Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Day Tour Including Admission

Travelers often seek the perfect blend of scenic beauty and authentic local experiences when exploring Scotland, and this Highlands and whisky tour from Edinburgh hits that mark beautifully. With a tiny group size of just 16 passengers, a comfortable Mercedes mini-coach, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour offers a taste of the Highland landscape complemented by a visit to a renowned distillery.

What we love most about this experience is the seamless combination of natural wonders—think lush forests and majestic lochs—with cultural insights from passionate guides. Plus, the inclusion of a whisky tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery ensures you touch on one of Scotland’s most iconic drinks without the stress of arranging anything yourself.

However, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point in Edinburgh. Also, it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility, as some walking at stops like The Hermitage and Dunkeld Cathedral is involved. Overall, if you’re after a well-balanced introduction to the Highlands with a dash of whisky, this trip caters well to first-timers and whisky enthusiasts alike.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Max 16 passengers in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach, making for a relaxed and intimate experience.
• Stunning Scenic Stops: Enjoy iconic views like Queen’s View, Glencoe, and Loch Tummel; perfect for memorable photos.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Explore Dunkeld Cathedral, The Hermitage, and picturesque villages like Pitlochry.
• Whisky Tasting Included: Visit Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery (or Glenturret if closed), with a tasting that’s both educational and fun.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: The tour runs about 10 hours, with a mixture of guided stops, free time, and scenic drives.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 600 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking value and quality.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in Edinburgh: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am from inside the Edinburgh Bus Station at St Andrew Square. The small group setup ensures you’re not just another face in a large crowd—rather, it feels like a day out with friends who know their stuff. The Mercedes mini-coach is top of the line, with a smooth ride and easy access, although there are three steps up into the vehicle (150mm each). If you have mobility concerns, a folding wheelchair or walking frame can be stored, but getting on and off the bus is your responsibility unless you’re very mobile.

Crossing the Forth Road Bridge: The Gateway to the Highlands

As we left Edinburgh, crossing the Forth Road Bridge gave us our first glimpse of the Scottish landscape—an impressive feat of engineering and a beautiful start to the day. The driver, Rhys, and guide, who many reviewers praise for his entertaining storytelling, kept things lively with stories and background about what we were seeing. Rhys’s love for his homeland was evident, and he played relevant music and even sang along, making the journey even more enjoyable.

The Hermitage & Dunkeld Cathedral: Nature & History

Our first stops were The Hermitage and Dunkeld Cathedral—both free but packed with visual and historical interest. The Hermitage is a natural wonderland with dense woodland paths and waterfalls along the River Braan. Reviewers describe it as a “gorgeous waterfall” and a “natural wonderland,” highlighting how refreshing the walk was amid towering fir trees.

Dunkeld Cathedral offers a peaceful ambiance with its striking ruins and surrounding lush forests. Reviewers note that the cathedral is surrounded by a “luscious forest,” and the setting is perfect for reflective moments or capturing stunning photos. The 30-minute stop here provides a good chance to stretch and soak in the scenery.

Queen’s View & Loch Tummel: The Highland Highlights

Next, the journey takes us to Queen’s View, an iconic viewpoint with a panoramic vista over Loch Tummel. Many reviewers mention that this spot lives up to its reputation—an Instagram-worthy backdrop and a favorite among visitors. The view is said to have been a favorite of queens, adding a touch of royal charm to the landscape.

Following this, the coach takes us deeper into the Highland scenery, with stops to admire the dramatic Glencoe valley, famous for its history and striking mountain formations. You’ll love the scenery here, especially if the weather is clear, as many reviewers point out how breathtaking it can be.

Pitlochry: Charming Village & Lunch Break

Midday, we reach Pitlochry—an adorable town known for its quaint shops, cafes, and its proximity to the Cairngorms. Here, you’re free to explore, grab a bite (lunch is at your own expense), and wander through local boutiques. Many reviewers find Pitlochry to be the perfect place to relax and soak up Highland hospitality.

