Glenmorangie Distillery & Lovely Dornoch
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Port
Invergordon (Inverness), Scotland, United Kingdom
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$209
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
3¾ Hour
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Invergordon, where our ship is berthed, grew as the northern terminus of a ferry that carried pilgrims northwards on their journey towards Tain, 12 miles to the north. Here, they paid their respects at a shrine dedicated to Saint Duthac, the greatly venerated 11th century Chief Confessor of Ireland and Scotland. Our drive today follows the same route, from Invergordon to the royal burgh of Tain, Scotland oldest royal burgh, with a Gaelic name, Baile Dubhthaich, that still remembers the Saint. Our destination, however, is a shrine of a somewhat different kind - the famous Glenmorangie Distillery.
Lying on the edge of this historic town, on the shore of the Dornoch Firth, the distillery produces a single malt whisky with a hue that matches that of the local sandstone buildings. Founded in 1843, the distillery has been in almost constant production for 180 years, sourcing its water from the Tarlogie Spring, just a short distance to the west of the distillery. Today, its highly rated single malts are distributed all over the world. During our leisurely visit, we will view the production area and absorb the sights, sounds and aromas associated with the making of malt whisky. Our senses tantalised, we will then have the opportunity to sample a wee dram, before learning more of the crafts of coopering, malting, and ageing in the distilleries Visitor Centre.
After our visit to the distillery, we’ll take the bridge across the Dornoch Firth to visit the enchanting, 13th-century town of Dornoch. The coast here is dominated by sand dunes, since 1877 the home of the world famous Royal Dornoch Golf Club, with one of Scotland’s finest links golf courses. The town's oldest buildings are gathered around its spacious and beautiful square, including the impressive medieval Dornoch Cathedral, built in 1224. Opposite the cathedral is the equally impressive Dornoch Castle. Constructed in the early part of the 16th century as the bishop’s palace, the castle is now used as a hotel.
Following our visit to Dornoch, we’ll retrace our steps back to Invergordon on our drive back to the ship.
Please note: Though our walk around Dornoch is on flat, paved ground, the visit to the distillery requires climbing many steps which create a barrier to access for guests who use a wheelchair or for those with limited mobility. We advise guests to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a waterproof windbreaker.