Creativity Cruise in Scotland
April 25 – May 3, 2020
Un-Loch your Imagination as you Float through Scotland!
Sorry, registration is closed.
Is your creative passion calling you?
Fostering your artistic gifts calls for an innovative adventure, and that’s exactly what awaits you. Climb aboard your cozy first-class river barge and meander the enchanting Caledonian Canal nestled in the heart of Scotland with a group of like-minded women. Breathe in the simple beauty, savor fine foods, be pampered by your caring hosts, let your creative juices flow and enjoy unique experiences returning each night to your same comfy bed.
Be inspired. Breathe deeply. Rekindle your passion.
Are you waiting for the “perfect time” to focus on the creative outlet that keeps calling you, but there just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day?
Set aside your responsibilities and daily routine for just seven days and reconnect with what truly gives you joy. Get lost in painting or sketching the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish hillside with no time constraints.
Is there a devotional you’ve been wanting to delve into, or have you been meaning to assemble a vision board to help navigate a recent transition and move forward, but you’re so caught up in the busy-ness of every day life it never happens?
Relax and be inspired to what is calling. Fill your senses and renew your soul as you begin to regard these outlets as essential and life-affirming.
Whether it’s writing, painting, handiwork, yoga, or snuggled up with a fluffy blanket and a hot cup of tea immersed in a good book, the serenity and stillness of the Caledonian Canal promises to allow a space to be inspired and to get those creative juices flowing!
Let Scotland welcome you in as you explore the unique and precious gifts you have to offer the world!
Sounds awesome – tell me more!
Floating in Luxury
From the moment you step onto the Spirit of Scotland, a unique resort on water, you sense you’re in for a treat. Being one of only twelve passengers on this intimate adventure, you are sure to be pampered by your crew of six.
You step down into the beautifully decorated ‘living’ area where you’re greeted by your hosts whose main purpose is making sure your stay with them far exceeds your expectations. They offer you a welcome cocktail or soft drink and a smile. The cozy seating area invites you to chat, read or enjoy a drink of your choice while taking in the breathtaking scenery outside through the large windows.
On the deck below is your tasteful double room with your private bath. You settle in, put your belongings in the drawers and closet, and breathe out a huge sigh of relief knowing you won’t have to repack or move again until your adventure is finished.
Once settled in, you venture up to the top open-air deck. Here you sit and experience the cool breeze on your face and connect even more deeply with your surroundings. A special treat lies at the back – a hot tub perfect for a front row seat to breathtaking sunsets!
All thoughtfully designed to allow you a carefree week to explore your creativity and Scotland!
This looks amazing...
Delectable Delights
Prepare to have your taste buds treated to delicious foods prepared just for you by your private chefs. Expect to sample celebrated Aberdeen Angus beef, known for its tender, succulent and deliciously subtle flavor. Well matured, with a marble appearance, this cut of beef is associated with classic quality cooking. Scottish lamb, often served as a rack and on a broth of risotto made with either rice or barley is famous for its flavor and texture. Scottish salmon and venison will both likely feature on the menu too. The fruits and vegetables served are that of local growers.
Each day you’ll savor a variety of cheeses from local cheesemakers. While on board you will more than likely have the chance to taste the Isle of Kintyre Mature Cheddar, the Caboc, and the Stratton Blue. The Gruth Dhu is a particular favourite and is a soft creamy cheese that boasts a sour tangy flavour. Hand rolled in pinhead oats and crushed peppercorns, it is thought to have been brought to the country by the Vikings, in the 8th century.
It has been said that cheese prevents a whiskey hangover, so if you plan on over-imbibing on board, make sure you wash your whiskey down with plenty of cheese!
You have the option at all evening meals to sample a fine selection of local and international wines and there will be ales and single malts as well. After all, what’s a visit to Scotland without a scotch?
Activities
Your voyage aboard the Spirit of Scotland is an unforgettable experience as you view the country from a unique perspective. In addition to your sailing experience, each day you have the option for exploration on shore. You may choose to join our group in a variety of tours or experiences, take one of the bikes onboard and ride through the countryside, or wander through the small villages.
Here is a sample of the excursions provided. If our group fills the entire barge (that’s just 12 women!) we can tailor those experiences as we’d like.
Day 1
Champagne welcome by the Captain and crew and an evening stroll before our first dinner on board.
Day 2
Today you visit the mystical area of Glencoe known for it’s geographical beauty and also as one of the darkest days in Scottish history. You visit the ruins there or opt for a cable car ride to the summit of Aonach Mor Mountain.
Day 3
Eilean Donan Castle, one of the best known and most photographed castles in Scotland, is in our sites for today. In the afternoon you may choose to fish or enjoy a walk along the pretty moor.
Day 4
This day we are treated to the spectacular Fort Augustus with it’s Benedictine Abbey at the entrance to Loch Ness. A falconry and birds of prey demonstration is planned for us there. This evening we will eat ashore in a local restaurant.
Day 5
Today we cruise across the world-famous Loch Ness, as we keep our eyes peeled for a glimpse of Nessie. Our day will include a tour of the Clava Cairns, a pre-historic clan chieftain burial site dating back to 2000 B.C.
Day 6
Our final cruising day takes us through Tomnahurich swing bridge and through the locks to Muirtown. After lunch we’ll take a visit to the Muir of Ord distillery, founded in 1838. There, we’ll have a lesson of the maturing and ageing process of their whiskies, each with distinctive characteristics, and then a special tasting of several single malts. Then our experience will end with the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.
Day 7
After breakfast, we say our thank yous and good byes to our crew as we are taken by private chauffeured minibus to the airport for our return back home.
Each day, you have time for exploring your creativity. If you like to paint or sketch, bring your supplies. If writing is your passion, be sure to pack your favorite journal.
I am ready - let's go!
All This is Included with your Registration
- Round trip airfare from your closest international airport to Inverness, Scotland
(Includes all fees, taxes, and transfers) - One bag allowance checked and a small carry-on for the plane
- Private transfers to and from the river barge
- 6 nights lodging in the first class Spirit of Scotland river barge
- Double occupancy with private bath.
- All port taxes and fees.
- All meals –breakfasts, lunches & dinners
- All entrance fees, activities, and parties on our schedule
- Daily inspirational messages and thoughtful conversations
- Special gift
- Little surprises along the way!
Not Included
- Travel insurance – recommended (www.travelinsurance.com)
- Shopping or Souvenirs
- Any activities not specifically listed on our itinerary
Scotland, here I come!
You’ve got one life; one precious, unique, and sometimes brief, life.
Delight in the Journey!
