The initiative, launched on 23rd June, offers three distinct trails ranging from 4.2 to 15 miles, designed to showcase both Orkney’s natural landscapes and local craftsmanship. Each route ends at the Scapa Distillery, where hikers can taste the distillery’s 10, 16 and 21-year-old whiskies.
Whisky Tourism Expands with Digital Trail Integration
The trails are hosted on Outdooractive’s global hiking application, which serves 60 million active users worldwide. Route options include the 4.7-mile Kirkwall to Scapa trail, the 4.2-mile Crantit Trail, and the challenging 15-mile Folklore and Stones route.
Located on Scotland’s Orkney archipelago, Scapa Distillery was founded in 1885 and sits overlooking Scapa Flow, the natural harbour that served as a Royal Navy base during both world wars. The distillery operates from one of Scotland’s most northerly locations, using traditional whisky-making methods.
Visitors can experience guided tours and food pairings in the ‘Scapa Noust’ clifftop tasting room, which opened in 2023. The facility takes its name from traditional Orcadian boat shelters, reflecting the islands’ maritime heritage.
Whisky Sampling Extends to London Market
For those unable to travel to Orkney, the partnership includes a London trail featuring Thames-side walking and a visit to The Whisky Exchange at London Bridge, where city dwellers can explore Scapa’s aged whisky collection.
The distillery’s current range features three expressions crafted by Master Distiller Mick Swanney and his team. According to official tasting notes, the Scapa 10 Year Old offers pineapple flavours with a spiced finish, whilst the 16 Year Old presents mango aromas with sweet and fruity palate notes. The 21 Year Old, bottled at cask strength, delivers tropical fruit flavours with oak and spice influences.
Jayne Murphy, Marketing Director for Malts at Chivas Brothers, said: “The introduction of our first collection of aged single malts last year marked a significant new chapter in Scapa’s history. This collection is intrinsically linked to the beauty and rich heritage of the Orkney Isles.”
Scapa operates under Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard, which ranks as the world’s second-largest Scotch whisky producer. The company exports to 150 markets globally and employs 1,800 people across Scotland.
The Scapa 10 Year Old retails for approximately $60 (£47), the 16 Year Old for $90 (£71), and the 21 Year Old cask strength expression for $180 (£142). All three whiskies feature packaging inspired by Orkney’s coastal colours and landscapes.
Scotland’s whisky tourism sector contributes significantly to the country’s economy, with distillery visits forming a key component of the tourism offering across regions including the Highlands, Speyside, and island communities like Orkney.
Read the full article at Hiking Meets Highland Spirits in New Scapa Whisky Experience
