# Dordogne Through Your Eyes - Art Retreat with Artist Julie Sydenham in France

Join artist Julie Sydenham in France's Dordogne region for an immersive retreat open to all levels. Explore mixed media, including pen, watercolor, pencils, and ink, as you engage in creative activities. With individual guidance from Julie, an artist and experienced educator, you'll explore various media and techniques while developing the confidence to create in your own way. Discover what you're drawn to and experiment with color, shapes, textures, and expressive mark-making as you create a collection of artworks that channel the spirit and atmosphere of your journey through France!

Venture out into the heart of the Dordogne to explore charming villages and historic towns bursting with artistic inspiration. Paint the dramatic hilltop castle Château de Beynac in Beynac-et-Cazenac, and wander the cobbled streets of Issigeac while taking in the surrounding views for your next piece of art!

Stay at an elegant historic estate from the Napoleonic era, set amidst vibrant gardens, secluded woodlands, a natural pond, and a heated pool, 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 artwork in the natural beauty of southwestern France.

## Details

- **Dates:** October 2 - 9, 2027
- **Location:** Eymet, Dordogne, France
- **Starting Price:** $4,700
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 15 students
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

**What's included**

1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Julie Sydenham
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, a printer-scanner, plein-air artist chairs, water containers, paper towels, a projector, and professional studio lights
3. 7 nights of accommodation at a spectacular private estate in southwestern France, dating back to the Napoleonic era
4. Exclusive 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 pond
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Afternoon snacks, coffee, tea, and water available throughout the day
8. Local award-winning wine served with dinner
9. Non-alcoholic drinks served with lunch and made available during dinner service
10. A wine and cheese tasting experience at the venue
11. Half-day art trip to the medieval town of Issigeac
12. Full-day art trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac, with a guided visit of its hilltop castle, Château de Beynac
13. Entrance ticket to Château de Beynac
14. Sketching and painting opportunities on location for all art trips
15. Private transportation for the trips to Issigeac and Beynac-et-Cazenac
16. English-speaking guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities
17. Round-trip transfers from/to Bergerac train station at prearranged times
18. All local tourist taxes and fees
19. Experienced retreat admin and UpTrek host on location
20. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
21. Access to a private Facebook group with Julie Sydenham and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac
- Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Julie Sydenham will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in France
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Dordone Through Your Eyes - Art Retreat
Join artist Julie Sydenham in the picturesque French countryside on a retreat focused on seeing breathtaking surroundings through your sketchbook. Together with your instructor, you'll develop your own style as you explore the colors, textures, architecture, shapes, and patterns that Dordogne has to offer.

Julie will help you discover a new creative process that will help you capture the feelings and atmosphere of your adventures, allowing you to create a personal collection of mixed media artworks. This art retreat welcomes all levels of experience, from people picking up the brush for the first time to seasoned hands.

Across the week, you'll explore color, texture hunting, layering, and mark-making in sessions that take place both in the studio and outdoors in its gardens. At the end of the retreat, you'll leave with artwork that captures not just what the place looked like, but what it felt like to be there.

Beyond the studio, set out on exciting art trips in the heart of the Dordogne. Explore the medieval villages of Beynac-et-Cazenac and Issigeac on two day trips, each doubling as creative fieldwork with time built in for on-location sketching and gathering the visual material that will fuel your studio work. The lovely town of Eymet is just a 15-minute walk away from the venue, should curiosity strike!

**Some of the topics covered during your classes with Julie include:**

- Portable travel sketching and visual journaling with minimal materials
- Drawing from observation
- Watercolor, pen, ink, and expressive mark-making
- Developing personal color palettes
- Collage, layering, and mixed media
- Composition and creating a cohesive series
- Moving from literal observation towards more intuitive and individual responses
- Building the courage to confidently sketch in public
- …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. Settle into your elegant room and get introduced to Julie Sydenham, along with the rest of your art group.

Together with your art group, start your experience with a guided tour of the estate, showcasing its cozy shared spaces, the vast gardens, sunlit terraces, a heated swimming pool, serene woodlands, and a tranquil pond. Lastly, enjoy a warm welcome dinner featuring exquisite French cuisine and fragrant local wine, setting the tone for the inspiring week ahead.

### Day 2: Classes at the venue
Gather over breakfast and coffee, then head to the studio for the very first class of the retreat.

Julie will introduce the tools and techniques that will carry you through the week, followed by a quick demonstration where you'll learn different ways to approach your artworks. Begin painting and warm up with directed exercises that will help you experiment and experience different ways of working as you explore the potential of your materials. Then grab your sketchbook and head outside as you explore the venue grounds. Freely wander around the venue and see what catches your eye, capture the feelings evoked by the estate and its gardens, or the small details of rustic stonework found all around you. Then, familiarize yourself with marks and shapes that appeal to you with Julie's help.

