# Calming Nature Journal Retreat with Artist Amy Maricle in Scotland

Immerse yourself in the practice of nature journaling in the breathtaking Scottish countryside with artist Amy Maricle. Surrounded by rolling highland hills, heather-lined paths, and the distant shimmer of a loch, this retreat welcomes artists of all experience levels into a slower rhythm of seeing and creating. With Amy’s guidance, tune into the beauty of the natural world, drawing and painting what you observe with presence and care. Whether you are among the rugged coasts of Scotland or noticing leaves in your own backyard, this way of working invites a deeper connection with your surroundings.Throughout the retreat, Amy will encourage a calming approach to art, where slowing down, looking for beauty, and drawing it becomes a grounding daily practice. You’ll explore techniques that draw from the natural flora around you to create beautiful botanical pages in your art journal that reflect your personal experience. Each session opens space for watercolor, pen work, and botanical ink. You will create bold, beautiful nature journal pages you never imagined you could paint.Relax at a picturesque countryside estate, where you’ll enjoy delicious meals crafted by a private chef. Immerse yourself in Scottish culture with art trips to the historic city of Stirling, the tranquil beauty of Loch Lomond, and the charming village of Buchlyvie. By the end of the retreat, you’ll have a beautiful collection of watercolor works inspired by the Scottish landscapes and flora, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

## Details

- **Dates:** August 14 - 21, 2026
- **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK
- **Starting Price:** $4,650
- **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 Amy Maricle7 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 chefSpecial welcome and farewell dinnerWater, coffee, 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 StirlingEntrance ticket to Stirling Castle during your trip to StirlingVisit to the Wallace Monument during your trip to StirlingTrip to Buchlyvie village and the surrounding countryside (optional & at your leisure - 15-minute walk away)A night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing after the farewell dinnerPrivate 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 Amy Maricle and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceOne lunch during the full-day trip to StirlingArt materials unless otherwise specified — a detailed list with all the necessary supplies recommended by Amy Maricle will be sent five months before the retreatTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Calming Nature Journal Retreat
Step into the gentle rhythms of the Scottish countryside with artist Amy Maricle, where the quiet village of Buchlyvie and the rolling hills beyond become your studio for nature journaling. Nestled near the village, surrounded by woodland paths and the distant shimmer of Loch Lomond, this retreat welcomes artists of all experience levels into a slower rhythm of seeing and creating. With Amy’s guidance, you’ll tune into the beauty of the natural world, drawing and painting what you observe with presence and care. Whether you are standing by an ancient oak or noticing small leaves at your doorstep, this way of working invites a deeper connection with your surroundings.Throughout the retreat, Amy will encourage a calming approach to art, where slowing down, looking for beauty, and drawing it becomes a grounding daily practice. You’ll explore techniques inspired by the local flora to create expressive botanical pages in your art journal that reflect your personal experience. Each session opens space for watercolor, pen work, and botanical ink. By the end, you will create bold, beautiful nature journal pages you never imagined you could paint.Two special day trips will guide you further into the landscape and stories of the region. One journey leads you to the historic city of Stirling, where you’ll wander cobbled streets, explore the commanding Stirling Castle with its sweeping views of the Highlands, and pause in a local café before sketching the flora you find around you. The second outing takes you into the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where wooded shores meet expansive water and mountain views. Here, time slows down as you sketch by the lochside or along gentle trails, finding stillness, reflection, and inspiration in Scotland’s natural beauty.Amy Maricle, a compassionate and experienced teacher, will hold space throughout the week for you to slow down, notice more deeply, and connect with your creative practice in a new way. Her thoughtful and supportive guidance offers inspiration and care for artists at every stage of their journey. Some topics covered in the classes include:Drawing flowers and flora from the natural world in gorgeous, colorful pagesPracticing watercolor foundations, including color mixing, washes, bleeds, and moreCreating expressive botanical forms in ink that make pages popCalming the inner critic, helping to focus on the joy of creatingLearning to connect with the natural world through mindful drawing techniques that embrace imperfection and allow you to draw more accurately than you thought possibleApproaching art with a mindset of mindfulness and calmUsing reflective writing to deepen your art practiceRediscovering the playful spirit within your creative process...and much more! Your venue for this art retreat is a holiday estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy accommodation spaces with 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
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for a 3:00 PM pickup and enjoy a scenic drive to your destination, a stunning countryside estate, where you’ll arrive around 4:00 PM. Once there, settle into your comfortable and beautifully appointed room, take a moment to unwind, and prepare for the exciting week ahead alongside Amy Maricle. Meet your fellow artists for a relaxed orientation tour of the property, exploring the charming accommodations, the spacious barn-turned-art studio, and the expansive gardens. The evening kicks off with a delightful welcome dinner crafted by the estate’s in-house chef, paired with a glass of wine. Enjoy lively conversations with your art group as you discuss the inspiring plans for the retreat.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast, embracing the hush of morning as soft light fills the spaces around you. Soon after, gather with everyone over coffee for a gentle check-in, arriving together in stillness and setting a calm, grounded rhythm for the creative path ahead.Under Amy’s guidance, you will practice softening the inner critic and approaching art with mindfulness and care before settling into the studio’s shaded patio. Your art journey begins with watercolor. You will learn to mix your own colors to reflect the beauty around you and explore techniques such as wet on wet, glazing, dry on wet, erasing, and watercolor mark making.A relaxed, nourishing lunch follows. The afternoon unfolds into unhurried time in the studio, learning to see with fresh eyes. Choose a natural object and explore contour drawing, capturing delicate details and surprising yourself with the honesty of your marks. Mindful breathing and playful exercises remind you that embracing imperfection can lead to striking accuracy and a deeper, more joyful connection with what you observe. With steady attention, your creative practice becomes a rhythm of its own, developing gently without pressure or expectation.After the day’s classes, take time to unwind before joining the group for a hearty dinner prepared by the estate’s private chef, accompanied by carefully chosen wine pairings.

### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast before setting out on an art trip to Loch Lomond, nestled within the sweeping Trossachs National Park.After a scenic drive of about an hour, you will find yourself surrounded by the beauty of the loch. Native Scottish flora flourishes here, from wildflowers and heather to the tall presence of Scots pine. Take time to notice the vivid colors and intricate shapes of these plants. You may choose to gather a few leaves or blossoms to bring back for further study, or simply sketch on-site, capturing the essence of summer’s foliage and the way the landscape reflects on the calm waters of the loch.On returning to the estate, the afternoon opens into gentle time for art with Amy. Drawing on your impressions of the day, you will ease into watercolor, pen, and ink. Sketches of blossoms, seed pods, and winding stems will grow into pages alive with color as you follow the contours of your subjects and capture their delicate detail. Amy will guide you through mindful techniques that encourage focused attention and a spirit of curiosity. Working slowly and with care, the atmosphere of the loch will unfold again through your hands.The day concludes with a three-course dinner prepared by the estate’s chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Following a nourishing breakfast, gather with Amy and your fellow artists for a gentle morning check-in, creating a mindful and open space to set intentions, share creative questions, and reconnect with your artistic rhythm.In the calm of the estate studio, ease into the day’s practice by exploring botanical forms with deep, inky brushstrokes. Through slow observation and Amy’s gentle guidance, you will learn to connect with the natural world through mindful drawing techniques, studying the subtle shifts and shapes of your subjects. Each brushstroke becomes a chance to pause, breathe, and enjoy the simple meeting of ink and paper.After a satisfying lunch, the afternoon opens into further exploration of ink techniques, this time in direct response to the surrounding Scottish flora. Amy will encourage you to release the pressure of perfectionism and focus on the process itself, building confidence in your mark making and painting. The steady rhythm of brush to page becomes meditative, and you may be surprised by how naturally accuracy follows when you allow yourself to truly see instead of striving.As the day draws to a close, take time to unwind with a soothing soak in the hot tub. In the evening, gather for a delicious dinner prepared by the estate’s chef, accompanied by a thoughtfully paired glass of wine.

