# Brushstrokes of Joy Art Retreat with Artist Kristy Rice in Scotland

Join artist Kristy Rice for a soul-nourishing and invigorating retreat in the heart of Scotland’s breathtaking countryside. Over the course of a week, reconnect with the spirited joy of watercolor painting in a welcoming space designed for artists of all experience levels. With an intuitive, heart-led approach, explore expressive techniques and let the natural beauty around you guide your creativity. Throughout the retreat, you’ll build a personal watercolor collection rooted in meaningful experiences while forming lasting connections and memories shaped by art, place, and presence.Settle into a spacious country home tucked among rolling hills, where each day brings time to paint, reflect, and unwind. Enjoy meals prepared with care, using fresh local ingredients, and soak in the calm rhythm of your surroundings. Inspiration flows from time spent sketching on the peaceful shores of Loch Lomond, wandering the charming village of Buchlyvie, and exploring the rich history and architecture of Stirling.

## Details

- **Dates:** August 22 - 29, 2026
- **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK
- **Starting Price:** $4,400
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Kristy RiceArt materials selected by your instructor: The Art for Joy’s Sake Watercolor Palette, The Free from Fear and Art for Joy’s Sake Brush Collections (12 Brushes), a collapsible painter's pot, a block of Legion watercolor paper, extra water containers, paper towels7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estateExclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardensMeals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefWater, coffee, tea, herbal tea, and snacks available at all timesDelicious wine served with dinner every dayAn in-house gin-tasting experienceArt trip to Loch LomondArt trip to Stirling, including an entrance ticket to Stirling CastleTrip to Buchlyvie village at your leisure (15-minute walk away)A night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancingPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesExperienced UpTrek host available throughout the dayRound-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Kristy Rice and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceOne lunch during the full-day trip to StirlingTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Brushstrokes of Joy Art Retreat
Join artist Kristy Rice for an immersive watercolor retreat nestled in Scotland's peaceful countryside. Over eight inspiring days, you'll reconnect with your creative spirit through a thoughtful, intuitive approach to art. Drawing from the vivid beauty around you, explore diverse watercolor techniques under Kristy's nurturing guidance. Your art materials, selected by Kristy, are included: the Art for Joy’s Sake Watercolor Palette, the Free from Fear and Art for Joy’s Sake Brush Collections (12 Brushes), a block of Legion watercolor paper, a collapsible painter's pot, extra water containers, and paper towels.Artists of every experience level are warmly welcomed to rediscover authentic creative expression and embrace artistic exploration with openness and curiosity. Engaging sessions with Kristy will lead you to create vibrant floral paintings, serene landscapes, and personal artwork inspired by your surroundings and travels. Whether working comfortably indoors or outdoors amid nature’s tranquility, every activity will enrich your artistic journey.Explore foundational watercolor techniques with renewed vision, experiment with unique compositions, and create an intuitive travel journal capturing your experiences and reflections. Enjoy personalized one-on-one support, insightful demonstrations, and encouraging feedback in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Alongside Kristy and fellow artists, immerse yourself fully in creativity, discovery, and meaningful connections.In addition to studio time, engage with Scotland's stunning scenery, painting and sketching outdoors in beautiful settings. Experience the historic charm of Stirling, capture serene moments along Loch Lomond’s shores, and find inspiration in the delightful village of Buchlyvie. Each day offers new possibilities to deepen your bond with art, nature, and yourself. Some topics covered in the classes include:Watercolor basics with a twist (wet-on-wet, washes, gradients) like you've never done them beforeInterpreting your environment through sketching, painting, and smartphone photographyBuilding confidence in your travel sketching with beginner-friendly composition and loose perspectiveExpressive landscape and floral how-tosJoy-filled skill-building exercisesStep-by-step lessons on creating Kristy's signature travel journal compositionsExpressively mixing your colors directly on paper...and many more.Your venue for this art retreat is a breathtaking holiday estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy lavish accommodation spaces, bespoke design, a spacious art studio, and electrically heated outdoor hot tubs. Immerse yourself in Scottish history and culture with delicious meals prepared by a private chef, a gin-tasting event, and a night of traditional Gaelic dancing.

