18/01/2025
🙋🏻♀️🙋🏼♂️Welcome to the third part of our seven-post journey through the wonders of Speyside, where every turn reveals a new adventure.
This week, we’re diving into the world of whisky and gin, exploring what I believe are some of the most iconic distilleries near Grantown-on-Spey. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur, a first-timer, or simply curious, there’s something here to ignite your passion for Scotland’s 🏴 most famous spirits.
🥃✨ Let me take you on a personal tour of my favourite distilleries, sharing the stories, flavours, and experiences that make them unforgettable. And for those who prefer gin, we’ve got a refreshing twist waiting just for you. 🍸 Stay with us—your Speyside adventure starts here!
🥃 Explore Speyside’s Finest Distilleries: Our Guide for Whisky (and Gin) Lovers
When staying at 🏡 Garden Park Guest House, you're in the heart of Speyside —a whisky lover’s paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a casual whisky enthusiast, the distilleries near Grantown-on-Spey promise unforgettable experiences. Let me take you on a journey to some of my favourite distilleries, with a surprise twist at the end.✨
🏅 The GlenAllachie Distillery
Nestled just a 25-30 minute drive 🚗 from Garden Park, The GlenAllachie is a hidden gem 💎 with an incredible story 📖. Led by the renowned Billy Walker, this independent distillery focuses on quality over quantity, hand crafting exceptional whiskies. The GlenAllachie 12-Year-Old is my personal favourite—its rich, balanced flavour and carefully selected cask influences make it a standout. 🍶 But why this distillery holds a special place in my heart? You’ll have to keep reading to find out. 😉
🌟 The Cairn Distillery
Just a short five-minute drive 🚗 (or a scenic 60-minute walk 🚶♂️🌳 through Anagach Woods and along the River Spey 🏞️), The Cairn is the closest distillery to Garden Park. It’s a modern masterpiece 🏗️, contrasting beautifully with Speyside’s traditional distilleries. If you’re curious about how tradition meets innovation, The Cairn is a must-visit. Plus, their on-site restaurant, The Gathering, offers a delightful menu 🍽️ for foodies. Enjoy a meal while soaking in panoramic views of the River Spey. 🌅
🏛️ Speyburn Distillery
About 40 minutes from Garden Park, Speyburn combines stunning architecture 🏰 with traditional whisky-making techniques. 🛠️ It’s the last distillery to draw pure, mineral-rich water 💧 from the Granty Burn, a hidden stream of the River Spey. 🌊 Many of our guests weren’t familiar with this distillery before visiting, but they all came back raving about the fantastic experience they had. 🌟 (I only discovered it myself in April 2024, and I was equally fascinated!) If you’re looking for a scenic drive 🚗 to reach this distillery, I’ll gladly share my favourite routes with you—as we say in Italy 🇮🇹, “All roads lead to Rome” (or, in this case, Speyburn!). Their Rum Cask Finish whisky 🥃 is a personal favourite, offering a unique twist on the classic Speyside profile. 🍹
🔨 The Speyside Cooperage: Where Casks Come to Life
No whisky journey is complete without a visit to the Speyside Cooperage, just a 25-minute drive from Garden Park Guest House. This incredible workshop showcases the traditional craftsmanship behind every whisky cask. Watching the skilled coopers at work, shaping and repairing barrels entirely by hand, is a humbling experience.
Did you know? These craftsmen are paid by the number of casks they finish—a true testament to their skill and dedication. Without their hard work, there would be no casks to age the whisky we love. The cooperage offers guided tours, giving you a rare glimpse into this essential part of whisky-making.
To me, every whisky lover should visit the Speyside Cooperage to understand and appreciate the effort that goes into each drop of whisky. It’s not just a tour; it’s a tribute to the backbone of the whisky industry. 💪🥃
🏡 Glenfarclas Distillery
Renowned among whisky enthusiasts, Glenfarclas needs little introduction. 🤝 Its traditional methods, picturesque buildings 🏯, and award-winning whiskies 🏆 make it an essential stop. Located just 30 minutes away, this family-run distillery embodies the spirit of Speyside. 🕊️ Let Glenfarclas inspire you—you won’t be disappointed. 💫
🏰 Glenfiddich Distillery
One of the most famous names 🥇 in the whisky world, Glenfiddich is synonymous with quality and innovation. Beyond the exceptional range of whiskies 🍾, Glenfiddich offers a rich visitor experience with artist residencies 🎨 and engaging tours. If you’re hungry, their on-site menu is a treat. 🍴 It’s a 40-45 minute drive 🚗 from Garden Park, and well worth the trip. 🚀
🍸 Oh, By the Way… A Gin Surprise 🍸
Did you know that Speyside isn’t just about whisky? Just 10 minutes from Garden Park, you’ll find Caorunn Gin Distillery. Known for its Blood Orange Gin 🍊, this distillery offers a refreshing change for those who prefer gin over whisky. The invigorating dry, crisp taste is enhanced with hints of blood orange and chili 🌶️—perfect for a summer’s day. 🌞 A family favourite in Switzerland 🇨🇭 is to add a splash of orange syrup 🍹 and top it with tonic for a vibrant cocktail. Cheers to something different! 🥂 And if gin excites you, you’ll be pleased to know that there are five fantastic gin distilleries within a 40-minute drive 🚗 of Garden Park Guest House. Each offers its own unique take on this classic spirit. 💡
❤️ Why GlenAllachie Holds My Heart ❤️
So, why is The GlenAllachie my favourite distillery? It’s not just the exceptional whisky 🥃 or the fascinating story behind it. For me, it’s the passion and dedication of Billy Walker and his team. 🙌 I’ve met Billy twice on-site, and despite his incredible success 🏆, he remains approachable, humble, and even a bit shy. Many in his position might not take the time to talk, but Billy’s grounded nature and genuine interest in people left a lasting impression on me. 🌟 They’ve created something truly special—a distillery that feels like an art studio 🎨, crafting whiskies with heart and soul. 🧡 That said, I should confess: I’m not a big drinker. 🍷 I enjoy a nip here and there, but it’s the story, craftsmanship, and experience that captivate me. 🎭
No matter your level of whisky expertise, Speyside offers a distillery adventure for everyone. 🗺️ From traditional icons to modern marvels—and several gin distilleries to mix things up—there’s so much to explore. Ready to start your journey? Let me know, and I’ll help you plan the perfect distillery tour! 🥳
By the way, within a 70-minute range, there are over 60 distilleries around Grantown-on-Spey. And here’s the best part: some are nestled close to the sea 🌊, others are tucked into the Cairngorms 🏔️, and many lie within charming villages 🏘️. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenic routes that make the journey as memorable as the destinations.
⏭️ Next time, I’ll take you beyond the distilleries to explore hiking trails, discover some of our favourite lochs and seaside walks, and share things to do during a stay in Grantown-on-Spey. 🌟
✍🏼 But now, plan Your Stay at Garden Park Guest House 🌳
Discover the perfect base for your Speyside adventures at Garden Park Guest House. With cozy accommodations, delicious breakfasts 🥐, and our local expertise, your stay is sure to be unforgettable. Prefer a more private retreat? Stay at Butterfly Cottage, our unique self-catering option for a truly exclusive experience.
🌐 Visit us at
www.garden-park.co.uk
to learn more and book your stay today! 📆✨
Discover Grantown
Butterfly Cottage
The GlenAllachie
Speyburn Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Cairn Distillery
Glenfarclas Distillery
Glenfiddich
Caorunn Distillery
Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre Ltd
