Create Your Light
Join me in my favourite part of the world for a week-long plein-air painting retreat set against the stunning, ever-changing landscapes of Scotland.
DATES
April 22 – 29, 2027
PRICING
from $4,550 (approx £3350)
LOCATION
Buchlyvie, Scotland
LEVEL
All abilities
MEDIUM
Oils or Acrylics
ACCOMMODATION
Exquisite countryside estate (included)
I’m very excited to be offering a week-long painting retreat in the beautiful countryside of Stirlingshire, Scotland. The venue has a large studio space, beautiful rooms and meals prepared by a private chef, and is surrounded by stunning countryside. This is one of my favourite places in the world to paint, and we’ll be taking advantage of the beautiful Scottish scenery to paint en plein air in fantastic locations like Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle. I’ll guide you through your own pieces both outside and in the studio, and help you develop your own artistic vision, with a focus on light.
THE RETREAT
Throughout the week, you’ll explore landscape and atmospheric painting both outdoors and in the studio, learning to dissect a view into values, mix colors for depth and light, and build dynamic, appealing compositions that capture the character of the Highlands and beyond.
You’ll move between guided plein-air sessions, studio work, and day trips to iconic Scottish landmarks, developing your eye for contrast, light, and atmosphere while working toward finished pieces. You’ll explore nearby areas known for their natural and historic charm: the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond, the storied streets of Stirling and its majestic Stirling Castle, as well as the Wallace Monument. These trips will offer plenty of inspiration, complementing your art classes and immersing you in the local culture of Scotland. Aside from these trips, you are also welcome to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure through an optional self-guided walk to the nearby Buchlyvie village, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue. Get inspired by the towering trees and the rustic charm of Buchlyvie.
A week in Scotland
01
arrival
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for a 3:00 PM pickup and enjoy a scenic drive to your destination, a stunning countryside estate, where you’ll arrive around 4:00 PM. Once there, settle into your comfortable room, take a moment to unwind, and meet your instructor for the week, artist Jenny Aitken.
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.
02
art classes at the venue
Spend the morning outside in the venue’s expansive gardens, surrounded by the tranquility of the Scottish countryside. I will do a plein-air painting demonstration, teaching you how to dissect a view into values for distance and depth. I will walk you through plein-air techniques, capturing the shifting light and vibrant colors of the Scottish Highlands. After lunch, we’ll go back to our easels and you can work on your own piece, with individual feedback from me throughout the process.
03
art trip to loch lomond
A half-day trip to the stunning Loch Lomond, nestled within the sweeping Trossachs National Park. We’ll explore the area, take inspiration from the scenery, and paint en plein air. I’ll paint alongside you and offer any guidance you need.
04
art classes at the venue
Today will be focused on starting a new piece inspired by yesterday’s trip to Loch Lomond. Join me and your fellow artists in the studio and start painting at your easel. Experiment with textures, colors, contrasts, and brushstrokes, bringing your artistic vision to life on the canvas.
05
art trip to stirling
We’ll visit Stirling Castle and, accompanied by a local guide, wander through its courtyards and learn more about the nobles who once lived within its walls. As you explore, seize the opportunity to capture quick sketches before a stroll through the onetime capital’s winding streets. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Wallace Monument and find a plein-air painting spot.
06
art classes at the venue and whiskey-tasting experience
Spend the morning in the studio, painting from the plein-air work and trip studies you have done so far. I’ll guide you through translating your outdoor sketches and color notes into a dynamic studio piece, helping you refine composition and build on the observations you captured in the field. This will continue into the afternoon, and we will end the day with a special whiskey tasting experience featuring local Scottish varieties!
07
art classes at the venue
The morning workshop will be dedicated to finishing off your works, adding any last details and final touches. I will be there to offer you feedback, helping you bring each piece to its finished form. Pause midday for a refreshing lunch, then continue the day with a celebratory mini-exhibition. Showcase your works and share your progress with your fellow artists, discussing feedback, ideas, and how to carry forward all the things you have learned throughout this creative journey.
08
departure
Enjoy a final breakfast with me 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.
practical information
What’s Included
- Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Jenny Aitken
- Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, glass jars, professional studio lights, plein-air artist stools, field easels, easel/table lamps, Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits, and Michael Harding Miracle Medium
- 7 nights of accommodation at a Scottish countryside estate
- Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, terraces, and gardens
- All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 mid-morning power juices, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef
- All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
- Special welcome and farewell dinner
- Water, coffee, herbal tea, and snacks available throughout the day
- Delicious wine served during dinner service every day
- An in-house whiskey tasting experience
- Half-day art trip to Loch Lomond, with opportunities for plein-air painting on location
- Full-day art trip to Stirling, with opportunities for plein-air painting on location
- Entrance ticket and guided visit to Stirling Castle during your trip to Stirling
- Visit to the Wallace Monument during your trip to Stirling
- Campfire with Scottish (Ceilidh) dancing and music after the farewell dinner
- Private transportation and chaperone for all trips and planned activities
- Round-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
- A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
- Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
- All local tourist taxes and fees
- Access to a private Facebook group with Jenny Aitken and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat
Good to Know
- 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.
- I will provide a detailed list of art materials five months before the retreat takes place.
- The weather in mid-April in Buchlyvie is usually mild and pleasant, and rainy on occasion. You can expect average highs of 13°C / 55°F during the day that drop to around 5°C / 41°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.
- The retreat has a maximum of 16 participants.
- 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.
- You must be aged 18 or over to participate in this retreat.
- The language of the retreat is English.
- 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.
Travel
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) on April 22, 2027, 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.
On April 29, check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you’ll arrive at the airport at around 11:00 AM.
Accommodation
Exclusive use of a vast countryside estate with its living quarters (Farmhouse, Coach House, Stables, Cottage, Lodge) and common areas, the art studio in the barn, dining spaces, gardens, five outdoor hot tubs
Twin / King-size double bed(s)
Wi-Fi available in all rooms
Toiletries, hairdryers, and 100% Egyptian cotton linens and towels
Heating
Food
Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate life-threatening allergies.
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.
ready to join us?
Scotland · April 22-29 · from $4,550
In collaboration with Uptrek.