Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh: A Complete Review

If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for Scotland’s most famous export, the Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour from Edinburgh offers a thorough, engaging way to experience the country’s whisky-making tradition. This full-day excursion, operated by Rabbies Trail Burners, promises visits to two renowned distilleries, scenic stops at Loch Lomond, and plenty of tastings along the way—all with a small-group setting that aims to make the day personal and relaxed.

What really makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable guides who bring the story of whisky to life through humor, local insights, and detailed explanations. Plus, the scenic drive through the Scottish Lowlands and Trossachs National Park provides a lovely backdrop that enhances the experience.

That said, it’s not a tour for those seeking a leisurely day with a lot of free time—expect a packed itinerary with around 9 hours on the road. If you’re curious about Scottish whisky, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate well-organized small-group tours, this outing is worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides like William, Rhys, Stefan, and others offer engaging storytelling and local flavor.
• Two distillery visits: Tour Glengoyne’s historic grounds and Deanston’s eco-friendly, converted mill with tastings included.
• Stunning scenery: Scenic drives through forested landscapes, mountain views, and Loch Lomond’s tranquil waters.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines whisky tasting, sightseeing, and a lunch stop, providing a well-rounded day.
• Small group size: Max 16 travelers, ensuring more personal interaction and better access to guides.
• Good value: At around $141, including admissions and tastings, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for whisky lovers and curious travelers alike.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting and Departure from Edinburgh

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am from the Edinburgh Bus Station, a convenient spot near public transport options. Expect to check in about 15 minutes early—promptness is key, and the guides are diligent about keeping to schedule. The vehicle is a plush 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, giving an intimate vibe that’s preferable over large buses for this kind of tour. Reviewers have appreciated the comfortable travel; one mentioned how the “non-slip treads” and grab handles made boarding easy despite a few steps up.

The Scenic Drive and Historical Insights

As you leave the city’s hustle behind, your guide, whether William, Rhys, or Stefan, will share stories about Scotland’s whisky heritage—once known as the “water of life.” The drive is more than just transport; it’s an educational and humorous narrative about how whisky became Scotland’s national treasure, and why the craft has been preserved for centuries.

Glengoyne Distillery: The Slow Craft of Whisky

The first stop is Glengoyne Distillery, about an hour and 15 minutes from Edinburgh. This location is often described as idyllic, perched at the foot of a hill with copper stills, and renowned for its meticulous process—one of the slowest in the world. Tourists frequently comment on the picturesque grounds, old cooperage, and historic warehouses.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a tour that highlights their complex production methods, culminating in tastings of their 12- and 18-year-old malts. One reviewer mentioned that the guides at Glengoyne were engaging, making the process clear and entertaining. Because of the distillery’s “Silent Season” from late June to early August 2025, visits during that period are slightly limited, focusing more on the historic grounds and tastings rather than production.

Loch Lomond: Scenic Lunch and Photos

Next, the tour takes you into Trossachs National Park—a highlight for many travelers. The drive through forested landscapes and around mountain peaks offers plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection. The stop near Loch Lomond allows for a relaxed 1.5-hour break, giving you time to enjoy a hearty pub lunch (not included) and take in the breathtaking views.

Reviewers have appreciated this balance of sightseeing and downtime. One noted, “Time for lunch is worked in,” which is crucial for fueling up after morning whisky tours. The scenery here isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an integral part of the Scottish experience.

Deanston Distillery: Eco-Friendly Whisky Production

The final distillery visit is to Deanston, situated in a converted cotton mill along the River Teith. What sets Deanston apart, and what reviewers love, is its use of original hydroelectric generators, making it one of Scotland’s most environmentally conscious distilleries. Tours here include a sensory tasting of two single malts, with guides like Kenny and Lizzy explaining tasting notes such as lemon zest, toffee, and vanilla.

