Whisky Tour 3 Day Private Driver Guide to Isle of Islay

5.0 (3 reviews) 3 days Free cancellation Private tour

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3 reviews

5.0

Port Ellen — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Laphroaig Distillery — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the legendary whisky of Islay on this exclusive short break private tour. Tailored for whisky enthusiasts, this 3-day adventure includes visits to iconic distilleries such as Lagavulin and Laphroaig, highlighted by unique tasting experiences. Enjoy picturesque stops at Loch Awe and Kilmartin Glen, immersing yourself in Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Lunch in the picturesque town of Oban with time for the whisky bar. A private driver guide ensures a personalized journey, making this an ideal getaway for small groups seeking a memorable whisky experience.

Sample exquisite whiskies at renowned distilleries on Islay
Personalized itinerary with a private driver guide for small groups
Scenic stops at Oban, Kilmartin Glen, and Inverary Castle
Overnight accommodations in Port Ellen or Bowmore included

This tour is meant to give you a short break with 1 full day on Islay. See our 4 day tour if you wish to see all or most of the distilleries on Islay.

Multi-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Beer & Brewery Tours Water Tours Car Tours Additional fees

At a glance

Duration: 3 days
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Go Scotland Tours (Private Tours)

What is included

Included

Included: MB Vito 7 seater van, with luggage space
Included: Return ferry to Islay
Included: Fuel
Included: Restaurant Recommendations
Included: Qualified Driver Guide
Included: Guide's overnight expenses

Not included

Not included: meals are not included
Not included: Lagavulin Distillery tour/tasting
Not included: Bunnhabhain Warehouse Experience
Not included: Inveraray Castle (closed Tue/Wed)

Itinerary

Day 1 · Scenic Highlands and Seaside Town of Oban

Deanston Distillery & Visitor Centre

30 min Admission not included

we stop at the shop and cafe for a break.
Kilchurn Castle

5 min

We will make a photo stop at Loch Awe to enjoy the views of the scenery and historic castle ruins.
Oban

one hour

We stop for lunch at the seaside town of Oban. Known for it's views and seafood.
Oban Distillery

one hour Admission not included

You will have time to go to the tasting bar at Oban Distillery. Note we are not stopping here for a guided tour.
Temple Wood Stone Circle

30 min

We will stop at the Temple Wood Standing Stones in Kilmartin Glen. These stones were erected 3500 years ago.
Royal Castle of Tarbert

Passing by

We will pass by the picturesque Harbour town of Tarbert. See views of the ruined Tarbert Castle.
Stop 7

2 hours Admission not included

From here we take a 2 hour ferry to Isle of Islay. Enjoy the views of Islay and Jura on the way. Dinner is available on board

Day 2 · Full Day on Islay exploring distilleries and sece

Kildalton Cross

30 min

In the morning we take a scenic drive. Maybe spotting some seals or deer. We stop to see the ruins of Kildalton Church and Kildalton Cross. An iconic symbol of Islay history. The cross dates back to the 8th century.
Laphroaig Distillery

45 min

One of the most popular smoky whiskies. We stop here for a photo of the famous lettering on the building. Inside the have an interesting museum about the history of the distillery. While here we can stop at the tasting bar for a dram. Don't forget to become a Friend of Laphroaig and claim your square foot of land!
Lagavulin Distillery

one hour Admission not included

After we go to Lagavulin Distillery for a guide tour of the distillery and a tasting. Another famous smoky whisky, also known for it's appearance on the American TV show; Parks and Recreation. Admission costs start from £23 per person.
Ardbeg Distillery

one hour Admission not included

We stop at Ardbeg Distillery for lunch. Here you will also have time to go to the shop and tasting bar.
Bunnahabhain Distillery

2 hours Admission not included

We then take a scenic drive across the island. On the way see the peat fields and brick stacked drying outside.

At Bunnahabhain enjoy a special tasting at the warehouse experience. Rather than touring the distillery you will go to the warehouse, learn about the different types of wood use for the casks and the influence it has on the final outcome. You will also taste whisky straight from the cask! Admissions start from £55 per person.

Day 3 · Return to the Mainland, Inveraray Dukedom and Loch Lomond views

Loch Fyne

Passing by

Enjoy a scenic drive along Loch Fyne. One of Scotland's largest salt water lochs.
Inveraray Castle & Gardens

one hour Admission not included

We will stop at the fairytale castle at Inveraray. Home of the Chief of the Clan Campbell, the Duke of Argyll. This is a self guided visit. Note castle is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and closes for the winter (late October to March). If closed we will give you free time in the town of Inveraray. Admissions start from £16 per person (closed Tue/Wed).

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

OYO Metro Inns Falkirk
Westfield
Premier Lodge
Antonine Hotel
The Graeme Hotel
Park Hotel
Premier Inn Falkirk Central hotel
Travelodge Falkirk Hotel
The Hoxton, Edinburgh
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Old Waverly

and 199 more pickup points

Can pick up from Edinburgh, Stirling, Falkirk, or Glasgow areas.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.