Edinburgh Unveils £60,000 Luxury Whisky Experience for Affluent Collectors
Edinburgh, already crowned as the most expensive city in Europe for mini-breaks, is now courting wealthy whisky connoisseurs with an extravagant bespoke three-night stay priced at a staggering £60,000. This opulent offering is hosted at the iconic five-star Balmoral Hotel, aiming to attract discerning global travellers with unparalleled exclusivity.
A Historic Setting for a Premium Package
Owned by Rocco Forte Hotels, The Balmoral occupies a landmark building at 1 Princes Street, with origins dating back to 1902. The hotel has long been a favourite among celebrities, including pop icons Kylie Minogue, J-Lo, and Beyonce, as well as author JK Rowling, who famously spent six months there completing the final chapters of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Rare Whisky and Exclusive Access
The centrepiece of this lavish experience is an 81-year-old bottle of Glen Grant single malt whisky, distilled in 1945 at the close of wartime Britain. Described as one of the oldest and rarest Scotch whiskies in existence, it serves as a unique acquisition for participants. Ross Barr, manager of the SCOTCH Whisky Bar at The Balmoral, emphasised the package's appeal, stating it offers unparalleled access to cultural heritage and master custodians across Scotland.
Immersive Scottish Heritage Tours
The pricey package extends beyond the hotel with a behind-the-scenes visit to the headquarters of whisky firm Gordon & MacPhail for a private tour and tasting. Guests then enjoy an exclusive overnight stay at Rothes Glen castle in Aberlour, Banffshire, featuring private dining and chauffeured travel through the scenic Speyside region. A private visit to the Johnstons of Elgin mill provides insight into Scotland's rich textile heritage before returning to Edinburgh.
Luxury Accommodations and Culinary Delights
Upon return, guests spend two nights in The Balmoral's Scone & Crombie Suite, indulging in a fine-dining meal at the hotel's 4 AA Rosette restaurant. A personal wine tasting hosted by the Head Sommelier in the Number One wine cellar, along with a whisky tasting, adds to the gourmet experience. The journey concludes with a choice of signature moments, such as a bespoke session with the hotel's poet in residence or Scent Butler, or a personalised bagpipe lesson.
Targeting the World's Most Discerning Collectors
This exclusive package is tailored for the world's most discerning whisky collectors, blending luxury, history, and Scottish culture into a refined legacy-defining journey. It capitalises on Edinburgh's reputation as a premium destination, following a Post Office Travel Money report that ranked the capital as the most expensive city break in Western Europe, with a two-night stay, meals, and sightseeing costing around £600.