### Day 5: Trip to Stirling
Begin your fifth day with a nourishing breakfast before setting out on a peaceful journey. Just half an hour away lies the historic town of Stirling, where the Highlands gradually give way to the softer hills of the Lowlands. With its botanical heritage and sweeping views, Stirling invites both quiet reflection and creative inspiration.The day begins at Stirling Castle, perched high above the town and framed by tranquil gardens. Roses, thistles, and Scottish bluebells bloom among foxgloves and clover, creating a tapestry of color that is perfect for your sketchbook or watercolor studies. After exploring the castle and its grounds, wander slowly through Stirling’s winding streets. Once the capital of Scotland, the town blends centuries-old houses with arcades and narrow lanes that reveal stories at every turn.Pause for a relaxed lunch at a welcoming local pub before continuing on to the Wallace Monument. Rising from the hill of Abbey Craig, this 19th-century tower honors the Scottish hero William Wallace. From its base and viewpoints, you’ll enjoy expansive panoramas over the countryside. Steeped in history and symbolism, the monument embodies the enduring spirit of Scottish independence and pride. Capture the rugged beauty of the natural surroundings or focus on the intricate stonework of the Wallace Monument.Return to the estate in the evening, where a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef awaits. Over a relaxed meal, share stories, sketches, and reflections on the day with your fellow artists.

### Day 6: Walk to Buchlyvie & surrounding countryside
Start the day with a nourishing breakfast before setting out on a gentle walk to the nearby village of Buchlyvie.The path leads through open fields with wide views across the hills. Take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and notice how the colors shift across grasses and wildflowers as you walk. Once in the village, move at your own pace. You might browse the pottery shop, step into a café, or wander side streets and lanes that open back into the countryside. Pause whenever something draws your attention to sketch or take photos. The walk itself offers as much inspiration as the village.After a restful lunch, return to the estate studio for a session of bold mark making, shaping expressive botanical forms in ink that bring your pages to life. Using bamboo brushes, standard brushes, or twigs gathered from the surrounding countryside, you will rediscover a playful spirit in your process through splashes, spatters, and unexpected textures. Quick gestural studies loosen the wrist, while slower contour lines steady the mind. With Amy’s prompts for self-kindness, the inner critic softens, and experimentation becomes expansive and free.In the late afternoon, gather for a special gin tasting featuring local varieties that reflect the character of the region. As evening settles, come together for a chef-prepared dinner, enjoying a generous meal and the ease of good company.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Soft light gathers across the estate as you share a nourishing breakfast, settling into the rhythm of this final full day with a sense of calm presence.Return to the studio with Amy for a relaxing and mindful morning session that weaves everything together. A silent wander through the gardens leads into reflective writing to deepen your art practice, with short journaling bursts that capture sensations, insights, and intentions.Back in the studio, you will layer watercolor, drawings, and ink, weaving words among images to create a luminous spread that celebrates a week of seeing, feeling, and making. There will be time to complete and refine your journals, adding final layers, textures, and details that bring together all the mindful techniques explored during the retreat. Immerse yourself in each element, moving with care and curiosity, allowing the journey to come together through color, shape, and story on the page.In the afternoon, Amy will offer a small surprise.The day concludes with a memorable farewell dinner, accompanied by a glass of wine and an evening of traditional Scottish dancing, a festive and joyful close to your creative time together.

### 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

- [Amy Maricle](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/amy-maricle) — Mindfulness Artist

## Accommodation

### Scottish farm estate
The art retreat with Amy Maricle will be held at a serene countryside estate located in the peaceful village of Buchlyvie, amidst the wild beauty of Scotland. This exquisitely restored farmhouse perfectly blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern elegance. The boutique-style venue, featuring tasteful amenities and décor, offers breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands and the surrounding countryside.The estate comprises six distinct accommodations, each with its own unique charm. The Farmhouse, serving as the main villa, contains four beautiful rooms and an elegant dining area where all meals will be served. The other units include The Lodge, offering four bedrooms with selected wallpaper and spacious common areas; The Stables, a two-bedroom unit with views of the Trossachs; The Coach House, a beautifully restored three-bedroom home; The Cottage, a cozy 200-year-old suite with a single bedroom; and The Barn, which houses the dedicated art studio.Rooms can be booked as shared or single, with options for ensuite, adjacent, or shared bathrooms. Interiors are tastefully decorated with bespoke furnishings, exquisite designer fabrics, and 100% Egyptian cotton linens and towels.Each accommodation unit boasts spacious and inviting common areas, featuring amenities such as the fireplaces in the Farmhouse, as well as fully equipped kitchens for a homely feel. The five electrically heated outdoor hot tubs, shared between guests in the same accommodation unit, provide the perfect spot to relax after a full day.Art classes will be held in the well-lit and spacious art studio located in The Barn, featuring vaulted ceilings, or on the expansive grounds of the estate.Please note that moving around the venue, including between accommodation spaces, the dining area, and the art studio, requires a short walk, and some rooms are only accessible by stairs. Therefore, 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 two shared superior rooms are located in the Lodge on the first floor and feature ensuite shower bathrooms. They contain comfortable twin beds and have 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 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 external bathrooms, they feature comfortable king-size beds, private shower bathrooms, and 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
Two 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, in the Coach House on the second floor, and in the Lodge on the first 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 tasteful 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 indulge in meals crafted by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The menu is thoughtfully curated, blending Scottish traditional dishes with international flavors, along with daily beverages and snacks.Begin each day with a choice of egg dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttered pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a hot cup of coffee or tea. Lunch is a single course, with options like goat cheese tart, Gartmorn chicken breast with truffle mash and seasonal greens, or a variety of soups served with homemade focaccia.In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous three-course dinner, with selections such as smoked paprika-roasted cod, pan-seared Orkney scallops, spinach dhal with poppadoms, tamarind cauliflower steaks, and bell peppers stuffed with caponata. End on a sweet note with desserts like mandarin parfait, warm chocolate brownie with walnut ice cream, coconut halwa, or a selection of sorbets.Drinks include fresh power juices during morning art classes and wine served with dinner. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water are readily available throughout the day. Try a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up.You'll also experience authentic Scottish hospitality with a welcome dinner, an in-house gin tasting, 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 excursion. Please let us know of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, dietary needs must be communicated at least a month prior; changes during the retreat or last-minute requests cannot be accommodated.The exact dishes served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients.

