Be the First to Taste History

What happens when a whisky expert and a global adventurer create a world-first whisky retreat and decide to create their own whisky and can’t decide who should taste it first…. You get invited.

We are offering limited spaces for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure into the heart of Speyside, Scotland, where whisky meets wild landscapes and bold spirits. You’ll be the first to taste our very first whisky—long before anyone else in the world—and leave with one of our first bottles, a story to tell, and a few new lifelong friends.

Don’t just hear about it. Be part of it.

Step Into Whisky History

Join us for an exclusive 3-day retreat that blends whisky-making traditions with bold adventures and a hint of mischief. Hosted by Craig Holmes, co-creator of Kinging It, and Mitch Bechard, whisky expert and Keeper of the Quaich, this is a whisky adventure like no other.

Think less “stuffy whisky tour” and more secret tastings in hidden glens, campfire stories under the stars, and wild coastal adventures.

What You’ll Experience

• Be the First:
  Taste and take home our very first whisky release before the rest of the world even knows what it is.
• An Exclusive Celebration:
  A grand outdoor BBQ launch party with whisky legends, live music, and a feast under the Speyside stars.
• Adventurous Moments:
  From rugged coasteering to serene mindfulness sessions, this is about connecting with Scotland’s untamed beauty.
• Private Whisky Access:
  Experience a VIP tour at a legendary Speyside distillery, complete with behind-the-scenes insights from the makers themselves.
• Unforgettable Hosts:
  Hang out with Craig and Mitch as they share their passion for adventure, whisky, and great storytelling.

Why You Should Join

This is a journey into the heart of whisky’s future, designed for people who value connection, adventure, and unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re here for the stories, the landscapes, or the whisky (or all three), this is a rare opportunity to be part of something bold, exciting, and brand new.

What’s Included

• 3 nights’ 4-star luxury accommodation.
• All meals, from whisky-paired dinners to indulgent outdoor feasts.
• Your bottle of our debut whisky release.
• VIP distillery tour and Q&A with whisky experts.
• Thrilling outdoor adventures and serene mindfulness sessions.
• Campfire storytelling and evenings of live music.
• A grand launch celebration that’s all about fun, food, and whisky.

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrive in the heart of Speyside and settle into your luxurious accommodation.
• Enjoy a 3-course whisky-paired welcome dinner with Craig and Mitch, setting the tone for adventure.

Day 2:

• Begin your day with optional mindfulness sessions, including meditation, cold water therapy and sauna.
• Explore hidden corners of Speyside on a journey filled with storytelling, history, and secret whisky tastings.
• Experience a private VIP tour of an iconic Speyside distillery, including a Q&A with a global whisky expert.
• Unwind with an elegant dinner followed by stories around the campfire.

Day 3:

• Embrace Scotland’s rugged coastline with a thrilling outdoor adventure.
• Be part of a historic launch moment at a dramatic, secret location, tasting our whisky for the very first time.
• Celebrate the Launch with an Unforgettable and exclusive outdoor BBQ Event:
  Under the Speyside stars, join whisky personalities, local legends, and live musicians for a grand outdoor BBQ and launch party. With a feast prepared by top local chefs and paired with specially selected whiskies, this celebration will be as bold and unforgettable as the whisky itself.

Day 4:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to Speyside with unforgettable memories and your very own bottle of our whisky.
  
  Book the trip of a LIFETIME!

  This exclusive experience is available for:

  • £1,850 per person (single occupancy)
  • £3,500 Double Occupancy (Twin Room)
  • £3,500 Per Couple (Double Bed)
  • 
    

  Spaces are extremely limited — only 20 guests will join us on this journey.

General Questions

1. What is the Retreat?
   It’s a three-day experience in Speyside that combines whisky, outdoor adventures, mindfulness, and community. This retreat marks the launch of a new whisky, offering attendees an exclusive chance to be part of the journey from start to sip.
2. Who is this retreat for?
   This retreat is for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for storytelling and connection. You don’t need to be a whisky expert—just bring your curiosity and a desire to be part of something special.
3. What makes this retreat unique?
   The retreat blends whisky and adventure in ways no other brand does. From private distillery tours to secret outdoor tastings, coasteering on Scotland’s rugged coast, and an exclusive chance to try the whisky at a private lunch before the launch party, every moment is designed to inspire connection and exploration.
4. Will the retreat focus only on whisky?
   While whisky is central, the retreat is also about adventure, mindfulness, and shared experiences. Activities like yoga, storytelling, and exploring the breathtaking Speyside landscape add diversity to the experience.

