# Create and Inspire Art Retreat with Artist Andrea Gianchiglia in France

Embark on a transformative journey with artist Andrea Gianchiglia in the picturesque Dordogne region of Occitanie, France. Develop your plein-air painting skills through daily classes, demos, and one-on-one feedback sessions with Andrea, working both outdoors and indoors and using a travel-friendly selection of materials: watercolor, pen, soft pastels, and oils or acrylics. You are welcome to use the mediums that you feel most comfortable with! The retreat is open to all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior experience with any of the mediums, as well as some familiarity with Andrea’s work and style of teaching. Her encouraging teaching approach focuses on understanding and enjoyment rather than pressure or perfection, helping artists build real confidence and a deeper sense of why things work the way they do, regardless of where they are in their creative journey.Venture out into the heart of Dordogne to discover charming villages and historic towns bursting with artistic inspiration. Sketch the dramatic hilltop castle Château de Beynac in Beynac-et-Cazenac, wander the cobbled streets of Issigeac, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Eymet's vibrant local market. Stay at a charming French countryside estate, in one of the five fully renovated traditional gîtes, and savor delicious chef-made food paired with fine wines from one of France's most celebrated wine areas. Enjoy a wine and cheese tasting experience, and find inspiration for your series of paintings in the local culture of southwestern France.

## Details

- **Dates:** May 22 - 29, 2027
- **Location:** Eymet, Dordogne, France
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Andrea GianchigliaArt studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, a printer-scanner, printer paper, plein-air artist chairs, water containers, paper towels, professional studio lights, and one art board with a clip per person7 nights of accommodation at a spectacular private estate in southwestern FranceExclusive use of the entire 25-acre estate with a private heated pool, art studio, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, beautiful gardens, terraces, private woodland, and natural pondAll meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chefAll diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-freeAfternoon snacks, coffee, tea, and water available throughout the dayLocal award-winning wine served with dinnerNon-alcoholic drinks served with lunch and made available during dinner serviceA wine and cheese tasting experience at the venueHalf-day art trip to the medieval town of IssigeacFull-day art trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac, with a guided visit of the hilltop castle Château de BeynacEntrance ticket to the Château de Beynac castleHalf-day art trip to Eymet market (self-guided)Sketching and painting opportunities on location for all art trips Private transportation for the trips to Issigeac and Beynac-et-CazenacEnglish-speaking guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities (except for the Eymet trip)Round-trip transfers from/to Bergerac train station at prearranged timesAll local tourist taxes and feesExperienced retreat admin and UpTrek host on locationFully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff Access to a private Facebook group with Andrea Gianchiglia and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceOne lunch during the full-day trip to Beynac-et-CazenacArt materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Andrea Gianchiglia will be provided five months before the retreat takes placeTips for staff — tipping is customary in France Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Painting with Confidence and Presence
Join artist Andrea Gianchiglia for an inspiring painting retreat in the glorious Dordogne countryside of France. Surrounded by breathtaking views and serene nature, you will learn how to paint confidently on-location, developing your plein-air painting skills, and capturing the essence of France. You will use a small, travel-friendly set of materials: watercolor, pen, soft pastels, and oil or acrylics. You are free to work in whatever mediums are most comfortable for you!Take part in daily classes and demos with Andrea, outdoors as well as indoors, and engage in group discussions and one-on-one feedback sessions. Andrea’s gentle teaching method will help you build confidence in your skills regardless of where you are in your creative journey. The retreat will emphasize understanding, clarity, and enjoyment over pressure or perfection.The retreat is open to all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior experience with any of the mediums, as well as some familiarity with Andrea’s work and style of teaching. Sessions are structured to build naturally on one another, allowing you to experience real progress while still enjoying a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere. The goal is for you to feel supported, capable, and encouraged to experiment. Learning is framed in a way that helps artists understand why things work the way they do, rather than simply following steps. Complement your art session with adventures into the heart of Dordogne, visiting picturesque villages for inspiration. Practice your on-location sketching in the historic town of Beynac-et-Cazenac, with its imposing castle, Château de Beynac, perched on top of a hill. Visit Issigeac and wander around its narrow cobbled streets. Immerse yourself in French culture and stroll through the vibrant market of Eymet, a quaint little nearby town. Each trip offers a new palette of colors, shapes, and stories waiting to be captured on your canvas. Some of the topics covered in your classes with Andrea include: Painting confidently on locationSimplifying scenes into strong shapes and valuesLearning watercolor techniques suited for travel and plein air workDiscovering the interplay between pen and watercolor and creating balance between structure and loose painting Using soft pastels to add vibrancy, atmosphere, and energySeeing color and value relationships more clearlyDeveloping a personal, intuitive approach to paintingBuilding confidence through repetition and understanding…and many more! Your home for the week will be an elegant historic estate from the Napoleonic era, set amidst vibrant gardens, secluded woodlands, a natural pond, and a heated pool. Delight in Dordogne’s culinary heritage with daily chef-prepared meals, and savor the local wines through a wine and cheese tasting experience. Share meals, laughter, and creative conversations with 14 other like-minded artists, all in a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable learning and growing together.

