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Luxury Tour of July 7-16, 2017

Whisky has been lovingly crafted in Scotland for centuries. It is fair to say that it is the country’s national drink, running deep in our veins. The indulgent ten-day program will take in a variety of regions. The pilgrimage begins in the whisky paradise of before venturing to the famed region of Speyside. Combining luxurious accommodation with exclusive visits, this is an experience to savor, ensuring you will depart with a deep appreciation and great understanding of this timeless spirit.

Day One: Friday 7 July Arrival into Scotland

On arrival at Airport be met and greeted by your chauffeur who will be on hand to welcome you to Scotland. Take a short transfer into the city center where you will start your tour.

Check into your accommodation, the Rocco Forté Collection's Balmoral, situated in what was once the North British Station , a Victorian building with Scottish baronial influences. It is a luxury hotel in the true sense of the word. While many Edinburgh claim to have Edinburgh's landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their own doorstep is a landmark.

Let your introduction to the city begin in the property’s Scotch Bar. Relax on one of the comfortable Tweed sofas and let one of the Whisky Ambassadors provide a soothing tutorage on the water of life, with a dram from each whisky region. There are over 500 varieties to select from, with each accompanied by a specially selected snack; wild boar salami, dark Swiss chocolate or smoked almonds.

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Day Two: Saturday 8 July Edinburgh’s Highlights

Accompanied by an experienced qualified guide, explore the vibrant and historic city. Edinburgh, sometimes referred to as the “Athens of the North”, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has two distinct areas: the Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress; and the neo-classical New Town, dating from the 18th century. The harmonious connection of these two contrasting historic areas, each with many important buildings, is what gives the city its unique character and what saw it be awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO in 1995.

Begin at the iconic – from its volcanic rock, it towers over the city. Step inside the ancient walls and learn of the royalty who lived and died here and the struggles for control of the nation

To follow, walk along the Royal Mile, which lies at the heart of the Old Town, is arguably one of the most famous streets in the world. Today, it is peppered with stores selling whisky, cashmere goods and hand crafted silver jewellery. However, in centuries gone by it was a different story: delving into the Old Town is like leafing through the pages of a dusty historical novel, as each era unfolds with its own legends and characters.

You may like to visit the Experience, found next to the Castle. Head here for a nosing and tasting of the ‘water of life’. Sample contrasting malts before seeing The Claive Vidiz Collection: 3,384 bottles, the largest collection of Scottish whisky in the world.

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Day Three: Sunday 9 July By plane to Islay

After a morning at leisure, a chauffeur will transfer you to Glasgow Airport where you will set off for the beautiful Isle of Islay. It is just 25 miles in length and is complete with stunning beaches and magnificent sweeping bays on the Atlantic, coupled with charming little villages. It truly is “picture perfect”, and a paradise for whisky lovers.

Islay is home to eight working distilleries; it is believed that the Irish monks first introduced the art of distillation here during the 14th century. They found an island eminently suited for production, with unlimited supplies of peat, lochs and rivers filled with pure, soft water.

Upon arrival, be welcomed by your chauffeur-guides, who will accompany you on your whisky tour of Scotland.

Check into your accommodation that sits on Islay’s famous Whisky Coast, in the fishing village of , overlooking the harbour and marina. The Islay Hotel offers recently refurbished accommodation, a restaurant and well-stocked whisky bar. Guests can enjoy the unspoilt Scottish coastline and beaches, from 2 minutes' walk away. Each bedroom is individually designed and has a king or twin beds, and has luxury en suite facilities. The restaurant serves fresh, local food.

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Day Four: Monday 10 July The Isle of Islay

Accompanied by your chauffeur-guides, spend the next two days exploring the island, indulging in the amber nectar and fantastic scenery that the island has to offer.

Let your introduction to the “water of life” begin as you sample malts at the oldest distillery on the island. Enjoy a private craftsman tour which includes a visit to the inner sanctum, ’s No. 1 Vaults - a must for enthusiasts.

To follow, your whisky tasting experience on the island continues. Most of Islay’s original distilleries, some long since lost to history, started as farm distilleries, retreating to secluded glens and caves when excise duty was first introduced on whisky in the 17th century. In actual fact, the excise-men didn’t dare set foot on Islay for over 150 years because of the fearsome reputation of the islanders, who were regarded at the time as wild and barbaric. Today, nothing could be further from the truth, with the island well noted from for its warm hospitality.

Today, perhaps visit:

• – located on the westernmost part of the island, the distillery was built in 1881, and was considered advanced for its time. Much of the Victorian décor and equipment remains, providing a fascinating insight into the whisky world of times gone by. The distillery uses organically grown Scottish barley to create its remarkable , including one said to be the most heavily peated in the world – an acquired taste! • Distillery – By contrast, the newest distillery on Islay, and the first to be established in over 124 years. One of only six distilleries to stilly practice traditional floor malting, the distillery uses barley grown onsite at Rockside Farm.

