Speyside is the heartland of Scotch whisky – more distilleries than anywhere else in Scotland, set in a gentle valley of river, forest, and village. A private tour of Speyside puts tastings, scenery, and local insight in your control: no rushed coach stops, no fixed timetable. This guide covers key places, hidden gems, a sample tour day, and how to add a chauffeur option for a seamless, luxury experience.
Key places to visit
- Speyside distilleries The heart of Scotch whisky: Macallan, Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and many more; tastings and tours by arrangement.
- River Spey The river that gives the region its name; salmon, scenery, and villages along the valley.
- Grantown-on-Spey Charming Speyside town; ideal stop for lunch or a walk between distillery visits.
- Craigellachie Small village with a famous bridge and easy access to several distilleries.
Hidden gems
- Smaller distilleries. Beyond the big names, Speyside has smaller, often book-ahead distilleries that offer intimate tastings and less crowded experiences.
- Speyside Way. Long-distance walking route along the Spey; we can drop you for a short stretch or plan a walk into a private tour day.
- Local food. Cafés, restaurants, and delis in Grantown, Aberlour, and Dufftown reward a relaxed lunch stop between distillery visits.
- Seasonal light. Autumn and spring bring softer light and fewer crowds; winter adds cosy pub stops and shorter, focused distillery days.
Sample private tour day
A full-day Speyside tour from Inverness typically includes two or three distillery stops, a village or riverside break, and scenic driving along the Spey. From Aviemore, Speyside whisky day tours follow the same idea with less drive time. See our Speyside whisky tour from Inverness and best distilleries near Inverness for more.
Chauffeur option
Explore Speyside in a luxury Mercedes with a professional driver-guide. Tastings without driving, flexible routing, and local storytelling. Chauffeur service.
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