# Sketchbook Journaling Retreat II with Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in Scotland

Join a whimsical sketchbook art retreat in Scotland, led by renowned illustrators Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle. This week-long retreat invites artists of all levels to explore travel journaling and grow and foster a sketchbook habit. Chronicle your artistic journey in sketchbooks inspired by Scotland's stunning landscapes and fairytale towns.Mike and Katrin will teach you all there is to maintaining a solid daily sketchbook habit. Experiment with a myriad of fun techniques and exercises for your travel journal. You'll also cover topics relating to the illustration industry, such as self-promotion, working with clients, finding your style, and many more.Beyond your classes at the venue, embark on two immersive art trips: one to the historic town of Stirling and its imposing castle, and another to the serene Loch Lomond, home to a sparkling freshwater lake, craggy hills, and breathtaking scenery.Settle into a spacious country home tucked among rolling hills, where each day brings time to sketch, reflect, and unwind. Enjoy meals prepared with care, using fresh local ingredients, and soak in the calm rhythm of your surroundings.

## Details

- **Dates:** June 30 - July 7, 2026
- **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **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 artists Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery7 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 timesSpecial welcome and farewell dinnerDelicious wine served with dinner every dayAn in-house gin-tasting experienceArt trip to Loch Lomond (half-day)Art trip to Stirling, including an entrance ticket to Stirling Castle (full-day)Trip 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 social media group with Mike Lowery, Katrin Wiehle, and the other retreat participants several months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials - a list of art materials recommended by artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle will be provided five months before the retreatOne lunch during the full-day trip to StirlingTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Sketchbook Journaling Retreat
Join illustrators Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery for a fun and relaxing sketchbooking retreat in the picturesque Scottish countryside. Draw with a group of other creatives while Mike and Katrin give expert tips and lessons on keeping a daily sketchbook. Drawing and journaling every day is the best way for artists to find their voice, keep track of their day, and come up with ideas for projects. This retreat will be focused on how to use your sketchbook as a travel diary, a place to experiment with new techniques and materials, and declutter your brain with creative daily exercises. Our days will be filled with drawing sessions, great food, and exploration of the Scottish landscape with its rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, and the distant Trossach Mountains. This retreat is suitable for all students at all skill levels, from those just starting out to working artists. It’ll be a chance to draw, relax, delight in chef-made food, explore the beautiful surroundings, and socialize with a supportive community of artists!In addition to the hands-on lessons and demos, Mike and Katrin will explain the ins and outs of a range of topics about art and illustration. Having both worked on dozens of books for kids and adults, as well as other freelance projects, they’ll cover self-promotion for artists, working with clients, dealing with artist’s block, finding your style, working on children’s books, and insightful tips for keeping a daily practice.In addition to studio time, engage with Scotland's stunning scenery, sketching outdoors in beautiful settings. Experience the historic charm of Stirling, capture serene moments along Loch Lomond’s shores, and find inspiration in the delightful village of Buchlyvie. Each day offers new possibilities to deepen your bond with art, nature, and yourself.Some of the sketchbook lessons will include:Pen and inkWatercolor techniques for sketchbooksSimple hand lettering for sketchbooksFinding inspirationHow to keep a travel diary How to keep notes about your travels Exercises to deal with creative block Some of the additional discussions will include:Self-promotion for artistsInstagram for artists Finding your styleWorking on children’s booksAnd LOTS more!Your venue for this art retreat is a breathtaking farm 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 transferred from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) at 3:00 PM and arrive at your venue at around 4:00 PM, a stunning countryside estate with gorgeous views of the Highlands. Unwind in your well-appointed room, freshen up, and gather with Mike, Katrin, and your art group for a pleasant orientation tour. Discover the stately accommodation spaces, the spacious art studio in the barn, the hot tubs, and the gardens. Enjoy a special welcome dinner prepared by the in-house chef to kickstart the retreat. Discuss the upcoming week with your fellow artists over delicious wine.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start your day with a tasty breakfast, then join Mike and Katrin for a quick coffee check-in. You'll find out more about the plans for the day.Head for the studio for your first class of the retreat and get into the creative flow with a relaxed sketching session. Mike and Katrin will share why keeping a daily sketchbook is such a valuable habit, along with simple, inspiring tips to make the most of it. They'll introduce ways to visually capture moments and encourage playful experimentation with different materials.Take a break to refuel during lunch, then continue your classes in the afternoon. Take an observational walk around the venue for fresh inspiration. Mike and Katrin will demonstrate their go-to techniques using pen, ink, and watercolor. Then, it’s time to dive into a fun creative exercise, using the surrounding landscape—the distant Trossachs—as a muse.As evening approaches, enjoy some leisure time before gathering again for a freshly prepared dinner. Reflect on the day's creative experiences and share insights with one another over a glass of wine.

### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off to Loch Lomond, tucked inside the stunning Trossachs National Park.After a scenic hour-long drive, you’ll arrive at the loch, where peaceful waters and lush plants offer endless inspiration. Take some time to snap reference photos, focusing on the little details that catch your eye. Mike and Katrin will share handy tips on how to capture picturesque scenes. Every now and then, you might hear bagpipes floating through the valley, adding a special touch to this beautiful spot.After your visit, head back to the venue for lunch, then dive into the afternoon art session. With Katrin and Mike by your side, you’ll go through the materials you gathered during the trip, picking out your favorite moments to add to your sketchbook or expand on. They’ll guide you step-by-step to help turn the day’s experiences into meaningful artwork.Enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you please. As evening falls, gather once more for a thoughtfully prepared dinner, sharing conversations and reflections on the day's adventures.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
After enjoying a hearty breakfast and a relaxed morning check-in with Katrin, Mike, and fellow artists, start the day with another creative session in the studio.Spend the morning refining your sketches of Loch Lomond. This session is all about turning your reference photos into fun, quirky artworks. Mike and Katrin will show you new sketching techniques to help you capture the magic of the scenes and lively seascapes. Take your time and feel free to ask for help whenever you need it.After a nourishing lunch, jump back into the afternoon class. Katrin and Mike will share creative ways to overcome artist’s block and use your sketchbook as a wellspring of fresh ideas. They’ll also offer helpful tips on pitching book ideas and give you a peek into the world of children’s books and the broader illustration market.Later in the afternoon, take time to unwind. Sketch quietly, enjoy a calming walk, or simply reflect on your progress. In the evening, come together for a delicious Greek dinner. Round off your evening with lively Scottish music and dancing, creating the perfect end to an inspiring day.

### Day 5: Trip to Stirling
Day five begins with a warm, satisfying breakfast before heading to Stirling, a historic town just a short 30-minute drive away. Renowned for its rich history and picturesque charm, Stirling offers ample inspiration for your sketchbook. Its iconic castle and surrounding landscape will be your centerpieces.Your day starts at Stirling Castle, an impressive historical landmark filled with captivating architecture and scenic views. Spend time exploring the castle grounds, taking reference photos of the intricate stonework, expansive vistas, and historic structures.Pause for lunch on your own at a local café or pub, then continue exploring and gathering inspiration.In the afternoon, visit the Wallace Monument, another significant historic site set within stunning meadows and native Scottish landscapes. Absorb the beauty of the area, taking photographs, making sketches, and quietly noting elements that resonate with your artistic vision.As evening approaches, return to your accommodation for a relaxing dinner. Enjoy a chef-prepared meal, reflecting together on the day's experiences.

### Day 6: Trip to Buchlyvie
Start the following day with a hearty breakfast, then take a leisurely 15-minute walk to the charming village of Buchlyvie.This peaceful village, with its cozy cafés, welcoming pubs, and quaint local shops, offers a delightful insight into Scottish countryside life. Enjoy exploring at your own pace—browse local stores, visit the Buchlyvie Pottery Shop to admire handcrafted ceramics, or settle into a quiet corner to sketch. Capture your environment by focusing on how the morning light interacts with the surroundings, framing interesting scenes, and observing unique details. Mike and Katrin will provide support and personalized guidance.After a refreshing lunch, spend the afternoon refining your sketches in the studio or outdoors in the gardens. Katrin and Mike will provide insights on combining watercolor with ink for added depth and definition, encouraging you to experiment with line work that brings out your personal style. As you work, you’ll notice how naturally these techniques flow together, transforming your sketchbook into a vibrant collection of travel sketches that reflect your unique journey.Later in the afternoon, join your group for a relaxed gin tasting, sampling local varieties and unwinding together. Conclude the evening with a freshly prepared dinner.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Join your art group for a final hearty breakfast before preparing for your last art session with your instructors.Spend the morning adding the final touches to your sketchbook journal. This is your chance to apply all the insightful techniques you've practiced throughout the retreat. Mike and Katrin will be available for questions, personalized feedback, and specific pointers.Following lunch, gather for a special mini-exhibition event—optional but warmly encouraged. Offer and receive constructive feedback, celebrating your amazing growth. If you have any lingering questions, take full advantage of a Q&A session with Mike and Katrin, exploring topics like keeping a sketchbook, perfecting your technique, or anything related to illustration.In the evening, regroup for a farewell dinner, raising a toast to a week filled with creativity, inspiration, and meaningful connections.

