Beginners are very welcome. The art holiday is a careful balance between learning new skills, socialising with like-minded people, relaxing in beautiful surroundings and enjoying good food! Whether you are painting and sketching for the first time or are more experienced, the tutor (that's me) will be there to guide and support you in a range of activities. Pam is a professional artist and tutor with over 30 years experience of teaching.

 

  

What equipment and materials will I need?

You don't need lots of stuff to be able to enjoy sketching and painting in this inspiring location. Some people may just want to work in a sketchbook, others may want to paint on canvasses. The basics will include paint (watercolour or acrylic), paper or board and some brushes. Suggested items could alose include a small sketchbook and a couple of drawing pens/pencils. Watercolour paper blocks are ideal as you don't need to stretch your paper and they act as a board as well. If you're working in acrylics you may like to bring a ‘stay-wet’ palette. A materials list will be sent to you nearer the time so you know exactly what to bring.

 

How is the week organised?

Tutored sessions usually take place in the morning followed by a relaxing buffet lunch taken on the terrace. After lunch there will be another more informal art session when the tutor will be on hand for advice and individual support. There will be time in the late afternoon to relax and do your own thing. Then dinner will be at the venue or at a local village restaurant.

 

There will be a sketching trip to a local village and usually lunch will be in a local restaurant - sometimes this lunch is included in the package and sometimes not (please check the details of individual holidays).

 

There is also a free day mid week when you can choose to take an excursion or stay at the hotel and relax.

 

Will I have to share a bedroom?

No - the price quoted for a single person is for single occupancy of a double room. There are always options for double/twin rooms too. Most rooms are en-suite but may vary slightly from venue to venue - this will be explained on the page about the holiday.

 

Where will we be working?
The weather at this time of year is usually warm enough for sketching and painting outside and there is always the option to work in the light and spacious studio. Around the hotel there are many inspiring locations, including spectacular valley views, traditional farmhouse buildings, pretty patios, shady terraces and flower filled gardens - something for everyone! We will also visit a local village for sketching and there is the option to have a day out too. 

 

What if my flight doesn’t coincide with the free pick up?

Depending on the country and location there are a number of options. You can arrange to arrive the day before and enjoy visiting the city, then you would make your own way to the airport to join the other guests for the free transfer. You can also pay for your own private transfer - this can be very affordable in Spain but expensive in Italy.

 

Where is the nearest village?
Most venues are chosen for their inspiring and stunning locations, which means sometimes they can be in isolated spots in the countryside. Although there is usually a village not far away.

 

How much cash will I need to bring? 

Please bring sufficient cash with you to purchase extras on site such as drinks, gifts and local tourist tax. Some hotels operate an honesty bar for soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, wine etc and you pay at the end of the week for what you’ve had. On the day out you will also need to purchase your own lunch. The hotel will usually accept card payments too.

 

Is there WiFi?
Yes there will be WiFi but due to the isolated nature of some venues this may not always be working at top speed.

 

Will I have any free time?
Yes, Painting and sketching activities tend to be planned for the mornings and afternoons leaving you with a couple of hours for free time. There is also one free day mid-week when guests can choose to join an excursion. Or you can choose to continue with your work, take time out to relax, walk or swim.

 

Can I use the swimming pool?
Yes the swimming pool and deck areas have stunning views providing a pleasant place to swim or somewhere to relax on a comfy lounger with a glass of wine or cold beer from the honesty bar. Please note that not all venues have a swimming pool.

 

Are all the meals included in the holiday?

Nearly all meals are included in the cost of the holiday which usually consists of 7 breakfasts, 4-6 lunches and 7 dinners - some at local restaurants. Food reflects the traditions of the area and locally sourced produce is used. On warm evenings dinner is served on the terrace and on cooler evenings in the cosy dining room. On the day out mid week you will need to pay for your own lunch.

 

Is there vegetarian food available?
Yes, all dietary requirements are catered for including vegetarian and vegan. Gluten free meals are also available on request. Please indicate your requirements when booking.

 

Can I relax on my own?

There will be group activities and demonstrations planned throughout the week but you can always choose to find a quiet corner to work. There is often a studio and there are usually pretty gardens, shady terraces and spectacular views nearby.

 

Dogs & cats

Sometimes there may be a cat or dog at the venue when the hotel or farmhouse is owned by a family. I’ve met a few docile creatures who are very used to guests but if it’s a problem do get in touch for some advice.