience a traditional Scottish tea room with scones and cakes.
GBP8-12, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Martin Wishart

Indulge in Michelin-starred modern Scottish cuisine for a spectacular final meal in Edinburgh. Reservation required.
GBP70-100, 2h0m
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Day 11: Relax and Edinburgh Sights

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urban Angel

Healthy and locally sourced breakfast options in a stylish Edinburgh café.
GBP10-15, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Royal Yacht Britannia

Explore the former royal yacht which sailed for over 40 years. A unique glimpse into British royal life. Open 10am-5pm.
GBP17, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Ship on the Shore

Seafood restaurant in Leith near the Royal Yacht, excellent fresh Scottish dishes.
GBP25-40, 1h0m

1:30pm

Dean Village and Water of Leith Walk

Wander through the historic and charming Dean Village, then take a peaceful riverside walk.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Shopping and exploring Grassmarket area

Browse independent shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere before your final evening.
Varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Kitchin

Experience refined Michelin-starred Scottish dining celebrating local produce. Reservations essential.
GBP80-120, 2h0m
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Day 12: Departure Day

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last Scottish breakfast and pack for departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Return car and head to airport

Drive or take taxi to Edinburgh Airport, allowing ample time for check-in and security.
Varies, 1h0m
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