### 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

- [Mike Lowery](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/mike-lowery) — Author and Children’s Book Illustrator
- [Katrin Wiehle](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/katrin-wiehle) — Author and Illustrator

## Accommodation

### Scottish farm estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery 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 luxurious 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 (female only)
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 shared superior rooms are located in the Lodge on the first floor and feature an ensuite shower bathroom. They contain comfortable twin beds and have direct access to the shared terrace of the Lodge.Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Lodge, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room.

### Shared bathroom - single room (female only)
You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. These single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. Equipped with comfortable king-size beds, the rooms feature large windows with beautiful views over the surrounding gardens. The rooms are located in The Farmhouse on the second floor.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terrace, and the hot tub of the Farmhouse, the main villa where all meals will be hosted.

### Single 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 luxurious, 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 superior rooms with private, adjacent bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Farmhouse (main villa) on the first floor, and in the Coach House on the first floor. Slightly larger than the single rooms with external bathrooms, the rooms feature comfortable king-size beds, private bathrooms (one with a shower, one with a shower and wet room), 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 single standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms feature modern ensuite shower bathrooms, comfortable king-size beds ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. They are located on the first floor of the Stables and on the second floor of the Coach House, respectively.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings.

### Single superior ensuite room
One single superior 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 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, 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 night of Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing in the barn, and a farewell dinner.All meals are included, except for one lunch during the full-day trip. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.

## Getting There

Located near the quaint village of Buchlyvie, close to Stirling in the heart of Scotland, your retreat venue is set against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. The venue finds itself on the threshold of the majestic Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, embracing the awe-inspiring views of the Trossachs. This area is a mosaic of lochs, glens, and mountains, sheltering a diverse range of wildlife. The culture of the area is deeply embedded in Scottish heritage, from the haunting melodies of bagpipes echoing through the glens to the centuries-old castles, telling tales of Scotland's history.Vibrant Edinburgh, the beating heart of the region, is an hour away by car. During your retreat, you'll embark on several art trips, visiting Loch Lomond (1 hour away), a wide expanse of crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains, along with Stirling (30 minutes away), a historic town known for its rich Gaelic heritage and the imposing Stirling Castle.Please arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Scotland a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.How to get from Edinburgh Airport to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Edinburgh, we recommend you fly to Dublin or London and then fly to Edinburgh (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on June 30, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on July 7, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:June 30, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:July 7, 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 of the previous UpTrek retreat with Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle:"What an absolutely wonderful experience! Mike & Katrin were excellent teachers and so generous with their time and knowledge. The retreat venue was beautiful, clean, and the hospitality just marvelous. Made so many memories and new friends— I hope to go again!""Something I appreciate about how Mike and Katrin lead these retreats is that the art we make is directly connected to the places and experiences we have. I love art as a way of processing the world around me and the cultures I encounter, and I love that Mike and Katrin approach their sketchbooking this way too.""A dream come true. Mike and Katrin are beautiful humans. I’m so glad they were part of everything we did (meals, excursions, etc.) and not just classroom instructors. I learned a lot! Mike even went out of his way to give a handful of us some extra tips and tricks in Procreate. I loved every minute of this experience. Every single participant became a friend. What a special group of people. What a special trip. You have my heart.""I had an amazing time!! Near the end I think we were all very tired 😂 — but all in all one of the most memorable trips I’ve had. Mike and Katrin are fantastic instructors with such a great sense of humour.""This was the most amazing trip, and it far exceeded all expectations I had. I would not change a single thing.""The retreat was a wonderful experience! I'd definitely do it again. Being able to venture out to towns and practice what we came to do which was creating a traveling sketchbook has me amped to travel more and be mindful of my practice. Thank you to everyone involved for such an amazing experience and opportunity!""Everything was great! Very satisfied. Beyond expectations. Mike and Katrin were ever so willing to share their knowledge with us and always so positive and affirming while giving helpful feedback. This retreat has given me the impetus to keep making art everyday and an important part of my life. I got to try new things and made a lot of lovely new friends. I would definitely participate in another retreat with Mike and Katrin. Can’t wait!!!""Thank you so much! I enjoyed every bit of it. Loved making new friends with the same interests (drawing). I would definitely do this again. It was inspiring and very informative. Mike and Katrin let us play and have fun with every assignment which allowed us to approach thing’s creatively. I really enjoyed the freedom to express without any restriction."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 artists Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery is open to all experience levels. Whether you're a professional artist or a complete beginner, the tuition will be adapted to every individual participant.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between June 30 - July 7, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on June 30, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, July 7, 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 artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle will be provided after booking, five months before the retreat begins.What’s the weather like in Scotland in July?The weather in July in Scotland is usually mild and moderately chilly, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 17°C / 63°F during the day that drop to around 9°C / 48°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 artists' 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/sketchbook-journaling-retreat-ii-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-scotland#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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**Last updated:** 2026-03-10