The Grampian Highlands area is famous for its delicious malt whisky, and the best way to explore this long-standing tradition is by following a whisky route (self-drive or guided) to eight different distilleries, including the Glenfiddich Distillery that was started in 1887. Visitors can learn about the age-old process of coaxing different smells, tastes and colours from a mixture of yeast, barley, peat and water, and take tours of different distilleries. Some distilleries can only be visited with advanced bookings, and usually offer tastings.

Address: Glenfiddich Distillery: Dufftown, Banffshire

E-mail: info@glenfiddich.com

Website: www.glenfiddich.com

Telephone: (0)1340 820 373 (Glenfiddich)

Opening times: Glenfiddich: Open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4:30pm, and on Sundays from 12pm to 4.30pm

Admission: Tour prices at the Glenfiddich Distillery vary, from about £10 for a basic tour and tasting, to £75 for a deluxe tour