# Highland Watercolor Reflections Retreat with Artist Nicki Traikos in Scotland Dip your brush into Scottish light on a women-only watercolor retreat with artist Nicki Traikos, set in the countryside near the village of Buchlyvie, where wide green pastures meet the ever-shifting glow of the Trossachs. Under Nicki's warm, encouraging teaching, you'll take watercolor from your very first wash to work that feels unmistakably yours, coaxing color from Scotland's heather and wildflowers, chasing the moody light across the glens, losing yourself in loose, joyful abstraction, and pouring your own personality into every brushstroke. The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Whether you are picking up a brush for the very first time or returning to watercolor with fresh energy, Nicki will meet you exactly where you are and make the whole process feel fun and entirely your own. Over the course of this inspiring retreat, you will enjoy daily classes and demonstrations from Nicki, with personalized feedback in a warm and supportive atmosphere that gives your creativity the space it needs to flourish. The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Alongside your studio time, you'll head out to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and spend a full day exploring Stirling Castle, The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, and the Wallace Monument, gathering sketches and reference material to bring back into your work. Optionally, explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure with a walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue estate. 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 gin tastings to a traditional Ceilidh dance and music campfire night. ## Details - **Dates:** September 11 - 18, 2027 - **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK - **Starting Price:** $4,750 - **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 Nicki Traikos 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, easels, and easel/table lamps 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 every day 10. An in-house gin-tasting experience 11. Half-day art trip to Loch Lomond, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location 12. Full-day art trip to Stirling, with opportunities for sketching and 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. Entrance and visit to The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum during the trip to Stirling 16. Campfire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinner 17. Private transportation for all trips and planned activities 18. Round-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) 19. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout retreat 20. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 21. All local tourist taxes and fees 22. Access to a private Facebook group with Nicki Traikos 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 Nicki Traikos will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Highland Watercolor Reflections Retreat Pack your brushes and join artist Nicki Traikos on a women-only watercolor retreat in the Scottish countryside, where every shade of green you have ever tried to mix exists right outside your window! From your very first wash to confident, expressive painting, Nicki will guide you through landscape composition, botanicals, abstract work, and finding your own creative voice, with personalized feedback and hands-on encouragement at every step. By the end of the retreat, you will paint with a freedom and style that feels entirely yours. Beyond the studio, paint on the shores of Loch Lomond with the Trossachs rising behind you and spend a full day in the charming town of Stirling. Visit the Stirling Castle, browse the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum with its dedicated watercolor gallery, take in sweeping views from the Wallace Monument, and wander the medieval old town. 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. However, please note that this walk is entirely optional, as the route to the village follows a country road without a dedicated pedestrian path. Sit down each evening to three-course dinners prepared by your private chef and paired with wine. Sip your way through a gin tasting featuring local Scottish varieties and spend a night around the campfire with live Scottish music and dancing under the stars. Whether you are picking up a brush for the first time or looking to push your painting further, you are welcome here! Nicki teaches the way she paints, with generous energy and a belief that watercolor should feel like play, not pressure. She will meet you wherever you are in your painting practice and help you fall in love with the medium. Through daily sessions, you will build your confidence from the ground up. Nicki will walk you through brush control, water-to-paint ratio, color mixing, and value studies, and from there you will branch into landscape composition, loose botanicals, abstract painting, and your own personal creative expression. She will be right beside you throughout, offering personalized feedback and helping you bring your own personality and artistic style into every piece you paint. **The topics covered during your lessons will include:** - Exploring watercolor fundamentals, including brush control and water-to-paint ratio - Building custom color palettes inspired by the Scottish landscape and botanicals - Painting loose, expressive botanicals drawn from local flora - Creating contour sketches and using still-life references with confidence - Studying landscape composition, perspective, and structure - Developing depth, light, and movement across a range of subjects - Strengthening your painting practice through guided feedback and support - Working across a variety of projects, from small studies to finished pieces - ...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 gin-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 Nicki Traikos. 