After lunch, return to the studio for another creative session where Julie will show you how to make beautiful sketches with the minimal materials you'll take to Issigeac tomorrow! Practice today's teachings and, guided by Julie, learn about texture hunting and see how you can create a beautiful response to the places you'll visit.

As the afternoon winds down, take some time to recharge before dinner. Gather with your fellow artists for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local wine.

### Day 3: Art trip to Issigeac
After a filling breakfast, gather your sketchbook and art supplies and head out with Julie for a morning in the village of Issigeac, a short drive from the venue.

The 15th-century medieval town stands out from other Bastide towns in the area due to its cylindrical structure, with narrow, winding streets that curl like a snail in its shell. Overflowing with history and historic architecture, Issigeac flaunts spectacular half-timbered houses, like the 'Maison des Têtes' on the corner of the Grand Rue, which has some very ancient carved heads on its upper level, and the quirky 'Mushroom House.'

Spend the morning wandering the town, capturing medieval scenes through quick sketches and texture hunting. Find patterns and shapes that inspire you, then join Julie for a quick demo on how to loosen up and sketch confidently in public.

Return to the venue for a relaxed lunch, then continue the afternoon with another session in the studio where you'll work on several compositions for multiple artworks alongside Julie. Take inspiration from your trip or focus on something else that piques your interest as you experience different ways of working.

Take some time to rest and unwind in the late afternoon. Indulge in a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 4: Classes at the venue & wine and cheese tasting
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before gathering your materials for an intense day of creative exploration.

The morning begins with a demonstration where Julie will show you and your fellow artists mark-making and how to lay down base layers for eye-catching paintings. Warm up with some sketches, then continue to work on yesterday's pieces as you add elements inspired by Issigeac and the estate grounds. Learn how to collage and how to add its elements to other artworks.

After the morning class, take a well-deserved break, reflecting on new ideas over a relaxed lunch. Return to the workshop and continue to work on your paintings. Experiment with different techniques, mediums, textures, and colors as you develop your visual language and personal style. Make bold strokes or focus on the tiny details, with Julie's gentle guidance and encouraging feedback!

As the class comes to an end, take some time to unwind before dinner. Come together in the evening for an exquisite wine and cheese tasting experience guided by a local sommelier, then enjoy a delicious chef-prepared dinner accompanied by a glass of local wine. Soak in the lovely atmosphere of the evening, sharing stories and impressions from the day.

### Day 5: Art trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac
Start the day with a relaxed breakfast, then grab your sketchbook and set out on a full-day trip to Beynac-et-Cazenac, one of the most striking towns in the Dordogne region of France.

This medieval town rises up the hillside above the river, its steep streets and stone houses gathering beneath the Château de Beynac. The breathtaking views of the Dordogne River and the well-preserved medieval architecture inspire creativity at every turn. Wander the narrow, cobbled alleys, marvel at flower-decked houses, and sketch the unique scenes of the town. Beynac's vistas often graced the silver screen in films like "Revenge of the Musketeers" or Luc Besson's "Jeanne d'Arc".

Julie will teach you how to quickly work on location with minimal materials as you explore this breathtaking medieval town through your sketchbook. Navigate the streets of Beynac-et-Cazenac, sketchbook in hand, and capture the atmosphere of this medieval town, perfect for texture hunting! Focus on the intricate stonework of nearby buildings or relax by the Dordogne River as you take in the beauty of your surroundings.

Pause for lunch on your own in the village and take in the setting before the afternoon. Then, visit the imposing Château de Beynac, a medieval fortress perched high above the river. Learn more about sketching medieval buildings through Julie's quick demo, then explore freely, sketch if you'd like, take reference photos, or just soak in the atmosphere. Julie will be on hand for suggestions on composition, helping you spot the details that speak to you most.

Return to the venue in the late afternoon and take some time to recharge before dinner. Savor a wholesome chef-prepared dinner and a glass of fragrant wine, sharing stories and impressions from today's trip with the group.

### Day 6: Trip to the French market
Wake up to fresh fruit and strong coffee before walking into Eymet just as the market begins to stir.

The square shifts with movement as striped awnings ripple overhead and stalls brim with vegetables, flowers, herbs, and handmade soaps. Sellers call out greetings while shoppers weave through the square. Take photos, hunt for new textures, and hold on to what draws your attention. Join Julie for a quick showcase on how to sketch moving people and fresh stacks of produce. Create sketches of your own if inspired, browse the bustling market for artisanal goods, snap some reference photos, or simply enjoy the ambiance of this busy market!

Head back for a midday meal and rest, then settle into the studio for the afternoon, where Julie will demonstrate how to add additional refinements and detailed layers. With her guidance, let loose and add details that capture the way you see the world!