Booking and Payments

1. How do I secure my spot?
   A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your place. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat begins. Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate experience.
2. Can I pay in instalments?
   Yes, after paying the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid in instalments. Contact us directly for a tailored payment plan.
3. What is the refund policy?
   The 20% deposit is non-refundable. However, if unforeseen circumstances lead to a cancellation of the retreat, a full refund will be issued.
4. Is the price per person or per room?
   Prices are per person, with single occupancy (£1,850) and double occupancy (£3,500 for a couple or twin room) options available.
5. Are drinks included in the retreat price?
   Whisky is included during specific parts of the itinerary, such as dinners and tastings. All other drinks, including additional alcoholic beverages and non-whisky drinks, must be paid for by attendees.

Accommodation and Logistics

1. Where will we stay?
   Accommodation will be split between Craigellachie Lodge and Craigellachie Hotel. The Lodge serves as the retreat’s base for activities, while the Hotel is a short two-minute walk away.
2. What time should I arrive and leave?
   Check-in is from 3 PM on April 5th, 2025, with the retreat concluding at 11 AM on April 8th, 2025.
3. Will transport be provided during the retreat?
   Yes, all transport for scheduled activities is included. You’ll need to arrange your travel to Speyside.
4. What’s the closest airport?
   Inverness Airport and Aberdeen Airport are the closest, both within a 1.5-hour drive of the retreat location.
5. What should I bring?

• Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.
• Sturdy shoes for coasteering and hiking.
• Swimwear for the sauna and cold plunge activities.
• A sense of adventure!

Activities and Schedule

1. What activities are included in the retreat?
   Highlights include:

• A private tour of Speyside Distillery.
• Outdoor whisky tastings in secret locations.
• Coasteering along Scotland’s coast.
• Campfire storytelling with a local historian.
• An exclusive lunch to taste the whisky before its public release.
• A spectacular launch dinner with whisky personalities and live music.

How physically demanding are the activities?

Most activities are accessible for a range of fitness levels, but coasteering and outdoor adventures may require moderate physical ability. If you have concerns, please contact us, and we’ll accommodate your needs.

Can I skip activities I’m not comfortable with?

Absolutely! Participation is optional, and free time is built into the schedule to allow for rest and relaxation.

Will there be free time?

Yes, each day includes free time to enjoy the hotel’s amenities, such as the sauna and cold plunge, or explore the surrounding area.

What’s the launch event?

The highlight of the retreat is the official launch of the whisky. Guests will enjoy a first taste during the retreat and attend an outdoor celebration featuring a BBQ, live music, and whisky industry personalities.

Miscellaneous

1. How many people will attend?
   The retreat is limited to 20 guests to maintain an intimate, exclusive atmosphere.
2. Will I receive my own bottle of whisky?
   Yes! Each guest will receive a bottle of the whisky as part of the retreat. It’s an exclusive opportunity to own the first-ever bottling.
3. What if I don’t drink whisky?
   While whisky is central to the retreat, the event is about more than just the dram. The adventure, storytelling, and community-focused activities ensure there’s something for everyone.
4. Can I bring children or pets?
   This is an adult-only retreat, and unfortunately, pets cannot be accommodated.
5. What happens if there’s bad weather?
   Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, but we’re prepared! Activities will proceed as planned or adjusted to ensure safety and enjoyment.
6. How can I stay connected after the retreat?
   Follow us on social media, subscribe to the newsletter and upcoming retreats.
7. Will there be professional photography or videography?
   Yes, our team will capture moments throughout the retreat, and guests will have access to photos and videos after the event.

Whisky Retreat: Terms and Conditions

Introduction

These Terms and Conditions apply to the whisky retreat organised by Wilderness Spirits (hereafter referred to as “we,” “our,” or “the organisers”). By booking a place on the retreat, guests agree to comply with these Terms and Conditions as outlined below.

1. Payment Terms

1.1 Deposit:

• A 20% non-refundable deposit is required by 15th December 2024 to secure your place on the retreat.
• The deposit amounts are:
  • £370 for single occupancy.
  • £700 for double occupancy (twin or double room).
• The deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances.

1.2 Final Payment:

• The remaining balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the retreat, by 20th February 2025.
• The final payments are:
  • £1,480 for single occupancy.
  • £2,800 for double occupancy (twin or double room).

