Cardhu Distillery

Location

About

Cardhu Distillery is a historic whisky distillery located in the Speyside region of Scotland. Founded in 1824, the distillery has a rich history and has become a popular tourist destination for whisky lovers and history buffs alike. In this article, we will explore Cardhu Distillery from a tourist perspective and provide an overview of what you can expect from a visit to this iconic Scottish distillery.

Location and Getting There

Cardhu Distillery is located in the village of Knockando, which is in the heart of the Speyside region of Scotland. The distillery is easily accessible by car and is just a short drive from the town of Aberlour. If you are travelling by public transport, there are regular buses that run from Aberdeen and Inverness to the nearby town of Elgin, from where you can take a taxi or local bus to Cardhu Distillery.

Tour Options

Cardhu Distillery offers a range of tour options, catering to all levels of whisky knowledge and experience. The most popular tour option is the Cardhu Tour, which includes a guided tour of the distillery, a tasting of two Cardhu whiskies, and a complimentary whisky glass. This tour lasts approximately one hour and costs £12 per person.

For those who are looking for a more immersive whisky experience, the Cask Strength Experience offers an in-depth tour of the distillery, a tasting of four Cardhu whiskies, and the opportunity to draw and bottle your own whisky straight from the cask. This tour lasts approximately two hours and costs £80 per person.

If you are travelling with a group, Cardhu Distillery also offers private tours and tastings, which can be tailored to your group's specific interests and requirements.

Whisky Tasting

No visit to Cardhu Distillery is complete without a whisky tasting. The distillery offers tastings of its signature Cardhu whiskies, which are known for their smooth, rich flavour and subtle smokiness. During the tasting, you will have the opportunity to sample a range of Cardhu whiskies, from the classic 12-year-old to the more complex and robust 18-year-old.

In addition to the standard tastings, Cardhu Distillery also offers a range of whisky-themed experiences, such as the Whisky and Chocolate Tasting and the Whisky and Cheese Tasting, which pair Cardhu whiskies with delicious local produce.

Gift Shop

Before you leave, be sure to visit the distillery's gift shop, where you can purchase a range of Cardhu whiskies, as well as souvenirs and other whisky-related gifts. The gift shop also offers the opportunity to create your own personalised bottle of Cardhu whisky, complete with a custom label and presentation box.

Overall, a visit to Cardhu Distillery is a must-do for any whisky lover or history enthusiast visiting Scotland. With its rich history, stunning location, and range of tour options and tasting experiences, Cardhu Distillery offers a truly immersive and unforgettable whisky experience.

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Things to do nearby

Nestled in the heart of the Speyside region of Scotland, Cardhu Distillery is a must-visit destination for whisky lovers and tourists alike. Founded in 1824, the distillery has a rich history and offers a range of experiences that showcase the best of Scottish hospitality and culture. If you're planning a trip to Cardhu Distillery, here are some nearby places and things to do that will make your visit even more memorable.

1. Glenlivet Distillery

Located just a short drive from Cardhu Distillery, Glenlivet Distillery is another iconic Speyside whisky maker that's worth a visit. Founded in 1824, Glenlivet is one of the oldest legal distilleries in Scotland and produces some of the world's most famous single malts. Take a tour of the distillery, learn about the history and production process of whisky, and sample some of Glenlivet's signature drams.

2. Ballindalloch Castle

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Speyside, Ballindalloch Castle is a beautiful 16th-century castle that's open to visitors from May to September. Explore the castle's rich history, including its role in the Jacobite uprising, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and woodlands that surround it.

3. Cairngorms National Park

If you're a lover of the great outdoors, the Cairngorms National Park is an absolute must-visit destination. Located just a short drive from Cardhu Distillery, the park covers over 4,500 square kilometers and offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. Take a guided tour of the park or explore on your own, and don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful Scottish countryside.

4. Speyside Cooperage

Located in the town of Craigellachie, just a short drive from Cardhu Distillery, Speyside Cooperage is a fascinating destination for whisky enthusiasts. Here, you can see skilled craftsmen at work, creating the barrels that are used to age the whisky that's produced in the region. Take a tour of the cooperage, learn about the traditional techniques used to make whisky barrels, and take home a souvenir barrel stave to remember your visit.

5. Dufftown

Known as the "Whisky Capital of the World", Dufftown is a charming town that's located just a few miles from Cardhu Distillery. Here, you'll find a range of whisky shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as a variety of local festivals and events throughout the year. Take a stroll through the town, sample some of the local drams, and soak up the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this quintessential Scottish town.

In conclusion, a visit to Cardhu Distillery is a highlight of any trip to Scotland. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality, the Speyside region offers a range of nearby attractions and activities that are sure to make your visit even more memorable. So, whether you're a whisky lover or just looking to experience the best of Scottish culture and hospitality, make sure to add these nearby places and things to do to your itinerary.