# Create Your Light - Plein Air and Oil Painting Retreat with Artist Jenny Aitken in Scotland Join artist Jenny Aitken for a week-long plein-air painting retreat set against the stunning, ever-changing landscapes of Scotland. You'll explore landscape and atmospheric painting in oils, both outdoors and in the studio, learning to dissect a view into values, mix colors for depth and light, and build dynamic, appealing compositions. Enjoy daily classes, demos, and plenty of feedback and guidance from Jenny. The retreat is open to all levels of experience, though some prior experience with oils is recommended. The demonstrations led by Jenny will be done in oil paints, but you are welcome to bring acrylics if you prefer. Complement your art classes with exciting trips to the nearby areas known for their natural and historic charm: the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond, the storied streets of Stirling and its majestic Stirling Castle, and the Wallace Monument. Aside from these trips, you are welcome to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure through a self-guided, optional walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, which is located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue, offering another source of inspiration for your artworks. Your haven for the retreat is a peaceful countryside estate, complete with a spacious studio, chef-prepared meals, and evenings filled with Scottish culture, from an in-house whiskey tasting to a memorable campfire night with Scottish music and dancing. ## Details - **Dates:** April 22 - 29, 2027 - **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK - **Starting Price:** $4,550 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 16 students - **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting) ## Overview **What's included** 1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Jenny Aitken 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, glass jars, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, field easels, easel/table lamps, Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits, and Michael Harding Miracle Medium 3. 7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estate 4. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardens 5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef 6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 7. Special welcome and farewell dinner 8. Water, coffee, herbal tea, and snacks available throughout the day 9. Delicious wine served during dinner service every day 10. An in-house whiskey tasting experience 11. Half-day art trip to Loch Lomond, with opportunities for plein-air painting on location 12. Full-day art trip to Stirling, with opportunities for plein-air painting on location 13. Entrance ticket and guided visit to Stirling Castle during your trip to Stirling 14. Visit to the Wallace Monument during your trip to Stirling 15. Campfire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinner 16. Private transportation and chaperone for all trips and planned activities 17. Round-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) 18. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 20. All local tourist taxes and fees 21. Access to a private Facebook group with Jenny Aitken and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - One lunch during the full-day trip to Stirling - Art supplies — a detailed list of art materials recommended by Jenny Aitken will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Create Your Light - Plein Air and Oil Painting Retreat Join artist Jenny Aitken for a plein-air painting retreat set in the beautiful and ever-changing landscapes of Scotland. Throughout the week, you'll explore landscape and atmospheric painting both outdoors and in the studio, learning to dissect a view into values, mix colors for depth and light, and build dynamic, appealing compositions that capture the character of the Highlands and beyond. You'll move between guided plein-air sessions, studio work, and day trips to iconic Scottish landmarks, developing your eye for contrast, light, and atmosphere while working toward finished pieces. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though some prior experience with oils is recommended. Jenny will offer plenty of feedback and support, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere in which you can grow as an artist. The demos led by Jenny will be done in oil paints, but you are welcome to bring acrylics if you prefer. Throughout the week, you’ll also explore nearby areas known for their natural and historic charm: the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond, the storied streets of Stirling and its majestic Stirling Castle, as well as the Wallace Monument. These trips will offer plenty of inspiration, complementing your art classes and immersing you in the local culture of Scotland. Aside from these trips, you are also welcome to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure through a self-guided walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue. Get inspired by the towering trees and the rustic charm of Buchlyvie. However, please note that this walk is entirely optional as the route to the village follows a country road without a dedicated pedestrian path. **Topics covered during your classes with Jenny include:** - Creating dynamic and appealing compositions from the start - How to dissect and translate the landscape into values for distance and depth - Looking for multiple contrasts to make your paintings sing - How to see, mix, and use color to interpret the scene - How to create the illusion of light through the use of warm and cool colors - Loosening up into shapes with accuracy and flow - How and when to spot your finishing moments, both en plein-air and in the studio - ...and many more! Your home for the week is a beautiful farm estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside and surrounded by rustic scenery and tranquil gardens. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, a fully equipped art studio, and outdoor hot tubs overlooking the landscape. Throughout the week, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow artists over a glass of wine or a cup of tea. Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals, a special whiskey tasting experience featuring local varieties, and a memorable campfire night with Scottish music and dancing beneath the open sky. Embark on a week of creativity, nature, and connections, and leave with memories to last a lifetime! ### 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 room, take a moment to unwind, and meet your instructor for the week, artist Jenny Aitken. Join your fellow artists for a relaxed orientation tour of the property, exploring the charming accommodations, the spacious studio, and the expansive gardens. The evening kicks off with a delightful welcome dinner prepared 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 classes at the venue Wake up your senses with a refreshing breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee as you join Jenny and the venue hosts for a quick morning check-in. Settle into the rhythm of the day and connect with your fellow artists before beginning your first creative session of the retreat. Spend the morning outside in the venue's expansive gardens, surrounded by the tranquility of the Scottish countryside. Jenny will do a plein-air painting demonstration, teaching you how to dissect a view into values for distance and depth. She will walk you through her plein-air techniques, capturing the shifting light and vibrant colors of the Scottish Highlands. After enjoying a nourishing lunch prepared by the venue’s chef, continue the afternoon with another art session. Return to your easel in the venue's beautiful gardens and work on your own piece, capturing the layered greens, soft shadows, and shifting afternoon light of the rolling hills. Jenny will be there to offer guidance or extra support if needed. As the day softens into the evening and golden light settles across the farm, gather with Jenny and your fellow artists for a relaxed three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine. Share stories, reflect on your creative discoveries, and soak in the warm atmosphere filled with laughter and lively conversation. ### Day 3: Art trip to Loch Lomond Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with Jenny and the venue hosts. Then, prepare for your first adventure on the retreat: a half-day trip to the stunning Loch Lomond, nestled within the sweeping Trossachs National Park. After a scenic drive through rolling hills and forests, you’ll arrive at the peaceful shores of the lake, its glassy water mirroring shifting clouds, distant peaks, and clusters of native heather and Scots pine. Take your time exploring the area: wander along the paths, pause at overlooks, or breathe in the crisp, earthy air. Get inspired by the textures of mossy stones, soft summer greens, and the shifts of the morning light. Together with Jenny and your fellow artists, find a peaceful plein-air spot to begin painting. Jenny will paint alongside you and offer you one-on-one personalized feedback, meeting you exactly where you are in your creative journey. Return to the venue for a relaxed lunch prepared by the in-house chef, then head into an afternoon studio session. This class will be focused on finishing the pieces that you have created so far and learning how and when to spot your finishing moments. As the afternoon comes to an end, unwind at your own pace. Take a walk around the gardens or to the nearby Buchlyvie village, soak in the hot tub, journal with a cup of tea, or enjoy a lively conversation with your fellow artists. As the evening approaches, join Jenny and the group for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Start the day with a relaxed breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Jenny and the venue hosts. Prepare for another day full of creation and inspiration, allowing the gentle rhythm of the Scottish countryside to set the tone for your morning. Today will be focused on starting a new piece inspired by yesterday's trip to Loch Lomond. Join Jenny and your fellow artists in the studio and start painting at your easel. Experiment with textures, colors, contrasts, and brushstrokes, bringing your artistic vision to life on the canvas. Jenny will be there to guide and support you, offering feedback when needed. Pause midday for a leisurely lunch, then gather again in the studio for another afternoon session. Continue working on the piece you started in the morning, refining your composition and layering in the finer details that bring depth and life to your painting. Put into practice all the techniques you have learned so far under Jenny's gentle guidance. As the afternoon winds down, take some time to unwind before dinner. Perhaps take a peaceful walk through the estate gardens or to the nearby Buchlyvie village, or relax in the heated hot tub. Indulge in a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine. Soak in the lovely atmosphere, filled with laughter and lively conversations. ### Day 5: Art trip to Stirling Fuel up for the day’s adventures with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with Jenny and the venue hosts. Set out on your second trip of the week: a journey to the historic town of Stirling, where the Highlands soften into rolling Lowland hills and centuries of history shape the atmosphere. Your morning begins at Stirling Castle, perched high above the landscape and surrounded by peaceful gardens. Accompanied by a local guide, wander through its courtyards and learn more about the nobles who once lived within its walls. As you explore, seize the opportunity to capture quick sketches of the blooming garden paths, patterned stonework, shifting shadows, and expansive views, each serving as a rich source of inspiration for quick thumbnail composition sketches. After your castle visit, stroll slowly through Stirling’s winding streets. Once the capital of Scotland, the town is a beautiful blend of narrow medieval lanes, stone houses, and tucked-away arcades. Wander at your own pace, noticing the textures of old doorways, the corners washed in soft light, and the occasional burst of color from a painted shopfront. Enjoy lunch on your own at a cozy local pub or café. In the afternoon, continue to the striking Wallace Monument, which rises from Abbey Craig. From its base and surrounding viewpoints, you’ll find sweeping panoramas over the countryside: gentle fields, winding rivers, and the subtle transitions of green that define this region. Find a peaceful spot to paint en plein-air together with Jenny and your fellow artists, doing a larger study of the monument and paying attention to atmosphere and the sense of scale. This landmark is a place where history and landscape meet, offering a wellspring of inspiration for future paintings. Return to the estate in the evening, just as the light softens across the fields. Take some time to relax and unwind after today's adventure, then join Jenny and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant wine. Share stories, reflections, and laughter, ending the day on a warm and soul-filling note. ### Day 6: Art classes at the venue & whiskey tasting experience Wake up your senses with a delicious breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee, then have a brief morning check-in with Jenny and the venue hosts and get ready for another inspiring day. Spend the morning in the studio, painting from the plein-air work and trip studies you have done so far. Jenny will guide you through translating your outdoor sketches and color notes into a dynamic studio piece, helping you refine composition and build on the observations you captured in the field. Return to the venue and enjoy a relaxed lunch, then jump into another afternoon session. Continue the work from the morning, layering in detail, adjusting values, and pulling your studies together into a cohesive finished piece. Jenny will be on hand throughout to offer feedback and support if needed. As the afternoon transitions into evening, unwind in whatever way feels right. Take a peaceful walk through the gardens or to the nearby Buchlyvie village, relax with a refreshing dip in the hot tub, or continue painting if inspiration is still flowing. Later, gather with Jenny and your fellow artists for a special whiskey tasting experience featuring local varieties that express the character of the region. Enjoy a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine. ### Day 7: Art classes at the