From Edinburgh: Bonnie Lochs and Bold Whisky Trip with Entry

If you’re after a full-day escape from the bustle of Edinburgh that combines the natural beauty of Scottish landscapes with a taste of its famous whisky, this tour offers a solid option. It’s a balanced mix of scenic drives, outdoor activities, and a chance to visit one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries—an experience that appeals to those who want a little bit of everything.

What we love about this trip is its flexibility—you can cycle, cruise, or walk along Loch Katrine, making it adaptable to different interests and fitness levels. Add in the stunning views of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and the chance to taste whisky at Glenturret, and you’ve got a well-rounded day out.

A potential consideration? The tour’s group size is small, capped at eight people, which is excellent for intimacy but might not suit travellers seeking a more bustling, social vibe. Also, the cost of extras like bike hire or cruise tickets is separate, so budget accordingly if those activities appeal.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love nature and history, enjoy a mix of active and relaxed pursuits, and appreciate authentic Scottish culture. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that’s both scenic and indulgent.

Good To Know

Diverse Activities: Choose from cycling, cruising, or walking to explore Loch Katrine, depending on your mood or energy levels.
Stunning Scenery: Get spectacular views of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland’s first national park, teeming with wildlife and history.
Historic Charm: Visit the oldest working distillery in Scotland, where centuries of whisky-making tradition await.
Small Group Comfort: With a maximum of eight guests, the tour offers a personalized experience and more interaction with the guide.
Flexible Options: Activities like bike hire and boat cruises are available on the day—payable locally—allowing you to tailor your experience.
Value for Money: At $118, the tour includes transport, guide, and the distillery visit, making it a comprehensive day out for all the senses.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Edinburgh & Forth Bridges Viewpoint

The day kicks off at Edinburgh Bus Station, where a small, comfortable Mercedes mini-coach awaits. The first stop is the Forth Bridges Viewpoint, a striking spot that showcases the engineering marvels spanning three centuries. The three bridges—opened in 1890, 1964, and 2017—create a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, and the viewpoint offers excellent photo opportunities. Travelers often mention how this brief stop sets a tone of appreciation for Scotland’s blend of history and innovation.

Heading North into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

From there, the journey takes you into Scotland’s first national park, an area affectionately called “the birthplace of Scottish tourism.” The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and shimmering lochs, all alive with wildlife. You might spot red deer, golden eagles, ospreys, or otters, depending on the season and luck.

The guide typically shares stories about the land—reminding visitors how this area was a battleground during the Jacobite uprisings and how Prince Charlie once roamed these lands. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a uniquely Scottish experience.

Loch Katrine: A Highlight with Multiple Ways to Explore

Arriving at Loch Katrine, the tour offers a few options to soak in the scenery. The name “Katrine” is derived from the Gaelic “cateran,” meaning Highland robber—an intriguing tidbit that sparks stories of Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland’s legendary folk hero, born on these shores.

Cycling with Katrine Wheelz: The private road along the loch is nearly traffic-free, making it an ideal route for cycling. Tourists have praised the quiet, almost car-free experience, with one reviewer noting, “The views from the bike are breathtaking, and it’s so peaceful without any traffic.”

Cruising on the Sir Walter Scott Steamship: For those who prefer to relax, the boat cruise offers spectacular views from the water, accompanied by commentary from the captain. Reviewers mention how calming it is to sit back and enjoy the landscape without any exertion.

Walking along the shoreline: For a more casual experience, a stroll along the loch’s edge lets you take in the scenery at your own pace, listening to the sounds of nature and perhaps spotting a few birds.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch & Personal Exploration

You’ll have plenty of time here to eat—either bringing your own or grabbing a snack near the pier. The flexibility of the tour means you can customize your time at Loch Katrine to suit your interests. While lunch isn’t included, the area offers various options to refuel before the next leg of the journey.

Glenturret Distillery & Whisky Tasting

The final stop is at Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery, founded in 1763. Historically visited by figures like Robert Burns and even Prime Ministers, it’s a place steeped in tradition. The guided tour here dives into the whisky-making process, with tastings that include some of the finest drams Scotland can offer.

Guests have appreciated the informative guides and the chance to learn about the distillery’s history and craftsmanship. The tasting experience is generally described as enjoyable and educational, providing a real taste of Scottish whisky culture.

Return to Edinburgh

After a full day of scenic beauty, historical insights, and whisky indulgence, the bus heads back to Edinburgh, arriving in the early evening. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps plan your next Scottish adventure.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a luxurious 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, you benefit from air conditioning and a more intimate group setting. With a maximum of eight passengers, the tour offers a more personalized experience, allowing the guide to cater to individual interests and answer questions in depth.

Pricing & Extras: Analyzing Value

Priced at $118 per person, this tour provides good value considering the inclusions—transport, guide, and the whisky tour at Glenturret. The bike hire (£15) and cruise tickets are not included but are available on the day, giving you the flexibility to choose what suits your preferred pace.

While the cost might seem higher than some bus-only tours, the small group size and variety of activities—plus the chance to visit a historic distillery—add significant value. The experience feels personal, relaxed, and well-organized, making it worth the investment for travelers seeking an authentic Scottish day out.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty combined with history. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a mix of outdoor activities and culture without the hassle of planning multiple stops yourself.

It suits active travelers who enjoy cycling or walking, as well as those who prefer a more laid-back boat cruise. Whisky fans will enjoy the distillery visit, especially since it’s Scotland’s oldest working distillery.

The small group setting makes it suitable for travelers seeking a more intimate, conversational experience rather than large, noisy tours. Families with children over five, or those wanting a full day of Scottish scenery and culture, will likely find this trip a memorable highlight.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Transport in a mini-coach, a guide, and the whisky tasting at Glenturret are included. Extras like bike hire (£15) and cruise tickets are payable locally.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the early evening. Check availability for specific starting times.

Can I bring my luggage?
Yes, but only one piece of luggage per person, similar in size to a carry-on bag (around 55cm x 45cm x 25cm), plus a small personal bag.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options available at Loch Katrine to suit different tastes.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged five and above can participate, but the tour isn’t suitable for younger kids.

What activities are available at Loch Katrine?
You can cycle, cruise, or walk along the loch. The choice is yours on the day, offering flexibility based on your mood and energy.

Do I need to book activities like bike hire or the cruise in advance?
No, these are paid separately on the day, giving you the freedom to decide when and if to join.

What’s the maximum number of travelers?
The tour operates with a small group limit of 8 passengers for a more personalized experience.

What makes Glenturret Distillery special?
It’s Scotland’s oldest working distillery, dating back to 1763, with historical visitors including Robert Burns and royalty, making it a truly authentic whisky destination.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded Scottish experience that blends scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and whisky heritage in a manageable, intimate setting. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of Scotland’s natural beauty with a side of history and culture. Small group sizes, flexible activity options, and an authentic distillery visit make it stand out as a memorable day trip.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a whisky enthusiast, or simply someone seeking to escape the city for a taste of Scotland’s charm, this tour delivers a good mix of all three—at a reasonable price point considering the variety and quality of experiences. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy personalized service and meaningful encounters with Scotland’s landscape and traditions.

Ready to explore Scotland’s lochs and whisky? This tour might just be the perfect blend of scenic serenity and spirited heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: