# Fast and Loose - Expressive Travel Sketchbooks Retreat with Artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon in Scotland Join artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon for a relaxed landscape-focused travel sketchbook retreat in the heart of the Scottish countryside. Work on location during a half-day art trip to Loch Lomond and a full-day art trip to Loch Katrine, complete with a boat trip and a return stop in Aberfoyle for Duke’s Pass. Take a 15-minute walk to Buchlyvie village at your leisure, drawing inspiration from sweeping glens, dramatic shorelines, layered textures, and the ever-changing light. Use mixed media, watercolor, and gouache to capture what you see and feel, filling your sketchbook with personal responses to the landscape around you. Each day, Mike and Debbie will gently guide you through warm-up drawings, relaxed on-location sketching, creative mark-making, and landscape composition, with plenty of time to pause, breathe, and simply take in your surroundings. You will build your sketchbook spread by spread, at your own pace, combining drawing and painting in whatever way feels natural to you. Mike and Debbie will share outdoor painting techniques and offer personal, thoughtful feedback, always encouraging you to enjoy the process, find your own expression, and have a little fun along the way, with plenty of breaks to relax and take it all in. Your haven for the retreat is a peaceful countryside estate, complete with a spacious studio, chef-prepared meals, and evenings filled with Scottish culture, from gin tastings to traditional Gaelic dance. ## Details - **Dates:** July 18 - 25, 2027 - **Location:** Buchlyvie, Scotland, UK - **Starting Price:** $4,450 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 16 students - **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting) ## Overview **What's included** 1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, easels, and easel/table lamps 3. 7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estate 4. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardens 5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef 6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 7. Special welcome and farewell dinner 8. Water, coffee, herbal tea, and snacks available throughout the day 9. Delicious wine served during dinner service every day 10. An in-house gin-tasting experience 11. Half-day art trip to Loch Lomond, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location 12. Full-day art trip to Loch Katrine, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location and a boat ride, stopping in Aberfoyle for Duke’s Pass on the way back 13. Ticket for the boat ride during the trip to Loch Katrine 14. Trip to Buchlyvie village and the surrounding countryside, at your leisure 15. Campfire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinner 16. Private transportation for all trips and planned activities (except for the trip to Buchlyvie village) 17. Round-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) 18. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 20. All local tourist taxes and fees 21. Access to a private Facebook group with Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - One lunch during the full-day trip to Loch Katrine - Art supplies — a detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Fast and Loose - Expressive Travel Sketchbooks Join artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon for a relaxed travel sketchbook retreat in the heart of the Scottish countryside, where rolling hills shift with soft Highland light and the air carries the scent of heather, pine, and wildflowers. Work alongside this renowned art couple as they guide you through the practice of drawing and painting outdoors, connecting directly with the environment. With backgrounds in design, a long history of exhibitions, and a shared love of working in the open air, Mike and Debbie will help you translate the textures of the rugged terrain, the rich colors of the natural surroundings, and the movement of the landscape into expressive pages filled with mixed media, watercolor, and gouache. You will benefit most from this retreat if you have some prior drawing and painting experience. Throughout the week, you will venture out into the breathtaking Scottish scenery at a gentle pace, with a half-day art trip to Loch Lomond and a full-day art trip to Loch Katrine, boat tickets included, and a leisurely stop in Aberfoyle for Duke's Pass on the way back. You can also take a trip to Buchlyvie village at your leisure, located just a 15-minute walk away. Back with Mike and Debbie, you will work at your own pace to build sketchbook pages that reflect the way you see and respond to the world around you. There is time to explore warm-up drawings, layering, loose mark-making, color mixing, and composition, without any pressure to rush through it and with plenty of breaks to take it all in. You will gently discover how watercolor, gouache, ink, and dry media can work together beautifully, moving between small, unhurried studies and more developed pages as you feel ready. And alongside building your drawing foundations, there will always be room to follow your instincts, experiment freely, and simply enjoy the journey. **The topics covered during your lessons will include:** - Making your own concertina sketchbook - Traveling light with watercolor, gouache, and other mixed media materials - Working on location to make fast and exciting drawings of place - Drawing and painting ‘on the go’ in cafes, markets, streets, as well as local landscapes - Working some sketches up into more finished works in the studio - Looking at limited palettes and how they can improve your sketches - Exploring mark making with different materials, including foraged materials - Working in brown paper sketchbooks, watercolor journals, and homemade books - Using collage to enliven the work - Including ephemeral materials to make exciting, lively pages - ...and many more. Your home for the week is a beautiful farm estate nestled in the peaceful Scottish countryside and surrounded by rustic scenery and tranquil gardens. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, a fully equipped art studio, and outdoor hot tubs overlooking the landscape. Throughout the week, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow artists over a glass of wine or a cup of tea. Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals, a special gin-tasting experience featuring local varieties, and a memorable campfire night with Scottish music and dancing beneath the open sky. Embark on a week of creativity, nature, and connections, and leave with memories to last a lifetime! ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for a 3:00 PM pickup and enjoy a scenic drive to your destination, a stunning countryside estate, where you’ll arrive around 4:00 PM. Once there, settle into your comfortable room, take a moment to unwind, and meet your instructors for the week, artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon. 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 warm cup of freshly brewed coffee. Settle in with Mike and Debbie and get ready to ease into the rhythm of the week ahead. Start the morning gently, with time to settle in and get familiar with your materials. Mike and Debbie will walk you through everything you'll be using throughout the retreat, and there will be a lovely chance to chat together about what you're each hoping to explore and take away from your travel sketchbook. From there, you'll ease into the importance of warm-up drawings, and how they help loosen the hand, sharpen observation, and quietly clear the mind. Before long, you'll find yourself sketching, letting easy marks and gestures set the tone for the days ahead, with no pressure, just a gentle beginning. After a relaxed lunch, you'll have the chance to explore the full range of materials at your own pace. Mike and Debbie will take you through watercolor, gouache, ink, and dry media, showing how each one behaves and how to move between them with ease. Then it's your turn to simply play. Create a background in your sketchbook using whatever draws you in, layering paint, building textures, scribbling, smudging, and seeing what happens when the materials meet. There are no wrong answers here, just curiosity and discovery. By the end of the afternoon, you'll have already begun to find your own way of making the page your own. As the day softens into the evening and golden light settles across the farm, gather with 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 Mike, Debbie, and the venue hosts. Then, prepare for another inspiring day ahead, amid the tranquil beauty of the Scottish countryside. Today you will head out to Loch Lomond, nestled within the sweeping Trossachs National Park. After a scenic drive through rolling hills and forests, you will arrive at the peaceful shores of the loch, where glassy water mirrors shifting clouds, distant peaks, and clusters of native heather and Scots pine. Take all the time you need to simply soak it in, wandering along the paths, pausing at overlooks, or breathing in the crisp, earthy air. When you're ready, Mike and Debbie will share a relaxed demo before you ease into your own warm-up sketches, loose lines, quick marks, and small drawings made at whatever pace feels comfortable as you meander along the water. The focus here is simply on responding to what you see and feel, without any pressure to overthink the outcome. Mike and Debbie will wander alongside you throughout the morning, offering gentle, individual feedback as you settle into different spots, whether that's a mossy shoreline, a scenic overlook, or a quiet woodland trail. There is plenty of time to take in the textures of rugged forms, soft summer greens, and the changing morning light, and to jot down anything that catches your eye for later. After a leisurely lunch, you will return to the studio to revisit your sketches from the loch in a comfortable, unhurried setting. Drawing from the references you gathered in the morning, you will begin mixing color to reflect what you saw and felt out in the landscape, at your own pace and in your own way. There will be time to play with composition and perspective, layering, cropping, or weaving together the distant peaks and foreground pines as you please. Mike and Debbie will be on hand with examples and gentle guidance as your sketchbook page slowly takes shape, keeping all the lively, outdoor energy of the day alive within it. As the afternoon comes to an end, unwind at your own pace. Take a walk around the gardens, 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 Mike, Debbie, 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 hearty breakfast and coffee before stepping outside with your sketchbook. Take a gentle stroll around the estate grounds with Mike and Debbie, drawing directly from what you see around you. There is no rush, just a chance to look around, breathe in the surroundings, and let something catch your eye. It might be the sweeping outline of distant hills, the rugged lines of a stone wall, the shape of a mature tree, or the way shadows drift slowly across the grass. Whatever draws your attention, follow that. Keep your marks loose and unhurried as you fill your pages, layering in lines and color whenever it feels right. Mike and Debbie will move gently among the group throughout, offering friendly feedback and encouragement as you go. After a relaxed lunch, you will return to the studio to gather everything you have explored and enjoyed throughout the week. Using your outdoor drawings and earlier exercises as a starting point, you will have plenty of time to develop work around your chosen landscape theme, scaling up if you feel ready, and focusing on composition and confidence at a pace that suits you. Mike and Debbie will be there to help you refine your sketching skills ahead of the upcoming trip to Loch Katrine, and there will be a lovely open space to ask questions, share anything that has felt tricky, and get the support you need. Demonstrations will follow wherever the group needs them, and you will have time to prepare your travel kit and have a relaxed chat about how to pace a full, enjoyable day of sketching out in the open. As the afternoon winds down, take some time to unwind before dinner. Perhaps take a peaceful walk through the estate gardens 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. Soak in the lovely atmosphere, filled with laughter and lively conversations. ### Day 5: Art trip to Loch Katrine and boat trip 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 Mike, Debbie, and the venue hosts. Set