venue Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Jenny and the venue hosts. Take a moment to settle into the rhythm of the day, reflecting on everything you’ve created throughout this inspiring retreat. The morning workshop will be dedicated to finishing off your works, adding any last details and final touches. Jenny will be there to offer you feedback, helping you bring each piece to its finished form. Pause midday for a refreshing lunch, then continue the day with a celebratory mini-exhibition. Showcase your works and share your progress with your fellow artists, discussing feedback, ideas, and how to carry forward all the things you have learned throughout this creative journey. As the sun lowers across the hills surrounding the estate, gather for a hearty farewell dinner. Enjoy a chef-prepared three-course meal paired with a glass of aromatic wine and accompanied by Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music and a campfire. Celebrate the end of the retreat with a lovely festive gathering around the campfire, soaking in the dance, music, food, and laughter. Toast to all your accomplishments and the memories you have shared together! ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy a final breakfast with Jenny and your fellow artists, 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. As you make your way back home, take with you a heart brimming with inspiration and lasting memories. ## Instructors - [Jenny Aitken](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/jenny-aitken) — Oil and acrylic painter, art instructor ## Accommodation ### Scottish Farm estate The art retreat with Jenny Aitken 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 One standard room is available for shared occupancy. 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 One superior room is available for shared occupancy. 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 Two single rooms with shared bathrooms are available for single occupancy. You will share the bathroom of each room with one other same-gender retreat participant, but you will have the room all 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 - private 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 - private 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 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, 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 living room, 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 living room, 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, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The thoughtfully curated menu combines traditional Scottish dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks. Start each day with a choice of egg dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttery pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like a goat cheese tart served with rocket salad, a hearty chicken Caesar salad with crusty bread, or homemade soup accompanied by homemade focaccia. In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, with selections such as Scottish trout with seasonal veggies, miso aubergine served with bowls of steaming jasmine rice or harissa spiced meatballs with flatbreads scooping. Conclude on a sweet note with desserts like lemon pots with homemade shortbread, warm chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream, Scottish rhubarb crumble with fresh custard, or a selection of homemade sorbets. Throughout the retreat, enjoy fresh power juices during morning art classes and wine served with dinner. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water will be readily available all day. Treat yourself to a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up. Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with three-course welcome and farewell dinners, an in-house whiskey tasting, and a night of traditional Scottish Ceilidh dancing in the barn. All meals are included except for one lunch during the full-day trip to Stirling. The exact menu served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients. For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below. ## 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 natural inspiration to draw from for your art, particularly the sweeping Scottish landscape. 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 April 22, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on April 29, 2027, by 10:00 AM. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Arrival Transfer:** **April 22, 2027 - 3:00 PM** (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure Transfer:** **April 29, 2027 - 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 at this 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 retreat available to all levels?** The retreat with artist Jenny Aitken is open to all levels of experience, though some prior experience with oils is recommended. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Jenny Aitken in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between April 22 - 29, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on April 22, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, April 29, 2027, after breakfast. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Is Wi-Fi available?** Yes. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. However, 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](https://uptrek.com/retreat/create-your-light-plein-air-oil-painting-retreat-artist-jenny-aitken-scotland#location). **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 supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Jenny Aitken will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, paper towels, glass jars, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, field easels, easel/table lamps, 3.78l Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits, and 1l Michael Harding Miracle Medium are included and will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.** **What’s the weather like in Buchlyvie in mid-April?** The weather in mid-April in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 13°C / 55°F during the day that drop to around 5°C / 41°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 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](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta) Please contact us for further guidance. **Are there any age restrictions?** The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18. **What language is used during the 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 retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Is the 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](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/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.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) 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](mailto: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 instructor or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor'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/create-your-light-plein-air-oil-painting-retreat-artist-jenny-aitken-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). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/create-your-light-plein-air-oil-painting-retreat-artist-jenny-aitken-scotland **Last updated:** 2026-09-07