### Day 1: Arrival
Get transferred from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) at 3:00 PM and arrive at your venue at around 4:00 PM, a stunning countryside estate with gorgeous views of the Highlands. Unwind in your well-appointed room, freshen up, and gather with Kristy and your art group for a pleasant orientation tour. Discover the stately accommodation spaces, the spacious art studio in the barn, the hot tubs, and the gardens. Enjoy a special welcome dinner prepared by the in-house chef to kickstart the retreat. Discuss the upcoming week with your fellow artists over delicious wine.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast, followed by a relaxed coffee gathering with Kristy and fellow artists to discuss the day's creative activities.The morning's watercolor session gently reconnects you with your creativity through mindfulness and enjoyment. Kristy will guide you in calming breathing exercises to ground yourself, ease tension, and open your heart to the artistic process. With renewed calmness, transition into playful warm-up activities to explore foundational watercolor techniques such as wet-on-wet, gradient blending, and color mixing directly on paper. Emphasizing discovery and joy, you'll practice painting simple florals and landscapes.Following a nourishing lunch, move outside into the vibrant gardens for an inspiring plein-air painting experience. Kristy will support you in connecting deeply with your surroundings, demonstrating how to translate the energy of the moment into expressive art. Let the lush greenery and textures inspire your brushwork and intuitive designs, allowing the natural beauty around you to spark your imagination.As evening approaches, enjoy some leisure time before gathering again for a freshly prepared dinner. Reflect on the day's creative experiences and share insights with one another over pleasant conversation, appreciating the mutual inspiration from painting together.

### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond
Kick off your day with a satisfying breakfast before venturing out to Loch Lomond, nestled within the scenic beauty of Trossachs National Park.After a picturesque one-hour drive, arrive at the loch, where the serene water and abundant plant life provide endless artistic inspiration. Take a moment to capture reference photos of the mesmerizing scenery, focusing on details that catch your eye. Kristy will share tips on how to record your impressions effectively, preparing you for the afternoon’s creative work. The occasional sound of bagpipes drifting through the valley will enrich your experience, heightening the charm of this remarkable setting.Returning to your accommodation, savor a freshly prepared lunch before settling in for an afternoon dedicated to painting. With Kristy’s guidance, transform your morning’s reference photos and impressions into a personalized travel map, creatively arranging elements that resonate with you into a cohesive artwork. Through engaging demonstrations, you'll learn techniques for combining various imagery into intuitive compositions. Inspired by the day's discoveries, experiment with patterns and layouts, allowing your artistic instincts to lead the way.The remainder of the afternoon is open to enjoy at your leisure—take a peaceful walk, reflect quietly, or continue your creative exploration. As evening falls, gather once more for a thoughtfully prepared three-course dinner, sharing conversations and reflections on the day's inspirations and artistic progress.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
After enjoying a hearty breakfast and a relaxed morning check-in with Kristy and fellow artists, start the day with a collaborative brainstorming gathering.Reflect together on your recent experiences, sharing insights and inspiration for your upcoming artwork. Kristy will help you explore ways to infuse your creations with the essence of the landscape and atmosphere around you, guiding you to express the natural beauty and tranquility through your unique artistic lens.Following a leisurely lunch, immerse yourself in an afternoon focused on expressive watercolor painting, combining seascapes, landscapes, and floral elements. Drawing from your exploration and experiences, Kristy will encourage intuitive painting, allowing your personal impressions to freely emerge on paper. She will support you in embracing a relaxed, mindful approach to perspective, easing any concerns and helping you trust your creative instincts.Later in the afternoon, take time to unwind. Sketch quietly, enjoy a calming walk, or simply reflect on the creative energy of the day. In the evening, come together for a thoughtfully prepared dinner, sharing engaging conversation and experiences from the day. Round off your evening with lively Scottish music and dancing, creating the perfect end to an inspiring day.

