Mountains & Metaphors:
A Photography Retreat in Eryri
Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales
15–17 April 2026
Fee: £650 (includes two nights’ accommodation, breakfast, packed lunches & dinner)
Description
Step away from routine and immerse yourself in a two-day photography retreat in the mountains of Eryri, North Wales. With its dramatic peaks, valleys and villages, Eryri offers a setting that has inspired generations of artists and writers. Guided by photographer and writer Benedict Brain, this retreat is about more than making scenic images; it is about connecting with place, exploring with creative intent, and refining your way of seeing.
While the landscape is spectacular, the emphasis will be on creative exploration, thinking about photography and why we make images. Together we will move past the obvious vistas to uncover overlooked details, subtle narratives and fresh perspectives. It is about slowing down, mindfully engaging with the environment, and developing a personal, authentic practice.
This two-day retreat offers:
Mentorship and guidance from Benedict Brain
Evening lecture followed by conversation
Photographic walks in mountain and valley landscapes
Group discussions and feedback to refine vision and narrative
Two evening meals with space for conversation about art and practice
Accommodation for two nights in a welcoming mountain setting, including breakfast, packed lunch and dinner (x2)
A relaxed end-of-day debrief around the fire with a pint (or whatever you fancy)
Practical Information
A reasonable level of fitness is required (you should be able to walk 8km (5miles) relatively easily), as the retreat involves walking on uneven surfaces and spending extended periods outdoors. This is a “whatever the weather” experience, so participants must come prepared with suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.
What to Bring
Camera of your choice (DSLR, mirrorless, compact, or smartphone)
Lenses and accessories you like to use (tripod optional)
Spare batteries and memory cards
Waterproof jacket and warm layers
Sturdy, waterproof walking boots or shoes
Hat, gloves, and a small daypack for personal items
Notebook and pen for jotting down thoughts and ideas
Keep your kit light. The focus of this retreat is on creative exploration and mindful seeing, not hauling equipment up mountains. Any questions, ping me a message at: ben@brainsfotoguides.com
Accommodation:
We will be staying at the Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel (PyG) in North Wales, a short stroll from Pen-y-Pass, deep in the heart of Eryri. Built in 1810, the PyG became world famous as the training base for Edmund Hillary’s team before their successful ascent of Everest in 1953. The Welsh writer and historian Jan Morris, who reported on that climb, was also a regular, and along with other writers, poets, artists and mountaineers could often be found chatting by the fire in the “smoke room”.
The hotel remains steeped in history and a unique character that makes it one of my favourite hotels in the world. After a day of creative photography, we can plunge into the natural lake and retreat to the sauna, followed by lively conversation in the smoke room and a hearty three-course meal. This setting, with its unique blend of myth, history, quirky ritual and squeaky floorboards, provides the perfect backdrop for our Mountains & Metaphors photography retreat.
https://www.pyg.co.uk/contact.htm
Mountains & Metaphors:
A Photography Retreat in Eryri
Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales
15–17 April 2026
Fee: £650 (includes two nights’ accommodation, breakfast, packed lunches & dinner)
Description
Step away from routine and immerse yourself in a two-day photography retreat in the mountains of Eryri, North Wales. With its dramatic peaks, valleys and villages, Eryri offers a setting that has inspired generations of artists and writers. Guided by photographer and writer Benedict Brain, this retreat is about more than making scenic images; it is about connecting with place, exploring with creative intent, and refining your way of seeing.
While the landscape is spectacular, the emphasis will be on creative exploration, thinking about photography and why we make images. Together we will move past the obvious vistas to uncover overlooked details, subtle narratives and fresh perspectives. It is about slowing down, mindfully engaging with the environment, and developing a personal, authentic practice.
This two-day retreat offers:
Mentorship and guidance from Benedict Brain
Evening lecture followed by conversation
Photographic walks in mountain and valley landscapes
Group discussions and feedback to refine vision and narrative
Two evening meals with space for conversation about art and practice
Accommodation for two nights in a welcoming mountain setting, including breakfast, packed lunch and dinner (x2)
A relaxed end-of-day debrief around the fire with a pint (or whatever you fancy)
Practical Information
A reasonable level of fitness is required (you should be able to walk 8km (5miles) relatively easily), as the retreat involves walking on uneven surfaces and spending extended periods outdoors. This is a “whatever the weather” experience, so participants must come prepared with suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.
What to Bring
Camera of your choice (DSLR, mirrorless, compact, or smartphone)
Lenses and accessories you like to use (tripod optional)
Spare batteries and memory cards
Waterproof jacket and warm layers
Sturdy, waterproof walking boots or shoes
Hat, gloves, and a small daypack for personal items
Notebook and pen for jotting down thoughts and ideas
Keep your kit light. The focus of this retreat is on creative exploration and mindful seeing, not hauling equipment up mountains. Any questions, ping me a message at: ben@brainsfotoguides.com
Accommodation:
We will be staying at the Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel (PyG) in North Wales, a short stroll from Pen-y-Pass, deep in the heart of Eryri. Built in 1810, the PyG became world famous as the training base for Edmund Hillary’s team before their successful ascent of Everest in 1953. The Welsh writer and historian Jan Morris, who reported on that climb, was also a regular, and along with other writers, poets, artists and mountaineers could often be found chatting by the fire in the “smoke room”.
The hotel remains steeped in history and a unique character that makes it one of my favourite hotels in the world. After a day of creative photography, we can plunge into the natural lake and retreat to the sauna, followed by lively conversation in the smoke room and a hearty three-course meal. This setting, with its unique blend of myth, history, quirky ritual and squeaky floorboards, provides the perfect backdrop for our Mountains & Metaphors photography retreat.
https://www.pyg.co.uk/contact.htm
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