July 20 - August 1, 2025

There is a thing about Scotland. Perhaps a lot of things. Whisky, beer, banter, hospitality, stunning landscapes, rich and complex histories, and many people with red hair. They have a lot of sheep, too.

Summer in Scotland is a special and fleeting time, when the sun might actually shine, and the glens and hills are a kaleidescope of summer hues. Verdant hills, clear streams, and the scent of blooming heather (and brew kettles and pot stills) lingering on the breeze.

Join us, and other whisky-seeking beer-explorers, as we dig into all that is Scotland -- from the lowlands, down the Spey valley, to the highlands, and the whisky islands. Discover the soul of Scotland on this adventure to the hinterlands in search of real ale and the world's finest whisky.

Travel to and through a few of Scotland’s vibrant cities, quaint towns, and wind-swept islands, where the art of whisky and beer-making are deeply entwined within the "tweed" of the land, its legends, its people, and its history. Toss in fine meals in cozy, traditional settings, a couple of focused tastings, fine hotels, Scottish hospitality, and a group of like minded travelers and you have a great, uniquely Scottish adventure! You should come along.

 Trip Price (Land-only, Based on double occupancy)

$4185 per person | Single Room add extra $1100

 Beer & Whisky Highlights & Brewery & Distillery Visits*

-- The many flavors of Glasgow

-- Tutored whisky tasting at the Pot Still

-- Distillery Visits w/special tastings - including every whisky region

-- Local Craft Brewers, brewpub visits, tastings with local brewers

-- Islay Distilleries: Bowmore, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Bowmore, Ardbeg, Bruichladdich and more.

-- Blair Athol, Glenfarclas, Speyburn (Dalwhinnie, Glengoyne, Glenturret, and more possibilities!

-- Classic Scottish Pubs full of banter and song!

 Overnight Stays -- 11 nights in Scotland

3 Nights in Glasgow: Scotland’s Vibrant Cultural Hub

Begin your journey in Glasgow, a city that effortlessly blends modern vibrancy with rich heritage. Explore renowned whisky bars, discover the art of brewing at local craft breweries, and enjoy lively cultural attractions. The city's dynamic culinary scene is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s famed hospitality.

1 Night in Pitlochry: Gateway to the Highlands

Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, Pitlochry offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty. Visit Edradour Distillery, one of Scotland’s smallest traditional distilleries, and soak in the charm of this picturesque town.

2 Nights in Inverness: The Capital of the Highlands

Venture north to Inverness, a city steeped in history and folklore. Discover the legendary flavors of Highland whiskies at nearby distilleries and enjoy scenic views of Loch Ness. Explore the lively local pub scene and learn how Highland culture influences brewing traditions.

2 Nights in Oban: The Seafood and Whisky Capital

Known as the "Gateway to the Isles," Oban is a charming coastal town famous for its whisky and fresh seafood. Tour the iconic Oban Distillery, take in stunning views of the harbor, and savor the flavors of Scotland’s west coast.

3 Nights in Bowmore, Islay: The Whisky Isle

Journey to the storied Isle of Islay, home to some of the world’s most celebrated distilleries. In Bowmore, immerse yourself in the island’s rich whisky heritage with exclusive tastings and behind-the-scenes tours. From peaty single malts to sweeping coastal landscapes, Islay is a paradise for whisky lovers.

 Included Tours

Guided City Tours in Glasgow, Inverness, Oban, and Islay

 Include Meals

11 Breakfasts | 5 Lunches | 5 Dinners

 Arrival & Departure

Trip Begins & Ends in Glasgow, UK

Highlights of the Trip

-- Guided tours and tastings at world-famous distilleries

-- Friendly Beery stops at tradtional and new craft breweries

-- Scenic drives through Scotland’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes and coastal causways

-- Immersive cultural experiences, including historic landmarks and folklore.

-- Local pubs and crafts people, heralded distillers, artisans and poets

-- Historic landmarks, famous battle fields, and museums bearing witness to Scottish life.

-- Fine accommodations in charming towns and vibrant cities

-- Scenic walks through breathtaking Highland and coastal landscapes.

-- Authentic Scottish cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional pub fare.

-- Hairy Coos and Tall Trees

-- Castles and Churches

-- Legends and Lore

-- Kilts and Kin

-- Private Tasting Cruise on Loch Ness

-- Cast a rod on the Spey River

-- Spoil a good coastal walk with a round of Golf!

Slàinte mhath!

