Scotland’s distilleries, many of which are located on far-out rocky coastlines and in rugged tracts of the countryside, have seen large increases in the numbers of visiting tourists over the past few years. For those who are devoted to the beguiling spirit, we’ve rounded up seven of the best distilleries to visit. Expect tours of the facilities, sample pours, and gorgeous landscapes.
1) Talisker
The only distillery on the Isle of Skye, Talisker was founded back in 1830 and sits on the scenic shores of Loch Harport. The winner of numerous international awards and a favourite of drinkers for its sweet tasting profile, Talisker welcomes visitors on its tasting tours year round.
2) Laphroaig
One of the outlying Hebrides Islands, Islay has cultivated a reputation amongst whisky enthusiasts for the incredible, smoky Scotches that it produces. Laphroaig is one of the island’s top distilleries, and woos visitors with tours, tastings, and courses.
3) Lagavulin
The other high-profile Islay Scotch (and a fierce Laphroaig rival), Lagavulin’s Scotch is tremendously peaty and smoky, and is consistently ranked amongst the world’s best whiskies. Visitors can attend tours, tasting tours, and even warehouse demonstrations at the distillery.
4) Macallan
Hailing from the Speyside region of northeast Scotland, home to more single malts than any other part of the country, Macallan offers one of the biggest and best-equipped visitor centres for tourists. The rich and sweet Scotch’s legions of fans are welcome to join guided tours, learn about technological advancements in whisky making, and even sign up for individual tasting courses.
5) Glenfarclas
Unusual amongst its Speyside peers in that the distillery has retained its independent status, Glenfarclas has hosted an on-site visitor centre since 1973. Tourists are welcome to visit the distillery for a tour before relaxing with a “wee dram” in the elegantly appointed Ship’s Room.
6) Dalwhinnie
The Highland-based distillery stands out for being one of the highest distilleries in the world, and a tour of the facilities provides a fascinating look into a remote, working distillery. The honey-and-heather-filled palate offered by Dalwhinnie has won the whisky numerous fans.
7) Arran
Small-batch distillery Arran, which is located on the eponymously named Island, is one of the newest members of the list, founded in 1994. Still, its visitor centre pulls in numerous travellers, and the peat-rich whisky is something of a stunner. Three different tour levels are available.
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