From Edinburgh/Glasgow; 3-Day Islay Private Whisky Tour

Private Whisky Tour to Islay from Edinburgh or Glasgow

This private whisky tour suits whisky enthusiasts traveling from Edinburgh or Glasgow, visiting iconic Islay distilleries and scenic Highland stops over three days.

Highlights

• See the malting floor at Laphroaig Distillery and become a 'Friend of Laphroaig'
• Visit Ardbeg Distillery for a food van experience and whisky tasting
• Enjoy a tasting at the renowned Lagavulin Distillery
• Explore the Bunnahabhain Warehouse Experience to learn about wood and casks
• Lunch and whisky tasting in the seaside town of Oban

Description

This private three-day tour travels from Edinburgh or Glasgow to the Isle of Islay, focusing on the island’s famous distilleries: Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Bunnahabhain, with stops at scenic Highland locations.

Day 1: Edinburgh/Glasgow to Islay

Your private driver-guide will pick you up and start the journey west, stopping at Deanston Distillery for the shop and café. Next, visit Loch Awe to view Kilchurn Castle ruins. Enjoy lunch in Oban with an optional visit to its distillery tasting bar. Continue through Kilmartin Glen, stopping at the Nether Largie Standing Stones. Arrive at Kennacraig to board the ferry to Islay. The two-hour crossing delivers you to Port Ellen or Bowmore by 8:30 PM for overnight stay.

Day 2: Whisky and History of South Islay

Start at Kildalton Cross, an 8th-century Celtic cross originally from Iona. Visit Laphroaig Distillery for a traditional floor malting tour and receive your own plot of land as a 'Friend of Laphroaig.' Proceed to Ardbeg Distillery for lunch at the food van, a dram, and shopping. If time allows, visit Lagavulin Distillery’s tasting bar. End the day at Bunnahabhain Distillery with an optional Warehouse Tasting of whisky straight from the cask. Overnight again in Port Ellen or Bowmore.

Day 3: Return via Inveraray and Loch Lomond

Take the morning ferry back to the mainland, arriving around noon. Stop in Inveraray to explore the 18th-century town and Inveraray Castle, home to Clan Campbell. After lunch, visit the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, followed by a walk along Loch Lomond’s shores. Return to Edinburgh by 6 PM or Glasgow by 5 PM.

Includes

• Private driver-guide with whisky expertise
• Transportation in an 8-seater van
• Ferry crossings
• Photo stops at scenic locations

Excludes

• Accommodation (book your own in Bowmore or Port Ellen)
• Distillery and attraction entrance fees (book and pay in advance via official websites)
• Meals and drinks
• Evening services
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance

Important Information

• Book accommodation immediately after booking the tour
• Reserve and pay for distillery tastings directly on distillery websites
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Check local weather and dress appropriately
• Bring a camera to capture scenic views
• Carry water and snacks for the journey
• Ensure you have travel insurance for the trip

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.