# Paint the Scottish Highlands Watercolor Retreat with Artist Ellen Crimi-Trent in Scotland

Join Ellen Crimi-Trent for a remarkable watercolor retreat set in the stunning Scottish countryside. Immerse yourself in the charm of Scotland as you paint expressive landscapes, florals, and still-life scenes. Over the course of a week, enjoy daily lessons, one-on-one guidance from Ellen, personalized feedback, and an inspiring, supportive atmosphere that encourages your artistic exploration.Stay in a historic countryside estate surrounded by rolling hills, enjoy nourishing meals prepared with care, and experience the beauty of Scotland with visits to the historic city of Stirling, the peaceful shores of Loch Lomond, and the charming village of Buchlyvie. You’ll walk through ancient castle halls, wander medieval streets, and learn to journal your journey with expressive sketches and vibrant watercolor.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 7 - 14, 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 Ellen Crimi-Trent7 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 CastleTrips to Buchlyvie village at your leisure (15-minute walk away)A night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancingPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesExperienced UpTrek host available throughout the dayRound-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Ellen Crimi-Trent and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceOne lunch during the full-day trip to StirlingArt materials — a detailed list with all the necessary supplies recommended by Ellen Crimi-Trent will be sent five months before the retreatTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Paint the Scottish Highlands Retreat
Join artist Ellen Crimi-Trent for a transformative watercolor retreat in the serene countryside of Scotland. Capture the essence of Scotland through the art of watercolor as you focus on expressive landscapes, delicate florals, and captivating still-life compositions. Ellen will guide you with live painting demonstrations and offer personalized feedback, helping you discover and refine your unique style. Throughout the week, you'll enjoy daily classes designed to help you paint with confidence and creativity.Explore Scotland’s rich beauty through two inspiring trips: a visit to the historic city of Stirling and the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, as well as the nearby village of Buchlyvie. By the end of the retreat, you'll have crafted a stunning collection of watercolor works, each one a reflection of your journey through Scotland’s natural and cultural treasures, while forming lasting connections with a supportive group of fellow artists. Some topics covered in your classes with Ellen Crimi-Trent include:Create color palettesPlay with various watercolor techniques including wet on wet, expressive painting with brushes and pen and inkCreate a compelling composition and layoutPaint nature and your surroundingsTake reference pictures and use them to create beautiful paintingsUse your sketchbook for future ideasDiscover your strengths and personal themes through experimentationCreate your own unique art collection...and many more.Your venue for this art retreat is a breathtaking holiday estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy lavish accommodation spaces, bespoke design, a spacious art studio, and electrically heated outdoor hot tubs. Immerse yourself in Scottish history and culture with delicious meals prepared by a private chef, a gin-tasting event, and a night of traditional Gaelic dancing.

### Day 1: Arrival
Get picked up from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) at 3:00 PM, arriving at your picturesque countryside estate by 4:00 PM. Nestled among beautiful views of the Highlands, the estate offers the perfect setting to relax and recharge. Settle into your comfortable room, take some time to refresh, and then join your fellow artists for an introductory tour. Explore the elegant living spaces, the expansive art studio housed in the barn, the inviting hot tubs, and the serene gardens. In the evening, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with fine wine. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with the group and chat about the exciting week ahead.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start your morning with a tasty breakfast, then gather with Ellen and your fellow artists for a check-in over coffee. Get a glimpse of the day’s schedule and prepare for your first watercolor class.In the morning session, Ellen will guide you through the essentials of watercolor painting, starting with demonstrations of key techniques like wet-on-wet, layering washes, and color blending. Explore landscapes, florals, and still-life compositions while experimenting with brush strokes and creative effects. Ellen will encourage you to let your artistic instincts lead as you become more familiar with your materials.After a hearty lunch, return for the afternoon session where you'll build on the morning’s work. Ellen will encourage you to observe your surroundings through an artistic lens, guiding you in sketching out thumbnails loosely and quickly. This relaxed approach will help you capture the essence of the landscapes, florals, and still-life scenes around you. Ellen's reassuring and gentle guidance will allow you to experiment freely, reminding you that mistakes are just part of the creative process.Take time to relax before enjoying a delicious dinner prepared by the private chef, accompanied by wine, as you share insights with your fellow artists.

### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond
After an excellent breakfast, prepare for your first adventure: a visit to the renowned Loch Lomond, located amid the stunning surroundings of the Trossachs National Park.Following a scenic 1-hour drive, you'll arrive at Loch Lomond, where the stunning views span from the calm waters of the loch to the dramatic peaks in the distance. Keep your sketchbook handy to capture the beauty of the Scottish scenery. Snap reference photos of the landscape, including the serene loch and the rugged mountains, to use in your artwork. You might even hear the distant sound of bagpipes drifting through the valley, adding a touch of magic to the experience.Upon returning to the venue, enjoy a tasty lunch and prepare for the afternoon art session. You'll work on transforming your photos and sketches into expressive watercolor paintings. Ellen will show you how to thoughtfully plan your composition, guiding you through the process of turning your observations into beautiful landscapes, florals, or still-life pieces. This is your chance to experiment with the techniques you've learned and let your creativity shine.Wrap up the day with a delightful three-course dinner, accompanied by a glass of wine, as you share stories about the day's adventure with your fellow artists.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Start your morning with a refreshing breakfast, then check in with Ellen and your fellow artists.The day begins in the venue’s gardens, where Ellen will lead you in exploring and capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, vibrant florals, and intricate still-life scenes. Focus on developing a fluid and expressive style as you explore the balance between detail and looseness in your work. She will demonstrate how to depict water in watercolors, a key element for painting Scotland's lakes and rivers. Practice color mixing and brush techniques to bring vibrancy and movement to your pieces.After a break for lunch, the afternoon session will shift focus as Ellen shares insights about painting on location, preparing you for your upcoming trip to Stirling. She'll teach you how to quickly capture the essence of what you see and guide you on organizing your materials for an outing. With Ellen's guidance, you'll feel confident in sketching on-site and making the most of your outdoor painting experience.End the day with a relaxing soak in the hot tub before enjoying a chef-prepared dinner and a glass of wine. As night falls, unwind with your fellow artists and share insights from the day’s creative journey.

### Day 5: Trip to Stirling
Begin day five with a delightful breakfast, then prepare for a short 30-minute drive to the historic town of Stirling, located where the Highlands meet the Lowlands.Your first stop is the impressive Stirling Castle, a symbol of Scottish history and royalty. Originally built in the 12th century, the castle served as the residence of many Scottish kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots. As you explore its grand halls and stunning architecture, take the opportunity to sketch the magnificent surroundings or snap reference photos for later use. The castle's panoramic views and rich history will inspire your creativity.Next, you'll explore the historic town of Stirling, once Scotland's capital, known for its blend of 17th-century buildings and modern shops. Enjoy lunch at a local pub, then stroll through the town. Capture sketches of its distinctive architecture or drawing inspiration for your floral and still-life pieces. The trip concludes at the Wallace Monument, a towering tribute to Sir William Wallace. From its scenic grounds, you can sketch or photograph the monument framed by rolling hills and a dramatic landscape.After returning to the venue, relax and enjoy a three-course dinner prepared by the private chef. Gather with your fellow artists to share reflections on the day's experiences and your creative progress so far.

### Day 6: Trip to Buchlyvie
Following a nourishing breakfast, head out on a leisurely 15-minute walk to the quaint village of Buchlyvie.This peaceful village, with its pubs, shops, and cafes, offers a glimpse into the serene rhythm of Scottish life. The short stroll is rewarded with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Once there, take time to explore the village’s charm, and perhaps find a quiet spot to sketch the landscape, the terraced houses, or capture the essence of the local atmosphere. Buchlyvie Pottery Shop is a must-see, featuring beautifully crafted pottery by local artisans.Return to the venue in time for a relaxing lunch, then prepare for your afternoon session with Ellen. Build on the sketches or photos you've gathered during your walk and work to further develop your watercolor landscapes, florals, or still-life compositions. Under Ellen’s guidance, this class will focus on nurturing your personal style and refining the techniques you've learned throughout the retreat.Later in the afternoon, enjoy a special gin-tasting experience at the venue, sampling some of the finest local varieties. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner prepared by the chef, as you share your thoughts and artistic progress with your fellow artists.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Your final day at the retreat begins with a delicious breakfast, followed by a coffee check-in to reflect on your artistic journey with Ellen and your fellow artists.In your last art class, you'll dive into perfecting the landscapes, florals, and still-life paintings you’ve been working on throughout the retreat. Ellen will guide you as you apply finishing touches and refine your pieces, offering any remaining advice to help you showcase your personal artistic growth. This is an ideal time to ask any final questions and receive personalized feedback.After enjoying a tasty lunch, get ready for a special event: the mini-exhibition. Though participation is optional, this informal gallery setting is a wonderful opportunity to present your work, exchange feedback with your peers, and celebrate the progress you’ve made during your time in Scotland.End the retreat with a heartfelt farewell dinner, prepared by the chef, paired with wine. The evening concludes with a joyous celebration of Scottish dancing, offering a perfect close to your artistic adventure.

### 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

- [Ellen Crimi-Trent](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/ellen-crimi-trent) — Artist and Designer

## Accommodation

### Scottish farm estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with Ellen Crimi-Trent is a serene countryside estate. The venue lies in the tranquil village of Buchlyvie, amidst the wild beauty of Scotland. This exquisitely restored farmhouse blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern elegance. The boutique-style venue, with its amenities, facilities, and décor, commands breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands and the expansive countryside beyond.The estate has six distinct housing units, each boasting its own unique style. The Farmhouse (serving as the main villa) houses four stunning rooms and an elegant dining area where all meals will be served. The other units include The Lodge, with four bedrooms adorned with 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 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
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, terrace, and the hot tub of the Farmhouse, the main villa where all meals will be hosted.

