Tumbler of whisky on ice beside a cut-crystal decanter, lit by a low warm light against darkness
Tours

Planning a whisky weekend in Speyside

Half of Scotland’s distilleries sit within a short drive of each other. Here is how to see the best of them without anyone having to drive.

Published
2 Aug 2026
Reading time
5 min
Topic
Tours
On this page
  1. How many distilleries a day?
  2. Beyond the stills
  3. Why a private driver

Speyside is the heart of Scotch whisky, with more than fifty distilleries along the River Spey and its glens. The towns of Aberlour, Dufftown and Craigellachie make a natural base, about an hour from Inverness Airport.

How many distilleries a day?

Three is the sweet spot: one in the morning, one after lunch and a late-afternoon tasting. Tours fill up in summer, so book them before you travel. We are happy to make the arrangements as part of your itinerary.

Beyond the stills

Leave time for the Speyside Cooperage, where casks are still made by hand, and for a dram in the Quaich Bar at the Craigellachie Hotel, home to hundreds of single malts.

Why a private driver

With your own chauffeur-guide, everyone can enjoy the tastings, and the day runs at your pace. Your chauffeur knows the back roads, the best viewpoints and when each visitor centre is quietest.

Written by the Caledonia Chauffeur Group team

Our chauffeurs drive Scotland’s roads every day, from Edinburgh Airport to Skye. These guides share what we have learned. Last checked 2 August 2026.

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Private driver · Chauffeur service · Scotland

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