Scottish Highlands Whisky Experience

An Unforgettable 9-Day Journey Through Scotland's Finest Distilleries

September 12-20, 2026

9 Days
11 Distilleries
2 Castles
Highland Adventures

Your Hosts

Led by passionate whisky curators with decades of expertise

Lee Tomlin - Whisky Curator

Lee Tomlin

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.

Nichole Munce - Experience Curator

Nichole Munce

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.

The Ultimate Whisky Journey

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and captivating landscapes of Scotland's whisky heartland

11 Legendary Distilleries

From Glenfiddich to Glenmorangie, explore Scotland's most iconic whisky producers with exclusive tours and tastings.

Charming Accommodations

Stay in carefully selected Scottish hotels that blend comfort with authentic Highland hospitality.

Historic Castles

Explore dramatic coastal ruins and legendary castles that inspired literary masterpieces.

Breathtaking Scenery

Journey through rolling Speyside hills to rugged northern coastlines and Highland valleys.

Your 9-Day Adventure

Every day brings new discoveries, from world-class distilleries to stunning landscapes

Day 1

Arrival in Aberdeen

Elgin Scotland

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.

Arrival at Aberdeen Airport
Overnight: Sunnyhill Hotel, Elgin

Day 2

Glenfiddich & Benriach

Glenfiddich Distillery

Morning - Glenfiddich Distillery

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.

Lunch in Dufftown

Savor authentic Scottish cuisine in the whisky capital of Dufftown, perfectly positioned in the heart of Speyside.

Afternoon - Benriach Distillery

Continue to Benriach Distillery for an immersive tour exploring their unique triple-distilled Speyside character and innovative approach to traditional whisky-making.

Overnight: Sunnyhill Hotel, Elgin

Day 3

Glenfarclas & GlenAllachie

Glenfarclas Distillery

Morning - Glenfarclas Distillery

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.

Lunch at Aberlour Hotel

Enjoy a delightful meal in the charming village of Aberlour, nestled in the heart of Speyside.

Afternoon - GlenAllachie Distillery

Discover GlenAllachie Distillery, recently revitalized and producing exceptional single malts with a focus on quality cask maturation and traditional craftsmanship.

Overnight: Sunnyhill Hotel, Elgin

Day 4

Journey to the North

Glenmorangie & Sinclair Castle

Morning - Glenmorangie Distillery

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.

Lunch

Enjoy a delightful meal at The Coach House Bar and Restaurant in the historic town of Dornoch.

Afternoon - Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Explore the dramatic cliff-top ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched spectacularly above the North Sea with breathtaking coastal views.

Overnight: Mackays Hotel, Wick

Day 5

Coastal Treasures

Old Pulteney & Clynelish

Morning - Old Pulteney Distillery

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.

Afternoon - Clynelish Distillery

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.

Overnight: Novar Arms Hotel, Evanton

Day 6

Highland Capital

Glen Ord & Inverness

Morning - Singleton Glen Ord Distillery

Visit Singleton Glen Ord Distillery, one of the few distilleries still maintaining traditional floor malting. Discover their rich, full-bodied Highland single malt character.

Afternoon - Inverness Walking Tour

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.

Overnight: The Mansion Hotel, Elgin

Day 7

Craftsmanship & Tradition

Balvenie & Tomatin

Morning - Balvenie Distillery

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.

Lunch in Dufftown

Return to Dufftown, the whisky capital of the world, for a delicious meal in the heart of Speyside.

Afternoon - Tomatin Distillery

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.

Overnight: The Mansion Hotel, Elgin

Day 8

Sherry Masterclass & Castle Exploration

Glendronach & Slains Castle

Morning - Glendronach Distillery

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.

Afternoon - Slains Castle

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.

Overnight: Sandman Signature Hotel, Aberdeen

Day 9

Departure

Scottish Farewell

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.

Depart Aberdeen Airport
Slàinte mhath! (Good health!)

Eleven Legendary 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.

