# Ethereal Landscapes Watercolor Retreat with Artist Kolbie Blume in Scotland

Join artist Kolbie Blume for a watercolor retreat in the breathtaking countryside of Scotland. Embrace self-compassion throughout your artistic process and discover joy in every step of your growth. With the support of fellow artists and Kolbie’s clear, encouraging guidance, you will strengthen your creative mindset while exploring watercolor basics, mark-making, and plein-air sketching. Inspiration will flow from the surrounding hills, gardens, orchards, and the serene beauty of the Scottish landscape.Stay at a vast countryside estate, delight in chef-made meals, and explore Scottish culture with trips to the historic city of Stirling, the fascinating Loch Lomond, and the quaint village of Buchlyvie. By the end of the retreat, you will have created an inspiring watercolor collection of your own and formed memories that will stay with you long after your time in Scotland!

## Details

- **Dates:** August 30 - September 6, 2026
- **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK
- **Starting Price:** $4,550
- **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 Kolbie BlumeAll painting supplies are included (paper, paint, brushes, fine liners, easels, and more)7 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 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 Kolbie Blume and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceOne lunch during the full-day trip to StirlingBag or pack to hold supplies and any extra personal supplies you might want to useTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Ethereal Landscapes Watercolor Retreat
Join artist Kolbie Blume in the Scottish countryside for a watercolor retreat that inspires and nurtures your inner artist. Slow your pace, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the company of others who love to create. With Kolbie’s gentle guidance, you will paint with freedom, set aside limiting beliefs, and grow in self-compassion. Small steps will turn into discoveries, and each brushstroke will bring more joy to your journey.Through live demonstrations and personal support, you will gain courage to face challenges and loosen the grip of perfectionism. This retreat opens its doors to beginners as well as those with experience. Scotland itself becomes part of the inspiration, with days that lead you to Stirling and its winding streets, to the waters of Loch Lomond with Highland hills rising beyond, and to Buchlyvie, where the countryside folds around the village. Sketch during the trips if you feel called to do so, paint if the mood takes you, or simply take in the beauty.All supplies will be waiting for you, from brushes to paper to paint. Simply bring a bag to carry your materials during the art trips, and add any personal favorites if you’d like! Some topics covered in the classes include:Beginner watercolor techniquesBeginner landscape techniquesIntroduction to plein-air paintingBuilding courage through a creative mindsetCreating a sustainable creative practice...and many more. Your venue for this art retreat is a premium 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.

### Days 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 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 Kolbie Blume and your fellow artists over delicious wine.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start your day at the estate with a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee. Afterward, gather with your fellow artists for a relaxed check-in to ease into the rhythm of the retreat and set the tone for your creative path ahead.The morning unfolds with an open group conversation where Kolbie introduces the flow of the course and invites you to set intentions. You might choose to name a goal or simply stay open to whatever the week brings. A few playful warm-ups will help loosen your hand and shift your mindset into creative mode. Kolbie will then introduce watercolor landscapes through a hands-on overview of supplies and techniques. With encouragement to stay curious, you’ll begin your painting journey grounded in attention and presence.After a refreshing lunch, return to your sketchbook and paints for an afternoon of exploration. Learn about glazing, brushwork, and composition, being encouraged to become more familiar with your materials. Practice water control using wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and dry brush techniques. Look at color through a new lens and learn to break down the Scottish landscape into approachable shapes. Kolbie will encourage you to approach your work with curiosity and playfulness. After class, take time to relax. In the evening, relax with a nourishing dinner paired with wine, shared in good company as the sky softens over the hills.

### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting off for your first art trip to Loch Lomond, surrounded by the dramatic beauty of Trossachs National Park.After a scenic one-hour drive through rolling hills and forested glens, you’ll arrive at the loch’s edge. The wide, still waters stretch out beneath the sky, reflecting clouds and peaks in a way that feels otherworldly. Small boats drift along the shoreline. Wildflowers bloom along winding paths. The scene is rich with texture and color, offering inspiration at every turn. Wander, sketch, or gather visual notes with your camera. Collect leaves, stones, or twigs if they speak to you. Let the landscape shape your ideas in ways that feel natural and unforced.Return to the estate for a freshly prepared lunch, then settle into the studio for a relaxed afternoon of painting. Kolbie will guide you through mark-making and composition exercises that draw from what you experienced at the loch. Experiment with color and texture using watercolor and ink, and explore how movement and stillness can live together on the page.As the day winds down, sit with Kolbie and the group for a three-course dinner, paired with wine and full of conversation. Stories from the lake ripple through the evening as the sky shifts into deep blue.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast with your fellow artists, sharing conversation and inspiration before starting the morning’s art session.With Kolbie’s guidance, spend the day linking your painting practice with mindfulness and open-ended exploration. Use the sketches and references gathered during the trip to Loch Lomond to begin shaping new work. Kolbie will help you sort through your ideas, offering ways to pull threads together and explore what stands out. Try new approaches to layering, texture, and mood as you build pieces that reflect both your surroundings and your personal style.After lunch, return to your workspace for an afternoon focused on watercolor landscapes. Kolbie will walk you through techniques for contrast and layering, with close attention to how color value shapes depth. Build up your compositions by developing simple painting strategies for trees, hills, and distant forms. Play with visual rhythm and balance while paying close attention to how small choices shift the energy of the page.Soak in the hot tub, watch the sky change over the fields, and take a moment to breathe after a full day of painting. As night settles in, gather for a chef-prepared dinner with a glass of wine. The evening ends with Scottish music and dancing, filled with laughter and the kind of energy that lingers.

