A Scotch Summer
With the sun finally shining in Speyside and temperatures expected to reach record highs, we’re gearing up for another exciting summer on the Malt Whisky Trail.
There are plenty of events to entertain the entire family. The last weekend in July sees Dufftown thrive with activity as they host their annual Highland Games, now celebrating its 126th year. Featuring pipe bands, highland dancing, and even a competition for those not from the area, this is an event for locals and tourists. Whilst in Dufftown, be sure to check out the Balvenie and Glenfiddich distilleries.
If you prefer a more musical weekend, Speyfest returns to Fochabers at the end of July for its annual celebration of traditional and modern Scottish music. Featuring a free craft fair, you can pick up a small souvenir to remember your trip to Speyside with. Be sure to check out the wonderful Gordon Castle Walled Garden whilst in Fochabers and sample the local produce, including their delicious whisky cask cider.
If you’re visiting later in the summer, don’t worry about missing all the fun as the Keith Country Show returns again in August. With marquee dancing and farming-based events, the Keith show marries the best of Speyfest and a Highland Games to bring a fun family weekend to the home of Strathisla and Strathmill distilleries.
If you want to get out and stretch your legs, why not play a few holes at Moray Golf Club, or support the golfers as they compete in this year’s Moray Open. Alternatively, there are plenty of beaches for the more leisurely stroll, and you can even try spot to a bottle-nose dolphin at Spey Bay beach. For the more keen hiker, why not take a day trip up to Ben Rinnes?
It’s never been easier to tour the Speyside region with the launch of the new Speyside bus route. The new number 36 route launched by Stagecoach allows a hop-on, hop-off service to allow you to tour all the excellent distilleries in the area at your convenience. You can now sample all the whiskies you desire without pulling straws for designated driver.
With so many events to visit, and so much to do, it is important to rest. Luckily, Speyside is home to a host of impressive whisky bars. If anyone in your party claims to ‘dislike’ whisky, take them to the Dowans Hotel in Aberlour. With over 500 whiskies in their cellar, there is most definitely a dram for everyone.
We also have our itinerary tool which you can use to plan your weekend. With the distilleries now operating on their extended summer open times, summer is the perfect time to visit the beautiful Speyside area and capture the essence of the region.
For more information on distillery open times, please visit: http://maltwhiskytrail.com/
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