An Unforgettable 9-Day Journey Through Scotland's Finest Distilleries
September 12-20, 2026
Led by passionate whisky curators with decades of expertise
Host | Whisky Curator | Owner, Merlins Rest | Founder, Percival Travel Group
Lee Tomlin is the owner of Merlins Rest, where for the past 19 years he has built one of the most respected Scotch whisky programs in the region. Under his stewardship, Merlins Rest has curated a collection of more than 360 single malt Scotches, thoughtfully selected for quality, provenance, and character.
Lee's passion for whisky goes far beyond the bar. He has spent extensive time in Scotland forging relationships with distilleries, deepening his understanding of production, regional nuance, and the stories behind each dram. Countless hours of tasting (and "researching") have shaped his refined palate and appreciation for the subtle complexities that make single malt Scotch so distinctive.
As founder of Percival Travel Group, Lee brings this depth of knowledge and authenticity to every experience he curates. As your host in the Scottish Highlands, he guides guests through distillery visits and tastings with insight, respect for the craft, and a genuine love for sharing exceptional whisky in its place of origin.
Host | Experience Curator | General Manager, Merlins Rest
Nichole Munce is the General Manager of Merlins Rest and brings over 25 years of hospitality experience to every experience she helps create. Her career has been defined by a commitment to thoughtful service, seamless execution, and an exceptional attention to detail.
Known for her ability to curate events that feel both elevated and welcoming, Nichole oversees every element of the guest experience — from flow and pacing to comfort and connection. Her hospitality-first approach ensures that each moment feels intentional, effortless, and well cared for.
With Percival Travel Group, Nichole translates her decades of experience into travel experiences that allow guests to fully relax and be present. As your host in the Scottish Highlands, she ensures the journey runs smoothly behind the scenes while creating an atmosphere where guests feel comfortable, connected, and genuinely looked after.
Our Travel Style: Small groups, authentic experiences, quality over quantity.
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and captivating landscapes of Scotland's whisky heartland
From Glenfiddich to Glenmorangie, explore Scotland's most iconic whisky producers with exclusive tours and tastings.
Stay in carefully selected Scottish hotels that blend comfort with authentic Highland hospitality.
Explore dramatic coastal ruins and legendary castles that inspired literary masterpieces.
Journey through rolling Speyside hills to rugged northern coastlines and Highland valleys.
Every day brings new discoveries, from world-class distilleries to stunning landscapes
Arrival in Aberdeen
Your Scottish adventure begins as you arrive at Aberdeen Airport and transfer to the historic city of Elgin, the heart of Speyside whisky country. Settle into the welcoming Sunnyhill Hotel for your first night, where you'll enjoy a comfortable room with breakfast included. Rest and prepare for the exciting whisky journey ahead.
Glenfiddich & Benriach
Begin your whisky journey at the iconic Glenfiddich Distillery. Enjoy the comprehensive Explorer Tour, discovering one of Scotland's most famous family-owned single malt distilleries and their time-honored traditions.
Savor authentic Scottish cuisine in the whisky capital of Dufftown, perfectly positioned in the heart of Speyside.
Continue to Benriach Distillery for an immersive tour exploring their unique triple-distilled Speyside character and innovative approach to traditional whisky-making.
Glenfarclas & GlenAllachie
Visit the family-owned Glenfarclas Distillery, one of the few remaining independent distilleries. Famous for their sherry cask maturation and one of the largest stills in Speyside, experience six generations of distilling tradition.
Enjoy a delightful meal in the charming village of Aberlour, nestled in the heart of Speyside.
Discover GlenAllachie Distillery, recently revitalized and producing exceptional single malts with a focus on quality cask maturation and traditional craftsmanship.
Journey to the North
Travel north to the coastal town of Tain to visit Glenmorangie Distillery, home to Scotland's tallest stills. Discover why their smooth, complex Highland single malts are celebrated worldwide for their elegant character.
Enjoy a delightful meal at The Coach House Bar and Restaurant in the historic town of Dornoch.
Explore the dramatic cliff-top ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched spectacularly above the North Sea with breathtaking coastal views.
Coastal Treasures
Discover Old Pulteney, "The Maritime Malt," housed in one of Scotland's most northerly distilleries. Experience the unique coastal character shaped by sea winds and maritime heritage.
Continue along the coast to Clynelish Distillery in Brora, renowned for its waxy, complex single malt with subtle coastal influences and a rich, elegant character.
Highland Capital
Visit Singleton Glen Ord Distillery, one of the few distilleries still maintaining traditional floor malting. Discover their rich, full-bodied Highland single malt character.
Explore Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, with a guided walking tour through this historic city's charming streets, discovering its rich culture and heritage.