### Single 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 room - adjacent bathroom
Two single 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, a terrace, and an outdoor hot tub facing the surrounding countryside, treating you to breathtaking views.

### Single standard room - Private Lodge
This single standard ensuite room is located on the first floor of The Hideaway. It is furnished with a comfortable king-size bed and designed with simple, thoughtful details that make it both practical and inviting. The ensuite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, offering convenience after a day of exploring or creating.Guests staying here also have access to the shared spaces of The Hideaway: a terrace with an outdoor hot tub, a bright and spacious kitchen, and a comfortable common room filled with natural light.

### Single superior room - Private Lodge
The single superior ensuite room provides a little more space and refinement, also on the first floor of The Hideaway. It features a king-size bed, bespoke furnishings, and a private bathroom with both a walk-in shower and a bathtub, offering options for relaxation. The atmosphere is calm and uncluttered, designed for comfort without distraction.As with all rooms, you are welcome to enjoy the communal areas of The Hideaway, including the terrace hot tub, the airy kitchen, and the light-filled common room.

### Single superior ensuite room
One single superior ensuite room in The Lodge is available for single occupancy. This bedroom is located on the first floor and features a spacious ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, and bespoke furnishings and décor,You'll benefit from access to the shared spaces of The Lodge - an outdoor hot tub on the terrace, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

### Single deluxe ensuite room
The Farmhouse offers a single deluxe ensuite room for private use. Set on the first floor, this refined master bedroom combines character and comfort with a king-size bed, bespoke furnishings, elegant décor, and a grand fireplace. Its ensuite bathroom is generously sized and includes a modern walk-in shower.Guests staying here can also make use of The Farmhouse’s communal areas, which include a welcoming lounge, and a terrace with an outdoor hot tub.

## Food

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

## Getting There

Located near the quaint village of Buchlyvie, close to Stirling in the heart of Scotland, your retreat venue is set against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. The venue finds itself on the threshold of the majestic Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, embracing the awe-inspiring views of the Trossachs. This area is a mosaic of lochs, glens, and mountains, sheltering a diverse range of wildlife. The culture of the area is deeply embedded in Scottish heritage, from the haunting melodies of bagpipes echoing through the glens to the centuries-old castles, telling tales of Scotland's history.Vibrant Edinburgh, the beating heart of the region, is an hour away by car. During your retreat, you'll embark on several art trips, visiting Loch Lomond (1 hour away), a wide expanse of crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains, along with Stirling (30 minutes away), a historic town known for its rich Gaelic heritage and the imposing Stirling Castle.Please arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Scotland a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.How to get from Edinburgh Airport to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Edinburgh, we recommend you fly to Dublin or London and then fly to Edinburgh (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on September 7, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on September 14, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:September 7, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:September 14, 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 Ellen-Crimi Trent:"I loved meeting great women and meeting Ellen in person. Her demos were great and she was really inspiring.""Ellen Crimi-Trent’s instruction was amazing & the studio facilities were superb! I highly recommend this experience to anyone who has an interest to participate in one of the retreats offered by Uptrek. Every detail for this retreat was executed to perfection. Staff on site were friendly, caring & provided exemplary group & individual support. Each day was planned to make all of us feel special. Thank you Uptrek for the amazing experience!""Great retreat! Ellen was very encouraging, patient and explained techniques well. Just the right amount of instruction, so I didn’t feel overwhelmed. And the day excursions to sketch and shop were a nice change of pace. I’d definitely go on another watercolor retreat that Ellen was teaching!""Ellen’s teaching was excellent. She paced things really well. I found it really helpful that she had us practice skills, or elements, before launching into a larger piece. For instance, we worked on skies, then a house with perspective and shadows, before working on our landscape. She was organized and thoughtful about her teaching, and her fun sense of humor set the tone for a fun week of painting and learning.""Ellen was a wonderful teacher as always and the overall experience of the Watercolor classes, the transportation, the guide and driver and the towns that we visited were the highlights of the week for me.""I felt I received quality instruction from Ellen and she genuinely wanted to teach us something new every day. I brought every thing home! New techniques now in my abilities. I would definitely sign up for Ellen again."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 Ellen Crimi-Trent is open to all levels of art experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Ellen Crimi-Trent in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between September 7 - 14, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 7, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, September 14, 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?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Ellen Crimi-Trent will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins.What’s the weather like in Scotland in September?The weather in September in Scotland is usually mild and moderately chilly, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 21°C / 70°F during the day that drop to around 12°C / 54°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before your departure to the art retreat and to pack accordingly.How many people are to be expected at the retreat?Maximum 18 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/paint-scottish-highlands-watercolor-retreat-artist-ellen-crimi-trent-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:** 2026-03-30