A notable highlight is visiting a local distillery—most likely Dewar’s Aberfeldy, included in the tour. Tour guides frequently rave about how informative and fun the whisky tasting is. Reviewers like Brian and Jennifer mention the distillery tour as a “favorite part,” especially noting the friendly guides like Alister, who shares stories and tips along the way.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery: The Whisky Highlight

This is the crown jewel of the tour for many. The visit lasts about an hour and a half, during which you’ll learn how Scotland’s famous water of life is made. The tasting experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with guides eager to share their knowledge and stories. Several reviewers comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guides—some are locals who can share personal anecdotes that add depth to the experience.

If Dewar’s is closed, the guide will take you to Glenturret Distillery instead, so there’s flexibility built in. The cost of the tour and tasting is included in the ticket, making it excellent value, especially considering the depth of information and quality of the experience.

Scenic Ride Back & Final Stops

The return journey takes you through Dunkeld, Perth, and Kinross, offering more opportunities for photos and last glimpses of the landscape. Many reviewers mention how smoothly the drive goes, thanks to the driver’s skill and the scenic routes chosen. The day wraps up back at Waterloo Place in Edinburgh, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Highland scenery is the biggest draw—think towering forests, shimmering lochs, and rugged mountain ranges. Many travelers mention that the stops, like Queen’s View and The Hermitage, are truly picture-perfect, and some describe the scenery as “breathtaking” especially during autumn or clear weather.

The small group format elevates the experience. With only 16 passengers, you get more personalized attention from your guides and the chance to ask more questions or simply enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Penny, Shea, Lizzie, and Kenny, who bring a mix of humor, local knowledge, and storytelling prowess.

The whisky experience is also a real highlight. Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this one offers in-depth insights into Scotland’s national drink, complete with tastings and stories. Multiple reviews emphasize that the guides make the whisky tour engaging and fun, with some calling it a “favorite part” of their day.

Value for money is another key point. For around $132, you get a full day of sightseeing, a distillery tour, and tastings, plus the benefit of a luxury vehicle and expert guidance. Many reviewers feel it’s worth every penny, especially given the quality of scenery and storytelling.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, travelers need to be able to get themselves to the meeting point at Edinburgh Bus Station. The departure time at 9:00 am is ideal if you want to maximize your day, but arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.

The vehicle’s small size is perfect for intimate groups but might be less accessible for those with strict mobility needs, although storage for folding wheelchairs is available.

Weather can vary, so dressing in layers is advised—many reviews mention that even in winter, the scenery is stunning, but it can be cold and damp. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially at stops like The Hermitage and Dunkeld Cathedral.

The Sum Up

This Highlands and whisky tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural spirit. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal and engaging, while the stops at iconic viewpoints and charming villages keep the experience authentic and memorable.

If you’re a fan of stunning scenery, learning about Scottish whisky, and exploring the countryside without the hassle of driving, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, whisky lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to the Highlands.

While it might not be the best choice for travelers with mobility concerns or those looking for a fully door-to-door experience, for most, it offers excellent value and genuine insight into the landscape and culture of Scotland.

FAQ

Where does the tour depart from?
From inside the Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, at 9:00 am.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking can be difficult in the city center. Public transportation is recommended to reach the meeting point.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure, so aim to arrive a little early to avoid rushing.

Can I bring luggage?
Yes, you’re allowed up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage, similar to an airline carry-on bag, plus a small personal bag.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are best—layers are recommended due to changing conditions.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, the tour covers the cost of the whisky distillery visit and tasting. Additional attraction fees at other stops are paid on site if applicable.

Is the vehicle accessible for wheelchairs?
The bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, but storage for a folding wheelchair is available. Passengers should be able to get on/off independently.

Are restrooms available?
There are no onboard restrooms, but regular breaks are scheduled.

Can children join the tour?
Children under 5 aren’t permitted. Those 5 and older are welcome, but please specify if a booster seat is needed.