Daily Itinerary:

Day 1: Sunday, July 20

Depart for Scotland

Board your overnight flight to Glasgow, Scotland to begin your cultural adventure!

Overnight: Aloft

Day 2: Monday, July 21

Arrival in Glasgow, Guided Pub / History Walk, Beery Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Scotland! Arrive in Glasgow and settle into your accommodations. Meet the group and our local guide for an entertaining history / whisky / pub tour around old Glasgow exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene. A Welcome Dinner tonight marks the start of our foray into Scotland. Stop by The Pot Still, a whisky bar with over 700 options, where locals might regale you with tales of Glasgow’s past. As the summer evening stretches long, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene that Glasgow is renowned for. Overnight: Glasgow

Day 3: Tuesday, July 22

Free Day in Glasgow

Today is your day to do Glasgow your way! Dive into Glasgow’s renowned whisky and craft beer scene with guided tastings at some of the city’s best-loved establishments, or explore the city’s artistic, cultural, and architectural wonders, including works by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Clydeside Distillery, situated along the River Clyde, leveraged Glasgow’s shipbuilding legacy and dockside location to become a hub for exporting "liquid gold" across the world. WEST Brewery, and several others are worth your investigation, for local beers and local characters. Overnight: Glasgow

Day 3: Wednesday, July 23

To Pitlochry, Distillery, Pub Lunch, Local Brewer, Queen's View
Leave the urban charm of Glasgow behind as we meander towards the Highlands and the idyllic town of Pitlochry. Our stops today include Blair Athol Distillery, a local brew pub, national park scenery. Marvel at Queen’s View, a breathtaking panorama of Loch Tummel and the mountains beyond, said to have been named for Queen Victoria during her Highland tour. After sight-seeing, a distillery tour, local lunch, and brewpub visit - with a dram and a pint or two, we continue to Pitlochry, our home for the night, set amidst the tranquil beauty, rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and pure waters essential for whisky-making. Tonight there are many choices for dinner in this walkable town, including a brewery inn down the road. Overnight: Pitlochry

Day 4: Thursday, July 24

Big Day Speyside -- Cairngorm Brewery, Glenfarclas, Speyburn, Rothes Brew, Local Dinner

After a relaxing breakfast and some morning time to explore Pitlochry, we will travel to Inverness - main city of the Highlands. Along the way, we will make a very worthy 'detour' along the Spey River, as it meanders through its valley known for both whisky and impressive natural beauty. Two very unique, independent distilleries, classic small towns with historic whiskies, and a local craft brewery welcome us as we make our way downstream. Later we turn west lively to Inverness. Spend the evening exploring a lively pub scene, where traditional music fills the air and Highland ales flow freely. Hootananny, a beloved pub, offers the perfect spot to unwind and soak up local culture. Overnight: Inverness

Day 5: Friday, July 25

Free Day in Inverness

Inverness, Options today include daytrips to brewers, distillers, battle fields, castles, golf courses and moors! Spend part of the day exploring the history and natural beauty of the Highlands. Visit Culloden Battlefield, the haunting site of the 1746 Jacobite uprising’s final stand. For whisky enthusiasts, a visit to Glen Ord Distillery provides a glimpse into the Singleton whiskies. In any case a summer Friday night in the highlands should rouse the soul! Overnight: Inverness

Day 6: Saturday, July 26

Loch Ness Cruise, Castle, Lunch, Brewery Stop, to Oban

The famous River Ness, its serene waters steeped in legends of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, leads southwest toward our day's destination, Oban. En route we will visit a castle and brewery, enjoy a lakeside lunch, and a private tasting/Nessie pstting cruise on the famous Loch. And afternoon brewpub stop rounds out list. Known as the “Gateway to the Isles”, Oban is a coastal town is known for its fresh seafood and the iconic Oban Distillery, where coastal influences give the whisky a smooth, smoky flavor. Dinner tonight offers a feast of the sea, from succulent langoustines to oysters fresh from the waters of Loch Etive. Overnight: Oban

Day 7: Sunday, July 27

Free Time in Oban
Explore the harbor, alive with the comings and goings of ferries bound for the Hebrides, and learn about the town’s connections to ancient clans at Dunstaffnage Castle. Take a ferry to Kerrera Island, a haven for walkers and history enthusiasts. Explore the ruins of Gylen Castle, perched dramatically above the sea, and enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic. Back in Oban, visit Oban Bay Brewery for a taste of small-batch ales that capture the spirit of the west coast. Overnight: Oban