### Day 5: Trip to Stirling
Day five begins with a delightful breakfast before heading out on another art-filled trip to Stirling. You'll visit the historic town and its majestic castle, arriving after a short thirty-minute drive. Stirling sits at the meeting point of Highlands and Lowlands, where wild hills rise beyond the softer slopes of the valley.Your first stop is Stirling Castle, a landmark steeped in stories. First built in the twelfth century, it once served as a royal residence and stronghold. Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned here. As you walk through its grounds and gaze out from the ramparts, take time to sketch or capture photo references. The castle’s bold shapes, sweeping views, and weathered textures offer endless inspiration.After visiting the castle, you’ll head into the town itself. Stirling holds a mix of winding lanes, narrow stone buildings, and lively modern spots that reflect its layered past. Choose a pub for lunch, browse the shops, or wander at your own pace.The last stop of the day is the Wallace Monument, perched high on a wooded hill. Take in the monument’s striking silhouette, and if the mood strikes, sketch or photograph the views stretching out around it. Pull out your references from the day and begin mixing colors to match what you’ve seen. Kolbie will guide you through mindful painting techniques that help you slow down, tune in, and explore how color choices can shape the feeling of your work. Follow the threads that interest you most.You’ll arrive back just in time for dinner. Sit down to a three-course meal prepared by the chef, share stories with the group, and enjoy the easy rhythm of an evening shaped by art and adventure.

### Day 6: Walk to Buchlyvie & surrounding countryside
Start the day with a nourishing breakfast before setting off on a slow walk to the nearby village of Buchlyvie.The path winds through open fields with long views across the hills. Take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and notice the colors shifting in the grass and wildflowers as you walk. Once in the village, move at your own pace. Browse the pottery shop, step inside a café, or explore side streets and quiet lanes that open into the countryside. If something catches your eye, pause to sketch or take photos. The walk there and back offers as much inspiration as the village itself.After returning to the estate and enjoying lunch, settle in for a creative afternoon shaped by what you saw during the morning. Kolbie will guide you through intuitive painting exercises that encourage mark-making, layering, and expressive brushwork. Try new shapes, loosen your grip, and let the landscape filter into your work in unexpected ways. Kolbie will help you stay connected to your instincts, shift through creative blocks, and strengthen your ability to teach yourself through observation.In the late afternoon, gather for a special gin tasting featuring local varieties that reflect the region’s character. As evening falls, gather for a chef-prepared dinner and unwind over a generous meal and the comfort of good company.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Kick off the last day of the retreat with a filling breakfast, setting the tone for a day of reflection and creative flow.Spend the morning bringing together the pieces of your week. With Kolbie’s support, begin shaping a small collection of work that captures your personal experience in Scotland. Look through your sketches, reference photos, and paintings, and choose the ideas that still feel alive. Plan a series of three pieces that speak to each other. Paint with clarity and instinct, allowing room for emotion and imperfection. Kolbie will be there to guide you through the moments where things feel uncertain, helping you stay connected to your voice and momentum.After lunch, gather with the group for a celebratory mini-exhibition. Lay out your paintings, share what you’ve made, and enjoy seeing how each person’s work reflects the same landscape in a different way. The atmosphere is full of warmth and pride, with quiet encouragement and surprise at how much has taken shape.As night falls, come together for a farewell dinner paired with wine. Carry the joy of the retreat with you, along with a collection of artwork that holds the spirit of the week!

### 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

- [Kolbie Blume](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/kolbie-blume) — Watercolor artist and writer

## Accommodation

### Scottish farm estate
Your venue for the art retreat with Kolbie Blume 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 premium 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 gorgeous 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 premium 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
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 (female only)
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 adjacent 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 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.

## 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, a night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing in the barn, and a lovely farewell dinner.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 30, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on September 6, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:August 30, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:September 6, 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 Kolbie Blume:"Kolbie is a wonder teacher and so kind.""Not only is Kolbie an amazing teacher, but such a beautiful soul. So encouraging, and full of supportive messages and mindset reminders. She went above and beyond in the supplies she provided for us and half of what we got would have been more then enough. It just made it feel really special.""Kolbie cultivated a warm and friendly atmosphere. We had a week where friendships were made and accessing creativity was inspiring and fun.""Kolbie Blume’s teaching was outstanding!""My experience of Kolbie is kind, inclusive, generous, and committed. I have learned a lot that I will gradually tap into, and I will attend another retreat with her.""Kolbie was incredible and I learned so much. I couldn't believe how much we learned over the week.""Kolbie's teaching was life changing. Completely opened my mind to the possibilities of my creativity."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 Kolbie Blume is open to all levels of experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Kolbie Blume in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK takes place between August 30 - September 6, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on August 30, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, September 6, 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?Kolbie Blume will provide everyone with paint, paper of various sizes, brushes, a travel journal, fine liner pens, pencils, and artist cloths. You will only need to bring a bag or pack to hold supplies for the plein-air painting sessions and whatever extra personal supplies you might want to have during the retreat. Water jars, paper towels, and cloth rags are provided. You'll also be able to use plein air easels, wooden artboards, foldable chairs for plein air painting, and some other basic art supplies at the retreat venue.What’s the weather like in Scotland in early September?The weather in early September in Scotland is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 16°C / 61°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°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/ethereal-landscapes-watercolor-retreat-artist-kolbie-blume-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