A Memorable 7-Day Retreat at Hill of Tarvit Mansion: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Relaxation

Why Building A Personal Brand Is Important

July 5, 2024

Content Marketing Pitch For Travel Agency, Around The World Travels

September 4, 2024

Published by Olushola Adetutu on August 21, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and a Taste of Home

After a long trip, we arrived at the charming West Cottage, our home for the week. With the cool Scottish air welcoming us, we settled in, but not before enjoying a homemade Nigerian dish, Yellow Eba and Efo Riro (Stewed Spinach). It was the perfect meal to ease into the evening, allowing us to unwind and get a good night’s sleep.

Day 2: A Scottish-Nigerian Breakfast and Fun in the Garden

The day began with a hearty Scottish breakfast prepared by my friend David—toast, scrambled eggs, and bacon, all enjoyed in the cozy ambiance of the West Cottage. In the afternoon, we set up a hot tub in the enclosed private garden, and the kids transformed the outdoor tent into their private club.

For dinner, I prepared Nigerian Jollof rice with plantains, which was a hit with everyone, especially little Nazanine, who described it as “very spicy, but if you eat it quickly, it’s very delicious!” The day ended with a fun-filled evening of games and a pillow fight, with everyone in high spirits.

Day 3: Hot Tubs and Exploring the Woods

We started the day with French toast, The mobile hot tub was the highlight, offering us all a heavenly soak, even as light rain began to fall. What better way to spend a rainy Scottish day than in a hot tub? We heated the tub to the perfect temperature and relaxed as the gentle rain fell around us. The kids later explored the woods and the majestic Hill of Tarvit Monument. Dinner that night was classic American comfort food, cheeseburgers and pizza, enjoyed in the warmth of the cottage as we shared stories from our day.

Day 4: St. Andrews and a Glimpse into Golf’s Birthplace

Determined to explore despite the Scottish weather, we set off for St. Andrews, a city with a rich history and plenty of attractions for both kids and adults, known as the birthplace of golf. Although the town was bustling with the AIG golf event, we managed to find parking and enjoyed an educational visit to the St. Andrews Aquarium, where we marveled at the sea creatures, although the kids were disappointed not to see any dolphins or octopuses.

Lunch was a delightful mix of Nando’s chicken and Cromars Fish and Chips, each meal leaving us more satisfied than the last. The evening brought a moment of reconciliation and bonding among friends, making our retreat even more meaningful.

Back at the West Cottage, we resolved a little misunderstanding amongst the ladies—nothing that a heartfelt conversation in the garden couldn’t fix!

Day 5: A Royal Connection and Beachside Bliss

We visited Craigtoun Park and the Duke’s Chamber, where we learned that King Charles had spent part of his childhood. The day was filled with activities like golf, boat rides, and even driving manual cars—each experience teaching us about the simplicity of life before modern conveniences.

In the evening, we relaxed at St. Andrews Beach, its fine sand and calming waters offering the perfect end to our day. We capped off the night with a satisfying meal from Maxine Chinese Takeaway, savoring their delicious egg-fried rice and squid sauce.

Day 6: A Walk Through Heritage

After a breakfast of Moi Moi (bean cake), we took a scenic walk to the Hill of Tarvit Mansion and its surroundings. The farm across the road and the beautifully maintained gardens provided a serene setting for memorable photos.

We spent the afternoon in the hot tub, this time joined by Kelly and Nazanine. For dinner, Kelly treated us to a homemade Scottish Lasagne, rich and cheesy, leaving us all in awe of her culinary skills.

Day 7: Horse Riding—A Dream Realized

Horse riding had always been a dream for me and my family. We booked a 30-minute session at Barbarafield Riding School for just £20 each. The instructors guided us, making sure we felt balanced and confident on our horses. It was a breathtaking experience, one I would highly recommend to anyone looking to clear their mind and find excitement.

