Scottish Art Experience - Mystery and Beauty – From Past to Present - September 24th - October 2nd 2008
This Art Experience is unique – its setting on a secluded estate 22 miles south of Oban (in a seaside castle in the cradle of Scotland) is perfect to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life. Amidst mixed woodland and open moorland, and with stunning coastal views towards the islands of the Inner Hebrides, it will evoke inspiration and the feeling of closeness with Nature. Mysteries abound in nearby Kilmartin Glen, where a cornucopia of ancient sites awaits our exploration. And the added bonus of all the autumn colours will be sure to delight all our participants.
Sept. 24th - Meet at Glasgow International Airport. Travel to the west coast along the banks of Loch Lomond, stopping for lunch at Inveraray en route. Settle in at our special country house on the Lunga Estate, which has been in the MacDougall family for over 300 years. Relax in our upper floor apartment in Lunga House, after the journey, or wind down seeking out some of the beautiful paths through the 4000 acres of this gorgeous coastal estate before enjoying our “Welcome Dinner” of a sumptuous candle-lit meal.
After dinner, Sacred Circle where Denni and Elizabeth will present an overview of the retreat.
Sept. 25th – After Elizabeth gives us an initial orientation into the “art experience”, we’ll spend our first day exploring Kilmartin Glen, a valley full of ancient sites going back thousands of years. During our explorations, we will be able to tune in with the land and get a feel of this special place. We’ll start out at Kilmartin House, a centre for archaeology and landscape interpretation. Close by is the churchyard at Kilmartin Church which houses one of the best collections of Celtic crosses and grave slabs dating from the 9th Century. Then we’ll go on to explore the linear cemetery where 500 years before the pyramids of Egypt were built, the inhabitants of the area erected the first of the line of massive burial cairns. There are a great many sites dating from Neolithic and Bronze Age, and Templewood stone circle and Ballymeanoch standing stones are two of the best examples of these monuments in this area. In the afternoon we’ll visit the well preserved 16th Century ruins of Carnassarie Castle on a ridge at the edge of the village. Dinner provided tonight. After dinner Sacred Circle.
Sept. 26th – “Art experience” with Elizabeth. Presentation, demo, art related to our experience in Kilmartin Glen yesterday. Elizabeth will always be available for additional assistance. The afternoon is open for personal time; art, walks or relaxation. There are riding stables very close by, so anyone who would like to go horse-riding (on Appaloosas, western style) let Denni know. Dinner out at Lord of the Isles in nearby Croabh Haven.
Sept. 27th – Art Experience a.m. Presentation, demos, and hands on art. In afternoon, explore the southern end of Kilmartin Glen, and Dunadd Fort, where the kings of Scotland were crowned in the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada. Around this area are the best examples of inscribed rocks and cup and ring mark stones. Dinner provided tonight. Sacred Circle after our dinner to process the day.
Click to enlarge images above
Sept. 28th – Art Experience day. Presentation, demo, and art experience. Afternoon open to relaxation, walks, naps, art etc. Dinner out at Kilmartin Hotel.
Sept. 29th – After breakfast drive to Oban “Gateway to the Isles”, a charming, mostly Victorian, town set on a hill, with amazing seascapes towards the Isles of Kerrera, Mull and Lismore. Take time out for one’s own personal exploration of esplanade or shops. After lunch visit the ruins of Dunollie Castle and walk along the cliffs of Ganavan for more spectacular coastal vistas. Walk up to McCaig’s Tower for stunning sunset views before enjoying a delicious meal at a special restaurant.
Click to enlarge images above
Sept. 30th - Art Experience Day. Presentation, demo, and art experience. The afternoon will be open to rest, relaxation, art or one’s own exploration. Dinner out.
Oct. 1st - Our last day. Finish art projects and have a last excursion to a local site (group consensus chooses) before returning for our “Farewell Dinner” at Lunga House, and party afterwards.
Oct. 2nd - Say goodbye to the west coast of Scotland and back to Glasgow Airport.
Price - £1695* (Tour cost goes up 7% for bookings after June 1st) which includes:
- Pick up and set down at Glasgow International Airport
- Accommodation on an outstanding country estate on the west coast of Scotland
- All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners included
- All land transportation and entry fees
- Visits to 5000 year old sacred sites
- A day out in Oban
- Time for creating art and reflection
- Art experiences that stretch the imagination and stimulate creativity
- Time for personal exploration in Nature
- Optional horse riding on the estate
A deposit of £250 will secure your place.
*Cost is based on 2 people sharing. Single rooms may be available at extra cost. Please contact Denni for availability and price.
You can pay for the deposit of the tour or the total amount using a debit or credit card using Paypal. However PLEASE check availability with Denni first either by phoning on 44 (0)1631 564 750 or filling in the online enquiry form.
"The greatest tour I've ever been on - so personal and truly magical. I'll definitely be back!"
Merlina S. Alamo, CA
"My need was for a small, friendly, metaphysically oriented group, meeting its itinerary in a graceful manner with room for flexibility and respect for individual privacy. I found it in the Magical Mystery Tour. Thank you, Denni."
Corey, Los Gatos, CA