out on a journey to the stunning Loch Katrine, where ancient woodlands frame the water and sweeping glens shape the Highland atmosphere. Your morning begins at the historic shores of Loch Katrine, nestled deep within the Trossachs and surrounded by dramatic peaks. Accompanied by Mike and Debbie, wander along the peaceful lochside paths and take in the rugged scenery. As you explore, seize the opportunity to capture the forested islands, rippling water, shifting shadows, and expansive views, each serving as a rich source of inspiration for color palettes and compositions. Feel free to pause with your sketchbook to capture a quick line drawing or watercolor impression, absorbing the atmosphere of the natural surroundings onto your paper. Enjoy a refreshing lunch, then step aboard a historic steamship for a scenic boat trip across the loch. This vantage point offers a beautiful blend of deep water reflections, densely wooded shorelines, and towering hills. Take it all in at your own pace, noticing the textures of the rugged landscape, the mountain peaks washed in soft light, and the occasional burst of color from the native heather. In the afternoon, begin the return journey via the spectacular Duke’s Pass, stopping in the charming village of Aberfoyle. From this steeply winding route and its surrounding viewpoints, you will find sweeping panoramas over the countryside, dramatic drops, vast pine forests, and the subtle transitions of green that define this region. Capture the rugged beauty in quick watercolor notes, paying attention to the atmosphere and the immense sense of scale. This route is a place where dramatic elevation and untouched landscape meet, offering a wellspring of inspiration for your final sketchbook pages. Return to the venue in the evening, just as the light softens across the fields. Take some time to relax and unwind after today's adventure, then join Mike, Debbie, and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant wine. ### Day 6: Walk to Buchlyvie & surrounding countryside Wake up your senses with a delicious breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee, then have a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Get ready for another inspiring day of creation together with your fellow artists. Today begins with a gentle walk to the nearby village of Buchlyvie, winding through open fields with wide, peaceful views of the hills stretching out around you. It is a beautiful way to ease into the morning, sketchbook or camera in hand, moving at whatever pace feels right and simply enjoying the fresh Scottish air as the countryside opens up around you. Once in the village, there is plenty of time to wander and take it all in. You might pop into a small pottery shop, settle into a local café for a cup of something warm, or follow one of the quiet little lanes that lead back toward the meadows. When the mood takes you, draw freely and without worry, practicing quick sketches of people and movement, just 30 or 60 seconds is enough. There is no need for perfection here, just a focus on the energy and character of the place, the gestures, the shapes, the little pockets of color and pattern. Mike and Debbie will be close by with gentle prompts and friendly suggestions whenever you want them. Keep an eye out too for small papers, packaging, or interesting textures to tuck into your bag and bring back for your sketchbook. After a lovely, relaxed lunch back at the venue, you will spread everything out in the studio and take a slow, enjoyable look at what you have gathered. Flip through your drawings, browse through the bits and pieces you collected, and let yourself reflect on the day. Mike and Debbie will offer warm feedback and encouragement, helping you notice what is working beautifully and what might be worth taking further. It is a wonderful moment in the week to sit back and see how everything is starting to connect. As the afternoon transitions into evening, unwind in whatever way feels right. Take a peaceful walk through the gardens, relax with a refreshing dip in the hot tub, or continue painting if inspiration is still flowing. Later, gather your fellow artists for a special gin 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 final day with a hearty breakfast, taking a moment to look back at how far your sketchbook has come since you first stepped out into the Scottish countryside. Settle into the morning with Mike and Debbie, ready to bring all your observations of the natural world together. This session is a lovely, unhurried chance to revisit your work and add any final touches you have been saving for last. Flip through your pages at your own pace, deepening the colors of your Highland skies, softening the edges of distant hills, or filling in any little spaces that are still waiting for something. There is time to adjust a composition here, strengthen a line there, or add a date, a field note, or a natural texture that tells a bit more of the story. Mike and Debbie will move gently through the room, offering warm suggestions and helping you give each spread that final little push, only ever as much as feels right to you. After a relaxed lunch, you will prepare your space for a lovely mini-exhibition to close out the week. Lay your sketchbook open or choose a few of your favorite outdoor studies to share with the group. There will be plenty of time to wander through each other's work, chat about what surprised you, how your sense of the landscape shifted as the days went on, and what stayed true to your own way of seeing. Mike and Debbie will close with some final thoughts, reflections, and warm encouragement, taking a moment to celebrate everything you have created and how far your connection to the landscape has grown over the course of the week. 