A WHISKY distillery on the NC500 has won a prestigious award.
The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, located in Muir of Ord, was crowned visitor attraction of the year at the yearly Icons of Whisky Scotland and World Whiskies Awards 2024.
Sitting on the famous North Coast 500 route, the visitor experience prides itself on its "epicurean spirit", demonstrated by its range of food and whisky tasting experiences.
Accessible by train or bus from the city centre of Inverness, The Singleton is popular with people from across Scotland, and the world, who are exploring the North Coast 500, known for its views, walks, and food and drink scene.
As well as a whisky experience, The Singleton regularly hosts emerging musicians as part of its regular “Singleton Sessions” and has showcased a diverse selection of local businesses from street food vendors to candle makers.
Leigh Aitken, brand home manager at The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, said: “It is our ambition to give all our guests a world-class welcome at The Singleton of Glen Ord, and this award is great recognition of the fantastic work our team have done this year."
She added: “As an official partner to the North Coast 500 we welcome visitors from all around the world, while as one of the closest single malt distillery to Inverness, we would also love to have more people from the local area visit the distillery. We showcase the very best of Highland food and drink and it is a great option for people from the area to bring their friends and family and enjoy our award-winning hospitality.”
David Hughes, chair of North Coast 500, said: "As Chair of the North Coast 500, I am thrilled to witness The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery being crowned Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards. This accolade not only celebrates the exceptional experience offered by The Singleton but also highlights the enriched NC500 experience that our partnership delivers.
“Our collaboration highlights the synergy between the breathtaking landscapes of the route and the exceptional craftmanship found at Glen Ord. North Coast 500 is a journey through some of Scotland's finest landscapes, where visitors can uncover the rich tapestry of our culture, hospitality, and, of course, our world-renowned whiskies. We take pride in this extraordinary route and the businesses who thrive here, inviting travellers from around the globe to explore exceptional experiences like that at Glen Ord along the North Coast 500."