### Day 5: Trip to Stirling
Day five begins with a warm, satisfying breakfast before heading to Stirling, a historic town just a short 30-minute drive away. Renowned for its rich history and picturesque charm, Stirling offers ample inspiration with its iconic castle and surrounding landscape.Your day starts at Stirling Castle, an impressive historical landmark filled with captivating architecture and scenic views. Spend time exploring the castle grounds, taking reference photos of the intricate stonework, expansive vistas, and historic structures. Kristy will offer guidance on capturing effective reference imagery, highlighting interesting architectural details, textures, and angles to inspire your artwork later in the day.Pause for lunch independently at a local café or pub, then continue exploring and gathering inspiration.In the afternoon, visit the Wallace Monument, another significant historic site set within stunning meadows and native Scottish landscapes. Absorb the beauty of the area, taking photographs and quietly noting elements that resonate with your artistic vision. Kristy will lead demonstrations on how to approach various sketching techniques—using pencil, watercolor, or direct brushwork—while offering a refresher on compositional strategies. You'll then collaboratively outline plans for your focused painting projects.As evening approaches, return to your accommodation for a relaxing dinner. Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared three-course meal, reflecting together on the day's experiences, exchanging ideas, and appreciating the day's creative inspirations.

### Day 6: Trip to Buchlyvie
Start the following day with a hearty breakfast, then take a leisurely 15-minute walk to the charming village of Buchlyvie.This peaceful Scottish village, with its cozy cafés, welcoming pubs, and quaint local shops, offers a delightful insight into countryside living. Enjoy exploring at your own pace—browse local stores, visit the Buchlyvie Pottery Shop to admire handcrafted ceramics, or settle into a quiet corner to sketch. Capture your inspiration by focusing on how the morning light interacts with the surroundings, framing interesting scenes, and observing unique details. Kristy will provide support and personalized guidance as you immerse yourself in your creative process.After a refreshing lunch, spend the afternoon painting and refining your artwork in the studio or your preferred workspace. Kristy will be available to offer personalized advice and thoughtful feedback as you develop landscapes, florals, or abstract reflections inspired by your morning experiences.Later in the afternoon, gather for a relaxed gin tasting, sampling local varieties and unwinding together. Conclude the evening with a freshly prepared dinner, sharing enjoyable conversation and reflections on the day's creative highlights.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Join your art group for a final hearty breakfast before preparing for your last art session with Kristy.The morning features an interactive Q&A with Kristy, where you can address lingering questions and gain valuable insights. Kristy will offer guidance on techniques, creative challenges, or any aspect of your artistic journey, providing demonstrations to clarify concepts and inspire continued growth.Following lunch, gather for a special mini-exhibition event—optional but warmly encouraged. Celebrate your creative achievements, share your favorite pieces, and exchange supportive feedback with fellow artists, highlighting the unique path each has taken during the retreat.In the evening, join together for a farewell dinner, raising a toast to a week filled with creativity, inspiration, and meaningful connections.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy breakfast and get ready for your transfer to Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Kristy Rice](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/kristy-rice) — Artist, author, designer, entrepreneur

## Accommodation

### Scottish farm estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with Kristy Rice is a serene countryside estate. The venue lies in the tranquil village of Buchlyvie, amidst the wild beauty of Scotland. This exquisitely restored farmhouse blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern elegance. The boutique-style venue, with its amenities, facilities, and décor, commands breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands and the expansive countryside beyond.The estate has six distinct housing units, each boasting its own unique style. The Farmhouse (serving as the main villa) houses four stunning rooms and an elegant dining area where all meals will be served. The other units include The Lodge, with four bedrooms adorned with luxurious wallpaper, and spacious common areas; The Stables, a two-bedroom unit facing the Trossachs; The Coach House, a wonderfully restored three-bedroom house; The Cottage, a 200-year-old suite with one bedroom and a cozy vibe; and The Barn, housing a dedicated art studio.Rooms can be shared or single, with ensuite, adjacent, or shared bathrooms. The interiors are adorned with bespoke furnishings, splendid designer fabrics, and 100% Egyptian cotton linens and towels.Each accommodation unit features spacious and inviting common areas, equipped with amenities such as the fireplaces in the Farmhouse, and fully equipped kitchens for a homely experience. Add the five electrically heated outdoor hot tubs (shared between guests occupying the same accommodation unit), and you'll get the perfect spot to unwind after a full day.Your classes will be held in the well-lit, spacious art studio with vaulted ceilings located in The Barn, or on the expansive estate grounds.Please note that getting around the venue (accommodation spaces, the building where meals are served, and the art studio) requires a short walk, and certain rooms are only accessible via stairs. The venue may not be suitable for participants with limited mobility.

