- How long is the Speyside Whisky Trail and Cairngorms Loop route?
- This route takes 8 days taking in 6 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from Inverness, Scottish Highlands to Inverness, Scottish Highlands in Scottish Highlands, Scotland.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is May to September.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Easy-going. Easy-going and accessible for most fitness levels.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- A car is the primary way to get around on this route.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Mixed accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Balanced — a good mix of sightseeing and downtime.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Scenic, Culture, Food & drink, Nature, Classic road trip.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Book dinner before arriving — good tables on Church Street and the Quayside fill quickly in summer. The Victorian Market opens early for a breakfast stop before departure. Book the Cairngorm Mountain funicular online. Pack waterproofs regardless of season; the plateau can be near-Arctic even in July. Red squirrels at Rothiemurchus are best seen early morning. Grantown is quieter than Aviemore with fewer restaurant options. Book dinner before arriving. The A95 east to Dufftown passes through good whisky country on a scenic drive. Book Glenfiddich and Balvenie online before the trip: no walk-ins accepted. Space tours across both days and eat between them. The Whisky Shop on the square is a useful introduction. The Speyside Cooperage is booking-only — reserve a slot before the trip. Time the visit for the morning when coopers are most active. The Johnstons mill shop is open without booking. Culloden Battlefield visitor centre is managed by NTS and can be visited on the way into Inverness without detouring.
Routebook
