Learn how to make AROMATHERAPY CANDLES or take WATERCOLOUR CLASSES in the BEAUTIFUL TROSSACHS
Soak up the peace and tranquillity of Scotland on a craft retreat at Gartmore House, set in 100 acres of private grounds overlooking the mesmerising landscape of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
THE HIGHLIGHTS CHOICE OF RETREATS
Opt for candle-making or watercolour classes, have fun and learn from experts.
EXPERT TUITION
You’ll get one-to-one feedback and expert guidance in a group of no more than ten Country Living readers, so there will be plenty of time with your tutor and to get to know your fellow guests.
FULL-BOARD AT GARTMORE HOUSE
You will stay in one of the 23 ensuite bedrooms in a beautiful 18th-century mansion with three home-cooked meals a day, made by chefs using local produce. All the rooms boast traditional Scottish styling with warm, contemporary tones and thoughtful touches.
INCREDIBLE LOCATION
Allow yourself to be inspired by the flora and fauna of nearby Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park as you learn.
MAKE AROMATHERAPY CANDLES
Spend six days in the Trossachs National Park, where you’ll learn how to make candles with a professional candle-maker. Over the course of four full days of tuition geared to beginners, tutor Margaret Morrison-macleod will teach you about ethically sourced essential oils and how to combine them into homemade candles. You’ll find your perfect scent combinations, whether you’re after something truly relaxing or perhaps a bit more invigorating.
Margaret, owner of the award-winning aromatherapy company The Divine Hag, sells her products worldwide. After many years in Eastern Europe and London, she returned to her native Scotland where she now lives and works. She tutors in candle-making and aromatherapy throughout Scotland and is passionate about the ways nature can help us in our everyday living.
You’ll be based at Gartmore House, set in 100 acres of private grounds close to Loch Lomond and you’ll have plenty of time to get to know your fellow candlemakers, during tea and coffee breaks and at mealtimes.
TRY WATERCOLOUR PAINTING
Enjoy a six-day retreat in the inspirational surroundings of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and take watercolour classes with a professional artist
Immerse yourself in the peace and tranquillity of Scotland on a six-day retreat at Gartmore House, set in 100 acres of private grounds close to the amazing landscapes of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
Over the course of four full days of tuition, you’ll connect with like-minded people and practise your watercolour skills under the watchful eye of experienced tutor Steve Bretel. Following a career in London as a commercial artist, Steve moved north to pursue his love for creative adventure, painting in the mountains, forests, villages and coastal towns of Scotland, where he is now based. He has taught art classes for nearly 20 years.
Designed for all levels, the course will focus on composition, tonal range, colour mixing, line and wash, and sketching. Course sizes are small to allow for personalised instruction based on your level of experience.