### Day 1: Arrival
Catch the 3:30 PM shuttle from Bergerac train station to your retreat venue, a stunning 25-acre historic estate in the heart of Dordogne. Upon arrival, settle into your cozy accommodations, take a moment to unwind, and meet Andrea Gianchiglia, your instructor for the week. Start your experience with a guided tour of the estate, showcasing its charming communal spaces, the vast gardens, sunlit terraces, a heated swimming pool, serene woodlands, and a tranquil pond. The day concludes with a warm welcome dinner featuring exquisite French cuisine and fragrant local wine, setting the tone for the inspiring week that’s ahead.

### Day 2: Classes at the venue
Wake up your senses with a wholesome breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Join Andrea and your fellow artists for a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts, easing into the pace of the day. The morning class will start with some introductions from Andrea and a plein-air demonstration. Step outside into the venue’s sunlit gardens, set up your easels, and follow Andrea’s in-depth demo on plein-air painting. The focus will be on observation, color, value, and responding to your environment. Under Andrea’s gentle guidance, you will learn how to capture your surroundings on a canvas in an encouraging and low-pressure environment, with plenty of room for questions and exploration. Pause midday for a relaxed lunch, then continue the day with another class in the afternoon. Gather with Andrea and your fellow creatives in the spacious indoor art studio and follow a step-by-step pastel demo led by Andrea. You are free to use and experiment with other mediums if you’d like. Andrea will make sure that everyone is following along no matter what medium they are using, and she will offer encouraging feedback or extra guidance if needed. Get inspired by the sights of the venue from the morning class and explore a venue-inspired subject in your medium of choice. As the class comes to an end, engage in a reflective group discussion in which you will exchange ideas, insights, and supportive feedback with your peers. This conversation is meant to reinforce your understanding of today’s demos and build confidence in your painting skills. Take some time for yourself to unwind in the late afternoon. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and soak in the lovely atmosphere, accompanied by a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 3: Art trip to Issigeac
Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee in the morning, followed by a brief check-in with the venue hosts. Kick off the day with the first adventure of the retreat: a trip to the medieval town of Issigeac. Located only a 30-min drive away from the venue, the ride will carry you past vineyards, stone farmhouses softened by ivy, and open fields shifting in the morning light. Wander around this picturesque town with its honey-colored medieval stone buildings, winding cobbled lanes, and charming timber-framed houses that seem untouched by time. Explore the local market and draw inspiration from the variety of local farmers' produce, such as fresh ingredients, succulent fruits, and crisp vegetables. Stroll through the market stalls, observing and taking reference pictures of whatever piques your interest. If inspired, make some quick on-location sketches in watercolor and pen. Andrea will be there to offer you tips and guidance on how to improve your on-location sketching skills if needed. Return to the venue for a leisurely lunch, then continue the day with another afternoon workshop in the studio. Andrea will do a quick demo in pastel or oil, followed by her signature "Daily Challenge": you’re welcome to paint along with her chosen subject or work from your own subject and inspiration — perhaps a photo from the morning’s trip. As always, you are free to work in whatever medium you prefer.As the class comes to a close, the late afternoon is yours to enjoy however you like. Take some time to rest and recharge, then join Andrea and the group for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of French wine.

### Day 4: Classes at the venue & wine and cheese tasting
Start the day with a filling breakfast, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts, settling into the rhythm of the day. The morning workshop will take place outdoors, in the beautiful venue gardens. Andrea will do a demo on plein-air painting, this time tackling a more architecture-inspired subject. As usual, you can work in whatever medium you prefer, and Andrea will be there to guide you and offer help if needed, encouraging you to explore plein-air painting in a supportive and low-pressure environment. Take a break for lunch and enjoy a refreshing meal, then continue the day back in the studio. Join Andrea and your fellow artists for another step-by-step pastel demo inspired by the work from the morning. As usual, take on Andrea’s “Daily Challenge”: you can choose to follow along with the image that she is painting or choose your own subject. As the class comes to an end, enjoy some one-on-one time with Andrea for personalized feedback and guidance. This is your chance to ask any questions you may have and receive thoughtful and encouraging feedback from her! Enjoy some leisure time to unwind and recharge before dinner. In the evening, indulge in a wine and cheese tasting experience at the venue, savoring authentic French flavors. Reflect on the stories and moments you have shared today with your group over a wholesome chef-prepared dinner.