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Day Five: Tuesday 11 July Islay’s Whisky Coast

Travel to the southern end of Islay, commencing the day with a visit to the Kildalton Cross - a masterpiece of 8th century religious art, every inch the equal of the three great high crosses – St John’s, St Martin’s and St Oran’s – which are situated on . Indeed, it is likely that the same sculptor carved more than one of these stones.

It is remarkable that the cross is still standing where it was erected over 1200 years ago, the only early Christian cross still standing in its original position. Excavation in 1882 showed that there was an even earlier Christian cross-slab on the site, as well as burials.

Three distilleries inhabit the southern shores of Islay, found within just a few minutes of one another. Private tours or experiences can be arranged at the following distilleries:

• - For 200 years, locals have been hand-cutting Islay peat from the beds next to the distillery for use in the kilns. It was established in 1815 and is also the only whisky to carry a Royal Warrant of HRH, The Prince of Wales, which was awarded in person during a visit in 1994. • Ardbeg - Established in 1815, it is now one of the fastest growing Islay malts. It is the peatiest and smokiest of all the Islay malts, but counters with a fruity floral sweetness. • - Employing traditional, wooden fermentation vessels and unusually shaped stills contributes to producing this characteristic malt. The 16YRO malt is intense, smokey-sweet with sea-salt flavours and a huge finish.

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Day Six: Wednesday 12 July Return to the Mainland

Board a ferry to return to the mainland, arriving at Kennacraig. Continue north through Argyll to Oban on the west coast. The picturesque waterfront town was established by the Duke of Argyll in the early 19th century as a popular Victorian resort. Today it is known as the “Gateway to the Isles”.

Head to the town’s distillery for a visit. Dating back to 1794, the distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest and most charming. Indulge in a tasting of the 14YRO, described as having a rich and smoky nose; its palate is thick and full and there are notes of citrus with a smooth sweetness.

To follow, travel past Glencoe, site of the infamous 1692 battle between Clan Macdonald and Clan Campbell. 38 members of the Clan Macdonald were pursued and killed, on the grounds that they had not sworn allegiance to the new reigning monarchs; William and Mary.

American Broadcaster CNN said that it was so impressed with the scenery in Skyfall, some of which was filmed here, that it declared Scotland one of its top travel destinations.

Check into the castle that is your home for tonight; Inverlochy Castle, which nestles comfortably in the foothills of mighty Ben Nevis. In 1873, during a trip to Balmoral, Queen Victoria spent a week here sketching and painting where she wrote in her diaries ‘I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’. Dining is a delight and renowned throughout the world, and are one of handful of restaurants that have been awarded 3AA rosettes and a respected Michelin star. They offer a formal setting, where a jacket is required for gentlemen.

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Day Seven: Thursday 13 July Across the Highlands to Speyside

Depart Fort William and travel north into the heart of Speyside, a region awash with whisky. It is home to more than half of the country’s working malt whisky distilleries, including some of the world’s best-sellers.

Enjoy an incredibly special visit to ; it lies in a beautiful glen at the junction of the River Lour and Spey, surrounded by glorious scenery dominated by the rugged peaks of Ben Rinnes a short distance away. The abundance of nature and centuries–old passion for making single malt whisky conspire to inspire the generous and multi-layered whisky of Aberlour.

Here, experience a private tour & tasting. Lasting approximately 90 minutes, this is for true aficionados, providing you with the opportunity of sampling some exceptional and rare drams that are not available out with the distillery.

Your accommodation for two nights is at Cardhu House, a former manse which has been lovingly restored to offer luxurious accommodation over three floors. The house is in an idyllic, peaceful spot on the fringes of Knockando near the . It boasts a large, private and secluded walled garden, but is only a minutes’ walk from the village tennis courts and the beautiful Knockando Church.

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Day Eight: Friday 14 July Speyside

Spend the day exploring the region - a whisky aficionado’s dream! Whether you would like to enjoy your favourite malt at its birthplace, sample a rare gem, meet the owners or hear tales from the days when smugglers and illicit brewing were rife amidst the Speyside landscape, there is a distillery to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Highlights include:

