Paint Your Next Chapter - Watercolor Journaling Retreat with Artist Sarah Whyte in Scotland

Join artist Sarah Whyte for a weeklong watercolor journaling retreat set against the stunning, ever-changing landscapes of Scotland. You'll explore landscape and atmospheric painting and sketching, learn to channel the feeling of the places you visit into your sketchbook, create color palettes inspired by your surroundings, and build on simplified compositions. Enjoy daily classes and plenty of feedback and guidance from Sarah.

The retreat is open to all levels of experience.

Complement your art classes with exciting trips to the nearby areas known for their natural and historic charm: the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond, the storied streets of Stirling and its majestic Stirling Castle, and the Wallace Monument. Aside from these trips, you are welcome to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure through a self-guided, optional walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, which is located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue, offering another source of inspiration for your artworks.

Your haven for the retreat is a peaceful countryside estate, complete with a spacious studio, chef-prepared meals, and evenings filled with Scottish culture, from an in-house whiskey tasting to a memorable campfire night with Scottish music and dancing.

Details

Overview

What's included

  1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Sarah Whyte
  2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, easels, table-top easels, and artist stools
  3. 7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estate
  4. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardens
  5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef
  6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
  7. Special welcome and farewell dinner
  8. Water, coffee, herbal tea, and snacks available throughout the day
  9. Delicious wine served during dinner service every day
  10. An in-house whiskey tasting experience
  11. Half-day art trip to Loch Lomond, with opportunities for sketching on location
  12. Full-day art trip to Stirling, with opportunities for sketching on location
  13. Visit to the Wallace Monument during your trip to Stirling
  14. Campfire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinner
  15. Private transportation and chaperone for all trips and planned activities
  16. Round-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
  17. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
  18. Fully-staffed venue, experienced UpTrek host available on location
  19. All local tourist taxes and fees
  20. Access to a private Facebook group with Sarah Whyte and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

Not included

Program

Paint Your Next Chapter - Watercolor Journaling Retreat

Join artist Sarah Whyte for a weeklong watercolor journaling retreat set in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. You'll learn how journaling can capture the feel of your surroundings, not just their appearance. Create journal spreads, make nature studies, experiment with different watercolor techniques, and develop a unique visual journaling style. Sarah will offer plenty of feedback and support, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere in which you can grow as an artist.

This retreat welcomes artists of all skill levels.

Throughout the week, you’ll also explore nearby areas known for their natural and historic charm: the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond, the storied streets of Stirling and its majestic Stirling Castle, as well as the Wallace Monument. These trips will offer plenty of inspiration, complementing your art classes and immersing you in the local culture of Scotland. Aside from these trips, you are also welcome to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure through a self-guided walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue. Get inspired by the towering trees and the rustic charm of Buchlyvie. However, please note that this walk is entirely optional, as the route to the village follows a country road without a dedicated pedestrian path.

Topics covered during your classes with Sarah include:

Your home for the week is a beautiful farm estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside and surrounded by rustic scenery and tranquil gardens. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, a fully equipped art studio, and outdoor hot tubs overlooking the landscape. Throughout the week, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow artists over a glass of wine or a cup of tea.

Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals, a special whiskey tasting experience featuring local varieties, and a memorable campfire night with Scottish music and dancing beneath the open sky. Embark on a week of creativity, nature, and connections, and leave with memories to last a lifetime!

Day 1: Arrival

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for a 3:00 PM pickup and enjoy a scenic drive to your destination, a stunning countryside estate, where you’ll arrive around 4:00 PM. Once there, settle into your comfortable room, take a moment to unwind, and meet your instructor for the week, artist Sarah Whyte.

Join your fellow artists for a relaxed orientation tour of the property, exploring the charming accommodations, the spacious studio, and the expansive gardens. The evening kicks off with a delightful welcome dinner prepared by the estate’s in-house chef, paired with a glass of wine. Enjoy lively conversations with your art group as you discuss the inspiring plans for the retreat.

Day 2: Art classes at the venue

Wake up your senses with a refreshing breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee as you join Sarah and the venue hosts for a quick morning check-in. Settle into the rhythm of the day and connect with your fellow artists before beginning your first creative session of the retreat.

Jump into the first session with an introduction to travel journaling. Sarah will emphasize that there is no "right" way for a creative journal to look, focusing on the personal aspects of travel journaling and how it is a collection of moments, impressions, and observations, rather than a book of finished paintings. Set up your journal and discuss different ways that pages can be composed. Afterwards, create a Scottish color palette inspired by the autumn foliage and growing moss or the beautiful architecture set against clear skies, then begin a color-mixing and wash exercise based on your personal palette.

