Prices

£289.00 Adult from
B&B or Hotel Accommodation (Additional Cost)

Enquire about this tour Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878

4 Day Islay and Whisky Distillery Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day Scottish adventure with our “Islay: The Whisky Coast” tour from Edinburgh! This immersive journey is designed for whisky aficionados and lovers of breathtaking Scottish landscapes alike. You’ll delve deep into the heart of Islay, the “Queen of the Hebrides,” famous worldwide for its distinctive, peaty single malt whiskies, while also discovering ancient history and stunning natural beauty along the way.

Your adventure begins as you depart from Scotland’s vibrant capital, Edinburgh. The scenic drive takes you through the spectacular Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Imagine shimmering lochs reflecting majestic mountains and dense forests, a truly picturesque introduction to the Scottish Highlands. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will entertain you with tales of Scottish folklore, adding to the magic of the journey.

Oban

Next, you’ll arrive in the charming port town of Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” Once a strategic hub for feuding clans, Oban today is a haven for seafood lovers, offering incredibly fresh catches right off the boats. You’ll have time to savor delicious local seafood for lunch and perhaps enjoy a dram at the renowned Oban Distillery, perfecting whisky for over 200 years.

The historical wonders continue as you venture through Kilmartin Glen, a landscape steeped in ancient history. This remarkable glen boasts one of Scotland’s most significant concentrations of prehistoric and historic sites. You’ll explore standing stones, burial cairns, and ancient strongholds, some dating back over 5,000 years, offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s distant past. Sites like Nether Largie South Cairn, Temple Wood Stone Circles, and the formidable Dunadd Hill Fort tell stories of Neolithic and Bronze Age communities.

Finally, you’ll catch the evening ferry to Islay, a two-hour sail offering stunning views, including the iconic Paps of Jura. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your comfortable accommodation in Bowmore, your base for three nights.

Islay

On Islay, the true whisky experience unfolds. You’ll have the incredible opportunity to visit some of the island’s most celebrated distilleries, each with its unique character and flavour profile. Your tour includes an exclusive visit and tasting at Ardbeg Distillery, renowned for its intensely peated and complex whiskies. You’ll also enjoy a tour, tasting, and group lunch at Kilchoman Distillery, Islay’s only Single Farm Single Malt Scotch Whisky, known for its traditional farm-to-bottle approach. Discover Bowmore Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest, offering a balanced taste of peat and lighter, fruity notes.

Depending on the day, you might also visit Bruichladdich, famous for its unpeated whiskies, or Bunnahabhain, known for its unpeated and salty notes from its remote coastal location. You’ll even explore Laphroaig, a favourite with the British Royal Family, and have the chance to sample the intensely smoky and rich whisky from Lagavulin. Throughout your visits, you’ll learn about the intricate whisky-making process, from malting to maturation, and gain a deeper appreciation for the “water of life.”

Beyond the distilleries, your driver-guide will lead you to historical spots like the ruins of Kildalton Church and Dunyvaig Castle, adding layers of cultural richness to your whisky journey. You’ll experience the captivating blend of Islay’s wild beauty, rich history, and world-class whisky firsthand.

See full details below and contact us to reserve your place.

3 Nights

Accommodation

3 Meals

Breakfast included when accommodation booked

Transport

Luxury air conditioned coach
with WiFi*

Prices

£289.00 Adult from
B&B or Hotel Accommodation (Additional Cost)

Chat with us online

Speak to an Agent
Enquire about this tour

Tour Highlights

Journey through the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Explore the charming coastal town of Oban, the "Gateway to the Isles."
Discover the ancient history of Kilmartin Glen with its standing stones and cairns
Enjoy a scenic ferry crossing to the Isle of Islay, the "Queen of the Hebrides."
Experience exclusive tours and tastings at world-renowned Islay distilleries like Ardbeg and Kilchoman
Visit and potentially taste whiskies at other iconic Islay distilleries such as Bowmore, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Bruichladdich, or Bunnahabhain
Explore historical sites on Islay, including ancient ruins and castles

Oban

15^°

overcast clouds

87% humidity

wind: 3m/s SW

H 15 • L 15

12^°

Mon

12^°

Tue

15^°

Wed

17^°

Thu

15^°

Fri

Weather from OpenWeatherMap

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Edinburgh to Islay – Highlands, Seafood & Ancient Stones

Morning: From Edinburgh to the Trossachs National Park

Your Islay whisky adventure kicks off from Edinburgh! We’ll head northwest, leaving the Lowlands’ rolling farmlands behind for the dramatic scenery of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. This breathtaking region is a tapestry of rugged crags, shimmering lochs, and dense forests, steeped in tales of figures like Rob Roy MacGregor. We’ll make a refreshing stop in the charming village of Callander, nestled by a gleaming loch.

