Multi-day trip

From Edinburgh: Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

Multi-day trip

From Edinburgh: Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

Activity provider: Rabbie's Small Group Tours

From US$ 929.43 per person

Eco-certified

Enjoy this unique 4-day tour to the “Queen of the Isles” and the Whisky Coast. Islay is home to 8 of Scotland’s finest malt whisky distilleries. Discover the unique peaty flavors of the whisky, and explore the Island's beautiful scenery and long history.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 14 days in advance for a full refund
Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 4 days
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Small group
Limited to 16 participants

Experience

Highlights
  • Drive through the stunning Loch Lomond National Park
  • Visit the ancient Kilmartin standing stones
  • Stay in the charming village of Bowmore
  • Tour the Islay distilleries
  • Discover the sandy beaches of Islay’s west coast
  • Explore Oban, the Gateway to the Isles
  • See the distinctive white buildings at Inveraray
Full description
Explore Islay and become a whisky expert on this unique 4-day tour. Sit back and enjoy the action-packed itinerary as you are driven in style in a luxury minicoach. And learn about the long history and traditions of this special Island. Discover everything Islay has to offer, from stunning sandy beaches to fascinating wildlife and a vibrant local culture. And try the famous Islay whiskies, renowned for their strong peaty flavors and nurtured by the salty sea air. Day 1 On day 1 you’ll travel through Loch Lomond National Park, with visits to Inveraray, Loch Fyne and the Kingdom of Dalriada. Here you can see the Kilmartin standing stones and community museum before catching the ferry to Islay for 3 nights in Bowmore. Day 2 Day 2 gives you the flexibility to visit the lovely sandy bays of Islay’s west coast, Saligo Bay, Kilchoman Distillery, Machair Bay, the tiny harbor village of Portnahaven, Bruichladdich Distillery, Ardnahoe Distillery, and the Islay Museum. Day 3 On day 3 you’ll explore the south side of Islay followed by a tour, tasting and lunch with local produce at Ardbeg. Other options include the ruins of Kildalton church or a visit to the community craft producers at Islay House Square and the woodlands along the River Sorn. Day 4 On day 4 you’ll take the ferry back to Argyll and the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada. Lunch will be at Kilmartin, home to 350 pre-historic monuments and stone circles, with some free time in Oban before returning to Edinburgh via Glasgow.
Includes
  • Transportation by Mercedes mini coach with a maximum of 16 passengers per tour
  • Services of a professional Rabbie's driver/guide
  • All ferry and bridge crossings
  • 3 nights en-suite accommodation
  • All meals and refreshments
  • Entrance fees to all distilleries and visitor attractions

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

Know before you go

  • Local guide uses a selection of small, locally owned, guesthouses and B&B's. All rooms are ensuite. Guesthouses may be a short walk from the city center. Individual travelers, please select the single accommodation option. For 2 or more people travelling together, please choose the twin room shared option. On occasions, when villages you stay in have events on the local guide may use other locations for your accommodation. They will always inform you if this is necessary.
  • Please bring suitable clothing and footwear to enjoy time off the bus and opportunities for nature walks.
  • Minimum age to participate is 18.
  • On Monday departures, days 1 and 4 will be reversed
  • Monday departures offer the chance to see more whisky production as all the distilleries are in operation on weekdays.
  • You're restricted to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person. This should be similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55x45x25cm/22x17x10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items.
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 16 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Service
    4.8/5
  • Organization
    4.8/5

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Star rating:

This was one of the best package tours I have had. I was a bit sceptical as I normally do for single day tours but it was an amazing experience. Stuart is a super guide and his enthusiasm on islay whiskey was the driving force. He is also very friendly and helpful. The Bowmore cottage was wonderful and I enjoyed the stay there. The whiskey tastings itself were very well managed and fun.

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April 2, 2023

Great trip for whisky enthusiasts! My husband and myself thoroughly enjoyed this trip with Stewart our guide. I’ve learnt to appreciate this magical water of life! We visited 7/9 distilleries on the island and came home to London with a suitcase full of whisky.

April 2, 2023

This whisky tour was great. We had a nice group of 16 of different ages and from different countries. The bus was comfortable. Our accommodation at Bowmore Cottages was excellent. Right at the distillery and steps to everything in town, Our guide replenished our breakfast supplies every day. We visited 7 distilleries and lots of ruined castles, beaches, overlooks and rest stops. I would do this tour again.

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April 2, 2023

Product ID: 26309