### Day 5: Art trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac
Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast, have your daily morning check-in with the venue hosts, then head out with Andrea and your fellow artists to the hilltop village of Beynac-et-Cazenac. Located a 1-hour and 30-minute drive from the venue, this medieval village overlooking the Dordogne River has a long history of resistance against the English. It is also known as a movie set for famous historical films such as “The Last Duel” and “Revenge of the Musketeers.”Wander through alleys and terraces, taking reference photos or making quick sketches on location, if inspired. Andrea will be right by your side to offer you tips and guidance for improving your on-location sketching skills. Visit the imposing hilltop castle Château de Beynac, an austere medieval structure perched atop a limestone plateau, and draw inspiration from its history and impressive architecture. Pause midday for a relaxed lunch at a nearby restaurant or café, then continue exploring the rest of the town on your own. Interact with your environment, stop to make quick sketches or take reference photos, and soak in the historic charm of the town. After you return to the venue, enjoy some one-on-one time with Andrea right before dinner. Ask any questions you may have and receive warm and encouraging feedback on your creative journey so far. Enjoy some spare time to recharge in the late afternoon, then gather with Andrea and the group for another chef-prepared three-course dinner, sharing reflections of the day over a delicious meal paired with a glass of fragrant French wine.

### Day 6: Art trip to Eymet market
Wake up to the scent of freshly made coffee and fuel up with a satisfying breakfast, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts.Take a trip to the nearby Eymet market, located only a 15-minute walk away from the venue. Walk on a winding path through dense woodlands, and reach a vibrant village bustling with people and vendors selling vegetables, flowers, herbs, and handmade soaps. Explore each stall, make quick sketches on-location or take reference photos of whatever piques your interest. Bring your watercolor supplies and do some quick gestural sketches of the lively market. You can take this trip at your leisure, at any time you desire!Head back to the venue for a light lunch, then continue the day with another studio workshop. Andrea will demo how to do minis, focusing on how to capture light, color, and movement, creating a series of small-sized paintings. Draw inspiration from the market trip in the morning or from any other trip from throughout the retreat. Experiment with any medium that you’d like and deepen your skills at your own pace.As the class comes to an end, enjoy some one-on-one time with Andrea for questions and personalized feedback. Her gentle encouragements and insights will help you gain confidence in your skills, regardless of where you are in your creative journey.Unwind with some leisure time in the late afternoon. Join Andrea and your fellow artists for a flavorful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and accompanied by a glass of local wine.

### Day 7: Classes at the venue
Delight yourself with a filling breakfast, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts, before stepping into your final full day of the retreat.The morning begins with a quick demo to start the inspiration for the day and fuel your creative energy. This workshop session will be dedicated to finishing off your works from throughout the retreat. Refine any last details, add those final finishing touches, and bring your pieces to a satisfying close. Andrea will be right by your side for support and guidance if needed. After a relaxed lunch, the afternoon continues with a celebratory mini-exhibition of the world you have created during the retreat. Showcase your works, reflect on what you have learned, and exchange insights and ideas with your fellow artists.Close the day with generous congratulations, encouragement, and acknowledgement from Andrea and your peers, celebrating the progress you have made. Your art practice has moved forward in a meaningful way, lasting connections have been formed, and you are ready to take what you have learned in new and inspiring directions.Gather once more with Andrea and the group for a three-course farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Raise a glass of wine to the memories shared, the growth experienced, and the creative journey completed together.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast with Andrea and your fellow artists before it's time to part ways. Departing at 9:00 AM, you'll head to Gare Bergerac train station, arriving around 9:45 AM. As you make your way back home, you will take with you a heart brimming with inspiration and lasting memories.