1.3 Failure to Pay:

• If full payment is not received by the deadline, we reserve the right to cancel the booking, and the deposit will be forfeited.

2. Cancellation Policy

2.1 Cancellations by the Guest:

• Before 20th February 2025: Guests cancelling more than 45 days before the retreat will receive a refund of any payments made, excluding the deposit.
• From 20th February 2025 onwards: Guests cancelling within 45 days of the retreat will not be eligible for any refund.

2.2 Transfer of Booking:

• Guests may transfer their booking to another person up to 30 days before the retreat (by 5th March 2025), subject to our approval.

2.3 Cancellations by the Organisers:

• If we cancel the retreat due to unforeseen circumstances (see Section 6), guests will receive a full refund of payments made, including the deposit.

3. What’s Included

• 3 nights’ luxury accommodation at Craigellachie Lodge or Hotel.
• All meals, including whisky-paired dinners, lunches, and breakfasts.
• Exclusive activities as outlined in the itinerary (e.g., coasteering, secret tastings, and guided meditation sessions).
• A VIP tour of a Speyside distillery, including a private Q&A session.
• Your own bottle of the inaugural whisky release.
• Transportation between retreat activities during the event.

4. What’s Not Included

• Travel to and from Speyside.
• Travel insurance (mandatory for participation).
• Personal expenses such as additional beverages, souvenirs, and gratuities.

5. Liability and Insurance

5.1 Activity Risks:

• Guests acknowledge that activities such as coasteering and cold plunges carry inherent risks and participate at their own discretion and risk.

5.2 Travel Insurance:

• Guests are responsible for obtaining travel insurance that covers outdoor activities, cancellations, and any potential emergencies.

5.3 Waiver:

• Guests must sign a liability waiver prior to participating in any physical activities.

5.4 Limitation of Liability:

• The organisers’ total liability shall not exceed the total amount paid by the guest for the retreat.
• The organisers shall not be liable for indirect or consequential losses, including but not limited to loss of income or enjoyment.

6. Force Majeure

• We will not be liable for cancellations, delays, or disruptions caused by events beyond our control, including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, or government restrictions.
• In such cases, we will make reasonable efforts to reschedule the retreat. Refunds will be offered at our discretion for guests unable to attend the rescheduled event.

7. Minimum Guest Numbers

• A minimum of 10 participants is required for the retreat to proceed.
• If this number is not met by 20th February 2025, we reserve the right to cancel the retreat.
• Guests will receive a full refund, including the deposit, in the event of cancellation due to insufficient numbers.

8. Booking Confirmation

• A booking will only be confirmed upon receipt of the 20% deposit and a confirmation email from us.
• Full payment must be received by the stated deadline to finalise the booking.

9. Health and Fitness

• Guests must ensure they are physically and medically fit to participate in retreat activities, including outdoor and adventure elements.
• Guests are required to notify us of any medical conditions, dietary requirements, or physical limitations at least 30 days before the retreat.
• We reserve the right to exclude guests from specific activities if their participation is deemed unsafe.

10. Dietary and Accessibility Requests

• Guests must provide details of any dietary restrictions, allergies, or accessibility needs by 5th March 2025.
• While all reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate these requests, we cannot guarantee that all needs will be met due to the nature of the retreat.

11. Photography and Media Consent

• By attending the retreat, guests consent to being photographed or filmed during activities and events. These photos and videos may be used for marketing, promotional, and archival purposes.
• Guests who wish to opt out of being photographed or filmed must notify us in writing prior to the retreat.

12. Guest Conduct

• Guests are expected to behave respectfully toward others, including fellow attendees, staff, and property.
• We reserve the right to remove any guest from the retreat without refund if their behaviour is deemed disruptive, harmful, or inappropriate.

13. Alcohol Consumption

• Guests are expected to consume alcohol responsibly during the retreat.
• The organisers reserve the right to restrict alcohol service or remove guests from activities if safety is at risk.

14. Changes to the Itinerary

• We reserve the right to make changes to the retreat itinerary, activities, or accommodation if necessary due to weather, supplier availability, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• Alternative arrangements of equal value will be provided where possible, and guests will be informed promptly of any changes.

15. Data Protection and Privacy

• Wilderness Spirits is fully compliant with GDPR regulations.
• Personal data collected during the booking process will be securely stored and used solely for retreat-related purposes.
• Guest information will not be shared with third parties without prior consent, except where necessary to facilitate retreat services.

16. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

• These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Scotland.
• Any disputes arising under these Terms and Conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Scotland.