Salmon of Wisdom Retreat

Spend a weekend experiencing a keystone myth of the Celtic Isles, 'Fionn and the Salmon of knowledge'.

Enjoy a deep dive into mythopoetics, Celtic culture, camaraderie, ancestral craft, freshwater fishing, nature tracking, ecology, fire time, story and song, cold water immersion (optional) in a beautiful glen in the Scottish Highlands. Celebrate the spirit of the Fianna (the hunter-gatherer, warrior poets who once roamed Scotland and Ireland).

When Fionn ate of the Salmon of knowledge he gained the gift of 'true seeing', 'how past, present and future, flow together as a confluence of many streams into one river'. This quality of vision and understanding set him apart from other leaders of the fabled Fianna. 

We explore the potency of this story out on the land, its cultural and ecological significance, and walk in the footsteps of Fionn so we may share in his wisdom, insight and poetic strength. 

Guided by Dougie Mackay, Aoife Lowden and Michael Wachter, this weekend will offer a rich tapestry of land, lore, culture & Craic.

(Early booking advised as we expect this to sell out.)

The retreat will include

• Storytelling & Mythopoetics

• Ancestral crafts

• Wildlife tracking

• Primitive fishing

• Salmon skin tanning

• Creative writing

• Dreaming and Druidcraft

• Lore & Landscape

• Ecology and Mythology of the Salmon

• Storytelling, poetry and song

• Fianna training

Venue 

The Shieling site is nestled in glen Strathfarrar, through which the river Farrar runs (renowned for its Salmon).

Surrounded by mountain and birch, this glen feels wild and remote yet is only 40 minutes drive West of Inverness.

Activities will take place both out on the land and in purpose built workshop spaces. Camping and cabin options available.

Accommodation

Default accommodation is camping, with cabin upgrades upon enquiry.

Some camping gear may be provided if arranged in advance (if travelling form overseas etc).

Food

Dinner and breakfast will be provided, participants supply their own lunch.

Quality meat will be a part of the menu, with vegetarian options available.