The Ultimate Whisky & Golf Holiday
For golf and whisky lovers alike, Moray Speyside offers an experience unlike any other. Imagine a day where you start with a round on some of Scotland’s finest courses, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and end it with a visit to a world-renowned distillery for a taste of authentic Speyside whisky. In this guide, we’ve paired six standout golf courses with nearby distilleries to create an itinerary that blends sport, culture, and the spirit of Scotland. From Elgin’s lush fairways to Keith’s historic greens, discover the best of Moray Speyside’s golf courses and their whisky neighbours. Cheers to an unforgettable Scottish journey!
Forres Golf Club to Benromach Distillery
Nestled in scenic Moray Speyside, Forres Golf Club offers golfers a classic parkland experience with touches of history, including the memorable ‘Pond’ hole crafted by legends James Braid and Willie Park. Its lush fairways and warm atmosphere make it an ideal stop for any golfer.
Just minutes away, Benromach Distillery invites you to unwind with a tasting of their handcrafted single malts, known for their unique hint of smoke—a true rarity in Speyside whiskies. A visit here completes the day, blending the challenge of the greens with the warmth of Scotland’s whisky tradition.
Ballindalloch Castle Golf Course to Ballindalloch Distillery (to Ballindalloch Castle)
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Speyside countryside, Ballindalloch Castle Golf Course offers a charming nine-hole layout that provides golfers with both tranquillity and challenge, all while surrounded by beautiful landscapes. This scenic course is the perfect start to a day immersed in Scottish tradition.
After your game, visit the Ballindalloch Distillery (the two actually share a carpark) to experience a distillery rooted in family heritage and committed to small-batch, handcrafted whisky. Complete your journey with a visit to Ballindalloch Castle itself, known as the “Pearl of the North,” to explore the castle grounds and gardens, rounding off an unforgettable Moray Speyside experience.
Dufftown Golf Club to Glenfiddich Distillery
At Dufftown Golf Club, you’ll find an unforgettable course set among the rolling hills of Speyside, where each hole presents its own challenge and scenic views of the Highlands. Known for its unique “9th hole to heaven,” this course gives golfers a taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and charm.
Just a short drive away, the renowned Glenfiddich Distillery awaits. Established in 1887, Glenfiddich is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries in Scotland and offers immersive tours and tastings of its acclaimed single malts. Spend your afternoon savoring Glenfiddich’s iconic whisky, and discover why Dufftown is known as the “Malt Whisky Capital of the World.
Elgin Golf Club to Glen Moray Distillery
Elgin Golf Club is a celebrated parkland course that offers a perfect blend of challenge and picturesque scenery. Founded in 1906, its well-maintained fairways and strategic layout make it a favourite among both locals and visitors, providing a rewarding round of golf in the heart of Moray.
After your game, head to Glen Moray Distillery, located just a short drive away. Renowned for its traditional methods and exceptional craftsmanship, Glen Moray produces a range of single malts that reflect the character of the Speyside region. Enjoy a tour of the distillery followed by a tasting session, where you can sample their signature expressions and appreciate the artistry behind each bottle.
Keith Golf Club to Strathisla Distillery
Keith Golf Club offers a welcoming parkland course that combines natural beauty with a friendly atmosphere. Its 18 holes present a delightful challenge for golfers of all levels, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely round surrounded by the picturesque Scottish countryside.
After your game, make your way to Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. Known for its rich history and traditional craftsmanship, Strathisla produces exquisite single malts that capture the essence of Speyside. Join a guided tour at the Home of Chivas to explore the distillation process, and don’t miss the chance to sample their iconic whiskies, showcasing the flavours that make this region famous.
Rothes Golf Club to Glen Grant Distillery
Rothes Golf Club boasts a picturesque 9-hole course that combines challenging play with stunning views of the surrounding Speyside hills. Its well-kept fairways and friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice.
Just a short distance away in Rothes lies Glen Grant Distillery, known for its elegant and floral single malts. Founded in 1840, Glen Grant is celebrated for its innovative production techniques and beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the distillation process, and savour a tasting of their award-winning whiskies, making this visit a perfect conclusion to your day of golf. After a tour, take a walk around the stunning gardens that make this distillery standout from the crowd.