Craftsmanship & Tradition
Experience the exceptional Balvenie Distillery, one of the most comprehensive distillery tours in Scotland. Balvenie remains one of the few distilleries still maintaining traditional floor malting and employing on-site coopers.
Return to Dufftown, the whisky capital of the world, for a delicious meal in the heart of Speyside.
Journey to Tomatin Distillery for the Legacy Tour. This Highland distillery is known for its smooth, approachable single malts with a perfect balance of traditional and innovative techniques.
Sherry Masterclass & Castle Exploration
Indulge in the exclusive Glendronach experience, exploring the rich, complex world of sherry cask maturation. Glendronach is renowned worldwide for producing some of Scotland's finest sherry-matured whiskies with deep, luxurious flavors.
Experience one of Scotland's most atmospheric locations with a visit to Slains Castle. This dramatic cliff-top ruin inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. Enjoy a scenic coastal walk and explore the haunting, windswept ruins overlooking the North Sea.
Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Aberdeen Airport for your departure flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of Scotland's whisky heritage, stunning landscapes, warm Highland hospitality, and the rich flavors of 11 exceptional distilleries.
Each with its own unique character and centuries of tradition
* Distilleries subject to change based on availability. We will replace with equal or better experiences.
Exceptional tour showcasing traditional floor malting and on-site coopering
SpeysideUnique triple-distilled Speyside character with innovative traditions
SpeysideKnown for waxy, complex single malts with elegant coastal influences
HighlandsRevitalized distillery producing exceptional quality cask matured malts
SpeysideWorld-renowned for exceptional sherry cask matured whiskies with deep, luxurious character
Highlands - Featured ExperienceSix generations of family ownership and famous sherry cask maturation
SpeysideOne of Scotland's most famous family-owned single malt distilleries
SpeysideScotland's tallest stills creating smooth, elegant Highland single malts
Highlands"The Maritime Malt" shaped by coastal winds and sea air
HighlandsTraditional floor malting and rich, full-bodied Highland character
HighlandsHighland distillery with smooth, balanced single malts
HighlandsEverything you need for an exceptional whisky journey
Carefully selected hotels with breakfast included
Expert guides and exclusive tastings
Throughout the tour in modern vehicles
Explore historic Inverness with expert guide
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe and Slains Castle
Through stunning Scottish Highlands
Support throughout your journey
Maximum 10 guests for intimate, personalized attention
Maximum 10 guests for an intimate, curated experience
Double occupancy (shared rooms). Solo travelers welcome – please contact us for single room rates
Contact us for deposit and payment schedule information
Non-refundable. Payment may be transferred to future Percival Travel Group experiences (credit valid 12 months)
Highly recommended: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment
Extend your stay before or after the tour. Percival Travel Group can assist with arrangements
For complete terms, see our Policies Page
You'll be traveling with curious, quality-focused adults who value:
Trusted expertise from nearly 20 years at Merlins Rest
"Lee's knowledge of Scotch is unmatched. After years of experiencing his curated selection at Merlins Rest—over 360 single malts!—joining this Highland tour was a no-brainer. If anyone should be leading whisky tours in Scotland, it's Lee and Nichole."
"With one of the most respected Scotch programs in the region, Merlins Rest has been my whisky education for years. Lee and Nichole know whisky inside and out. This tour is the natural extension of what they've been perfecting for nearly two decades."
"Nichole's attention to detail and Lee's passion for whisky make this team unstoppable. Their expertise and genuine love for Scotland come through in everything they curate. I wouldn't trust anyone else to lead a trip like this."
No, international flights to/from Scotland are not included. However, all ground transportation during the tour is included.
All breakfasts are included, plus select meals throughout the tour as noted in the itinerary. Lunches and some dinners are on your own, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine.
Absolutely! Solo travelers are welcome. Please contact us for single room rates and availability.
Solo travelers receive private rooms (single supplement applies). Contact us for current single room rates.
Moderate fitness. You should be comfortable with 30-60 minutes of walking at a time, navigating stairs at castles and distilleries, and walking on uneven terrain.
Contact us at chatwithmerlin@yahoo.com for current deposit requirements and payment schedule details.
Yes! We encourage extending your trip before or after the tour. Percival Travel Group is happy to assist with arranging additional accommodations and experiences.
Distilleries are subject to change based on availability. If a scheduled distillery is unavailable, we will replace it with an equal or superior experience.
Have more questions? Contact us or Download Our Trip Packet
Moments that make this journey unforgettable
Seeking in-depth distillery experiences and exclusive tastings
Looking for a unique Scottish adventure to share together
Passionate about Scottish heritage, history, and traditions
Who appreciate fine spirits and stunning landscapes
Limited spaces available for this exclusive experience
September 12-20, 2026
9 Days / 8 Nights
$5,500.00 per person
Small intimate groups
Moderate (some walking)