Sip the Spirit of Scotland on the Shores of Loch Lomond
No visit to the Scottish Highlands is complete without sampling a few drams of authentic Scotch whisky. Set among the lochs, glens and misty peaks of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, these renowned distilleries reveal the craft, passion and heritage behind Scotland’s most iconic export.
The Distilleries
Auchentoshan Distillery – Dumbartonshire Estate
Established in 1823, Auchentoshan Distillery is famous for being the only Scottish distillery to triple-distil every drop of whisky. The result is a smooth, elegant Lowland malt with delicate notes of vanilla and citrus. Guided tours walk you through the copper stills, maturation warehouse and tasting room.
- Location: Clydebank, Dumbartonshire – G81 4SJ, roughly 30 minutes from Loch Lomond.
- Open: Year-round, daily tours available, except Mondays.
- Experience highlight: Learn about the triple-distillation process and sample three distinct expressions.
- Tip: Book ahead during summer weekends as spaces are limited.
Official site: https://www.auchentoshan.com/distillery-tours/experiences
Oban Distillery – Oban Harbour
Dating back to 1794, Oban Distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest and smallest producers, sitting beneath a dramatic coastal cliff overlooking the Atlantic. Its single malt delivers rich, smoky flavours with a maritime character that reflects its seaside home.
- Location: Stafford Street, Oban, Argyll and Bute PA34 5NH; approximately two hours’ drive from Loch Lomond.
- Open: Open daily except major holidays; tours operate throughout the year.
- Experience highlight: Sample the signature West Highland Malt straight from the cask and tour the traditional copper stillhouse.
- Tip: Pair your visit with a seafood lunch on the harbour for a true taste of the coast.
- Official site: www.malts.com/en-row/distilleries/oban
Glengoyne Distillery – Near Killearn
Often described as the “most beautiful distillery in Scotland”, Glengoyne sits on the Highland Line, producing unpeated, slow-distilled whisky that’s rich, fruity and exceptionally smooth.
- Location: Dumgoyne, near Killearn, G63 9LB, around 40 minutes from Lomond Luxury Lodges.
- Open: Year-round, guided tours and tasting experiences run daily.
- Experience highlight: Blend your own miniature bottle during the Whisky Masterclass and taste spirit directly from the cask.
- Tip: The distillery’s hillside setting makes it ideal for photography; allow extra time to explore the grounds.
- Official site: www.glengoyne.com
Together, these three distilleries represent some of the best Highland and Lowland whisky production, from Oban’s smoky coastal malt to Glengoyne’s gentle fruit notes and Auchentoshan’s refined triple-distilled style, each offering an authentic Scottish experience within reach of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can beginners join these whisky tours?
A: Yes. Each distillery welcomes beginners and explains every stage of the process, from mashing to maturation. Tastings are optional and clearly guided.
Q: How long do tours usually last?
A: Most tours take between 60 and 90 minutes, including tastings and time to browse the shop. Extended masterclasses are also available at some distilleries.
Q: Are families or non-drinkers welcome?
A: Under-18s can accompany adults but cannot take part in tastings. Designated drivers and non-drinkers can usually take home sample packs.
Nearby Attractions
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park – Discover forest trails, loch-side walks and wildlife viewpoints between tastings.
- Inveraray Castle – A historic landmark set beside Loch Fyne, about an hour from Oban, with formal gardens and Highland history displays.
- Luss Village – A picturesque stop on the western shore of Loch Lomond with cafés, gift shops and traditional cottages.
Accommodation near Loch Lomond
Complete your whisky adventure with a stay at Lomond Luxury Lodges.
Nestled in the tranquillity of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, these lodges offer spacious living areas, private terraces and sweeping mountain views, the perfect retreat after a day of tastings and exploration.
