Scotland Highlands Day Trip: Kelpies, Whisky & Hermitage Walk

Summary

Whisky tasting, giant Kelpies statues and Highland forests in one day

You’ll stand beneath towering Kelpies near Falkirk, taste single malt whisky at Glenturret Distillery with a local guide, stroll through Dunkeld village beside the River Tay, and wander deep into Hermitage forest to feel the spray of Black Linn Falls on your face. It’s a day for stories and small surprises—the kind that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the size of those horses — the Kelpies just outside Falkirk. They’re massive, all silvery muscle and strange energy, kind of looming out of the morning mist. Our guide, Jamie, told us about their myth (shape-shifting water spirits, apparently), but honestly I was too busy craning my neck to take it all in. There was this damp chill in the air that clung to my sleeves — classic Scottish welcome.

We wound our way north after that, windows fogged up from our laughter and the heater. The landscape started changing — more pines, sudden bursts of yellow gorse along the road. Jamie pointed out a half-hidden glen where his gran used to picnic. I pressed my forehead to the glass trying to spot red deer (no luck). By midday we’d reached Glenturret Distillery for lunch and a whisky tour. The smell inside — sweet malt and something peaty — stuck to my clothes for hours. Tried my first proper dram; burned a little going down but left this warm glow in my chest. I tried saying “slàinte mhath” like Jamie did; he grinned at my accent.

I didn’t expect to like Dunkeld as much as I did. It’s small but there’s this quiet hum — kids skipping stones by the river Tay, someone playing pipes faintly from somewhere behind the cathedral. We wandered until our legs got stiff again, then piled back into the van for one last stop: The Hermitage. The walk through those woods felt almost enchanted (I know how that sounds). Sunlight flickered through old trees and you could hear Black Linn Falls before you saw them — all roar and spray. I leaned over the railing just breathing it in for a minute longer than everyone else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whisky, waterfalls, and Scottish scenery

• Leave Edinburgh for the Kelpies
• Drive through scenic Highlands
• Visit Glenturret whisky distillery
• Sample whisky dram
• Walk in the Hermitage woodland
• Visit Dunkeld village and cathedral

Top questions

How long is the Scotland Highlands day trip from Edinburgh?

The day trip lasts approximately 9-10 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Is lunch included on this Highlands & whisky tour?

Lunch is not included; you can purchase it during the stop at Glenturret Distillery.

Can children join the whisky distillery tour?

Only children aged 12 or older can join the distillery tour; under 5s are not permitted on this trip.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is provided; you need to get to the departure point in Edinburgh yourself.

Are entry fees included for attractions like The Hermitage?

The Hermitage walk does not require an entry fee; distillery tour tickets are payable separately if you choose to join.

What should I wear for this Scotland Highlands day trip?

Dress in layers with waterproofs—Scottish weather changes quickly and there’s some walking involved.

Is there a guide on this Highlands & whisky day trip?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide leads your group throughout the day.

How big are groups on this Scotland day trip?

This is a small-group tour but occasionally may operate with larger vehicles depending on demand.

What’s included

Your day includes travel by air-conditioned vehicle from Edinburgh with an English-speaking local guide leading every step—from stories by the Kelpies to woodland walks at The Hermitage—with plenty of time for photos, laughter, and sampling whisky at Glenturret Distillery (tour and lunch payable separately) before returning together in the evening.