5 Days of Highland Games Nature Castles Whisky Tasting and Hiking Itinerary

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Inverness, which takes approximately 3 hours from Edinburgh. Upon arrival, visit Inverness Castle to learn about its history and enjoy breathtaking views of the River Ness.

For lunch, stop by Rocpool Restaurant, a highly-rated spot offering contemporary Scottish dishes made from local ingredients. Afterward, immerse yourself in traditional Scottish culture by attending one of the famous Highland Games events held in Inverness during summer months.

Conclude your day with a whisky tasting tour at Glen Ord Distillery. This guided tour provides insights into the whisky-making process and includes samples of their finest single malts. Enjoy dinner at The Mustard Seed, known for its warm ambiance and delicious cuisine.

Drive to Perthshire (approximately 2 hours from Inverness) to start your day with a nature hike at Hermitage Woodland Walk. This picturesque trail takes you through ancient woodlands along the River Braan, offering stunning views of waterfalls and wildlife.

Enjoy lunch at The Bothy, a charming restaurant serving traditional Scottish fare in Dunkeld village near Hermitage Woodland Walk. Afterward, visit Blair Castle, one of Scotland's most famous castles known for its beautiful gardens and rich history.

End your day with dinner at Fonab Castle Hotel Restaurant in Pitlochry (a short drive from Blair Castle). This luxurious dining spot offers gourmet dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while providing stunning views over Loch Faskally.

Start your day with a visit to the Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown, Speyside. Known for producing some of the finest single malt Scotch whisky, this distillery offers an immersive tour that takes you through the whisky-making process, from malting to maturation. Enjoy a tasting session at the end of the tour, where you can sample a range of Glenfiddich whiskies.

After your distillery visit, head to The Copper Dog for lunch. This cozy pub offers a variety of traditional Scottish dishes and is located within the Craigellachie Hotel. Following lunch, make your way to one of the local Highland Games events held in Speyside during summer months. These games are a fantastic way to experience traditional Scottish culture, featuring events such as caber tossing, tug-of-war, and Highland dancing.

Conclude your day with dinner at The Dowans Hotel, known for its elegant setting and delicious menu that features locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the River Spey to enjoy the serene evening atmosphere.

Begin your day with a hike at Bennachie, one of Aberdeenshire's most popular hiking spots. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are suitable for hikers of all levels. The summit provides panoramic views that are well worth the effort.

For lunch, stop by The Kildrummy Inn, a highly-rated restaurant offering delicious Scottish cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. Afterward, visit Craigievar Castle, known for its fairytale-like appearance and rich history. Explore the castle's beautifully preserved rooms and learn about its fascinating past.

End your day with dinner at The Marcliffe Hotel Restaurant in Aberdeen. This luxurious dining spot offers gourmet dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while providing an elegant setting perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.