After enjoying a nourishing lunch prepared by the venue’s chef, continue the afternoon with another art session. During this session, you'll begin working on the first journal spread, starting with simple shapes, inspiring words, impressions of the gorgeous Scottish Highlands, and your chosen color palette.

As the day softens into the evening and golden light settles across the farm, gather with Sarah and your fellow artists for a relaxed three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine. Share stories, reflect on your creative discoveries, and soak in the warm atmosphere filled with laughter and lively conversation.

Day 3: Art trip to Loch Lomond

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with Sarah and the venue hosts. Then, prepare for your first adventure on the retreat: a half-day trip to the stunning Loch Lomond, nestled within the sweeping Trossachs National Park.

After a scenic drive through rolling hills and forests, you’ll arrive at the peaceful shores of the lake, its glassy water mirroring shifting clouds, distant peaks, and clusters of native heather and Scots pine. Explore the area as you wander along different paths, pause at overlooks, or breathe in the crisp, earthy air. Take a moment to slow down and notice all the little things that are so easily missed: the way grass dances in the wind, the small critters finding their way home, or the serene nature of everything that surrounds you. Let the textures of mossy stones, vibrant autumn leaves, and the shifts of the morning light inspire you. Snap reference photos or sketch alongside Sarah as you search for a grand, beautiful landscape that moves you.

Return to the venue for a relaxed lunch prepared by the in-house chef, then head into an afternoon studio session. Sarah will teach you to find the intricate details in teacups, windows, flowers, or leaves and to introduce them in small watercolor vignettes, then focus on cropping and explore what you can leave out of your journal as you combine unrelated observations into cohesive spreads.

As the afternoon comes to an end, unwind at your pace. Take a walk around the gardens or to the nearby Buchlyvie village, soak in the hot tub, journal with a cup of tea, or enjoy a lively conversation with your fellow artists. As the evening approaches, join Sarah and the group for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine.

Day 4: Art classes at the venue

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Sarah and the venue hosts. Prepare for another day full of creation and inspiration, allowing the gentle rhythm of the Scottish countryside to set the tone for your morning.

Spend the morning outdoors, focusing on natural elements found in the Scottish countryside, and create several small nature studies as you interpret the same subject in different ways. Learn the nuances of loose brushwork, practice wet-on-wet techniques, and explore expressive marks that enable your watercolors to flourish and interact with the paper. Embrace spontaneity and move away from trying to reproduce the subject exactly with Sarah's guidance.

Pause midday for a leisurely lunch, then gather again in the studio for another afternoon session. Take a look at the nature studies you worked on earlier in the day, and incorporate them into layered journal pages that capture the atmosphere and feeling of the day.

As the afternoon winds down, take some time to unwind before dinner. Perhaps take a peaceful walk through the estate gardens or to the nearby village of Buchlyvie, or relax in the heated hot tub. Indulge in a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine.

Day 5: Art trip to Stirling

Fuel up for the day’s adventures with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with Sarah and the venue hosts. Set out on your second trip of the week: a journey to the historic town of Stirling, where the Highlands soften into rolling Lowland hills and centuries of history shape the atmosphere.

Your morning begins at Stirling Castle, perched high above the landscape and surrounded by peaceful gardens. Accompanied by a local guide, wander through its courtyards and learn more about the nobles who once lived within its walls. As you explore, seize the opportunity to capture quick sketches of the beautiful garden paths, patterned stonework, shifting shadows, and expansive views, each serving as a rich source of inspiration for quick thumbnail composition sketches. Capture what the place feels like, its essence, rather than everything you see.

After your castle visit, stroll through Stirling’s winding streets. Once the capital of Scotland, the town is a beautiful blend of narrow medieval lanes, stone houses, and tucked-away arcades, perfect for quick sketches. Wander at your own pace, noticing the textures of old doorways, the corners washed in soft light, and the occasional burst of color from a painted shopfront. Enjoy lunch on your own at a cozy local pub or café.

In the afternoon, continue to the striking Wallace Monument, which rises from Abbey Craig. From its base and surrounding viewpoints, you’ll find sweeping panoramas over the countryside: gentle fields, winding rivers, and the subtle transitions of green that define this region.

Return to the estate in the evening, just as the light softens across the fields. Take some time to relax and unwind after today's adventure, then join Sarah and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant wine. Share stories, reflections, and laughter, ending the day on a warm and soul-filling note.