## Instructors

- [Andrea Gianchiglia](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/andrea-gianchiglia) — Visual artist and instructor

## Accommodation

### Historic countryside estate
Situated on the tranquil banks of the River Dropt, your home for the retreat with artist Andrea Gianchiglia will be a charming French estate, reserved exclusively for your group. This 25-acre historic property provides the perfect setting for creative inspiration, featuring well-appointed living spaces, a dedicated art studio, a heated pool, gardens, terraces, woodlands, and a peaceful pond.Your classes with Andrea will be held indoors in a spacious, well-lit studio measuring approximately 500 sq. ft. (50 sq. m.) and outdoors on the beautiful terraces and gardens. You’ll also have the chance to paint en plein air in the scenic countryside surrounding the estate.The venue has a rich history, dating from the Napoleonic era to its time as a World War I equestrian center. Local craftsmen have renovated it carefully, turning the old stable block into five large gîtes (French villas) that blend modern comforts with classic French charm. These beautifully restored spaces feature exposed brickwork, heating, and high-quality bedding for your comfort.Throughout the retreat, you can relax and connect with fellow artists by the heated pool, on the airy terraces, or during peaceful strolls around the estate’s pond and private woodland, home to a variety of wildlife.

### Shared standard room
Three standard rooms are available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its private bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared standard rooms can be outfitted with either a double bed or twin beds, on request. They are spacious, tastefully decorated, and feature private bathrooms with showers or bathtubs. Blackout shutters and sound insulation walls ensure privacy and a quiet, good night's sleep. The windows provide great views of the countryside.

### Shared superior room (female only)
Two superior rooms are available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its private bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared superior rooms are spacious, with wide windows overlooking the splendid surroundings, and have private bathrooms with showers. Blackout shutters and sound insulation walls ensure privacy and a quiet, good night's sleep. One room located on the first floor has a private terrace with direct access to the courtyard. They can be outfitted with either a double bed or twin beds, on request.

### Single standard room
Three standard rooms are available for single occupancy. You will be enjoying your own private room, equipped with a comfortable double bed, a private bathroom, and shared access to a fully fitted kitchen. Blackout shutters and sound insulation walls ensure privacy and a quiet, good night's sleep. The common lounge area features floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto a huge lawn. The rooms benefit from superb views of the Dordogne countryside.

### Single superior room
Two superior rooms are available for single occupancy. More spacious than the standard rooms, the superior rooms feature comfortable double beds and private bathrooms. Blackout shutters and sound insulation walls ensure privacy and a quiet, good night's sleep. You will share access to a common lounge area with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the gardens and a fully fitted shared kitchen.

## Food

Savor the rich flavors of the Dordogne region during your retreat with Andrea Gianchiglia in France. Using the freshest local ingredients, the chef will craft a range of dishes that capture the essence of the region’s culinary heritage.You'll be treated to a variety of culinary experiences, from elegant seasonal canapés to hearty BBQs. Each day will start with delightful breakfasts, followed by delicious lunches, and end with indulgent three-course dinners featuring regional wine. The retreat culminates in a special farewell dinner that celebrates your artistic journey. A wine and cheese-tasting session is also included to enhance the experience.Throughout the day, you'll have access to water, coffee, tea, and a selection of snacks, including seasonal fruits and cakes.Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month before the retreat. While we strive to accommodate most needs, we may not be able to cater to severe, life-threatening allergies. We are unable to accommodate dietary changes announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or fulfill last-minute requests on-site. The menu will vary based on seasonal ingredient availability.All meals are included, except for one lunch during the full-day trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac.For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below.

## Getting There

The venue for your art retreat with artist Andrea Gianchiglia is a picturesque countryside estate in southwestern France. Nestled on 25 acres overlooking the banks of the River Dropt in the Dordogne region, the property is surrounded by woodlands, renowned vineyards, and timeless stone houses. Rich in historical significance, the River Dropt region was once a vital trade route where goods like wine and wood were transported by barges. The area offers a window into its medieval past, with landmarks such as the Romanesque Pont du Bretou bridge and the quaint bastide towns dotting the riverbanks.Just a 10-minute walk from the retreat venue, you'll find the charming town of Eymet, offering convenient access to its inviting restaurants, cafés, bakeries, pharmacies, craft shops, artist studios, and local boutiques. Bergerac, the designated pick-up and drop-off location for transfers, is about 16 miles from the venue. As part of the retreat, you'll explore the medieval town of Issigeac, located 15 miles away, as well as the historic town of Beynac-et-Cazenac, approximately 50 miles from the estate.To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Bergerac train station:We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in France a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.How to get to Bergerac:The best (quickest and most affordable) option is to fly to Paris or Bordeaux and catch a train to Bergerac from there. It's a very pleasant train ride, either from Paris (3h 40 minutes) or from Bordeaux (1h 15 minutes), during which you can enjoy the beautiful sights of French landscapes, towns, and cities.You can book train tickets to Bergerac from the French National Railway Company, SNCF: https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/Some guests traveling from Europe may also opt to fly to Bergerac Airport directly, then catch a bus or take a taxi to Gare Bergerac train station (15-minute ride).How to get from Bergerac to the retreat venue:Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Gare Bergerac train station are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 35 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on May 22, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on May 29, 2027, by 9:00 AM. Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.Arrival transfer: May 22, 2027 — 3:30 PM (leaving from Gare Bergerac train station, arriving at the retreat venue around 4:05 PM)Departure transfer: May 29, 2027 — 9:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Gare Bergerac train station around 9:45 AM)If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:Spend extra days at a hotel in Paris, Bordeaux, or Bergerac pre-/post-retreat, and catch the transfer shuttles from/to Gare Bergerac train station.Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: La Palanque, 9 Rte de la Sabliere, 24500 Eymet, France; estimated cost: US$100 per way). Please note that taxi fares may vary.

