Gaelic Experience
Ever wondered how to pronounce the name of a Scottish mountain? Or wondered what that name might actually mean? Ever wanted to see what placenames have to tell us about the plants and the people, the birds and the animals who have gone before us in our landscapes? Or perhaps you’re intrigued by the connections between Gaelic and rewilding? If so, this weekend is made for you!
What you can expect
Join us for a weekend of walks and activities which will open your eyes to Dundreggan’s Gaelic landscape, with a traditional Highland Cèilidh thrown in as well: bidh craic math ann, agus bidh fàilte mhòr ron a h-uile duine!
This residential will be led in English, but you will come away from it knowing more Gaelic than you did at the start, and with a deeper appreciation of the significance Gaelic language and culture plays in Scotland’s landscapes, past, present and future!
Gaelic is the oldest surviving language in Scotland and for many centuries it has been spoken throughout these glens. For Gaels, their sense of being part of their homeland is summed up perfectly in the word dùthchas which encapsulates belonging, tradition, and an attachment to landscape and all living things.
Who is Gaelic Experience for?
Adults wishing to learn more about Gaelic language and culture, and its connections to our landscapes, nature and rewilding. No previous knowledge of Gaelic is necessary.
Most of the activities are suitable for all audiences, including those with additional accessibility needs. However, some of the planned walks may include taking a longer trail to the top of one of our hills. If you have questions about accessibility please get in touch.
On Saturday night we will host a traditional Highland Cèilidh, with storytelling and music – feel free to bring your own instruments.
Prògram
Sample programme
Day One
2pm arrivals and welcome: fàilte!
2.30pm introductory guided walk: Gaelic and Dundreggan
4.30pm check in to rooms, and free time to settle and unpack
6pm dinner in An Nead
7.30pm evening session – possible lichen dying over the fire
Day Two
8am breakfast in An Nead
10am guided hill walk, exploring sites of old shielings and new areas of planting and regeneration: Gaelic and Rewilding
1pm lunch in An Nead
2pm maps and our place names: a local history of Gaelic
3pm afternoon session with Brian Ó hEadhra, celebrated Gaelic singer-songwriter and musician based in the Highlands of Scotland
6pm dinner in An Nead
8pm Highland Cèilidh: an unforgettable evening of cèilidh dancing and songs in Scottish Gaelic and English, led by acclaimed musicians Brian Ó hEadhra (guitar & vocals) and Melanie Simpson (accordion)
Day Three
8am breakfast in An Nead
10am morning session: Gaelic and the future
1pm lunch in An Nead
2pm departures
Dates
Friday 30 May – Sunday 1 June 2025
Single occupancy double room: £525
Shared occupancy twin or double room: £760 (£380pp)
Maximum 12 participants
Tuesday 14 – Thursday 16 October 2025
Single occupancy double room: £525
Shared occupancy twin or double room: £760 (£380pp)
Maximum 12 participants
Accommodation
Immerse yourself in the Caledonian forest with three nights in our brand-new accommodation, An Spiris. Stay in a double or twin en-suite room and relax in the comfortable and cosy communal space. Towels and bed linen are provided, and a boot room is available for drying outdoor gear.