6 Munro walks with distilleries nearby

THERE are few better ways to reward a walk up one (or more) of Scotland's 282 Munros than with a dram.

By The Newsroom Thursday, 9th March 2017, 6:02 pm Updated Friday, 24th March 2017, 10:58 am

The Macallan distillery in Speyside. Picture: TSPL

Sadly there aren’t distilleries situated conveniently at the end of each and every Munro walk, but there are a select few worth incorporating into a weekend of walking in the Highlands.

Ben Alder and Dalwhinnie Distillery

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Among the most remote Munros in the country, a walk up Ben Alder is a mammoth eight-hour return journey from the Culra Bothy - which itself is accessed by a three to four hour walk or cycle from Dalwhinnie.

Ben Alder. Picture: TSPL

The physical struggle is worth it for the glorious views of the Central Highlands and the sense of achievement from ticking off a couple more Munros (Beinn Bheoil is also included on the walk).

After completing the marathon walk and returning to your starting point in Dalwhinnie, treat yourself to a tasting session or tour of the Dalwhinnie Distillery.

If you’re a single malt fan sample the smooth and subtle tastes of the Dalwhinnie 15 year old.

Where: Dalwhinnie, PH19 1AA

The stills at Glengoyne distillery. Picture: TSPL

Ben Nevis and Ben Nevis Distillery

Navigating the crowds will be among the challenges you face when climbing Britain’s tallest mountain, particularly during weekends and bank holidays.

However, catch Ben Nevis on a quiet day and you will truly appreciate the majesty of the Scottish giant.

There are few better ways to end a trip up the Lochaber peak than with a swallie at the Ben Nevis Distillery in Fort William.

Ben Alder. Picture: TSPL

Elements of citrus and coffee bless the popular ten year old single malt whisky.

Where: Lochy Bridge, Fort William, PH33 6TJ

Cuillin and Talisker

Whichever of the Cuillin you decide to take on, you will have a day to remember - whether it’s a strenuous day bagging the Sgurr nan Eag and Sgurr Dubh Mor, an easier walk up Sgurr na Banachdich, or an unforgettable day conquering the Inaccessible Pinnacle.

The stills at Glengoyne distillery. Picture: TSPL

Whichever route you take, a reward is in order for your heroic efforts on Skye’s intimidating mountains.

Located a 15-minute drive from Glenbrittle Youth Hostel, Talisker distillery serves up a fine selection of single malt whiskies. The Talisker 18 year old offers up fruity notes with a hint of butterscotch.

Where: Carbost, Isle of Skye, IV47 8SR

Ben Chonzie and Glenturret distillery

The rather unremarkable Perthshire mountain can be made more exciting if approached from Glenturret.

Caught on a fine day, Ben Chonzie can make for a perfectly enjoyable walk, especially if followed up by a trip to the The Famous Grouse experience at Glenturret distillery.

The oldest working distillery in Scotland offers a well-oiled tour along with well stocked tasting sessions. The zesty ten year old Glenturret is particularly tasty.

Where: The Hosh, Crieff, PH7 4HA

Ben Lomond and Glengoyne Distillery

The most southerly Munro radiates its own distinctive charm, and exquisite views of Loch Lomond await those who reach the peak. The descent down the Ptarmigan Ridge is the highlight of this fine walk.

Around half an hour from the Rowardennan car park where most ascents of the mountain start is the fantastic Glengoyne distillery.

Tours of the beautiful distillery and tasting sessions are on offer, and the sherry-infused 15 year old Glengoyne will taste that little bit better following a stroll up Ben Lomond.

Where: Dumgoyne, Near Killearn, G63 9LB

Lochnagar and Royal Lochnagar

It’s possible to incorporate the five White Mounth Munros into a single day of walking.

The first of the five - Lochnagar - is the most spectacular. Perched over a stunning corrie, the pointed summit is a favourite among many walkers.

If you’ve summited Lochnagar you’ve earned a dram, so if you’ve peaked all five of the White Mounth Munros surely you deserve five times that?

Situated by the Queen’s Scottish residence, Balmoral Castle, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery offers a range of tours, complete with tasting sessions that should satisfy the thirsty walker.

Royal Lochnagar Selected Reserve is particularly tasty, serving up notes of treacle and orange.