Full details of excursions are provided in advance but the following itinerary is typical of the programme.
Day 1
Arrival and welcome. Relax and take time to settle in. Browse through our information pack or take a leisurely
stroll before joining your fellow guests for a briefing and welcome dinner.
Day 2
Drawing or painting spots of scenic or historical interest around Nethy Bridge.
Sketch the tree lined river and 19th century humped back bridge; Capture Castle Roy - an impressive ruin set
against the backdrop of distant hills. Dating back to the 14th century and uninhabited for hundreds of years,
it still retains its form and character; Beside the Castle and said to be linked to it by an underground passage
is the 18th century Old Abernethy Parish Kirk. Both locations were used in filming Monarch of the Glen.
We round the day off with a visit to Loch Garten. Nestling in the midst of the fir woods, the loch's charm lies in the quietness of the scene and its fascinating, shimmering reflections.
Studio
Day 3
This morning we take a short drive to nearby Tulloch, once a thriving hamlet and a place of tradition, songs and
feuds. Experience the solitude of Tulloch Moor - an ancient landscape of open heather-clad moor land dotted with
primeval pines and set off against a backdrop of gentle purple hills. Few places offer such peace and tranquillity
to paint.
From here we drive to a loch of myth and legend - Loch Mallachaidh, which means Loch of the Curse. This dark moody loch is said to be haunted by a water kelpie or spirit that curses anyone who tries to cross its peaty waters.
Studio
Day 4
The day starts with a trip to Abernethy Forest, the largest and one of the best examples of the ancient Caledonian
Pine Forest that once covered most of Scotland. The old trees, with their characteristic reddish bark grow
through heather, blueberry and juniper to give a special wildwood atmosphere.
We then drive via lovely Loch Pytoulish to the estate of Rothiemurcus. An area of outstanding beauty, the expansive forest estate nestles between the high mountains of the Cairngorms and waters of the River Spey. Paint the picturesque scene at Loch an Eilein - a pretty peaceful loch surrounded by pine and birchwoods with a mysterious island castle.
Before leaving the area, we visit nearby Loch an Eilein Pottery - the home of lovely hand thrown pots by Penny Weir.
Studio
Day 5
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departure.