Mid-Morning: Through the Trossachs to Oban

Our journey continues through the Trossachs National Park’s winding trails and hidden glens. Soon, the majestic Western Highlands unfold as we make our way to Oban, just in time for lunch.

Afternoon: Oban and the Ferry to Islay

Oban, once a strategic stronghold for feuding clans, is now celebrated as the “Gateway to the Isles” and a haven for fresh seafood. You can grab an authentic local meal right by the ferry terminal at the Oban Seafood Hut, famed for its affordable platters of scallops, langoustines, and more. After lunch, we’ll journey through Kilmartin Glen, a landscape rich in ancient history, where you can explore standing stones and strongholds over 1,500 years old. Finally, we’ll reach Kennacraig to catch the evening ferry to Islay.

Early Evening: Ferry to Islay and Arrival in Bowmore

Relax and enjoy the two-hour ferry ride to Islay, keeping an eye out for dolphins or the distinctive Paps of Jura mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your accommodation in Bowmore, a peaceful town on Loch Indaal, which will be your base for the next three nights.

Accommodation: Your overnight accommodation is located in Bowmore. Please note, accommodation is not included in the tour price but can be added to your booking.

Day 2 - Islay's Whisky Heritage and Coastal Delights

Morning: Kick-off at Bowmore Distillery

Today, we dive deep into Islay’s incredible whisky scene. Our first stop is Bowmore Distillery, a true icon that’s been capturing the island’s spirit for over 240 years.

Mid-Morning: Bowmore Distillery Tour and Kilchoman Bound

At Bowmore, you’ll explore its rich history and uncover the secrets of its production process. Best of all, you’ll enjoy a tasting of three of their signature sweet and smoky drams, plus a complimentary whisky glass to take home! (Heads up: if your tour runs between July 7th and August 18th, 2025, you’ll get a special cask tasting experience instead of the production tour, due to their silent season.) Afterward, we’ll head along the coast to Kilchoman Distillery for a tour and a delicious lunch featuring local specialties.

Afternoon: Kilchoman, Lunch & Bunnahabhain

Kilchoman stands out as Islay’s only Single Farm Single Malt Scotch Whisky, dedicated to a traditional “barley-to-bottle” approach that results in a truly 100% Islay whisky. On our exclusive tour, you’ll see their production site and savor Kilchoman’s unique whisky, known for its notes of peat smoke, crisp citrus, spice, and fruit. (A quick note: if your tour departs on May 13th, 2025, we’ll visit Caol Ila Distillery instead. If it’s September 6th, 2025, we’ll head to Ardnahoe.) After a delightful lunch, we’ll journey through Islay’s stunning countryside to your third distillery of the day: Bunnahabhain. Nestled in Islay’s most remote spot, you can experience their unpeated, distinctively salty whisky here.

Early Evening: Free Time in Bowmore

As evening approaches, we’ll head back to Bowmore. You’ll have a relaxing free evening to unwind by the loch, enjoy the local pubs and fresh seafood, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with whitewashed houses, truly soaking in the town’s character.

Accommodation: Your overnight accommodation will be in Bowmore. Please remember, accommodation is not included in the tour price but is available to add to your booking.

Day 3 - Islay's Southern Shores – Peat, History & Dram Good Whiskies

Morning: Journey to Ardbeg Distillery

Today, we’re exploring Islay’s famous southern coast, home to legendary whiskies like Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg. We’ll take a scenic drive south to Ardbeg, passing winding roads, rolling green hills dotted with sheep, and stretches of open moorland. As we near Port Ellen, you’ll see dense peat bogs, crucial to Islay’s smoky whisky character, contrasting beautifully with the vibrant green landscape.

