From Aberdeen: Castles, Whisky and Food Tasting Tour

Set out on a captivating 7.5-hour journey from Aberdeen that combines the best of Scottish heritage with culinary delights. This intimate tour, limited to 8 participants, promises an immersive experience as you explore the renowned Glen Garioch Distillery, the stunning Castle Fraser, and the ancient East Aquhorthies Stone Circle. Savor local delicacies and expert guidance as you explore the rich culture and history of North East Scotland. With seamless logistics and an opportunity to uncover hidden gems, this tour provides a unique chance to embrace the essence of the Scottish landscape.

Key Points

• A 7.5-hour tour exploring the highlights of Aberdeenshire, including a whisky tasting at the historic Glen Garioch Distillery and visits to Castle Fraser and East Aquhorthies Stone Circle.

• The tour offers an intimate group experience for up to 8 participants, with guided tours and opportunities to sample local food and produce.

• Inclusions cover entry fees, a whisky tasting, a guided tour of Castle Fraser, and a provided lunch, representing a good value for money.

• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to the steep stairs at Castle Fraser, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

• Reviews highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the guide, seamless logistics, and the unique local experiences as standout features of the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Aberdeen: Castles, Whisky and Food Tasting Tour is a 7.5-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the rich history, culture, and flavors of Aberdeenshire.

Priced from €153.16 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 8 participants) promises an intimate and immersive exploration of the region.

The tour is conducted in English and is likely to sell out, ensuring a unique and exclusive experience.

Highlights include a visit to the Glen Garioch Distillery for a whisky tasting, exploring the grand Castle Fraser and its gardens, and discovering the ancient East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, all while sampling local delicacies.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors on the Aberdeen: Castles, Whisky and Food Tasting Tour will first venture to the renowned Glen Garioch Distillery, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and an opportunity to savor the flavors of the region’s finest whisky.

The tour then takes them to explore the captivating Castle Fraser and its picturesque gardens.

Plus, they’ll discover the mystical East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, a unique ancient site in Aberdeenshire.

Throughout the day, you will also have the chance to sample local food and produce typical of North East Scotland, seeing the rich culinary heritage of the area.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes entry to the Glen Garioch Distillery, where participants can enjoy a whisky tasting and a guided tour.

Visitors will also explore Castle Fraser, paying an approximate entry fee of €16.00.

Lunch, with an average cost of €15.00 per person, is provided.

Plus, the tour offers samples of local food and drink, giving participants a taste of the North East Scotland cuisine.

Notably, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing a full refund.

Meeting Point and Information

The meeting location for the Aberdeen: Castles, Whisky and Food Tasting Tour is next to the William Wallace Statue in front of His Majesty’s Theatre.

Participants should come prepared with the following:

• Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking through various locations.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as Castle Fraser features steep and spiral stairs.
• Participants should be aware that the tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, providing ample time to fully immerse in the castles, whisky, and local food experiences.

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Customer Reviews

After completing the tour, visitors have been overwhelmingly positive in their reviews. The tour boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 42 reviews. Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides, lauding their expertise and enthusiasm. Similarly, the transportation has been highly rated at 4.9/5, with reviewers highlighting the seamless logistics. While the value for money has also been well-received at 4.6/5, the standout feature appears to be the unique local experiences, which have left a lasting impression on participants.

Metric	Rating
Overall	4.9/5
Guide	5/5
Transportation	4.9/5
Value for Money	4.6/5

Whisky Tasting at Glen Garioch

Typically, the tour begins with a visit to the historic Glen Garioch Distillery, situated in the heart of Aberdeenshire. Guests embark on a guided tour, learning about the distillery’s rich heritage and traditional whisky-making processes.

The tour culminates in a tasting session, where visitors sample a selection of Glen Garioch’s finest single malt whiskies.

The tasting allows participants to:

• Explore the unique flavour profiles of each expression
• Discover the impact of maturation in different cask types
• Appreciate the nuances that make Glen Garioch’s whiskies distinct

This whisky experience provides an authentic glimpse into the region’s renowned spirit production and the dedication of the distillery’s skilled craftsmen.

Exploring Castle Fraser

Following the whisky tasting at the Glen Garioch Distillery, the tour then journeys to Castle Fraser, one of the grandest castles in Aberdeenshire.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the castle’s grand interiors, including the Great Hall and the Laird’s Bedroom, which feature intricate wood carvings and centuries-old furnishings.

The tour also includes a stroll through the castle’s picturesque gardens, where guests can admire the formal flower beds, the walled garden, and the woodland walks.

Aside from the castle itself, the tour offers insights into the Fraser family’s history and the architectural evolution of the property over the centuries.

Discovering East Aquhorthies

Venturing from the grand Castle Fraser, the tour next explores the mysterious East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, a unique ancient site nestled in the heart of Aberdeenshire.

This remarkably well-preserved stone circle dates back to the Neolithic era, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history.

• Consisting of 12 imposing standing stones, the circle is believed to have served as a ceremonial or astronomical site for the area’s early inhabitants.

• Visitors can wander amongst the stones, marveling at their impressive size and the intriguing theories surrounding their purpose and alignment.

• The serene, pastoral setting provides a tranquil backdrop, inviting guests to enjoy the mystique of this ancient wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it includes steep and spiral stairs at Castle Fraser. Customers with accessibility needs would likely have difficulty navigating the tour’s itinerary and physical environment.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice, though specific meal options may be limited. Guests are encouraged to discuss any dietary needs with the tour operator when booking to ensure their requirements can be met.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with guests exploring the grounds of Castle Fraser and the East Aquhorthies Stone Circle. While there are some steep and spiral stairs at the castle, the overall pace allows for breaks.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer options to extend or customize the itinerary. It’s a set 7.5-hour experience focused on visiting a distillery, castle, stone circle, and sampling local food and drink. Private or bespoke tours may be available upon request for additional fees.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy for the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides customers with flexibility in case their plans change.

Recap

This captivating 7.5-hour tour from Aberdeen offers a immersive experience that blends Scottish heritage, whisky tasting, and culinary delights. Guests will explore the renowned Glen Garioch Distillery, the stunning Castle Fraser, and the ancient East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, while savoring local specialties. With expert guidance and seamless logistics, this intimate tour promises an unforgettable journey through the rich culture and history of North East Scotland.

You can check if your dates are available here: