Mountains and Malts

OK – walking and whisky might not be 2 topics you think at the same time, but they are 2 key themes of the Highlands of Scotland. It is fab at the end of a day walking to return to your base and enjoy a wee whisky with friends. There’s more to a pairing of walking and whisky than you might think.

HIGHLIGHTS

whisky distillery tour included at Glenlivet or Glenfarclas

tutored whisky tasting at the Whisky Castle in Tomintoul

visit and tour of the Cooperage, where the whisky casks are made and refurbished

highly qualified and experienced local hiking guide and driver

INCLUDED

4 nights accommodation at Fraoch Lodge

all meals included

transport included

3 day’s guiding with experienced, local guide

pick up/drop off from Aviemore station

distillery tour at Glenlivet or Glenfarclas distillery

tutored whisky tasting at the Whisky Castle, specialist whisky shop

visit and tour of the Cooperage, where the whisky casks are made and refurbished

EXCLUDED

alcoholic drinks

transport to Scotland

DETAILS

Remember that you’re in Scotland, so the first think you’ll need to know is that malt whisky does not have an “e” in the name. The next thing to remember is that you should never suggest pairing your treasured malt whisky with ice. If you do suggest ice in your whisky, you’ll be the recipient of frowns and stares plus possibly some lectures on destroying the taste of your malt.

Walking and whisky – the tour

This trip samples the crowning glories of the Cairngorms National Park. Whilst others make a beeline for the highest peaks of we venture elsewhere, we’ll head onto the overlooked back waters of the Glenlivet for grandstand views from deserted mountain tops. This is a secretive area, where Catholicism held on and away from the eyes of the Exciseman. It was once the heart of illicit distilling territory. Not to fear though, whisky is now legal and a thriving industry. We’ll discover the world of whisky and have a chance to sample its delights along with experiencing some fine mountain-scapes

The best of the Highlands in a nutshell: hiking on a whisky theme. Explore whisky country and experience all the hidden, personally selected top spots; all linked to the whisky story which underpins a lot of our life in Scotland.

Hiking and Scotch whisky –This trip samples the crowning glories of the Cairngorms National Park. Whilst others make a beeline for the highest peaks of we venture onto the overlooked back waters of the Glenlivet for grandstand views from deserted mountain tops. This secretive area, where Catholicism held on and away from the eyes of the Exciseman, was once the heart of illicit distilling territory. Not to fear though, whisky is now legal and a thriving industry. We’ll discover the world of whisky and have a chance to sample its delights along with experiencing some fine mountain-scapes

You will visit Glenlivet Distillery, the Cooperage, Craigellachie Hotel’s whisky bar and taste whisky.An activity for all whisky lovers when visiting Scotland.The best of the Highlands in a nutshell: hiking on a whisky theme. Explore whisky country in the footsteps of smugglers and experience all the hidden, personally selected top spots; all linked to the whisky story which underpins a lot of our life in Scotland.

Arrival:

We start this walking break by rendezvousing at our easy to reach base of Fraoch Lodge in the Cairngorm National Park.

Day 1: Cromdale Hills and Glenlivet Distillery

1980ft (600m) of ascent and 9.5 miles (15 km) on tracks and over open moorland with moderate and gentle gradients. Approx walking time excluding breaks and training: 5:45

Day 2: The Cooperage and Ben Rinnes

2240ft (680m) of ascent and 8 miles (13 km) on mainly tracks and mountain footpaths with mainly moderate and gentle gradients but with 150m of steep ascent. Approx walking time excluding breaks and training: 5:15

Day 3: Braes of Glenlivet and the Whisky Castle

1900ft (580m) of ascent and 8 miles (13 km) on tracks and over open moorland with mainly moderate and gentle gradients but with 150m of steep ascent. Approx walking time excluding breaks and training: 4:30

Departure:Most guests depart the following morning after walking finishes, after breakfast but should you have a plane or train to catch we will make sure you we get you there in good time. Feel free to stay on and enjoy more of the area if you want.

Extra accommodation may be available, please enquire.