Day 8: A Farewell to the Hill of Tarvit Mansion

Our final morning was spent exploring the interior of Hill of Tarvit Mansion, thanks to the NTS staff, Dan. The history embedded in each room, from the Dutch paintings to the Renaissance-style ceilings, was overwhelming. The Mansion’s preservation efforts made it clear why this site is a treasure trove of Scottish heritage.

We ended our retreat by supporting the Nigerian Moms in Scotland at Portobello Beach in Edinburgh, where we enjoyed Nigerian food, music, and career talks. It was the perfect way to wrap up a week of cultural exploration and personal reflection.

Final Thoughts: Why Hill of Tarvit Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

This retreat was more than just a holiday, it was a journey through time, culture, and personal connections. The Hill of Tarvit Mansion, with its rich history and serene surroundings, offers an ideal setting for anyone looking to explore Scotland’s heritage while enjoying the comforts of a well-planned vacation.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a cultural event, or simply need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, National Trust for Scotland – Hill of TarvitMansion provides a unique blend of relaxation, education, and adventure. Don’t forget to explore the nearby attractions, enjoy local cuisines, and immerse yourself in the rich history that this place has to offer.

Book your stay at the Hill of Tarvit Mansion and experience a holiday like no other.

Useful Links:

Hill of Tarvit Mansion: National Trust for Scotland – Hill of Tarvit
West Cottage: Sykes Holiday Cottages
St. Andrews Aquarium: St. Andrews Aquarium
Craigtoun Park : Craigtoun Park
Cromars Fish and Chips: Cromars Fish and Chips
Maxine Chinese Takeaway: Maxine Chinese Takeaway
Barbarafield Riding School: Barbarafield Riding School
Portobello Beach: VisitScotland – Portobello Beach

Olushola Adetutu

Hello, I'm Olushola Adetutu, a dedicated architect and leader with a passion for making a positive impact through sustainable design. With a background and bachelor's degree in Architecture and a master's degree in Environmental Design, I have gained extensive experience in the field. My journey in architecture began with the establishment of DWAD Creations, an architectural practice I co-founded with my professor. Through this venture, I honed my entrepreneurial skills and developed a deep appreciation for the intersection of design and business. Complementing my practical experience, I also completed an Entrepreneurial Course with Fate Foundation and obtained a Business Mentorship Certificate. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working on various projects and assuming leadership roles. As a Senior Architect with the Lagos State Government, I successfully executed diverse projects ranging from housing schemes and high-rise structures to hospitality establishments, sports centers, and mixed-use developments. Additionally, I had the opportunity to pioneer and lead a team focused on sustainable architecture in the riverine area of Makoko, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its residents. Relocating to Scotland, United Kingdom, I expanded my professional horizons by joining the United Nations as a Technical Personnel during the UNCop26 event in Glasgow. This experience exposed me to the global built environment and healthcare systems, broadening my perspectives on sustainable practices and their impact on society. I actively participated in seminars, workshops, and became a Built Environment Change Maker with Built Environment - Smarter Transformation, a non-profit organization. In this role, I championed the adoption of smarter strategies to accelerate the achievement of 75% net-zero emissions in line with Construction Practices according to the 2030 Scottish Agenda. Furthermore, I dedicated my time as a social media manager for St. James Research Centre in Falkirk and a charitable organization called Global Family, recognizing the importance of amplifying the voices of small companies and supporting their outreach efforts. Motivated by a desire to assist businesses in reaching their target audience effectively, I founded DWAD Pro LTD, a company focused on providing strategic marketing solutions in the United Kingdom. To enhance my expertise in this domain, I enrolled in a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing at the British Academy of Digital Marketing. Beyond my professional endeavors, I find strength and inspiration in my Christian faith. Living a life filled with grace, I am committed to making a difference and inspiring the younger generation to embrace diverse professions within the built environment. By leveraging my influence as an architect and entrepreneur, I strive to create awareness of sustainable practices and encourage others to join me on this journey towards a more sustainable future. Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey. I look forward to connecting with like-minded individuals, organizations, and collaborators who share my passion for sustainable architecture and making a positive impact on our world.