Day 6: Art classes at the venue & whiskey tasting experience

Wake up your senses with a delicious breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee, then have a brief morning check-in with Sarah and the venue hosts and get ready for another inspiring day.

Spend the morning in the studio and create broader scenes inspired by yesterday's trip. Learn to identify the main elements that make a place memorable and experiment with simplified compositions as you explore atmospheric washes and scenic vignettes. Work with different layers and add small details and observations that convey the story of the places you visit.

Return to the studio after a relaxed lunch and jump into the afternoon session. You will begin by adding written observations to your visual journal, jotting down dates, memorable snippets of conversations, and names as part of the journaling process. See how combining sketches, paintings, and handwriting allows you to tell the story of your artistic journey. Then, analyze the visual hierarchy as you create a journal spread that documents a memorable experience from the retreat with Sarah's guidance.

As the afternoon transitions into evening, unwind in whatever way feels right. Take a peaceful walk through the gardens or to the nearby Buchlyvie village, relax with a refreshing dip in the hot tub, or continue painting if inspiration is still flowing. Later, gather with Sarah and your fellow artists for a special whiskey tasting experience featuring local varieties that express the character of the region. Enjoy a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine.

Day 7: Art classes at the venue

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Sarah and the venue hosts. Take a moment to settle into the rhythm of the day, reflecting on everything you’ve created throughout this inspiring retreat.

During this workshop, you'll bring together everything you learned this week and choose your favorite approaches and techniques while you work. Discuss your preferences with Sarah and your fellow artists and create one final Scotland journal spread using whatever comes naturally to you as you further develop your unique visual-journaling style. Commemorate small moments or create a detailed image, and immortalize your journey through the Scottish Highlands, all while Sarah provides feedback to each artist.

Pause midday for a refreshing lunch, then continue the day with a celebratory showcase of everyone's work. Participate in this mini-exhibition if inclined, and see the progress you and your fellow artists made throughout this memorable week. Notice everyone's style and preferred techniques, while getting a glimpse of how Scotland felt for different students. After the showcase, take time to discuss and reflect with Sarah on how to continue your travel journaling journey.

As the sun lowers across the hills surrounding the estate, gather for a hearty farewell dinner. Enjoy a chef-prepared three-course meal paired with a glass of aromatic wine and accompanied by Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music and a campfire. Celebrate the end of the retreat with a lovely festive gathering around the campfire, soaking in the dance, music, food, and laughter. Toast to all your accomplishments and the memories you have shared together!

Day 8: Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast with Sarah 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

Accommodation

Scottish farm estate

The art retreat with Sarah Whyte will be held at a serene countryside estate located in the peaceful village of Buchlyvie, amidst the wild beauty of Scotland. This exquisitely restored farmhouse perfectly blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern elegance. The boutique-style venue, featuring tasteful amenities and décor, offers breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands and the surrounding countryside.

The estate comprises six distinct accommodations, each with its own unique charm. The Farmhouse, serving as the main villa, contains four beautiful rooms and an elegant dining area where all meals will be served. The other units include The Lodge, offering four bedrooms with selected wallpaper and spacious common areas; The Stables, a two-bedroom unit with views of the Trossachs; The Coach House, a beautifully restored three-bedroom home; The Cottage, a cozy 200-year-old suite with a single bedroom; and The Barn, which houses the dedicated art studio.

Rooms can be booked as shared or single, with options for ensuite, adjacent, or shared bathrooms. Interiors are tastefully decorated with bespoke furnishings, exquisite designer fabrics, and 100% Egyptian cotton linens and towels.

Each accommodation unit boasts spacious and inviting common areas, featuring amenities such as the fireplaces in the Farmhouse, as well as fully equipped kitchens for a homely feel. The five electrically heated outdoor hot tubs, shared between guests in the same accommodation unit, provide the perfect spot to relax after a full day.

Art classes will be held in the well-lit and spacious art studio located in The Barn, featuring vaulted ceilings, or on the expansive grounds of the estate.

Please note that moving around the venue, including between accommodation spaces, the dining area, and the art studio, requires a short walk, and some rooms are only accessible by stairs. Therefore, the venue may not be suitable for participants with limited mobility.

Shared standard room

One standard room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room with one other same-gender retreat participant. Located in the Coach House on the second floor, the shared standard room is accessible via a spiral stairway. It includes two comfortable double beds. Its adjacent bathroom (equipped with a tub) is accessible by descending a few steps.

Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Coach House, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

Shared superior ensuite room

One superior room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared superior room is located in the Lodge on the first floor and features an ensuite shower bathroom. It contains comfortable twin beds and has direct access to the shared terrace of the Lodge.

Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Lodge, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

Shared bathroom - single room

Two single rooms with shared bathrooms are available for single occupancy. You will share the bathroom of each room with one other same-gender retreat participant, but you will have the room all to yourself.

These single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. Equipped with comfortable king-size beds, the rooms feature large windows with beautiful views over the surrounding gardens. The rooms are located in The Farmhouse on the second floor.

Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terrace, and the hot tub of the Farmhouse, the main villa where all meals will be hosted.

Single standard room - private external bathroom

Two single rooms with private, external bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Lodge and the Stables. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Each room features a comfortable king-size bed, a private shower bathroom, and bespoke décor. Access to the private external bathroom of the room located in the Lodge requires climbing 6 steps.

Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings.

Single superior room - private adjacent bathroom

Two single superior rooms with private, adjacent bathrooms are available for single occupancy.

The rooms are located in the Farmhouse (main villa) and the Coach House. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Slightly larger than the single standard rooms with external bathrooms, they feature comfortable king-size beds, private shower bathrooms, and bespoke décor.

Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings.

Single standard ensuite room

Three standard single ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Each room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The rooms are located in the Stables on the first floor, in the Coach House on the second floor, and in the Lodge on the first floor.

The rooms benefit from shared access to the common spaces of their respective buildings: the living room, the fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, and an outdoor hot tub facing the surrounding countryside, treating you to breathtaking views.

Single superior ensuite room

One single superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room is located in the Lodge, on the first floor. The bright and airy room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The single superior room is slightly larger than the single standard room, and it also features a private balcony.

You'll also benefit from access to the shared spaces of the Lodge: the living room, the fully equipped kitchen, and the terrace with an outdoor hot tub.

Deluxe ensuite room

One single deluxe ensuite room in the Farmhouse is available for single occupancy. This master bedroom is located on the first floor and features a spacious ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, bespoke furnishings, and décor, as well as its own stately fireplace. The comfortable king-size bed ensures a restful sleep.

You'll benefit from access to the shared spaces of the Farmhouse - an outdoor hot tub on the terrace, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

Deluxe private villa

One deluxe private villa (The Cottage) is available for single occupancy.

This beautifully renovated, 200-year-old building offers the ultimate cocoon of peace and tranquility. It features stunning design and tasteful amenities, including an incredible cathedral ceiling in the main room, exposed beams, an ensuite bathroom, and a free-standing tub in the bedroom. The bedroom of The Cottage comes with a comfortable king-size bed.

The Cottage also has its own fully equipped kitchen, private terrace, and private outdoor hot tub.

Food

During your art retreat, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The thoughtfully curated menu combines traditional Scottish dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks.

Start each day with a choice of egg dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttery pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like a goat cheese tart served with rocket salad, a hearty chicken Caesar salad with crusty bread, or homemade soup accompanied by homemade focaccia.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, with selections such as Scottish trout with seasonal veggies, miso aubergine served with bowls of steaming jasmine rice or harissa spiced meatballs with flatbreads scooping. Conclude on a sweet note with desserts like lemon pots with homemade shortbread, warm chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream, Scottish rhubarb crumble with fresh custard, or a selection of homemade sorbets.

Throughout the retreat, enjoy fresh power juices during morning art classes and wine served with dinner. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water will be readily available all day. Treat yourself to a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up.

Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with three-course welcome and farewell dinners, an in-house whiskey tasting, and a night of traditional Scottish Ceilidh dancing around a campfire.

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 October 10, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on October 17, 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:

October 10, 2027 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

Departure Transfer:

October 17, 2027 - 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Edinburgh Airport around 11:00 AM)

If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:

- Spend extra days in Edinburgh before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to Edinburgh Airport.

- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Rachel's Farm, Buchlyvie, Stirlingshire, Scotland, FK8 3NR, United Kingdom, 150 GBP - approximately US$195 per way. Please note that taxi fares may vary).

Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the retreat available to all levels?

The retreat with artist Sarah Whyte is open to all levels of experience.

When is the retreat available?

The retreat with artist Sarah Whyte in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between October 10 - 17, 2027.

Are there any check-in and check-out hours?

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 10, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, October 17, 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.

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 Sarah Whyte will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, easels, table-top easels, and artist stools 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 October?

The weather in October in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 14°C / 57°F during the day that drop to around 7°C / 45°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

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. 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 [email protected] 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

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See cancellation policy and travel insurance requirements.

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