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 Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee as you join Nicki for a quick morning check-in. Connect with your fellow artists before beginning your first creative session of the retreat. Nicki will open with introductions and an overview of the course structure, walking you through the topics and techniques you will explore over the coming days. Dive right into watercolor as Nicki guides you through the basics, from the balance between water and pigment to brush control and color mixing. Learn what your brushes can do and experiment with wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques under Nicki's encouraging guidance, building the confidence you will carry through every session ahead. After a nourishing lunch, return to the studio for another afternoon workshop. During this class, you will create some color and value studies drawn from the local flora and surrounding views, using the landscape and native plant life as your starting point. Learn brush control to create stunning leaves and florals, and experiment with different color palettes. Nicki will also provide sketching and reference photo tips to help you prepare for the next day's exciting trip. As evening settles in, unwind before a three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, with a glass of local wine poured alongside. Take a soak in the hot tub or a walk through the gardens if you're not ready to call it a night. ### Day 3: Art trip to Loch Lomond After a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, prepare for an adventure amid the tranquil beauty of the Scottish countryside. Head out to Loch Lomond, set within the Trossachs National Park. Following a scenic drive past rolling hills and woodland, you'll reach the tranquil shoreline, where the still water reflects passing clouds, distant summits, and patches of native heather and Scots pine. You'll spend the morning taking in the loch's islands, clear waters, and the peaks beyond. Take reference photos of striking landscapes, sketch on location, or make a note of inspiring natural shapes and colors. Ben Lomond rises above the water, framed by oak woodland and wildflowers, giving you plenty to capture before heading back. Return to the venue for a satisfying meal, then head into the studio for an afternoon of painting. Under Nicki's gentle guidance, you will work from your morning sketches and reference photos, putting color down on paper as you develop landscape studies inspired from the trip. Explore thumbnail compositions and color palette exercises inspired by the views you captured, translating the morning's inspiration into beautiful watercolor pieces. Once the session wraps up, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your own pace. Wander the gardens, settle into the hot tub, or relax with a cup of tea before joining the group for dinner and a glass of wine. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Start the day with a delicious breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in before heading into a new day of creation. The morning will focus on abstracting and painting loose, expressive landscape pieces. Nicki will guide you through working with watercolor in a freer, more experimental way, exploring how value, color, composition, and movement come together harmoniously. Draw on the reference photos from your trips or get inspired by the venue surroundings, using thumbnail sketches to play with the arrangement and mood of your composition. After a filling lunch, return to the studio for a deeper dive into structure and painting exercises. Continue developing your landscape works, with a focus on color and value, refining technique and growing your skills. Nicki will move through the room offering personalized feedback, helping you strengthen the work you have started and push your paintings further. As the session winds down, take time to relax before dinner. A walk through the surrounding countryside or a quiet stretch in the hot tub is a good way to close out the day before gathering for another three-course dinner with wine. ### Day 5: Art trip to Stirling + art museum After a hearty breakfast, set out on a full-day trip to the historic town of Stirling, where the Highlands give way to the rolling hills of the Lowlands. The morning will begin at Stirling Castle, perched above the town with sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. With a local guide, make your way through the courtyards while learning about the noble families who once resided there. Along the way, pause to capture the castle's weathered stonework and dramatic vistas in quick watercolor sketches as Nicki paints alongside you. From the castle, wander through Stirling's medieval streets. Once Scotland's capital, the town is full of narrow lanes, stone facades, hidden arcades, and painted shopfronts. Explore at your own pace, taking note of the textures on old doorways and the way the light catches the sandstone. At the foot of the old town, step into the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, founded in 1874 at the bequest of painter Thomas Stuart Smith, whose work was accepted by both the Paris Salon and the Royal Academy in London. The museum's second gallery was originally built as a dedicated watercolor gallery, and the collection holds a rich selection of Scottish painting and landscape art. Browse the galleries, studying how earlier artists handled light and atmosphere on paper. Afterward, enjoy lunch in town at one of the many beloved local restaurants. In the afternoon, head to the Wallace Monument, standing tall on Abbey Craig. From the surrounding viewpoints, you will take in wide-reaching views of rolling farmland, winding rivers, hedgerow borders, and the soft green gradations that define the Lowlands. If the weather invites it, set up your watercolors and work on a landscape study from one of the viewpoints overlooking the valley. Return to the venue in the evening and sit down to a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine. ### Day 6: Optional walk to Buchlyvie village & the surrounding countryside Start the day with a delicious breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee, then have a brief morning check-in with Nicki. During the morning, you can choose to venture out into the nearby countryside and take a walk to Buchlyvie village, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue, or continue working on your pieces in the studio. The path to Buchlyvie winds through open fields and offers wide, peaceful views of the hills around it, an ideal setting to ease into the day with your sketchbook or camera in hand. However, please note that this walk is entirely optional, as the route to the village follows a country road without a dedicated pedestrian path. Once you arrive, the morning is yours to explore at whatever pace suits you. Dive into capturing graceful botanicals in watercolor as Nicki guides you through assembling and developing loose floral compositions. Work through contour drawing exercises to build your confidence and precision, and explore expressive brushwork and water-to-paint ratio through color palette studies as you practice techniques for creating depth and movement in your florals. Head back to the venue for a relaxed lunch, then move into another session with Nicki. Continue building on your earlier studies by translating smaller compositions