Embark on a three-day journey through the heart of Speyside, where history, whisky, and nature unite across The Cabrach, Dufftown and Aberlour.
Get ready to experience the essence of Speyside with our carefully curated three-day itinerary. Explore the rugged beauty and rich history of The Cabrach, discover Dufftown’s whisky heritage and ancient castles, and enjoy the natural charm of Aberlour, with scenic trails, serene rivers, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Whether you’re a whisky lover, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, this adventure through Speyside promises something unforgettable for everyone.
Day 1 – Explore The Cabrach – A Step into the Past and Future
Start your journey in the remote and rugged landscape of The Cabrach, an area rich in history and now on the brink of exciting regeneration. Once a centre of illicit whisky distilling and smuggling, The Cabrach is now home to a revitalisation effort led by the Cabrach Trust, blending its rich heritage with new opportunities for visitors to explore. Begin your day at the Cabrach Trust Discovery Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating past of this remote area. Learn about its agricultural beginnings, the harsh realities of life in the hills, and the pivotal role The Cabrach played during the whisky smuggling era. From here, follow the Discovery Trail, a path through time that brings to life the deep historical and cultural roots of The Cabrach.
By midday, it’s time to pause for lunch and delve into a taste of the region’s future at the new Cabrach Distillery, set to open soon. This distillery will breathe fresh life into the area’s whisky-making tradition, offering visitors a unique opportunity to tour the site and experience firsthand how this iconic Scottish spirit is produced. Though the distillery itself is new, it draws from centuries of history, promising to blend innovation with the deep, smoky flavours for which Speyside whiskies are known.
After lunch, lace up your walking boots and take in the breathtaking landscape with a walk from the EDF Dornell Visitor Centre. The surrounding trails offer a variety of routes, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, all leading to stunning viewpoints that overlook the rolling hills and hidden valleys of The Cabrach. These trails provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and take in the peaceful solitude of the area, with longer routes available for those looking for a more immersive adventure.
As evening falls, make your way back towards Dufftown for a well-deserved meal at the Whisky Capital Inn. Here, you can savour hearty, traditional Scottish dishes made from local produce, paired with a dram of fine Speyside whisky, rounding off a day filled with history, exploration, and the timeless charm of this remarkable region.
Day 2 – Discover Dufftown – The Whisky Capital of the World
Start your day in Dufftown, known as the “Whisky Capital of the World.” Begin with a visit to the iconic Dufftown Clock Tower, a striking reminder of the town’s rich history. Afterward, head to Mortlach Church, one of the oldest churches in the area, with its atmospheric graveyard and fascinating stories dating back to the 6th century.
As you move through Dufftown’s historical landmarks, take a trip to Balvenie Castle. The ruins of this medieval fortress are nestled in the countryside, and the atmosphere here is both haunting and inspiring. After exploring the castle, make your way to the Glenfiddich Distillery, a must-visit for any whisky lover. Enjoy a tour of the famous distillery, where you’ll witness the intricate process of whisky-making and get to sample some of their finest expressions. Enjoy lunch at the distillery’s restaurant, indulging in delicious food paired perfectly with a dram or two.
After lunch, continue your whisky journey at the nearby Balvenie Distillery, where you’ll get a more intimate experience of the craft behind one of Scotland’s most revered single malts. Take in the rich aromas of the oak casks and enjoy tastings as you learn about the history of the family-run distillery. If whisky isn’t your thing, consider a visit to Auchindoun Castle, perched high on a hill and offering breathtaking views over the surrounding landscapes.
Conclude your day with a relaxing evening in Dufftown. Head to the Sidings Café for a casual yet delicious dinner, or try the Whisky Capital Inn again for a more traditional meal. After dinner, take a stroll around the town to soak in its charming atmosphere, rounding off the perfect day exploring one of Scotland’s most historically rich towns.
If you want to add another brilliant day onto your trip why not add on a trip on the Keith & Dufftown Railway?
Day 3 – Aberlour – Waterfalls, Whisky, and Wonderful Walks
Your final day takes you to Aberlour, a charming town nestled along the banks of the River Spey. Begin your day with a peaceful walk along the Speyside Way, one of Scotland’s most famous long-distance walking routes. This stretch along the river offers beautiful scenery and is a great way to start the morning while soaking in the natural beauty of Speyside.
After your morning stroll, head to the picturesque Linn Falls, a short walk from Aberlour. The waterfall is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. After taking in the falls, make your way to Aberlour Distillery for a lunchtime tour and tasting session. This smaller, family-run distillery is renowned for its rich, complex whiskies, and its cozy tasting room offers an intimate setting to learn about the craft.
With the taste of fine whisky still lingering, head to Ben Rinnes in the afternoon for a walk or hike up this prominent peak. Ben Rinnes offers spectacular panoramic views of Speyside from the top, making it well worth the effort. If hiking isn’t on your agenda, explore Aberlour’s quaint town centre, popping into the famous Spey Larder for some local treats, or visiting the old Aberlour Station, which now houses the Speyside Visitor Centre.
Wrap up your day and your itinerary with dinner at the charming The Mash Tun, a cosy whisky pub offering fantastic food and a wide selection of whiskies. Alternatively, dine at The Dowans, known for its elegant atmosphere and refined local cuisine. Both places offer a warm, welcoming setting to toast the end of your trip with a fine dram of Speyside’s finest.