01

Balvenie

Exceptional tour showcasing traditional floor malting and on-site coopering

Speyside
02

Benriach

Unique triple-distilled Speyside character with innovative traditions

Speyside
03

Clynelish

Known for waxy, complex single malts with elegant coastal influences

Highlands
04

GlenAllachie

Revitalized distillery producing exceptional quality cask matured malts

Speyside
05

Glendronach

World-renowned for exceptional sherry cask matured whiskies with deep, luxurious character

Highlands - Featured Experience
06

Glenfarclas

Six generations of family ownership and famous sherry cask maturation

Speyside
07

Glenfiddich

One of Scotland's most famous family-owned single malt distilleries

Speyside
08

Glenmorangie

Scotland's tallest stills creating smooth, elegant Highland single malts

Highlands
09

Old Pulteney

"The Maritime Malt" shaped by coastal winds and sea air

Highlands
10

Singleton Glen Ord

Traditional floor malting and rich, full-bodied Highland character

Highlands
11

Tomatin

Highland distillery with smooth, balanced single malts

Highlands

What's Included

Everything you need for an exceptional whisky journey

8 Nights Accommodation

Carefully selected hotels with breakfast included

11 Premium Distillery Tours

Expert guides and exclusive tastings

Comfortable Transportation

Throughout the tour in modern vehicles

Guided Walking Tour

Explore historic Inverness with expert guide

Historic Castle Visits

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe and Slains Castle

Scenic Drives

Through stunning Scottish Highlands

Expert Coordination

Support throughout your journey

Small Group Experience

Maximum 10 guests for intimate, personalized attention

What's NOT Included

International flights
Select meals (lunches & some dinners)
Gratuities & tips
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Alcohol outside distillery tastings

Important Details

Group Size

Maximum 10 guests for an intimate, curated experience

Accommodations

Double occupancy (shared rooms). Solo travelers welcome – please contact us for single room rates

Payment

Contact us for deposit and payment schedule information

Cancellation

Non-refundable. Payment may be transferred to future Percival Travel Group experiences (credit valid 12 months)

Insurance

Highly recommended: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment

Trip Extensions

Extend your stay before or after the tour. Percival Travel Group can assist with arrangements

Is This Experience Right For You?

Perfect For

  • Whisky enthusiasts seeking authentic distillery experiences
  • Couples celebrating milestones or special occasions
  • Cultural explorers who value quality over quantity
  • Travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy
  • Those with moderate fitness levels (comfortable with 30-60 min walks)
  • Anyone who trusts expert curation over DIY planning

Not Ideal For

  • Budget backpackers seeking hostel-style travel
  • Heavy party-focused travelers
  • Those requiring full accessibility accommodations
  • Travelers uncomfortable with moderate walking/stairs
  • Anyone looking for large group tour-bus experiences

Your Fellow Travelers

You'll be traveling with curious, quality-focused adults who value:

  • Authentic experiences over tourist traps
  • Meaningful connections with hosts and fellow guests
  • Cultural immersion and learning
  • Relaxed pacing without being herded
  • Expert guidance with room for exploration

What People Say

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."

Michael R. Regular Guest, Minneapolis

"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."

Jennifer K. St. Paul

"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."

David T. Regular Guest

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airfare included?

No, international flights to/from Scotland are not included. However, all ground transportation during the tour is included.

What meals are 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.

Can I come solo?

Absolutely! Solo travelers are welcome. Please contact us for single room rates and availability.

What about single room options?

Solo travelers receive private rooms (single supplement applies). Contact us for current single room rates.

What's the fitness level required?

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.

What's the deposit?

Contact us at chatwithmerlin@yahoo.com for current deposit requirements and payment schedule details.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes! We encourage extending your trip before or after the tour. Percival Travel Group is happy to assist with arranging additional accommodations and experiences.

Are all distillery visits guaranteed?

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

Tour Highlights

Moments that make this journey unforgettable

Perfect For

Whisky Enthusiasts

Seeking in-depth distillery experiences and exclusive tastings

Couples & Friends

Looking for a unique Scottish adventure to share together

Culture Lovers

Passionate about Scottish heritage, history, and traditions

Adventure Seekers

Who appreciate fine spirits and stunning landscapes

Ready for Your Scottish Adventure?

Limited spaces available for this exclusive experience

Tour Details

Dates

September 12-20, 2026

Duration

9 Days / 8 Nights

Price

$5,500.00 per person

Group Size

Small intimate groups

Fitness Level

Moderate (some walking)

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