# Watercolor Journey Through the Highlands Retreat with Artist Karen Rice in Scotland Join artist Karen Rice for an unforgettable watercolor journey in the gorgeous countryside of Scotland. Explore the limitless world of watercolor, guided by the expertise and tailored feedback of your instructor. Explore various painting techniques, gain more confidence in your creative choices, and bond with a supportive community of 16 other artists. Benefit from Karen's invaluable guidance throughout the process, from the first brushstroke to the final masterpiece.Stay at a vast countryside estate, delight in chef-made meals, and explore Scottish culture with trips to the historic city of Stirling, the fascinating Loch Lomond, and the quaint village of Buchlyvie. Develop an inspiring watercolor collection of your own and make unforgettable memories. ## Details - **Dates:** July 8 - 15, 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 Karen Rice7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estateExclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardensMeals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefWater, coffee, tea, herbal tea, and snacks available at all timesDelicious wine served with dinner every dayAn in-house gin-tasting experienceArt trip to Loch LomondArt trip to Stirling, including an entrance ticket to Stirling CastleTrip to Buchlyvie village and the surrounding countryside (at your leisure)Camp fire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinnerPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesExperienced UpTrek host available throughout the dayRound-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Karen Rice 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 Karen Rice will be sent five months before the retreatTips for staffOther expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Scottish Watercolor Art Retreat Join artist Karen Rice for a life-changing art retreat in Scotland's serene countryside. During this weeklong experience, you will learn from your favorite artist through daily classes and extensive demos, receive tailored feedback, and explore the beauty of Scotland through two exciting art trips. You'll sketch and paint during visits to Stirling, a historic city; Loch Lomond, a stunning lake bordering the Scottish Highlands; and the nearby village of Buchlyvie. Discover the wonderful world of watercolors under Karen's expert guidance and create loose, expressive artwork. You'll cover a wide variety of techniques and experiment, discovering your style and unique strengths during your daily classes. Most importantly, you'll bond with a supportive community of 17 artists. By the end of the art retreat, you'll have created a beautiful collection of watercolor paintings that portray Scotland's natural surroundings. Some topics covered in the classes include:Watercolor basics: wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, damp into wet, damp into dampUniform washesLifting off methodPlastic card techniqueSpattering techniqueEmbracing the happy accidentHow to make your paintings look more 3D by using color, tonal values, texture, mark-making, and sizeCapturing great reference photos and transposing them into paintingsExploring abstracts, florals, and landscapesDiscovering your style...and many more. Your venue for this art retreat is a 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 whiskey-tasting event, and a camp fire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music. ### Days 1: Arrival Get transferred from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) at 3:00 PM and arrive at your venue at around 4:00 PM, a stunning countryside estate with gorgeous views of the Highlands. Unwind in your well-appointed room, freshen up, and gather with your art group for a pleasant orientation tour. Discover the stately accommodation spaces, the spacious art studio in the barn, the hot tubs, and the gardens. Enjoy a special welcome dinner prepared by the in-house chef to kickstart the retreat. Discuss the upcoming week with your fellow artists over delicious wine. ### Day 2: Art at the venue Start your first morning with a tasty breakfast, then join Karen and your fellow artists for a check-in over coffee. Discover the day's schedule, then get ready for your first class.Begin your watercolor exploration by getting familiar with your art materials. Karen will introduce you to a couple of basic techniques, such as wet-on-dry, wet into wet, or damp into damp. Follow along with her demonstrations and practice these essential techniques. After warming up, move on to playing with washes and different effects, like spattering, spritzing, tilting, using plastic cards or salt, and more. Towards the end of the class, practice these techniques with some simple landscape watercolor studies.Enjoy a hearty lunch, then regroup for your afternoon class. Karen will demonstrate a loose step by step Scottish landscape for you to paint. She will encourage you to use techniques practiced in the morning’s session. Karen will be available for tailored feedback and advice.Relax after your class, then enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine. ### Day 3: Trip to Loch Lomond Enjoy a delicious breakfast, then embark on your first adventure: an art trip to the famed Loch Lomond, nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Trossachs National Park.You'll reach your destination after a scenic 1-hour drive. Loch Lomond's breathtaking vistas encompass a variety of scenes, from the tranquil waters of the loch itself to the rugged outlines of distant mountains. Keep your sketchbook nearby as you quickly capture the mesmerizing views. Karen will teach you how to snap reference photos of the beautiful Scottish scenery. If you're lucky, you may even hear the music of bagpipes echoing over the valley.You'll return to the venue for a tasty lunch, with plenty of time to spare for an afternoon art session. Learn how to transform your photos and sketches into beautiful watercolor paintings. Karen will show you how to choose the perfect layout for your piece and plan a sketch using the photos you took during your trip. Play with the techniques you've learned so far and let your creativity flow.The day ends with a three-course dinner, complemented by a glass of wine. Discuss today's adventure with your fellow artists as night falls. ### Day 4: Art at the venue Greet the morning with a refreshing breakfast, then check in with Karen and your fellow artists.Karen will guide you through the planning and painting of a landscape, focusing on the following elements: size, detail, tone, color, and contrast. Using the surrounding Scottish countryside as a source of inspiration. She’ll encourage you to experiment with a variety of techniques, such as tilting the paper to experiment with washes and using spattering, salt and plastic