• - Discover tall copper mash tuns, great wooden washbacks and stone-walled warehouses filled with earthy, aged aromas. All year round, spring water bubbles through the Glen, alive as that day in 1886 when the founder William laid the first stones of the distillery that is still owned and managed by his descendants today. • Glenlivet - Today, the brand is reputed to be the biggest-selling single malt in the United States and the second biggest-selling malt brand globally. • Cardhu - The home of the world renowned Brand and the only distillery started by a woman. The light character of the 12YRO Cardhu is an excellent starting point for anyone beginning their whisky journey, while the new additions to the family - the Cardhu 15YRO and 18YRO – are perfect for those for looking for something a little more complex. • Strathisla - The spiritual home of one of the most famous brands in the world, . It was founded in 1786 and is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. The buildings have changed little since then, from the old cobbled courtyard to the distinctive double pagodas, making it one of the most picturesque distilleries in Scotland. • Macallan - The oak casks are the single greatest contributor to the outstanding quality, natural colours and distinctive aromas and flavours of Macallan whisky. Because of this, they spend more per cask than any other distillery in sourcing, crafting, seasoning and caring for their casks. • Glen Grant - Founded by two former illegal distillers in 1840, brothers John and James Grant. They had the vision and ambition to establish what is today one of the most famous and most popular single malt whiskies in the world.

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Day Nine: Saturday 15 July South though the Grampians

Leave Cardhu this morning with your chauffeur-guides and drive east into the heart of the Grampian mountain range of the Scottish Highlands. Turn south at Dalwhinnie, and follow the highway past Blair Castle, ancestral home of the Duke of Atholl. Continue though the Pass of Killicrankie where the Jacobite army defeated government forces in 1689.

Perhaps pause to visit picturesque . Two notable visitors helped it grow from tiny settlement to bustling and attractive town. The first was General Wade who, in the early 1700s, built one of his main military routes north through what is now the town. The second was Queen Victoria in 1842. Her favourable comments marked the start of Pitlochry's real growth as a popular tourist destination. In 1863, the arrival of the railway confirmed it as a premier mountain resort.

Here you will enjoy a tour and tasting at the . From the water of the Allt Dour burn comes the 12yo single malt whisky, with a mellow deep-toned aroma, a strong fruity flavour and a smooth finish. Blair Athol contributes to the Bell's Blend, the most popular blended whisky in the UK. (Following your visit here, you may also drive the short distance to Edradour, where the shop will be open selling the wares.)

Later, travel south to Edinburgh, passing through Dunkeld, a tranquil village found beneath thickly wooded hills along the River Tay. Perhaps pause at the splendid Dunkeld Cathedral, now part ruin and part parish church which dominates the village. Cross the that connects Fife to Edinburgh. Admire the magnificent rail bridge dating from the late 19th century; and see the new that will replace the existing road bridge in 2017.

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Return to Edinburgh, where you will check back into the Rocco Forté Collection's Balmoral Hotel for your final night in Scotland.

It is only a short distance from here to the Queen Street premises of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, one of Edinburgh’s most elegant addresses. This evening you will have a group dinner in one of the small private rooms. During the evening you will enjoy another tutored tasting of the society’s own bottlings that are taken from some of the fine and rare casks that have been collected in the vaults.

Day Ten: Sunday 16 July Homeward Bound

Your chauffeur will provide a safe and comfortable transfer to Edinburgh Airport where you will board your outbound flight.

End of Services

Pricing:

$8,000 USD per person, based on double occupancy.

A non-refundable deposit of 25% is required to confirm the booking with the balance due within 90 days of departure.

This price includes: • Service and tax at the prevailing rate

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• Dream Escape Welcome pack • Accommodation including Scottish breakfast as follows: o Executive Rooms at the Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh (2 nts + 1 nt) o Gold Rooms at the Islay Hotel (3 nts) o Large Rooms at Inverlochy Castle (1 nt) o Double Rooms at Cardhu Guest House, Speyside (2 nts) • Vehicle services by luxury minibus OR 2 x MPVS (Viano, Caravelle, etc) • Airport transfers to/from EDI, to GLA and from ILY by minicoach • 1 x Full day city tour of Edinburgh (up to 8 hrs) by minicoach • 6 x Full days of touring with 2 x driver-guides by MPV (up to 8 hrs) • 1 x Full day guide for tour of Edinburgh • Tutored whisky tasting at the Balmoral Hotel • Dinner and Tutored whisky tasting at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society • Exclusive visits to Bowmore and Aberlour Distillery • Other entrance fees and distillery tours as required • Flybe flight tickets from GLA to ILY • Ferry tickets from Islay to Kennacraig

Not included: • International Air Travel • Travel Insurance (highly recommended, we will provide a quote) • Passport and Visa Expenses • Food and beverage apart from breakfast and where stated • Evening vehicle transfers • Leisure activities such as golf and spa treatments • Personal items such as phone calls and laundry • Gratuities and porterage

Prices in this brochure were effective on 11/30/16. At the time you purchase your tour, prices may be higher because of an increase in carrier charges or fluctuations in the exchange rate between the US dollar and British Pound. For current prices, call us at 888-251-3096 or send us an email at [email protected].

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