The Water of Life Whisky Tour of Islay – Part II: May 2-10, 2026
The Water of Life Film
The Water of Life is a fantastic documentary that focuses on the people who turned the stagnant whisky industry of the 1980’s into the force that we see today around the world. Greg Swartz, the Director of The Water of Life, joins Rascal + Thorn to collaborate for the fourth time on an unforgettable experience on Islay to revisit some of the key places and experiences from the movie.
As we journey with Greg around Glasgow and Islay, we will see the whisky industry through the lens of a Director. We are super excited to partner with Greg on another journey to Islay! Holly Seidewand will be the co-leader on this fun return to the island.
Distillery Visits
This week-long tour is filled with special distillery visits and experiences! We start in Glasgow with the famous whisky bars and great dining. Next we travel to Islay for unforgettable visits to Bruichladdich, Kilchoman, Ardnahoe and all of the other classic Islay producers. Special tastings and discussions with some of the key craftsmen that will truly bring you back to The Water of Life special moments.
We base ourselves in Bowmore for 6 nights on Islay.
Scottish Dining
The cuisine in Scotland is fabulous. And it’s a Rascal + Thorn Tour, so we will find the best local produce to pair with some of the best whisky in the world!
From special dining in Glasgow to curated experiences on Islay, we will treat you to a fantastic week of fresh and local food. We are very excited to make this both a whisky and food inclusive experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
Distilleries
Bruichladdich
Kilchoman
Ardnahoe
Bowmore
Lagavulin
Bunnahabhain
and others
Excursions
Bon Accord Tasting
Pot Still Tasting
Special Distillery Experiences
Boat Tour with Food & Whisky Pairing
Barley Farm visits and lunch
Curated Scottish Dining
Many other special visits
ITINERARY
Saturday, May 2 – Arrive to Glasgow for a 1-night stay. Welcome group dinner and whisky tasting.
Sunday, May 3 – Travel to Islay and get settled in Bowmore for 6 nights.
Monday to Friday, May 4-8 – Islay Visits and Experiences
Saturday, May 9 – Travel back to Glasgow
Sunday, May 10 – Departure from Scotland.
INCLUDED
8-night stay in select hotels throughout Scotland
Transportation within Scotland via plane, ferry and bus
Distillery Tours and Tastings
Breakfast (8), Lunches (7) and Dinners (6)
Historical & Cultural sights
All taxes
All tips
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$5695.00 per person (double occupancy), Single Supplement $1000
A deposit of $1695.00 is due to secure a place on the trip. Reservations are taken on a first-come / first-serve basis.
Single Supplement is available. The single supplement cost is an additional $1000.
Final payment is due 90 days prior to the start of the tour.
Please contact us for a Reservation Form.