into more detailed paintings. Refine form and color as you develop your work, with emphasis on watercolor's fluid qualities and personal expression. Nicki will be there to support you in integrating your preferred elements and help you bring your artistic vision to life. As the session winds down, join the group for an in-house gin tasting, sampling varieties that reflect the character of the region. Take the time before dinner to unwind however you like, whether that's a walk through the gardens or a soak in the hot tub. Gather afterward for dinner and a glass of wine. ### Day 7: Art classes at the venue Savor a warm breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, ready to soak up every last moment of the retreat together with Nicki and your fellow artists. The morning will bring two painting ideas to choose from, giving you the freedom to follow whichever direction excites you the most. Dive into refining and completing your paintings, pulling together everything you have explored over the course of the retreat. Nicki will answer questions and talk through ideas for continuing your artistic growth at home, from building a consistent painting routine to finding inspiration in your everyday surroundings. After a relaxed lunch, gather with Nicki for one-on-one feedback on your work. Then comes one of the most rewarding moments of the retreat: a celebratory mini-exhibition where you and your fellow artists will display your finished paintings side by side. As you walk through each other's work, celebrate each other's creative breakthroughs and the amazing range of perspectives that have emerged from the same Scottish landscape. As evening falls, it is time to celebrate you. Put on something special (make sure to pack a lovely outfit!) and gather for a farewell dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with wine. Celebrate the end of the retreat with a lovely festive gathering, complete with traditional Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music, and a campfire under the stars! ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy a final breakfast with Nicki 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 - [Nicki Traikos](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/nicki-traikos) — Artist and Creative Instructor ## Accommodation ### Scottish Farm estate The art retreat with Nicki Traikos 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 (female only) 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 flatbread. 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 5 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 gin tasting, and a campfire night of traditional Scottish Ceilidh music and dancing. 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 September 11, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on September 18, 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:** **September 11, 2027 - 3:00 PM** (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure Transfer:** **September 18, 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 with artist Nicki Traikos:** - "I was able to not only meet but learn from Nicki - a dream of mine since I began painting. Nicki is not only a gifted painter, she is a selfless teacher who now how to adapt lessons to the needs of her students and bring them to the next step in their painting journey. I would highly recommend this experience for anyone who is ready for an adventure where you are truely pampered while exploring the world and yourself!" - "Nicki’s teaching style was so warm and encouraging. She was amazing." - "There are not enough words to describe this retreat. Nicki clearly put her heart and soul into this. The instruction was outstanding. She was there for us, making this a very personal experience for each artist. The planning and organization were so smooth, and inspiring, allowing for the creative energy to be exciting and expressed throughout. She brought together a group of like minded, passionate, non - judgmental supportive ladies. More than 10 stars for Nicki, as this experience will be a highlight always." - "Nicki, our watercolor instructor, was encouraging and inspiring in helping us meet and exceed our potential as artists." - "Nicki is a great teacher and I am already thinking ahead for next year." - "Nicki created a very creative teaching environment and was always so helpful individually and as a group. The group was an interesting collection of creative ladies, all with different levels of painting experience. We learned from each other. Great experience overall!!" - "I had a wonderful time on the retreat. Communication from Uptrek was great, the food was awesome, gorgeous lodgings, and the most fantastic teacher! I would definitely do it again." - "This retreat with Nicki Traikos was more amazing than I could have possibly imagined!!! It was a dream come true!!! Nicki is one of the kindest people you will ever know in addition to being an incredible art teacher. I will treasure these memories forever!!! Thank you, UpTrek!!!!" - "magnificent retreat! From the day we got there everything was wonderful. Nicki’s teaching was amazing. She is an amazing person. Everything down to the last detail was perfect. Will definitely book again." - "Truly a ‘pinch-me’ moment from start to finish. The watercolor instruction by Nicki was excellent. There was instant rapport with the other watercolor painters, and staff. I could not have asked for a better experience. I would definitely sign up for another UpTrek retreat." **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?** This retreat welcomes all levels of experience. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Nicki Traikos in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between September 11 - 18, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 11, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, September 18, 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/highland-watercolor-reflections-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-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 Nicki Traikos will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, easels, and easel/table lamps 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 September?** The weather in September in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 18°C / 64°F during the day that drop to around 10°C / 50°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/highland-watercolor-reflections-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-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/highland-watercolor-reflections-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-scotland **Last updated:** 2026-08-12