Mid-Morning: Ardbeg Distillery Tour, Tasting & Lunch

Ardbeg Distillery boasts a rocky 200-year history, making it a true pioneer – they even sent whisky to space to mature! You’ll enjoy a Rabbie’s exclusive tour and a tasting of three drams of their exceptional whisky. Then, savor fine Scottish produce in Ardbeg’s beautiful restaurant, offering direct views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. (Please note: If your tour departs between June 9-29, 2025, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of five core range drams instead of a full production tour due to their silent season. If your tour departs on a Friday, your visit will include a still house visit and four drams, but not a full distillery tour.)

Afternoon: Island Exploration & Laphroaig or Lagavulin Distillery

Throughout the afternoon, your driver-guide will take you to historical sites like the ruins of Kildalton Church, home to an 8th-century cross – one of Scotland’s finest early Christian monuments. Surrounded by Islay’s tranquil countryside, it offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual past. Later, we’ll visit another renowned distillery, which varies by departure day. If your tour departs on a Monday, we’ll visit Lagavulin Distillery, known for its deep richness, signature smoothness, and unforgettable bold smoke. If it’s a Wednesday or Friday, you’ll visit Laphroaig Distillery, which has been capturing the wild essence of the landscape in every bottle for over 200 years. (Important: Laphroaig’s silent season runs from July 7th to August 13th, 2025. During this time, your experience will include a museum visit and bar tasting only.)

Early Evening: Free Evening in Bowmore

We’ll return to Bowmore for your final evening on the island. Enjoy your free time to relax, perhaps revisit a favorite pub, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation: Your overnight accommodation will be in Bowmore. Please remember, accommodation is not included in the tour price but can be added to your booking.

Day 4 - Islay Farewell & Highland Return to Edinburgh

Morning: Departure from Port Ellen

This morning, we head to Port Ellen to catch our ferry back to the mainland. We’ll leave behind the rich aromas of Islay’s whisky, taking in the fresh, clean air of Scotland’s West Highlands as we depart.

Mid-Morning: Ferry to Kennacraig

As we sail from Islay, soak in the sweeping views of the island’s rugged coastlines, iconic distilleries, and the towering Paps of Jura on the horizon. The open waters offer a fantastic chance to spot marine life – keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and occasionally even minke whales or basking sharks!

Afternoon: Inveraray, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Traveling along the coast, we’ll reach the picturesque village of Inveraray. This charming spot, with its historic buildings, old boats, and a great whisky shop, will be our lunch stop. You can sample local specialties, explore the town, visit the impressive 18th-century Inveraray Castle (open April–October), or tour the Old Jail. Next, we’ll head east through the rugged Arrochar Alps, pausing at the scenic ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ viewpoint. Then, we continue into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, making a short stop in the charming village of Luss, known for its quaint houses and stunning loch views.

Early Evening: Return to Edinburgh

As we journey back to Edinburgh, the majestic Highland peaks and forest-filled glens gradually transform into the flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands, bringing our unforgettable tour to a close.

Oban

15^°

overcast clouds

87% humidity

wind: 3m/s SW

H 15 • L 15

12^°

Mon

12^°

Tue

15^°

Wed

17^°

Thu

15^°

Fri

Weather from OpenWeatherMap

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Your Tour Includes:

Travel in a comfortable, 16-seat luxury mini-coach
An expert local guide (English-speaking)
Complimentary accommodation reservation service
Convenient daily pick-ups and drop-offs
All necessary ferry travel to the islands
44lb (20kg) luggage allowance per person
Visits to unique, off-the-beaten-track locations

Optional Extras:

Bowmore Distillery Tour with Signature Cask Tasting: Dive deeper into Islay’s oldest distillery with a unique cask tasting experience. (Included in package when accommodation booked)
Kilchoman Distillery Malt Floor Visit with Tasting: Discover Kilchoman’s unique “barley-to-bottle” process with a visit to their malt floor and a distinctive tasting. (Included in package when accommodation booked)
Bunnahabhain Distillery Whisky Tasting: Experience the unpeated, salty notes of whisky from Islay’s most remote distillery. (Payment made on arrival).
Ardbeg Distillery Tour with Tasting: Explore the resilient history and out-of-this-world spirits of Ardbeg with a guided tour and tasting. (Included in package when accommodation booked)
Laphroaig Distillery Rabbie’s Exclusive Tour and Tasting: Enjoy a special Rabbie’s exclusive tour and tasting at this iconic distillery, known for its wild landscape in every bottle. (Included in package when accommodation booked)
Lagavulin Distillery Tour with Tasting: (Monday Departures only) Immerse yourself in the deep richness, signature smoothness, and bold smoky layers of Lagavulin whisky with a comprehensive tour and tasting.

