Initially, whisky was seen as medicinal, often used as a cure for ailments such as colic, smallpox and palsy, but also for ‘prolonging life’ and aiding people through the cold winters that unfailingly touch Scotland. However, with the increasing popularity of this drink that more and more became a feature of social gatherings, along came the taxes. Eventually, with the influence of English law in the eighteenth century, the distilleries were driven underground in order to avoid taxes altogether.

Now a major tourist attraction, they can no longer remain hidden! Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail is the only malt whisky trail in the world. On the whisky trail of Speyside, you'll find more than half of Scotland's malt whisky distilleries, each with their own individual warm welcome, taste and smell. “Each whisky distillery on the distillery tour follows its own traditions, lore and recipes for everything from malting the barley to the height and size of its stills. The unique characteristics of each Speyside whisky distillery result in delightful, hand-crafted whisky from each one” (maltwhiskeytrail.com). Visitors are encouraged to sample the whisky, and some of the distilleries offer an informative ‘nosing and tasting’ so you can really make the most of your visit. Naturally, whisky will be on sale.

The trail itself will take you through ancient market towns, rolling hills and remote locations and you will end up in places that make the best whisky in the world. Glenfiddich, for example, is the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, often described as superior in quality to any other.

The Malt Whiskey Trail is a unique experience for any visitor to Scotland, an activity that is sure to delight even those who aren’t whisky aficionados. A warm welcome and a great atmosphere is guaranteed, and wherever you choose to stay on your journey, you are sure to find the perfect hotel or bed and breakfast at Scotland-BedandBreakfasts.com.