Empauher Retreat — Unmasking Authentically

What is it?

A 3‑night coaching retreat for neurodivergent & LGBTQIA+ professionals on the Isle of Bute

Location:

St Blane’s House, Kilchattan Bay, Isle of Bute, Scotland

Length:

3 nights / 3 days

Who It’s For

Neurodivergent and/or LGBTQIA+ professionals, creatives, and leaders seeking renewal, clarity, and practical strategies to thrive authentically in work and life.

Outcomes You’ll Leave With

Confidence and language to unmask authentically in life and work.
A personalised action plan for wellbeing and career growth without burnout.
Deeper self‑knowledge of strengths, needs, and boundaries.
Lifelong connections in a safe, affirming community.

Why Bute (and Why This Retreat Centre)

What you’ll love about this retreat location

Oceanfront calm, 25 yards away.

Step from the house to the beach at Kilchattan Bay for sunrise strolls, rock pools, and seal‑spotting.

Views that reset the nervous system.

Ever‑changing sea light, Arran’s mountains on the horizon, and the Kyles of Bute.

Choose‑your‑energy days.

Gentle beach walks or bigger adventures on the West Island Way and Kelspoke Trail—tailored for pace and access needs.

Neuro‑affirming setting.

Quiet village vibe, cosy nooks for downtime, predictable rhythms; bus stop right by the house.

Weather‑proof joy.

If the West Coast brings four seasons in a day, the games room, music kit, and creative spaces keep spirits high indoors.

Wildlife on your doorstep.

Otters, deer, birds of prey, and Scalpsie’s seal colony; St Ninian’s Bay offers rich birdlife and big‑sky vistas.

Heritage that inspires.

Mount Stuart’s opulence, St Blane’s Chapel’s tranquility, Rothesay Castle’s stories—perfect prompts for reflection.

Playful possibilities.

Cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking (seasonal), horse riding, and three scenic golf courses if you fancy a swing.

Right to Roam freedom.

Scotland’s access laws make exploring hills and coastlines simple—bring sturdy shoes and curiosity.

Community warmth.

Friendly post office/coffee stop and a great local pub a mile away—both on the bus route.

Easy to reach—worlds away.

Multiple ferry options and money‑saving ticket tips, plus quick links for day trips to the Highlands or Glasgow.

Made for authentic connection.

Big shared dining, fireside chats, and sunset circles that make it easy to unmask, exhale, and belong.

What you’ll love about this retreat centre

Perfect for gatherings, St Blane’s House is a spacious, detached house—once a hotel, now a stunning large retreat centre. Right on the water’s edge, it showcases the best of Scotland’s west coast.

Bute is named one of National Geographic’s Top 10 adventure destinations, with the West Island Way and Kelspoke Trail for panoramic sea vistas. The island also offers three golf courses, cycle paths, horseback riding, kayaking, abundant wildlife, and superb angling (rainbow trout on Loch Fad plus ample sea fishing).

Nearby highlights include Mount Stuart House, the Victorian resort town of Rothesay (castle + museum), seasonal sailings on the Waverley paddle steamer, Port Bannatyne, St Blane’s Chapel, and Ascog Fernery. Festivals across the year: Jazz Festival, ButeFest, Highland Games, Baird Festival of Flight.

At the retreat centre you’ll have a large games room (pool, table tennis, darts, toys, board games) and a music‑friendly lounge (drum kit, guitars, microphones, amp, keyboard, trumpet, karaoke with lights).. Themed bedrooms add extra fun.

Distances: beach 25 yards, shop 150 yards, pub/restaurant 1 mile.
Neighbourhood: A small, friendly village with a post office/coffee shop and a pub 1 mile away both on the bus route, with a stop outside the pub and St Blane’s House.

BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL

Ginny’s understanding of neurodiverse challenges and her ability to create tailored strategies made all the difference. I now have confidence and clarity in my entrepreneurial journey.

— Kate Curtis, Music Therapist & Head of Therapy