Private tour in Edinburgh Mike O

Whisky Tour to Isle of Islay

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Hours icon 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Mike O.

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Discover Scotland with a Local Expert! With over 12 years of experience as a qualified guide and a background as a travel agent, I bring deep knowledge and a warm, engaging style to every tour. I completed a two-year certification with the Scottish Tourist Guide Association, and today I specialize in whisky tours—making up around half of my bookings. Beyond whisky, I offer immersive experiences focused on Scotland’s rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you're looking for a classic sightseeing day or a more tailored cultural exploration, I’ll help you uncover the best of what Scotland has to offer. I'm also experienced in delivering virtual tours, especially for care homes and corporate groups, ensuring that even remote guests can enjoy a taste of Scotland. I have been in the travel industry for a long time working for Travel Agencies and Tour Operators. I am originally from Canada but my parents are both Scottish. A number of years ago they moved back to Scotland and I soon followed. Then I decided to take a course to become a Qualified Blue Badge Guide. It is the best thing I have ever done and I love my job. Edinburgh is a great city to explore. The history and stories are fascinating. One of my favourite places to take guests is Rosslyn Chapel, which is just outside the city. It is a wonderful piece of medieval stone masonry with connections to the Templar Knights. It became world renowned after featuring in the Da Vinci Code. Visitors should not miss a trip to the highlands to see the stunning landscapes and fairy-tale castles. You should of course as well plan stop at Scotch Whisky Distillery to see the time and care put into making the Spirit of Scotland.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Mike O.

Overview of your Edinburgh tour

Join us for a private driver-guided tour to the Isle of Islay; known as the Queen of the Hebrides and famous for its distinctive, smoky single malts. This trip is tailor-made to suit your whisky tastes. Our classic option is a 3-day tour, it can be extended to 4 or 5 days. On day one, your guide will collect you from Edinburgh or Glasgow. We’ll stop for lunch in Oban, with a chance to visit the distillery tasting bar, before catching the ferry from Kennacraig. Islay is currently home to 10 working distilleries, with 2 more on the way. You’ll have a full day to explore your favourite drams. The day begins with a scenic drive to Kildalton Cross, and maybe a few seal sightings. Enjoy a production tour at Laphroaig or Lagavulin, followed by lunch and a dram at Ardbeg. Finish with a memorable warehouse tasting at Bunnahabhain. Accommodation is available in Port Ellen or Bowmore. The final day includes a ferry back to the mainland, with stops at Inveraray and the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.

Your Edinburgh tour itinerary

Day 1: 8.45am pick up Edinburgh/9.15am pick up Glasgow 10-10.30am Deanston Distillery (shop only) scenic drive via Loch Awe/Kilchurn Castle 1-3pm free time in Oban Scenic drive of Kilmartin Glen (stop to see Standing Stones) 5pm check in to ferry 6-8pm Ferry to Islay 8.30pm arrive Port Ellen or Bowmore Day 2: 8.45am depart Scenic drive to Kildalton Cross 10-11.30am Laphroaig Distillery tour 12-12.45pm Ardbeg lunch van 1-1.30pm Lagavulin Dramming Room Bar 2.30-4pm Bunnahabhain Warehouse Experience 5pm return to hotel Day 3: 9am check in to ferry 9.45-12pm ferry to Kennacraig 1.15-2.30pm Inveraray castle or town scenic drive of Rest and be Thankful 3.30-4pm views of Loch Lomond 5pm return to Glasgow 6pm return to Edinburgh Note: Itinerary is subject to change depending on availability.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Minivan

Mercedes Vito 8 Seater van (or similar)

What's included
Private Guide
Other: Tasting
Tickets: Distillery Tour
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Accommodation: Port Ellen or Bowmore
Other: Personal Expenses
Meeting location

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

any accommodation in Edinburgh or Glasgow

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Food And Drink
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
History
Architecture
Tour reference number
1421800
Languages
English
Activity level
Minimal

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Edinburgh best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for whisky enthusiasts eager to explore the Isle of Islay's renowned distilleries. It's ideal for those who appreciate scenic drives and want to connect with a local guide like Mike O. for deeper insights into the whisky-making process.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Edinburgh be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

What happens if a site is closed, crowded, or the weather changes?

What languages is this tour offered in?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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