Yes, I suppose I did steal the title for the new trip. But it’s appropriate – the rare, endangered corncrake is significantly present on the unpolluted island of Colonsay. The words slip easily off the tongue; and besides, I loved that book.
Any similarity ends there, though and there is definitely no criminality involved in this trip!
Where the Corncrakes Sing is a brand-new artists’ retreat on Colonsay, in the Inner Hebrides, reached by ferry from Oban. Bustling Oban, itself worth a visit, is ideally situated on the West Coast of Scotland with ferries flitting hither-thither throughout the islands. Being easily reachable by public transport from Glasgow and, therefore, other parts of the UK, this is the perfect trip for leaving the car behind. We will take just one between us onto the ferry, which will act as an informal taxi service during the week, although with Colonsay being only eight miles long, most places are an easy walk or cycle away.
This new retreat is for artists of all levels except for complete beginners; it is especially pointed at anyone looking for a relaxing, peaceful week away from all distractions to concentrate on creativity. Self-sufficient professionals may remain completely undisturbed during the day, catching up with the group in the evening, when we’ll cook and eat together in our cottage. Novice painters may join short, informal workshops and demos, which can suggest a focus for the day, and they will receive input and support with their work if desired. A list of activities will be offered at the start of the week, and guests will be free to join in with any, all or none of them, without judgement.
With each hidden cove more breathtaking than the next, it’d be difficult to run out of inspiration on Colonsay. Even for non-landscape painters, the calming tranquillity of this precious location should bring clarity and focus, allowing a fresh approach to existing or new creative projects.
Writers, too, will find a conducive atmosphere for ‘getting down to it’, and are welcome to join us, especially if they have a passing interest in painting.
While there will be a discount for those sharing a room, this retreat is not suited to non-participating partners, unless they have their own creative project such as writing or landscape photography, as the aim is for complete immersion without distractions. It’s only a week; why not invite your non-painting partner to join you in Oban afterwards?
Check out Trip 4 – Where the Corncrakes Sing, in the Scotland section of the website (under Vistas on the menu bar). Then request further details. The first trip will run in May or in July 2026, dates to be determined soon. I’m leaning towards July; feel free to email me with your preference!
Reference: Owens, D. (2018) Where the Crawdads Sing. G. P. Putnam’s Sons, New York.