Many guests have enjoyed this part, with some noting that the “whisky tastings are generous,” and the guides are particularly friendly and knowledgeable. A few reviews mentioned that the tasting in a cool, spacious room felt a bit brisk, but most appreciated the opportunity to sample more expressive drams.

End of the Day and Return to Edinburgh

By late afternoon, the group heads back to Edinburgh, usually arriving around early evening. The return journey offers a chance for reflection on the day’s highlights, with guides sharing final stories or answering questions.

Transport, Group Size, and Value

The small-group format—capped at 16—means you’re unlikely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd. It also allows guides like William, Stefan, and Rhys to provide personalized insights, making the experience more engaging. The Mercedes mini-coach makes the trip comfortable, with a smooth ride that’s appreciated given the varied terrain.

For the price point of about $141, the tour covers admissions at both distilleries, tastings, and transportation. Given the cost of individual tastings (which can range from £10 to £30), and the fact that you’re visiting two distilleries with guided tours, it offers solid value. The only extras are meals and any additional purchases at the distilleries’ shops.

Food and Additional Costs

The tour includes a stop near Loch Lomond for lunch—though not provided—giving you the flexibility to choose what suits your taste and budget. Reviewers suggest bringing some cash or card for this, as well as for any whisky bottles or souvenirs you’d like to pick up.

Accessibility and Practicalities

While the bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, there is space for a folding wheelchair or walking frame. Guests should be able to manage steps and get on/off the bus independently. There are no onboard restrooms, but breaks are scheduled for comfort.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple travelers praised the guides for their humor, local knowledge, and friendliness. For instance, Kelly T shared, “Sean was just fantastic! He was fun and informative, just a perfect guide,” highlighting the personal touch that elevates this tour. Others appreciated how guides like Willie and Ian went above and beyond to make the day memorable.

Several reviews also mention how scenic and relaxing the drive was, with one describing the views of the highlands as “breathtaking,” and another appreciating the “amazing scenery” that perfectly complements the whisky experience.

Some critiques note that tastings are limited, with a few mentioning that the quick visits at the distilleries felt rushed, especially at Deanston. Nonetheless, most guests felt they received good value and left with a deeper understanding of whisky production, along with some bottles to take home.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour is ideal if you’re a whisky enthusiast eager to see the process behind Scotland’s iconic spirit and sample some of the best malts. The small-group format means you’ll get personal attention, and the scenic drive adds to the overall enjoyment. It’s a particularly good choice for those who value storytelling, scenic views, and a relaxed pace with enough time for photos and lunch.

If you’re curious about whisky but aren’t a big drinker, the guide’s engaging commentary can still make this a worthwhile cultural experience. However, if you’re looking for a very leisurely day with more free time or are sensitive to quick-paced tours, this might feel a little rushed.

For those on a budget, the tour’s inclusion of two distillery visits, tastings, and transport makes it a compelling option. Just plan to cover your lunch and any extra whisky purchases separately.

The Sum Up

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Scotland’s whisky heritage, combined with scenic beauty and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic choice for curious travelers, whisky fans, and anyone wanting to understand more about how Scotland’s national drink is crafted. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful stops make it a memorable day out, especially if you value storytelling and scenic views as part of your experience.

Who should book this? Whisky lovers, small-group enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy scenic drives and cultural stories. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, structured day that combines tasting, sightseeing, and learning without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
It departs at 9:30 am from Edinburgh Bus Station, and you should arrive about 15 minutes early to check in.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour makes a stop near Loch Lomond where you can purchase your own meal.

Are the tastings covered in the tour price?
Yes, tastings at Glengoyne and Deanston are included, with two drams at each distillery.

What vehicle is used for transportation?
The tour runs in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ideal for small groups.

Can I bring luggage?
You can bring one piece of luggage up to 14kg (similar to a carry-on bag), plus a small personal bag.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18, as the experience involves whisky tastings.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of Scottish culture, scenic beauty, and whisky expertise, making it a memorable way to spend a day outside Edinburgh.