Does Not Include:

Flights and airport transfers
Accommodation (additional cost)
Food and drinks

No children are permitted on this tour.

Starting Your Tour

Departure Point: Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Boarding:

Starts: 8:15AM
Closes: 8:30 AM (prompt)

Returning to Edinburgh

Approximate Return Time: 7:00 PM Drop-off Location: Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, George Street / St. Andrew Square area (within 5 minutes of Edinburgh Bus Station), Edinburgh

Your driver-guide will confirm a more precise return time on the final day of your tour.

Accommodation

As part of your Best Value Tours package, your accommodation will be included and arranged for you. Simply tell us your room preferences (e.g., single, double, or twin) and any special requirements, like ground-floor rooms or dietary needs, when you book your tour.

When you travel with us, your multi-day tour accommodation will exclusively be in hotels and B&Bs. Only trusted providers are used, based on their quality, location, and unique character. All chosen venues offer comfort and are conveniently located near your tour destinations.

Hotels

Hotels offer a comfortable stay with private en-suite bathrooms as standard. These are generally larger venues centrally located for convenient pick-up and drop-off, making them suitable for larger groups. You can expect professional staff and various amenities, though specific offerings will differ by property.

B&B Ensuite

Our B&B Ensuite accommodations offer a cozy, personal touch, often being family-run establishments brimming with charm and character. You’ll find these located in more residential areas, and they all come with the convenience of private bathrooms.

You pick the option you would prefer and we book it as part of the tour package, so everything is included. Contact us for more details

Luggage Allowance

Each passenger can bring one piece of checked luggage and one small carry-on bag.

Your checked luggage will be stored in the luggage compartment and won’t be accessible until drop-off. Smaller bags for personal items like medication or water may be taken on board with you.

Here are the details for your luggage:

Checked Luggage

Number of items: 1
Max weight: 44lb (20kg)
Max dimensions: 22in x 17in x 10in (56cm x 43cm x 25cm)

Carry-on for Personal Items

Number of items: 1
Max weight: 10lb (4.5kg)
Max dimensions: 12in x 10in x 4in (30cm x 25cm x 10cm)

FAQS

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. You can pick from two types of accommodation. A bed and breakfast (B&B) or a hotel. You pick the option you would prefer and we book it as part of the tour package, so everything is included.

Tour Attractions

Attractions tickets can be paid for on the tour.

Children

We regret we do not carry children under the age of 5 years old on our scheduled tours.

If your child is less that 1.35m tall, you should let us know and we will provide a suitable booster seat.

Luggage

You’re restricted to 14kg (30lbs) or 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person, depending on the tour. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland’s historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What’s more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don’t recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can’t wait for you if you’re late.

What happens if I’m late or miss the tour?

If you’re late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

Your cancellation terms depend on which tour you’ve booked.

For tours of between two and nine days: You’ll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you’ll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don’t need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let’s be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it’s up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Our Most Popular Essentials

Hotels

Theatre

Out of London Attractions

London Attractions

Sports Tickets

Music Concerts

Christmas Tours

New Years Eve

There are so many and we cater for everyone so it may be a case of a leisurely Out of London trip to Stonehenge or you may want the buzz and excitement of a theatre tour of London – all the glitz and glamour is there. Out of London, we offer all sorts of adventures: Roman Baths, Shakespeare country, the Royal Pavilion, Brighton – you name it. Same with London – we don’t just do the round London tours – we can take you to Kew Gardens or we can take you on an expedition on the roof of the O2 Dome to the platform at the top offering spectacular views.

So we offer Out of London, Around London, Theatre and Hotels and then there are the spectacular Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day tours – what a way to celebrate the fun season.