Painting vacation in Scottish Highlands

Planet

I am passionate about the environment and particularly the area around which I live. I would never allow any guest to contribute to polluting or disfiguring the landscape in any way or do so myself either as a result of these trips or otherwise. All litter is taken home and disposed of responsibly.

Unfortunately, due to the sometimes stormy weather and prevailing winds in the area we often experience unwanted debris washed up on the rocky shorelines. My motto is to take at least one piece of rubbish home each time I go out and guests often like to take a spare bag for such a purpose. Every little helps and the community periodically organises beach cleans with which I get involved when I can.

Sketching and painting tends to be a peaceful activity with minimal impact on the environment but nevertheless I always encourage responsible behaviour with consideration to wildlife and native plants.

Although we need a car to take us to the less accessible areas and the starting point for walks, Lochinver itself can be reached by public transport from other parts of the UK so a vacation here need not involve a flight.

People

I have lived in this area for many years (most of my adult life) and am very much part of this small, close-knit community which I call home.

While I do not provide accommodation on this trip I would be delighted to help you find a suitable place to stay which will be locally owned and run.
We sample local cafes and restaurants during the week and have the chance to visit the wonderful pottery, started and run by a local family for over 40 years, where you can watch the artists and craftsmen at work.

The local people in the area are proud of their heritage and history and many have been here for generations. The area is steeped in Gaelic tradition and a friendly chat to a fisherman in the bar can be as enlightening as it is entertaining. NW Scotland has accepted a steady flow of tourists for years, although a fair proportion of inhabitants still live by other means, while remaining warm, friendly and welcoming to respectful and genuinely interested visitors.

Although the 'right to roam' exists in Scotland I would never dream of intentionally angering or annoying crofting neighbours by wandering on their land or disturbing their livestock. In these parts, sheep come first and I long ago gave up any wish for it to be otherwise!

If you decide to extend your stay before or after your painting vacation I will recommend local activities and visits such as boat trips and galleries; during the summer months there are often live music events and nature talks in the village hall which I encourage you to attend also for a true taste of local culture.