October 11–17, 2026
📍 Inveraray, Scotland | Loch Fyne & Beyond

Pack your painting gear and step into a storybook plein air retreat and paint Scotland! Join world-renowned artist Lori McNee for a plein air retreat in one of the most picturesque corners of Scotland. Based in the charming lochside village of Inveraray, this workshop offers four full days of immersive painting, six nights of cozy accommodations, and guided excursions to some of the most stunning and historic sites in the Highlands.

Here’s the backstory on how it all came to be…A Highland Homecoming: Announcing My 2026 Plein Air Retreat!

This will be the ultimate way to paint Scotland, from castles and ancient churches to quaint harbors and misty hills, each location is carefully chosen to inspire. There’s also plenty of time for independent exploration, sketching, and connecting with fellow creatives over Highland meals and music.

**All mediums are welcome, I will demo in oil and gouache.

Sample Itinerary

(Subject to change depending on weather and light)

Sunday, October 11
Arrive in Inveraray, settle in at the historical  George Hotel, and breathe in the Highland air. Optional welcome walk or pub meetup.

Monday, October 12 – Loch Fyne Dock
10am – Painting demo by the loch
12–4pm – Individual instruction at student easels

Tuesday, October 13 – Saint Conan’s Kirk + Artist Dinner
10am – Painting demo in the atmospheric church grounds
12–4pm – Painting session
Evening – Optional Dutch treat dinner & artist social at The George Hotel

Wednesday, October 14 – Auchindrain Historic Village
10am – Painting demo among thatched croft buildings
12–4pm – Individual instruction and open sketching

Thursday, October 15 – Loch Fyne, Northern Viewpoint
10am – Painting demo with sweeping loch views
12–4pm – Individual instruction
Optional hike to Dun na Cuaiche overlook above Inveraray Castle

Friday, October 16 – Free Day
Paint independently, explore nearby castles, or simply relax
7pm – Optional farewell dinner & music at The George Hotel

Saturday, October 17
Farewell hugs, sketchbook swaps, and safe travels home

Retreat Highlights & Painting Locations

🏰 Inveraray Village – A planned Georgian town from 1745, rich with 18th-century charm and lochside elegance.

🖼️ Loch Fyne Dock – A historic harbor dating back to the 1700s, perfect for capturing light, boats, and reflective waters.

⛪ Saint Conan’s Kirk – Built 1881–1930, using stones from Iona Abbey (founded 563 AD). Mystical, moody, and timeless.

🛖 Auchindrain Historic Village – Inhabited since the 1500s, with original crofts and cottages preserved from the 17th–19th centuries.

🌄 Loch Fyne – Northern Viewpoint – Sweeping vistas and ever-changing light. A peaceful setting full of natural drama.

🥾 Optional Hike: Dun na Cuaiche Overlook – A scenic trail to an 18th-century folly with panoramic views over Inveraray Castle, the loch, and the valley.

🏰 Inveraray Castle (1746–1789) – Built on the site of a 15th-century fortress, and still home to the Duke of Argyll. Optional excursion.

🏯 Kilchurn Castle (circa 1450) – A hauntingly beautiful ruin on Loch Awe, perfect for dramatic compositions and moody skies.

Workshop Details

• 6 nights lodging (Sunday–Saturday)
• 4 full days of painting demos and instruction
• Optional artist dinners & local events

Rates:

• $2295 double occupancy
• $2995 single occupancy
• $1850 non-painter (shared)
• $200 deposit holds your spot
  🖌️ Limited space – already half full!

To Reserve Your Spot:

1. Email Lori at lori@lorimcnee.com to check current availability.
2. Once confirmed, mail your $200 deposit (or full payment) by check to:

Elaine K. Miller

Workshop Organizer
46 Dudley Rd.
Brentwood, NH 03833

Make checks payable to: Elaine K. Miller