Talisker has made whisky at Carbost, on the edge of Loch Harport, since 1830, and it is the oldest working distillery on Skye. Its published winter hours, from November to February, are daily from 10am to 4.30pm, with the bar open from 11am to 4pm. It is closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January, and it warns that bad weather can close it at short notice, so check before you set off. The standard distillery tour and tasting lasts an hour and starts in the low £20s per person, and there are shorter tasting experiences and longer premium tours with more expensive drams. Booking ahead is strongly recommended. Children under eight are not allowed on tours, and anyone under eighteen must be accompanied by an adult. The setting, with the sea outside and the Cuillin not far away, is a big part of the pleasure.
The booking page used here is a private day tour that names Talisker Distillery and the Fairy Pools in its title, from Inverness. It is a private, high-cost option, priced for a group or vehicle, so it suits a party of friends or a family more than a solo traveller. Visitors who simply want a distillery tour can book directly with the distillery. Some group day tours from Inverness include a short Talisker stop of about twenty minutes, which is usually not enough for a full tour, so check the itinerary.
Tour choices
The standard tour and tasting is the usual first choice. Shorter experiences focus on tasting in the setting, while the longer discovery tours and cask experiences are considerably more expensive and suit enthusiasts. Group size is limited to sixteen and larger parties must book in advance. The distillery's phone number and email are published for questions. Drivers should ask the distillery what it offers for non-drinkers, since the road around Carbost is single-track and winding.
Planning
The distillery is close to the Fairy Pools road, so the two make a natural pair on a south-west Skye day. Allow about an hour and a half for the tour, a drink in the bar and the shop, and add time for the Glen Brittle drive. In winter the light fades early, so do the walk first and the tasting afterwards if daylight is short.
The nearby Sligachan Hotel is only a short drive away and has a famous whisky bar if you want to compare. Torabhaig, a newer distillery on the Sleat peninsula, is another option for a second visit.
What to expect
The experience
A guided distillery tour and tasting at Carbost, with shorter tastings and longer premium tours also offered, or a private Skye day tour that includes the distillery.
Best time
Mid-morning or early afternoon, booked ahead, on a weekday outside the Christmas and New Year closures.
How long
About an hour for the standard tour and tasting, an hour and a half with the shop and bar.
Tips
Book ahead, check for weather closures, remember no children under eight on tours and plan a designated driver.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Whisky fans who want a distillery tour that is open through winter.
- Families
- Tours are not suitable for children under eight, so families should check ages first.
- Couples
- A tasting after a morning at the Fairy Pools, then dinner at Sligachan.
- Pair with
- The Fairy Pools, Sligachan and Dunvegan.
- Time needed
- Allow about two hours with the drive in and out of Carbost.
Good questions
Is Talisker Distillery open in winter?+
Yes, from November to February it is open daily from 10am to 4.30pm, apart from 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January. Weather can close it at short notice.
How much is a distillery tour?+
The standard tour and tasting starts in the low £20s per person, with premium tours costing much more.
Do I need to book?+
Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially in summer and at peak times. Groups are limited to sixteen.
Can children go on the tour?+
Children under eight are not permitted on tours, and under-18s must be with an adult.
Is the booked tour a distillery ticket?+
No, here is a private day tour that includes Talisker. For a simple distillery tour, book with the distillery directly.