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 Mike, Debbie, 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 - [Mike Staniford](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/mike-staniford) — Artist, Educator, Landscape Interpreter - [Debbie Mackinnon](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/debbie-mackinnon) — Painter, Educator, Nature Enthusiast ## Accommodation ### Scottish Farm estate The art retreat with Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon 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 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 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. ### Single room - shared bathroom (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 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) 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 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 tasteful amenities through its incredible cathedral ceiling in the main room, exposed beams, the ensuite bathroom, and the free-standing hot tub in the bedroom. The bedroom of The Cottage comes with a comfortable king-size bed. The Cottage also has its own fully-equipped kitchen, private terrace, and private outdoor hot tub. ## Food During your art retreat, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The thoughtfully curated menu combines traditional Scottish dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks. Start each day with a choice of egg dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttery pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like a goat cheese tart served with rocket salad, a hearty chicken Caesar salad with crusty bread, or homemade soup accompanied by homemade focaccia. In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, with selections such as Scottish trout with seasonal veggies, miso aubergine served with bowls of steaming jasmine rice or harissa spiced meatballs with 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 gin tasting, and a night of traditional Scottish Ceilidh dancing in the barn. All meals are included except for one lunch during the full-day trip to Loch Katrine. 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 Loch Katrine, where a scenic boat trip across its serene waters awaits, with a charming stop in Aberfoyle and the breathtaking Duke's Pass on the way home. **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 18, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on July 25, 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:** **July 18, 2027 - 3:00 PM** (leaving from Edinburgh Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure Transfer:** **July 25, 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:** - "The location of the retreat was beautiful. The accommodations were lovely. Our room was spacious, the bedding was comfortable, and the linens and bath supplies were appreciated. The art studio was spacious and well lit. My dietary needs were met, which I really appreciated. The variety of recipes offered was all delicious." - "Very organized and things ran very smoothly. The food was superb and every request was met with immediate provision." - "This is my second Uptrek retreat and hopefully not my last. The venue was outstanding. The hosts were so kind, friendly and really went out of their way to accommodate our needs. Our chef Carly was the best and I’m hoping she writes a cookbook someday. I loved my adventure in Scotland." - "Great retreat! Awesome venue, good food, fantastic side trips, wonderful studio space..!" - "The venue was a respite from our busy worlds and provided luxurious comfort and fabulous food for the week." - "I had THE most luxurious and private quarters at the venue! It was worth every extra cost to sleep and rest there. The food so was very well prepared. I felt like we had a trained chef and dietitian feeding us." ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is the retreat available to all levels?** This retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior drawing and painting experience. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon in Buchlyvie, Scotland, the UK, takes place between July 18 - 25, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on July 18, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, July 25, 2027, after breakfast. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Is Wi-Fi available?** Yes. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. However, please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Please arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI). We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Scotland a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Edinburgh, we recommend you fly to Dublin or London and then fly to Edinburgh (round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour. For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/fast-and-loose-expressive-travel-sketchbooks-retreat-artists-mike-staniford-debbie-mackinnon-scotland#location). **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, a raincoat, a coat for chilly weather, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **Can I do laundry while on the retreat?** Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Mike Staniford and Debbie Mackinnon will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, easels, and easel/table lamps are included and will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.** **What’s the weather like in Buchlyvie in 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 retreat and to pack accordingly. **How many people are to be expected at the retreat?** Maximum 16 participants. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the US, Canada, EU, and other visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. For more information on the ETA, including eligibility and application steps, please visit the official UK government website: [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta) Please contact us for further guidance. **Are there any age restrictions?** The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18. **What language is used during the retreat and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **Can a non-participating guest join me?** We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. Most accommodation spaces and main facilities are only accessible via stairs. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the art trips. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructors or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructors' 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/fast-and-loose-expressive-travel-sketchbooks-retreat-artists-mike-staniford-debbie-mackinnon-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/fast-and-loose-expressive-travel-sketchbooks-retreat-artists-mike-staniford-debbie-mackinnon-scotland **Last updated:** 2026-06-24