Don’t Drink & Drive: Here’s How to Travel Safely in the Scotch Regions

scotch regions

There are over 120 whiskey distilleries in Scotland. That’s a lot of whiskey for a nation of 5 million people.

These whiskey distilleries are spread out across a number of scotch regions. These include Highland, Islay, Lowland, Speyside, and Campbeltown.

But, how can whiskey lovers enjoy the perfect Scottish dram experience while making your way across the Scotch regions?

Of course, drinking and driving are extremely dangerous and highly illegal under Scottish law. Hence, you have to be more creative in your solution. Let’s take a look at how to travel safely around the Scotch distilleries.

1. Pick a Designated Driver

Yes, somebody may have to be the designated driver.

Maybe there’s someone in the group who has recently quit drinking but still wants to enjoy the experience of traveling around the regions and learning about the whiskey making process.

Or perhaps, you’re really lucky and you’ve got someone who is willing to take one for the team. What a legend!

Sadly, it means someone misses out on the trip. However, the advantage of traveling in your own vehicle is that you have total freedom to come and go. And of course, it’s usually the most affordable option.

2. Distillery Tour Guide for a Day

If you all want to enjoy the whiskey drinking experience while you’re exploring the Scotch regions, you could hire a distillery tour guide.

You’d be surprised how many distilleries you can visit during a single day of traveling and drinking. This way you don’t need to worry about driving at all. And, everyone gets to enjoy the fun!

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3. Scottish Routes over Multiple Days

If you want to explore further afield, you may need to go with Scottish Routes tours. You’ll get the opportunity to explore the distilleries in Islay over a few days.

If you’re traveling alone, this is another great way to meet new people on your travels. And oftentimes, these tours combine whiskey drinking with other tourist activities.

4. Public Transport

If you’re traveling the Scotch regions on a shoe-string, you could always choose to travel via public transport. Scotland has an excellent train and bus network which is affordable too.

You also get to backpack your way around this beautiful country while meeting people along the way. However, you may have an account for the fact that you’ll need more time.

5. Save Your Whiskey for After

It’s an incredible experience to travel the whiskey distilleries of the Scotch regions even if you don’t taste the dram along the way.

At the end of the tour, the majority of whiskey distilleries provide taster kits to take home with you. This allows you to taste and experiment with the different kinds of Scotch when you get back to the hotel or home.

Driving in the Scotch Regions

You can enjoy the experience of exploring the Scotch regions without taking risks. By following one of the above options, you can have a safe journey through the Scottish nation’s favorite drink.

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