Photo Retreat September 2025 – Highland Retreats Skip to main content

Photo Retreat at Spean Lodge

Dates: Sept 26 to Oct 1, 2025
Location: Spean Bridge, Scottish Highlands

Overview

Join us for an unforgettable photography retreat at the luxurious Spean Lodge. This unique experience is designed to immerse you in reportage-style photography, capturing Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and scenes as if on a professional editorial assignment.

By the end of the retreat, you’ll have built a portfolio of classic Highland imagery and created lifelong memories. And hopefully a few friends.

Day 1

Friday, Sept 26, 2025

Arrival: Arrive in Inverness or Fort William by 3 PM. Transportation to Spean Lodge will be provided.

Accommodation: Settle into your luxurious single-occupancy room.

Evening: Welcome dinner at Spean Lodge, with an introduction to the retreat schedule.

Day 2

Saturday, Sept 27, 2025

Morning: Hike to the stunning Steall Falls (approximately 2 hours round trip from the car park).

Late Morning/Afternoon: Travel to Glencoe to photograph a Highland dancer against the dramatic landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the glen and photograph 

Evening: Return to Spean Lodge for a delicious meal and to review the day’s work.

Day 3

Sunday, Sept 28, 2025

Early Morning: Photograph the famous shipwreck at Corpach.

Mid-Morning: A short drive to Glenfinan to capture the famous steam train crossing the viaduct (featured in the Harry Potter films).

Lunch: Picnic lunch en route.

Afternoon: Head to a secluded beach near Morar to photograph a galloping horse.

Evening: Return to Spean Lodge to relax.

Day 4

Monday, Sept 29, 2025

All-Day Excursion: After breakfast, depart for the Isle of Skye.

En Route Stop: Photograph a piper at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks.

On Skye: Hike and photograph the Old Man of Storr (about 1 hour 15 minutes to the best vantage point).

Evening: Long day, but worth it for the exceptional landscapes. Return to Spean Lodge early evening.

Day 5

Tuesday, Sept 30, 2025

Morning: Visit a nearby estate to photograph deerstalkers and Highland cows.

Late Morning: Stop at the Commando Memorial (just 1 mile from the lodge) to complete your portfolio of Highland images.

Afternoon: Return to Spean Lodge earlier to review the week’s assignments, print a few favorite images, and share experiences.

Evening: Enjoy entertainment in the lounge on the final night of the retreat.

Day 6 – Departure

Wednesday, Oct 1, 2025

Morning: After a hearty Scottish breakfast, depart Spean Lodge. Transportation back to Inverness or Fort William will be provided.

What to Bring

Photography Gear:

  • Camera (any type you prefer)
  • Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
  • Sturdy tripod
  • Spare batteries and charger
  • Ample memory cards
  • Lens cleaning kit
  • Camera bag/backpack suitable for outdoor conditions
  • Chamois leather
  • Remote shutter release
  • Laptop or tablet for editing
  • Notebook and pen

Clothing:

  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm layers (fleece, sweaters, thermal tops)
  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
  • Gloves, hat, and scarf
  • Comfortable indoor shoes or slippers for the lodge

Optional Items:

  • Neutral density (ND) filters
  • Polarizing filter

STAYING AT THE LODGE

Spean Lodge offers a range of accommodation options to suit your needs during our retreats. Choose from elegant double rooms, spacious family rooms, or self-contained apartments, all designed for comfort and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, Spean Lodge provides a luxurious and welcoming base to enhance your retreat experience.

Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to call you back to discuss the best accommodation option for you.

Come and join us!

Why not give our April 2025 Photography Retreat a try? It’s going to be a lot of fun, with plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and capture amazing moments. Spaces are limited, so drop Paul an email, and he will happily give you a call to chat about it. We’d love to hear from you!

Prices start from only £1350, depending on your accommodation and preferences.

CONTACT & BOOK NOW