## Getting There

Nestled near the charming village of Buchlyvie and close to Stirling in central Scotland, your retreat venue offers a serene setting amid breathtaking natural beauty. Situated at the edge of the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, it provides distant views of the Trossachs, an area rich with lochs, glens, and mountains that are home to diverse wildlife. The local culture is steeped in Scottish heritage, from the evocative sound of bagpipes in the valleys to ancient castles that narrate Scotland's storied past. You'll have plenty of inspiration to draw from for your botanical studies, among Scotland's native flora.Edinburgh, the vibrant cultural hub, is just an hour's drive away. During your retreat, you'll have the opportunity to visit Loch Lomond, a vast stretch of crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains an hour away, and Stirling, a historic town known for its Gaelic roots and the impressive Stirling Castle, located just 30 minutes away.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. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.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 14, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on August 21, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:August 14, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:August 21, 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 artist Amy Maricle:"I learned so much from Amy’s methods and enjoyed our conversation and discussions around techniques and methodologies. Learned many new techniques. The group coalesced into a cohesive and supportive group. What a wonderful retreat.""Amy was amazing as well Sharon her assistant. I learned so much and beyond that I feel that Amy really care about you and your learning process. Everything was amazing and magical""Amy and her teaching was marvelous and inspirational. Participants all meshed really well. Wonderful experience.""Amy was a wonderful teacher. Her content was good. She was very attentive and responsive to the groups needs. She created a cohesive community for the week. I couldn’t recommend her enough 5*******""Loved everything about it. Amy was everything that I hoped for and more!"Reviews of the venue:"The location of the retreat was beautiful. The accommodations were lovely. Our room was spacious, the bedding was comfortable, and the linens and bath supplies were appreciated. The art studio was spacious and well lit. My dietary needs were met, which I really appreciated. The variety of recipes offered was all delicious.""Very organized and things ran very smoothly. The food was superb and every request was met with immediate provision.""This is my second Uptrek retreat and hopefully not my last. The venue was outstanding. The hosts were so kind, friendly and really went out of their way to accommodate our needs. Our chef Carly was the best and I’m hoping she writes a cookbook someday. I loved my adventure in Scotland.""Great retreat! Awesome venue, good food, fantastic side trips, wonderful studio space..!""The venue was a respite from our busy worlds and provided luxurious comfort and fabulous food for the week.""I had THE most luxurious and private quarters at the venue! It was worth every extra cost to sleep and rest there. The food so was very well prepared. I felt like we had a trained chef and dietitian feeding us."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is the art retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with artist Amy Maricle is open to all levels of experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Amy Maricle in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between August 14 - 21, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on August 14, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, August 21, 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 coat 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?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Amy Maricle will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins.What’s the weather like in Buchlyvie in August?The weather in August in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 24°C / 75°F during the day that drop to around 15°C / 59°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/calming-nature-journal-retreat-artist-amy-maricle-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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**Last updated:** 2026-03-10