Fine Dram, Dornoch Charm and Picts Folklore from INVERGORDON

Savour the Highlands with breathtaking views, a fine dram, and moments you won’t find in any guidebook. This private tour (max. 3 guests, Balblair Distillery ADMISSION Fee of £25 NOT included) begins with panoramic vistas from Struie Hill—a hidden gem with one of the best views in the north. Enjoy a tour and tasting at the historic Balblair Distillery, where authentic Highland whisky is steeped in tradition. Then on to charming Dornoch—ideal for a stroll or a spot of souvenir hunting. At the ancient Cadboll Stone, we’ll raise a small dram in honour of the Picts, before following the coast to Balintore, where legends and heritage come alive in the striking Mermaid of the North and Salmon Sculpture. A relaxed, scenic day crafted for curious travellers who want something just a little more special.

Itinerary

1. Struie Hill offers some of the most majestic panoramic views over the Kyle of Sutherland. From the summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills, coastline, and the shimmering waters below.The hill provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquillity, with the ever-changing light over the Kyle adding a touch of magic to the landscape. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful escape with stunning views. (10 min)
2. Balblair Distillery, founded in 1790 near Edderton is a true gem in the whisky world. Known for its rich, full-bodied whiskies. Balblair's traditional approach stands in contrast to the more clinical methods of larger distilleries. At one time, the distillery even had its own railway station. William Matheson, who would later go on to found Glenmorangie, honed his craft here, gaining invaluable experience that would shape his future success. (1h 30min) Admission included
3. Dornoch, a charming town nestled in the Scottish Highlands, on the North Coast 500 - NC500 route, is home to the magnificent Dornoch Cathedral, where intricate stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors. Though Andrew Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, he made nearby Skibo Castle his holiday retreat until the outbreak of WWI, adding a touch of aristocratic flair to the town. Dornoch also carries a poignant history, as it was the site of Scotland's last witch burning in 1727, a somber end to the dark days of witch trials. Time for an optional coffee or sandwich. (1h 30min)
4. The Pictish Cadboll Stone is a mesmerizing ancient cross-slab from around the 8th century. It is adorned with intricate Celtic knotwork, enigmatic Pictish symbols, and striking depictions of warriors. This stone is a magnificent recarving by local artist Barry Grove. Here we will have dram and toast to Picts. (40 min)
5. Balintore, a charming Easter Ross fishing village, is steeped in myth and maritime heritage. The striking Mermaid of the North, sculpted by Steve Hayward in 2007, recalls a local legend of a fisherman who hides a mermaid’s tail to keep her on land. Though she bears his children, she eventually finds her tail and returns to the sea—leaving behind a haunting tale of love, loss and longing. Nearby, Hayward’s Salmon Sculpture, with three leaping fish, honours the village’s proud fishing traditions. Together, these sculptures form part of the Seaboard Trail, a celebration of folklore, faith, and coastal resilience. (20 min)