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Itinerary: Whiskey Galore
If any produce is linked to Scotland, it's whisky. This trip takes you to the homes of some of the most famous, or simply the finest, names in the whisky world. In all, about 40 distilleries open their doors to visitors. It's not all about malts and barrels though. Between distilleries, you'll pass through some of the country's most beautiful scenery.
Start in the valley of the silvery River Spey. Stop off in Dufftown, then head out to the numerous Speyside distilleries, including Macallan, Glenfiddich, Benromach, Cardhu, Dallas Dhu, Glen Grant, Glenlivet and Strathisla.Loop round the top of Loch Ness (after all those tastings, your best chance of seeing the monster?), through Inverness and on again to Tain, home of the Glenmorangie Distillery.
Aficionados could go to the ends of the earth - well, at least to the end of the mainland - and cross to the Orkney Islands, where the distinctive Highland Park is made. Alternatively, head over the sea to Skye where the Talisker malts await your pleasure at Carbost.
Finish your journey on the isle of Islay, where the fine drams of Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bunnahabhain, Bruichladdich, Caol Ila, Lagavulin and Laphroaig are produced, and superbly accompanied by fresh local shellfish - a perfect finale to a hard day's sightseeing.
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