## Reviews

Reviews of previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:"This is my second UpTrek retreat, and I had another wonderful time. The venue was beautiful. I loved the accommodations and how they were centrally located around a courtyard space. It felt very communal, while also providing ample space for people to spread out.""The venue was spectacular, in a glorious location and the team couldn’t have been more lovely and helpful.""The evening dinner chef and assistant were amazing. The food was varied and delicious every night. They provided excellent service. The venue's location and ground were beautiful.""I loved everything about the retreat! The location, the food, the people, the excursions, and the instructors. Everything was a dream. I was especially impressed and honored by their ability to accommodate my food requirements. They even packed me lunches for our days away so I would be sure to have something to eat. The grounds are beautiful and full of flowers and whispering trees.""Overwhelming! Beautiful room. The pool much appreciated. Fantastic food! Really helpful staff, Tasha and Marie.""Everything was perfect, done to the last detail.""Tasha and Marie and Katie and Scarlet were such a big part of making the retreat so cozy and inviting .... they were always available and welcoming. This retreat was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had and I will remember it fondly. And lastly .... the food was the best I’ve ever had!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Thank you!!!!""The venue itself was absolutely remarkable, and the hosts went above and beyond to ensure our every need was met. Tasha was so easy to talk to and had a wealth of local knowledge which was valuable. The grounds and immediate area are beautiful to explore whether on foot or bike. It really was a huge bonus that Eymet was within walking distance for use of ATM and pharmacy. The menu from breakfast, lunch and dinner was truly exceptional, offering a first-class dining experience. The local wines were also delicious - with the wine tasting a highlight. Each and every one of the excursions provided was of exceptional quality and added to my overall experience. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of these outings, as I’m a history geek and they provided a perfect balance between education and time to sketch on location."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels? This retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior experience with any of the mediums, as well as some familiarity with Andrea Gianchiglia's work and style of teaching. When is the retreat available?The retreat with artist Andrea Gianchiglia takes place between May 22 - 29, 2027.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on May 22, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day at 9:00 AM, on May 29, 2027. Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.How do I get to the retreat venue?Please plan to arrive at the Gare Bergerac train station. The retreat venue is located approximately a 35-minute drive from Gare Bergerac, the main train station in the area that has a direct connection with Paris. We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in France a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private transfers from/to Gare Bergerac train station at prearranged times are included.Please read the Location tab for more information. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.What’s the weather like in Eymet, France, in May?The weather in Eymet in May is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 24°C / 75°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°F at night. However, in recent years, temperatures have varied unpredictably. We recommend you check the weather yourself before your departure and pack accordingly.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, insect repellent, a raincoat, a swimsuit, sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.Can I do laundry while on the retreat?Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay.What supplies do I need for the workshops?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Andrea Gianchiglia will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.Tables, chairs, field easels, a printer-scanner, printer paper, plein-air artist chairs, water containers, paper towels, professional studio lights, and one art board (66 × 58 cm / 26 × 23 in) with a clip per person are included and will be available at the venue. Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?The currency is the euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in most places. However, it might be a good idea to take out some euros from the ATM at the airport for taxis, small purchases, visiting the market, and tipping. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in France.How many people are expected at the retreat?Maximum of 15 participants.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.Is Wi-Fi available?Yes.Do I need a visa?Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter France for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.Are there any age restrictions?There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.What language is used during the workshops and other activities?The retreat is available in English.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and day trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility.What happens if I need to cancel?Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: Purchase insurance. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.Do I have to pay a deposit?No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/create-and-inspire-art-retreat-artist-andrea-gianchiglia-france#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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