### Shared standard room (female only)
You will share this room with one other same-gender retreat participant. Located in the Coach House on the second floor, the shared standard room is accessible via a spiral stairway. It includes two comfortable double beds. Its adjacent bathroom (equipped with a tub) is accessible by descending a few steps.Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Coach House, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

### Shared superior ensuite room
You will share this room and its bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared superior room is located in the Lodge on the first floor and features an ensuite shower bathroom. It contains comfortable twin beds and has direct access to the shared terrace of the Lodge.Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Lodge, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

### Shared bathroom - single room (female only)
You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. These single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. Equipped with comfortable king-size beds, the rooms feature large windows with beautiful views over the surrounding gardens. The rooms are located in The Farmhouse on the second floor.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terrace, and the hot tub of the Farmhouse, the main villa where all meals will be hosted.

### Single standard room - external bathroom
Two single rooms with private, external bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Lodge and The Stables. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Each room features a comfortable king-size bed, a private shower bathroom, and luxurious, bespoke décor. Access to the private external bathroom of the room located in the Lodge requires climbing 6 steps.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings.

### Single superior room - adjacent bathroom
Two single superior rooms with private, adjacent bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Farmhouse (main villa) and the Coach House. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Slightly larger than the single standard rooms with adjacent bathrooms, they feature comfortable king-size beds, private shower bathrooms, and luxurious, bespoke décor.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings.

### Single standard ensuite room
Three standard single ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Each room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The rooms are located in the Stables on the first floor and in the Coach House on the second floor.The rooms benefit from shared access to the common spaces of their respective buildings: the lounge, the fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, and an outdoor hot tub facing the surrounding countryside, treating you to breathtaking views.

### Single superior ensuite room
One single superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room is located in the Lodge, on the first floor. The bright and airy room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The single superior room is slightly larger than the single standard room, and it also features a private balcony.You'll also benefit from access to the shared spaces of the Lodge: the lounge, the fully equipped kitchen, and the terrace with an outdoor hot tub.

### Deluxe ensuite room
One single deluxe ensuite room in The Farmhouse is available for single occupancy. This master bedroom is located on the first floor and features a spacious ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, bespoke furnishings, and décor, as well as its own stately fireplace. The comfortable king-size bed ensures a restful sleep.You'll benefit from access to the shared spaces of The Farmhouse - an outdoor hot tub on the terrace, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

### Deluxe private villa
One deluxe private villa (The Cottage) is available for single occupancy. This beautifully renovated, 200-year-old building offers the ultimate cocoon of peace and tranquility. It features stunning design and amenities through its incredible cathedral ceiling in the main room, exposed beams, the ensuite bathroom, and the free-standing hot tub in the bedroom. The bedroom of The Cottage comes with a comfortable king-size bed.The Cottage also has its own fully-equipped kitchen, private terrace, and private outdoor hot tub.

## Food

During your art retreat, you'll delight in delicious meals prepared by the private chef, featuring the freshest ingredients. The curated menu includes both Scottish traditional food and international cuisine, along with daily drinks and snacks.Start your morning with a variety of egg dishes or a light continental breakfast replete with buttered pastries, fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The one-course lunch includes options like goat cheese tart, Gartmorn chicken breast with truffle mash, seasonal greens, or a variety of soups with homemade focaccia.End your evenings in style with a three-course feast featuring smoked paprika-roasted cod, pan-seared Orkney scallops, spinach dhal served with poppadoms, tamarind cauliflower steaks, roast bell peppers stuffed with caponata, and many more. Follow it up with a sweet treat, like a mandarin parfait, a warm chocolate brownie with walnut ice cream, coconut halwa, or a selection of sorbets.Your selection of drinks includes fresh power juices during the morning art class, delicious wine served with dinner every day, or coffee, tea, herbal tea, and mineral water available throughout the day. If you need a quick bite, refuel with a mid-afternoon snack or fruit from the snack bar.Experience the best of Scottish hospitality with a welcome dinner, an in-house gin-tasting experience, and a farewell dinner followed by a night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing in the barn.All meals are included, except for one lunch during the full-day trip. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.

