Fine Dram, Dornoch Charm and Picts Folklore from INVERGORDON

5.0 (6 reviews) Invergordon, Scotland
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Duration6h - 7h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesGerman, English
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Savour the Highlands with breathtaking views, a fine dram, and moments you won’t find in any guidebook.

This private tour (max. 3 guests, Balblair Distillery ADMISSION Fee of £25 NOT included) begins with panoramic vistas from Struie Hill—a hidden gem with one of the best views in the north.

Enjoy a tour and tasting at the historic Balblair Distillery, where authentic Highland whisky is steeped in tradition. Then on to charming Dornoch—ideal for a stroll or a spot of souvenir hunting.

At the ancient Cadboll Stone, we’ll raise a small dram in honour of the Picts, before following the coast to Balintore, where legends and heritage come alive in the striking Mermaid of the North and Salmon Sculpture.

A relaxed, scenic day crafted for curious travellers who want something just a little more special.

What's included

  • Bottled water
  • Pick up and Drop off
  • Enthusiastic Driver Guide
  • Balblair Distillery Tour and Tasting INCLUDED
  • Pick up and Drop off

What to expect

  1. 10m
    Struie Hill offers some of the most majestic panoramic views over the Kyle of Sutherland. From the summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills, coastline, and the shimmering waters below.The hill provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquillity, with the ever-changing light over the Kyle adding a touch of magic to the landscape. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful escape with stunning views.
  2. Balblair Distillery
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Balblair Distillery, founded in 1790 near Edderton is a true gem in the whisky world. Known for its rich, full-bodied whiskies. Balblair's traditional approach stands in contrast to the more clinical methods of larger distilleries. At one time, the distillery even had its own railway station. William Matheson, who would later go on to found Glenmorangie, honed his craft here, gaining invaluable experience that would shape his future success.
  3. Dornoch Cathedral
    1h 30m
    Dornoch, a charming town nestled in the Scottish Highlands, on the North Coast 500 - NC500 route, is home to the magnificent Dornoch Cathedral, where intricate stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors. Though Andrew Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, he made nearby Skibo Castle his holiday retreat until the outbreak of WWI, adding a touch of aristocratic flair to the town. Dornoch also carries a poignant history, as it was the site of Scotland's last witch burning in 1727, a somber end to the dark days of witch trials. Time for an optional coffee or sandwich.
  4. Hilton of Cadboll
    40m
    The Pictish Cadboll Stone is a mesmerizing ancient cross-slab from around the 8th century. It is adorned with intricate Celtic knotwork, enigmatic Pictish symbols, and striking depictions of warriors. This stone is a magnificent recarving by local artist Barry Grove. Here we will have dram and toast to Picts.
  5. Mermaid of the North
    20m
    Balintore, a charming Easter Ross fishing village, is steeped in myth and maritime heritage. The striking Mermaid of the North, sculpted by Steve Hayward in 2007, recalls a local legend of a fisherman who hides a mermaid’s tail to keep her on land. Though she bears his children, she eventually finds her tail and returns to the sea—leaving behind a haunting tale of love, loss and longing.

    Nearby, Hayward’s Salmon Sculpture, with three leaping fish, honours the village’s proud fishing traditions. Together, these sculptures form part of the Seaboard Trail, a celebration of folklore, faith, and coastal resilience.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Take shuttle bus to the FIRST stop, at West Harbour Exit Gate. Across the road from port security gate exit look out for the gold-yellow umbrella. Adjustments will be made for Cruise ship arrival and shuttle buses.

End of tour: The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Additional information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (6)
From
£165.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by The Dalriada Whisky Experience · Booked through Viator
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