Day 8: Monday, July 28

Travel To Islay: The Whisky Isle, Bowmore Distillery, Local Dinner
Relax this morning in beautiful Oban, take in life along the coast on summer morning. We will load up, and head south, bound for Tarbert, Kennecraig, Port Askaig, and finally Bowmore -- our whisky island home for the next 3 nights. The ferry ride into the Hebrides is like a departure from reality, sailing to a place that has changed little over the years. Here, the rugged coastline meets rolling barley fields where the whisky matures in coastal warehouses, absorbing the briny sea air. Learn about Islay’s Viking heritage and ancient standing stones, which speak to its mystical past. Dinner on the town tonight. Overnight: Bowmore

Day 9: Tuesday, July 29

Whisky Heritage of Islay
Today is the day to tour Islay’s most famous distilleries—Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg—each known for their distinctive peaty profiles. These whiskies, shaped by the island’s windswept bogs and salt-laden air, are revered worldwide. We will likely end the day with a hearty meal at The Port Charlotte Hotel, where the whisky list rivals the stunning coastal views. Back to Bowmore this evening. Overnight: Bowmore

Day 10: Wednesday, July 30

Free Time, Visit Jura, Hike, Walk, Fish, Golf, E-bike, Beach, Sip

Savor Islay’s slower pace with a visit to Kilchoman Distillery, a farm-to-bottle operation that epitomizes the island’s artisanal spirit. Alternatively, explore Bruichladdich, known for its unpeated whiskies and The Botanist gin, distilled with foraged island botanicals. Many good ways to imbibe in the island's spirits. Evening is free. Overnight: Bowmore

Day 11: Thursday, July 31

Back to Glasgow,
We bid farewell to glorious Islay this morning, as we return to the mainland and Glasgow for our final night. On our way, we'll pass by a great farm brewery in an idyllic location. We'll pick up some food to bring for a beery picnic in their beer garden. They are innovative folks making innovative beers. Continue through the Lake Lemond Trussacks NP, replete with quitesstially Scottishs views. A final brewery stop at Loch Lemond Brewery Tap to taste the beers from this woman owned brewery. Check-in and settle before our farewell dinner when we will raise a final toast to Scotland’s extraordinary culture, landscapes, and spirits. Cheers! Overnight: Glasgow

Day 12: Friday, August 1

Depart Scotland
Bid farewell to Scotland, carrying memories of its legends, landscapes, and the flavors of its whisky and ale. Overnight: Your House or Beyond.

Slàinte mhath!

TRAVEL DETAILS:

Air Travel is not included. Travelers are encouraged to use mileage awards, travel outside group dates, or visit other European cities while abroad to make the most out of the trip. Please confirm the trip's operation before purchasing air tickets.

Most Trips officially begin in the lobby of the first hotel. Meeting times, information about getting from the airport or train station to the hotel, the detailed itinerary, hotel addresses, and a trip roster will be included with your Final Trip Documents, which you'll receive 2 - 3 weeks before the trip.

How we travel on tour: All included excursions and visits include transportation. Within the cities, we rely on walking and private or public transportation (uber, taxis, busses, trams, etc.). Travel between cities is by private motor coach, luxury van, ferry, and/or rail.

REGARDING INCLUDED MEALS AND BEER:

We don't mess around when it comes to food and beer. Restaurants -- tried and true -- have been carefully selected, based on quality, local knowledge, and insider tips. On a Beer Trip, included meals mean you may order as you please - including beer, appetizers, dessert, etc. We are not stingy -- a lot of food and beer is included on every Beer Trip.

PLEASE NOTE:

A BeerTrips beer tour is best suited for somewhat adventurous, beer-loving travelers who want the camaraderie and structure of a tour, as well as the opportunity to explore independently. Planned events, brewery visits, locally guided tours, and some excursions are, of course, formally "guided". Travel days, on trains, public means, or the beer bus, as well some group walks, are blissfully unstructured, though travelers can always rely on the support and assistance of the trip leader.

THIS ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

In rare cases, it may be necessary to alter the itinerary based on brewery or hotel availability, force majeur, acts of dieties, common sense, or bad weather, etc. Smaller breweries, as well as the Trappists, are often unable to commit to hosting groups until a couple of weeks before we arrive. Substitutions, when necessary, will be as good as what we replaced. And, don't worry, the beer is always good!

$400.00