Later in the afternoon, enjoy some spare time to relax. Gather with your fellow creatives for a mouthwatering three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of French wine.

### Day 7: Classes at the venue
Wake to the soft light of morning and enjoy a peaceful breakfast before stepping into the studio, where Julie will be ready to guide you through your final full day at the retreat.

This morning session will focus on adding the finishing touches to your artworks and preparing them for the afternoon. Add additional layers and playful patterns, or focus on the small details as you refine each piece of art. During the session, Julie will be available for one-on-one feedback and advice. She'll help you consolidate everything you've learned during this week-long journey while answering any remaining questions you may have.

After lunch, continue to finish up your pieces and prepare for the afternoon's main event, a joyful mini-exhibition! Walk around, take in the art created by everyone, and celebrate the discoveries made along the way. Julie will share feedback and ideas to carry forward as you bask in the support of your artistic peers. Reflect on the progress you've made and the confidence you've gained during your artistic journey in France.

The week closes with a farewell dinner, a last evening together to raise a glass to an adventure full of memories, new friendships, and unforgettable moments!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Julie and your fellow artists before it's time to part ways. At 9:00 AM, you'll head to Gare Bergerac train station, arriving around 9:45 AM.

As you make your way back home, take with you a heart brimming with inspiration and lasting memories.

## Instructors

- [Julie Sydenham](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/julie-sydenham) — Mixed Media Artist

## Accommodation

### Historic countryside estate
Situated on the tranquil banks of the River Dropt, your home for the retreat with artist Julie Sydenham 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 Julie 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
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 Julie Sydenham 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 Julie Sydenham 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/](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 October 2, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on October 9, 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: October 2, 2027 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from Gare Bergerac train station, arriving at the retreat venue around 4:05 PM)
- **Departure transfer: October 9, 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 each way). Please note that taxi fares may vary.

## Reviews

**Testimonials from past students of Julie Sydenham:**

- "Thank you Jules, for another incredible weekend! Just when you think they can't possibly get better, they do! Not sure how you do it, but thank you. Was a great learning curve trying a new medium and the venue was spectacular. You truly are inspirational in many ways!"

- "A spur-of-the-moment decision turned out to be one of the best I’ve made in quite a while. We spent the days relaxing and 'letting go' and with Jules’ guidance ended up discovering something special about ourselves. I saw every participant inspired to create original and interesting works. I was very proud of my own achievements and now feel a huge increase in confidence."

- "An art retreat with Jules - what a fabulous experience! Jules was instructive, patient, encouraging and good-humoured. The accommodation was wonderful, food delicious and the group was creatively supportive. I thoroughly enjoyed the week and am grateful for Jules’ creative direction."

- "What a wonderful experience... the perfect mix of art learning/creating and relaxation time. We had plenty of opportunity to build a rapport with the other participants and Jules always consulted the group before any decisions were made. The teaching was, as always, exceptional, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who is looking forward to our next overseas adventure."

- "I spent a wonderful week at one of Julie's Art Retreats. Despite only picking up a paintbrush two years ago, I created artworks far beyond what I thought possible under Julie's guidance. She has a gift for helping you develop your own artistic style and produce individualized pieces. We explored varied media and techniques suited to all styles. Julie is patient, constructive, and never critical - her warmth shows in her teaching. The retreat was a fabulous way to relax, immerse myself in art, and meet lovely fellow artists. I learned so much and can't wait for the next one!"

**Reviews from 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."

- "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."

- "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?**

The art retreat with Julie Sydenham is suitable for participants of all experience levels, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with already familiar with watercolor or ink.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Julie Sydenham takes place between October 2 - 9, 2027.

**Are there any check-in and check-out hours?**

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 2, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day at 9:00 AM, on October 9, 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](https://uptrek.com/retreat/dordogne-through-your-eyes-art-retreat-artist-julie-sydenham-france#location) 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 early October?**

The weather in Eymet in early October is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 22°C / 72°F during the day that drop to around 9°C / 48°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 Julie Sydenham will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, field easels, a printer-scanner, plein-air artist chairs, water containers, paper towels, a projector, and professional studio lights are included and will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructors' 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](https://www.agentmaxonline.com/agentmaxweb/storefront/index.html#/home/?emaillinkcode=ABIYU4TLWGBGTNHC6ZWLRSKAR7AIBWE33AAW7OYIPBPWYZZAHMNGET6NBV6WWVRS2EB7AEOQYOO5E24K3G6NKNN4EK62FALFDXR675FDOJI3PUILIAN7IKMAEL67FVJ7). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://staging.uptrek.com/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.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip)

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](mailto: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 instructor 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/dordogne-through-your-eyes-art-retreat-artist-julie-sydenham-france#book)** — no deposit required.

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**Last updated:** 2026-10-21