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.