card techniques to enhance depth, details and texture in your watercolor paintings. Take a break with a refreshing lunch, followed by an afternoon art session. You will have the opportunity to practice and refine your watercolor skills and develop your paintings, benefiting from Karen's demonstrations and one-to-one feedback. You will start to gain confidence in watercolor by practicing techniques and washes. You will also learn the importance of tonal values and color mixing to create atmosphere and depth in your paintings.Relax with a soak in the hot tub, then, as night falls, delight in a chef-prepared dinner, washed down with a glass of wine. Unwind and share impressions with your art group. ### Day 5: Trip to Stirling Day five of the retreat begins with a delightful breakfast, followed by another outing. You'll visit the historic town of Stirling and its majestic castle, arriving at your destination after a short 30-minute drive. Stirling lies at the heart of Scotland, where the untamed Highlands embrace the rolling hills of the Lowlands.Your first stop is the Stirling Castle, the crown jewel of the region. First built in the 12th century, it served as the seat of power for many Scottish royals (including Mary, Queen of Scots). Today, it stands as an emblem of Scottish independence and one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. Sketch and take reference photos as you explore this stunning piece of history.After the castle visit, the next stop is the city of Stirling. Once the capital of Scotland, Stirling's rich heritage is reflected in its diverse mix of 17th-century townhouses, modern shopping arcades, and typical tall and narrow burghs. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many pubs in the center, then explore the town or shop for souvenirs at your leisure.Lastly, your shuttle will take you to the Wallace Monument, an outstanding architectural landmark commemorating the national hero of the same name. You'll be able to sketch and photograph the monument from its outdoor grounds.You'll be transferred back to the venue just in time for dinner. Savor a three-course meal prepared by the private chef and chat about the day's trip with your art group. ### Day 6: Walk to Buchlyvie & surrounding countryside Start the day with a nourishing breakfast, then embark on a leisurely 15-minute walk to charming Buchlyvie.This village, featuring plenty of pubs, shops, and cafes, is a snapshot of the tranquil Scottish way of life. The short trek is well worth it for the views of the nearby countryside. Explore the village, find a quiet spot to sketch the surrounding landscape or the terraced houses, or shop for souvenirs. The Buchlyvie Pottery Shop is a good spot for beautifully crafted pottery by local artisans.Return to the venue in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon class. Focus on transforming the sketches and reference photos you’ve gathered so far into your own watercolor paintings. Karen will walk you through selecting the best compositions for your paintings, using your own sketches. She will encourage you to experiment and practice the techniques you've learned so far, allowing you the opportunity to free up and begin to develop your own style.In the late afternoon, gather for a special gin tasting featuring local varieties that reflect the character of the region. As evening settles, enjoying a generous chef-prepared dinner and the company of your fellow artists. ### Day 7: Art at the venue The last day of the retreat starts with a scrumptious breakfast and continues with a coffee check-in, reflecting on your journey thus far in the company of Karen and your fellow artists.During your final art class, you will focus on your personal artistic growth. This session is an ideal time to address any lingering questions and gain valuable advice on how to continue your watercolor journey when you return home. Karen will offer guidance on enhancing your paintings, helping you bring them to completion with confidence. Take a break with one last delicious lunch and get ready for a special event: the mini-exhibition - showcasing the work you’ve created throughout the week. While participation is optional, it’s a wonderful opportunity to display your achievements, exchange constructive feedback, and celebrate the progress made during the retreat in a supportive environment.End the retreat with a special farewell dinner accompanied by a glass of wine and a camp fire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music. ### 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 - [Karen Rice](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/karen-rice) — Watercolor artist and teacher ## Accommodation ### Scottish farm estate The art retreat with Karen Rice 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 (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 You will share this room and its bathroom with another same-gender participant. The two shared superior rooms are located in the Lodge on the first floor and feature ensuite shower bathrooms. They contain comfortable twin beds and have direct access to the shared terrace of the Lodge.Guests will benefit from shared access to an outdoor hot tub on the terrace of the Lodge, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room. ### Shared bathroom - single room (female only) You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. These single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. Equipped with comfortable king-size beds, the rooms feature large windows with beautiful views over the surrounding gardens. The rooms are located in The Farmhouse on the second floor.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terrace, and the hot tub of the Farmhouse, the main villa where all meals will be hosted. ### Single standard room - external bathroom Two single rooms with private, external bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Lodge and The Stables. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Each room features a comfortable king-size bed, a private shower bathroom, and 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 superior room - adjacent bathroom Two single superior rooms with private, adjacent bathrooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in the Farmhouse (main villa) and the Coach House. Both rooms are found on the first floor of their respective units. Slightly larger than the single standard rooms with adjacent bathrooms, they feature comfortable king-size beds, private shower bathrooms, and luxurious, bespoke décor.Guests will have shared access to the cozy common rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, terraces, and outdoor hot tubs of their respective buildings. ### Single standard ensuite room Two standard single ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Each room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The rooms are located in the Stables on the first floor and in the Coach House on the second floor.The rooms benefit from shared access to the common spaces of their respective buildings: the lounge, the fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, and an outdoor hot tub facing the surrounding countryside, treating you to breathtaking views. ### Single superior ensuite room One single superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room is located in the Lodge, on the first floor. The bright and airy room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable king-size bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The single superior room is slightly larger than the single standard room, and it also features a private balcony.You'll also benefit from access to the shared spaces of the Lodge: the lounge, the fully equipped kitchen, and the terrace with an outdoor hot tub. ### Deluxe ensuite room One single deluxe ensuite room in The Farmhouse is available for single occupancy. This master bedroom is located on the first floor and features a spacious ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, bespoke furnishings, and décor, as well as its own stately fireplace. The comfortable king-size bed ensures a restful sleep.You'll benefit from access to the shared spaces of The Farmhouse - an outdoor hot tub on the terrace, an airy kitchen, and a bright, comfortable common room. ### 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 premium 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 indulge in meals crafted by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The menu is thoughtfully curated, blending Scottish traditional dishes with international flavors, along with daily beverages and snacks.Begin each day with a choice of egg dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttered pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a hot cup of coffee or tea. Lunch is a single course, with options like goat cheese tart, Gartmorn chicken breast with truffle mash and seasonal greens, or a variety of soups served with homemade focaccia.In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous three-course dinner, with selections such as smoked paprika-roasted cod, pan-seared Orkney scallops, spinach dhal with poppadoms, tamarind cauliflower steaks, and bell peppers stuffed with caponata. End on a sweet note with desserts like mandarin parfait, warm chocolate brownie with walnut ice cream, coconut halwa, or a selection of sorbets.Drinks include fresh power juices during morning art classes and wine served with dinner. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water are readily available throughout the day. Try a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up.You'll also experience authentic Scottish hospitality with a welcome dinner, an in-house gin tasting, 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 art trip. Please let us know of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, dietary needs must be communicated at least a month prior; changes during the retreat or last-minute requests cannot be accommodated.The exact dishes served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients. ## 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 July 8, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on July 15, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer:July 8, 2026 - 3:00 PM (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer:July 15, 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 previous UpTrek retreats with Karen Rice:"This retreat was the most amazing art experience I have ever had. I have followed Karen’s tutorial online and was so excited to actually do the workshop with her.""Everything about this retreat was perfect. Karen’s teaching is amazing. I have followed her tutorials since Covid began and loved having face-to-face time with her. We all want Karen to do another retreat next year.""Well planned and executed. Everyone helped/supported/encouraged everyone else.""From the arrival to departure my needs were met and my learning was vast. I have to mention the fun had by me and the relationships we made. I would go to this retreat again in a heartbeat! Karen made our time there worth every moment. The painting and support was beyond expectations!""Perfect. Great food, fab hosts, great learning opportunities in an ideal location. Instructions by Karen were super as usual.""Karen is an excellent instructor and incredibly personable. And the venue exceeded my expectations. From the quietude and beauty of the property to the wonderful meals, everything was wonderful. The hosts have my highest recommendation -- and Karen as a teacher! (And my thanks to *you*, Ana (Uptrek), for so seamlessly facilitating all the details. I felt very comfortable going into the trip because of all the prep beforehand.)""The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions added to the experience and of course, Karen is a wonderful & fun teacher! Kudos for organizing!""I loved the experience of an entire week of painting with Karen Rice. I learned so much - not only about painting, but of myself as an artist. Karen was very easy to talk to and she filled the week with instruction that focused on techniques as well as how to paint from our own photos. I also loved painting and sharing with other artists. I'm looking forward to the next retreat!""Karen is a wonderful teacher and made the experience better than I had anticipated. The side trips were well arranged and the tour guide was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."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 is open to all levels of experience, but you may benefit most if you have some familiarity with watercolor and artist Karen Rice's work and style of teaching.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Karen Rice in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK takes place between July 8 - 15, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on July 8, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, July 15, 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 Karen Rice will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. Tables, chairs, paper towels, water containers, studio lights, and appropriate disposal bins (for the workshop component) are included.What’s the weather like in Buchlyvie in July?The weather in July in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 19°C / 66°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 17 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/watercolor-journey-through-highlands-retreat-artist-karen-rice-scotland#book)** — no deposit required. See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-journey-through-highlands-retreat-artist-karen-rice-scotland **Last updated:** 2026-03-10