## Getting There

Located near the quaint village of Buchlyvie, close to Stirling in the heart of Scotland, your retreat venue is set against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. The venue finds itself on the threshold of the majestic Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, embracing the awe-inspiring views of the Trossachs. This area is a mosaic of lochs, glens, and mountains, sheltering a diverse range of wildlife. The culture of the area is deeply embedded in Scottish heritage, from the haunting melodies of bagpipes echoing through the glens to the centuries-old castles, telling tales of Scotland's history.Vibrant Edinburgh, the beating heart of the region, is an hour away by car. During your retreat, you'll embark on several art trips, visiting Loch Lomond (1 hour away), a wide expanse of crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains, along with Stirling (30 minutes away), a historic town known for its rich Gaelic heritage and the imposing Stirling Castle.Please arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Scotland a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.How to get from Edinburgh Airport to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Edinburgh, we recommend you fly to Dublin or London and then fly to Edinburgh (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on August 22, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on August 29, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:August 22, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:August 29, 2026 - 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Edinburgh Airport around 11:00 AM)If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:- Spend extra days in Edinburgh before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to Edinburgh Airport.- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Rachel's Farm, Buchlyvie, Stirlingshire, Scotland, FK8 3NR, United Kingdom, 150 GBP - approximately US$195 per way. Please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek Retreats with Kristy Rice:"I loved every minute of it! I thoroughly enjoyed Kristy's watercolor teachings in the studio and also the excursions we did. Even as a total beginner I felt really looked after and learned so much. All in all, it was fabulous and gave me much joy!""Kristy is an incredible instructor. She is generous with her information and skill. She has a lovely way of recognizing an issue and gently teaching you how to overcome it and create a very satisfying piece of art. She’s funny and kind and very honest and open. I learned so much from her. I tried things I NEVER would have done and really enjoyed them. I was able to come away with a plan for my future painting. I came with a desire to learn a particular skill and came away with a really good way to achieve that goal.""Kristy is a wonderful person and a great teacher. The combination of the location and teacher attracted a group of like-minded participants, which created a nice and safe environment from the very start of the event."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is the art retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with Kristy Rice is open to all levels of experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Kristy Rice in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between August 22 - 29, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on August 22, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, August 29, 2026, after breakfast.Is Wi-Fi available?Yes.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.How do I get to the retreat venue?Please arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI). We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Scotland a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Edinburgh, we recommend you fly to Dublin or London and then fly to Edinburgh (round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour. For more details, please see the Location tab.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, a raincoat, a jacket for chilly weather, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.Can I do laundry while on the retreat?Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay.What art supplies do I need for the workshops?Art materials for this retreat are included: The Art for Joy’s Sake Watercolor Palette, The Free from Fear and Art for Joy’s Sake Brush Collections (12 Brushes), collapsible painter’s pot, additional water containers, paper towels, and a block of Legion watercolor paper.What’s the weather like in Scotland in late August?The weather in late August in Scotland is usually mild and moderately chilly, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 18°C / 64°F during the day that drop to around 12°C / 54°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before your departure to the art retreat and to pack accordingly.How many people are to be expected at the retreat?Maximum 16 participants.Do I need a visa?Guests traveling from the US, Canada, EU, and other visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. For more information on the ETA, including eligibility and application steps, please visit the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta Please contact us for further guidance.Are there any age restrictions?The art retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.What language is used during the art retreat and other activities?The retreat is available in English.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. Most accommodation spaces and main facilities are only accessible via stairs. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the art trips.What happens if I need to cancel?Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: Purchase insurance. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.Do I have to pay a deposit?No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the artist's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/brushstrokes-of-joy-retreat-artist-kristy-rice-scotland#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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