Whisky 'On The Rocks': Highland Geology & Whisky

Walk Scotland's most important geological boundary, and end the day at one of its most distinctive distilleries — with a guide who can read deep history in the cliffs at your feet.

This full-day tour from Aberdeen traces the Highland Boundary Fault — the great geological line that splits Scotland into Highlands and Lowlands. You'll walk metamorphic ocean-floor rocks pushed up from deep in the earth, take in panoramic views across the fault zone, explore Stonehaven's harbour and shore, and visit a hidden coastal waterfall surrounded by ancient lava flows and seabird colonies. The day ends at Fettercairn Distillery, where you'll understand why it sits exactly where it does — between Highland water flowing down from the hills and Lowland barley growing in the soils south of the fault.

Your guide is Steve Adams — a working geologist with 45 years of experience and a knack for making rocks come alive.

The day finishes with a guided distillery tour and tasting of classic Scottish malts. No geology background needed. Most of our guests don't have one.

Maximum 6 guests. Pickup from central Aberdeen.

Route

A Rubislaw Terrace, AberdeenB Garron Point Car ParkC Stonehaven Golf ClubD Boatie Row, StonehavenE Old Pier, StonehavenF CrawtonG Distillery Rd, Fettercairn, LaurencekirkH Rubislaw Terrace, Aberdeen

08:30 — Pick-up at 1 Queens Terrace, Aberdeen
Start your full-day journey with your guide, Steve Adams.
09:15 — Perthumie Bay
~1 km guided walk across metamorphosed ocean-floor sediments of the Highland Terrane.
10:30 — Stonehaven Golf Club (HBF Viewpoint)
Panoramic views and a clear introduction to the Highland Boundary Fault.
10:45 — Cowie Shore, Stonehaven
~1 km coastal walk studying volcanic intrusions, Old Red Sandstone deposits, and Midland Valley geology.
11:45 — Stonehaven Harbour
~500 m walk examining additional terrane contacts, structures, and sedimentary features.
12:30 — Lunch (location TBC)
Relaxed lunch break overlooking Stonehaven harbour.
14:00 — Crawton
~1 km walk exploring ancient Devonian lava flows, the coastal waterfall, and seabird nesting colony.
Some steep descents and ascents required.
16:00 — Fettercairn Distillery
Guided distillery tour followed by tasting of classic Scottish malts and blends.
18:00 — Return to Aberdeen
Tour ends.