Fore! Then Pour: Building Custom Scotland Trips Around Golf and Whisky

Yes, you can have single malts and single putts in the same week.

Let’s be honest: Scotland is basically one giant playground for two types of travelers, those who appreciate a well-aged dram, and those who can’t resist a beautiful golf course. The best part? You don’t have to choose between the two.

When clients come to me dreaming of Scotland, they ask: “Can I do both whisky and golf in one trip?” And my answer is always: Um…Absolutely!!

This post is for anyone who thinks 18 holes pairs well with 18-year whisky.

⛳ Curious how to blend fairways and drams into one unforgettable trip? Book a complimentary planning consultation, and let’s tee it up.

It Starts With Personality (Yours, Not Just the Whisky’s)

Before I open a map or book a single tee time, I get to know you.

• Are you the kind of traveler who wants back-to-back tee times, or just a single brag-worthy round at St Andrews?

• Do you want distillery deep dives with private tastings, or are you happy with a casual sip-and-stroll?

• Are you here for slow mornings and long lunches... or a jam-packed highlights tour?

  
  

We work together to frame out a trip that mirrors your travel style…and let’s be honest…your tolerance for peat.

Mapping the Regions: Where Whisky Meets Golf

Here’s where the magic happens. Scotland’s regions naturally pair golf and whisky. (Coincidence? I think not…)

Speyside

Whisky: Home to Glenfiddich, Macallan, and more.

Golf: Beautiful courses like Elgin and Moray. Less crowded, more charm.

Why it works: You can hit a round in the morning and still make a 2 p.m. distillery tour.

Highlands

Whisky: Think Dalmore, Glenmorangie, and rugged vibes.

Golf: Royal Dornoch is a bucket-list stop.

Why it works: Wild landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and proper drams after 18 holes.

Islay

Whisky: The smoky legends: Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin.

Golf: The Machrie…remote, beautiful, windswept.

Why it works: Islay isn’t easy to get to... so make the most of your time with both passions.

St Andrews & Fife

Golf: The holy grail. Enough said.

Whisky: Eden Mill (a rising star), plus day trips to nearby distilleries.

Why it works: You’re already in the mecca of golf…might as well sip something local too.

Balancing the Itinerary: No Burnout Allowed

This is where most DIY trips go sideways: people try to do too much. I space things out so your trip has rhythm. That means:

• Mixing in scenic drives and castle stops

• Leaving room for spontaneous pub nights

• Scheduling rest days (yes, you’ll thank me)

• Booking dinner reservations near distilleries or post-course hot spots

  
  

Basically, you get the best of Scotland without ending up exhausted and cranky halfway through…and trust me, no one likes exhausted and cranky.

Elevating the Experience: Private Access, Not Packaged Tours

When I say custom, I mean it. Some of my favorite itinerary extras include:

• Ship your clubs ahead and have your gear waiting at your first tee time.

• Private whisky tastings straight from the cask

• Driver-guides who know where to stop for scones and scenic views

• Boutique hotels with actual charm (not just tartan wallpaper and tiny beds)

  
  

It’s about showing you a Scotland most travelers don’t even know to look for.

For Couples, Friends, or Solo Travelers…Yes, It Works!

You don’t need a golf group or a whisky club membership to pull this off. This trip is for:

• Couples where one golfs and one sips

• Solo travelers chasing a personal whisky bucket list

• Small groups mixing golf rounds with spirited evenings

• Women’s travel groups with a bold palate and even bolder swings

  
  

Scotland has a way of meeting you where you are…so I make sure your itinerary does too.

Ready to Combine Birdies and Barrels?

Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just in it for the clubhouse views, whether you prefer peated powerhouses or honeyed Highlands malts, I can build a Scotland trip around your passions.

Want more information about Scotland in fall? Check out my Scotland Fall Travel Guide today. Your custom itinerary? Starts with a single sip… or swing.