# Exploring, Mixing, and Developing Colors in Landscapes and Florals - Retreat with Artists Michael Cruickshank and Emma Burnett in France

Explore the art of color on a painting retreat with artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank in the sun-drenched Loire Valley of France. Emma will guide you through bold, playful florals inspired by Matisse in acrylics, while Michael will lead you into the surrounding landscape in watercolor, teaching you to compose a view and capture light from life. Follow the path that draws you in and spend the week building a personal body of work rooted in the colors and rhythms of the French countryside. Whether you have been painting for years or are picking up a brush for the very first time, you will leave with original paintings and the confidence to keep creating.

Venture out on a half-day trip to a vibrant local French market for reference photos and quick sketches, and set out on a full-day trip to the world-famous gardens of Château de Villandry with a packed picnic lunch. Later in the week, explore the medieval town of Saumur on a half-day trip to Château de Saumur for on-location sketching and painting.

Stay at a historic 19th-century French estate with lush gardens, outdoor terraces, a heated pool, and both indoor and outdoor workshop spaces. Enjoy delicious French cuisine-inspired meals prepared by the venue’s chef, and taste local wines in a wine-tasting event with a top Loire Valley sommelier. Connect with fellow creatives over shared meals and joyful experiences!

## Details

- **Dates:** September 13 - 20, 2027
- **Location:** Concourson-sur-Layon, France
- **Starting Price:** $4,500
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 16 guests
- **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 artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, easels, professional studio lights, projector, printer/scanner, glass jars, paper towels, fruits, flowers, and items from the local market
3. 7 nights of accommodation at a stunning private 19th century French château, in the heart of the Loire Valley
4. Exclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, common areas, outdoor workshop spaces, indoor art studio, a heated pool, private gardens, fruit orchard, and terraces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef under the supervision of the château’s nutritionist
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Delicious welcome and farewell dinners
8. Cheese boards with a selection of fine French cheeses accompanying the three-course dinners
9. Plentiful local French wine served during dinner service
10. A complimentary wine-tasting event at the château before dinner, with the top local sommelier, who has spent six years in the UK working with Gordon Ramsay before moving back to his native Loire
11. Tea, coffee, water, and afternoon snacks available throughout the day
12. Full-day art trip to Château de Villandry, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location
13. Half-day art trip to Saumur, with a visit to Château de Saumur and opportunities for painting and sketching on-location
14. Half-day art trip to a local French market
15. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities
16. All entrance tickets included
17. Round-trip transfers to/from Angers (St. Laud) 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 Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank and other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a full list of art materials recommended by artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank will be sent five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in France
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Exploring, Mixing, Developing Colors in Landscapes and Florals Retreat
Settle into a week of painting on a creative retreat with artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank at a 19th-century château in the heart of France's Loire Valley. Two artists who live and work together and whose teaching complements each other, Emma and Michael will each lead their own program throughout the week. Emma will focus on floral and garden scenes inspired by the great colorists, working in acrylics on prepared boards. Michael will paint the surrounding landscape in watercolor, working from the inspiring subject matter in and around the château. You will follow the instructor whose subject and medium speaks to you, developing your skills and voice alongside them over the course of the retreat.

With Emma, expect demonstrations rooted in the color palettes of Matisse and the Post-Impressionists, followed by hands-on exercises in color mixing and bold, playful composition. Over the course of the week, you will study a famous painting you love and then create your own original work in the same style, using the techniques and color knowledge you have built together. With Michael, work directly from nature as he guides you through composing a view and building a painting from broad washes to detailed layers, capturing the light and landscape of the Loire Valley in watercolor. Both instructors will be available for personalized feedback and one-on-one guidance throughout the day.

This retreat welcomes artists of all experience levels.

Beyond the studio, paint your way through the Loire Valley on three unforgettable trips. Head out on a half-day trip to a vibrant local French market for reference photos and quick sketches to bring back to the studio. Set out on a full-day trip to Château de Villandry, one of France's most celebrated Renaissance châteaux, where ornamental gardens and sweeping formal landscapes offer an extraordinary setting for painting and sketching on location. Later in the week, take a half-day trip to the medieval town of Saumur, with a visit to Château de Saumur perched above the Loire River, for an afternoon of on-location sketching against one of the valley's most iconic backdrops.

**Topics covered with artist Emma Burnett:**

- Exploring the color palettes of Matisse, Bonnard, Van Gogh, and Cavaillès and building your own
- Learning to confidently mix French-inspired colors with easy-to-remember color recipes
- Building brush skills for creating different effects, from translucence and intricate detail to drama and loose freedom
- Using sketchbooks to warm up and loosen brush and color skills
- Playing with new color palettes before committing to a finished piece
- Building confidence to paint in a bold and playful way
- Learning to select a simpler, interesting composition from a complex scene
- Identifying elements in a view that give the painting interest and flow
- Working in overlays of color to build depth and tonal strength
- How distorted scale and perspective can create drama

**Topics covered with artist Michael Cruickshank:**

- How to "build" a painting starting with broad washes of color, then adding layers of detailed color and tone, working from light to dark
- Understanding tone and color and how they can be used to create space and depth
- The benefits of working with a limited color palette
- How to create gestural brushstrokes to convey movement and form
- How to mix colors on the palette and by using overlays of transparent washes
- The importance of tonal contrast to create the effects of light
- Learning how to compose a view, finding balance in shape and form

Your home for the week will be a historic 19th-century French château. Your art classes will take place both indoors and outdoors, surrounded by blooming gardens, open skies, and the layered charm of the château. Indulge in delicious meals prepared by a private chef and under the supervision of the château’s nutritionist. Taste authentic French flavors in a wine-tasting event with a top local sommelier native to the Loire Valley, and savor a selection of artisanal French cheeses in delightful cheese platters accompanying each dinner.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Angers (St. Laud) train station and board the transfer to your retreat venue in the Loire Valley countryside. Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Settle into your room and take some time to explore the grounds, wandering through the French gardens and along the vine-lined terraces.

As the evening unfolds, gather with your fellow artists and your instructors for the week, Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank, for a welcome dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local French wine. Emma and Michael will share how exploring color and building confidence in color mixing has transformed their own artwork over the years, and you'll choose whether to follow Emma or Michael for the week ahead.

### Day 2: Classes at the venue
Enjoy a hearty breakfast, then split into your group with Emma or Michael for the first morning of painting. With the gift of unhurried time on this retreat, you'll really think about the colors you'll use in your paintings.

Emma will look at wonderful artists famed for their exploratory use of color, from Matisse and Bonnard to Van Gogh and Cavaillès, and you'll build your own color and technique reference sketchbook. Michael will guide his group into sketchbook work with watercolor, drawing from the inspiring subject matter in and around the château.

After a satisfying lunch, Emma will guide you through reproducing Matisse's "The Terrace, St Tropez," exploring his techniques and mixing those colors as you work. Michael will lead his group through composing a view and finding balance in shape and form, using simple techniques to capture and simplify the qualities of this location.

Wind down with a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local French wine, with artisanal cheese boards served alongside and the warmth of your fellow artists finding their rhythm on the very first day.

### Day 3: Art trip to a local French market
Sit down to a nourishing breakfast, then gather your sketchbook and supplies for a half-day trip to a vibrant local French market. Wander the stalls with your fellow artists, taking in the colors and textures of the produce and handmade goods, and snap reference photos and quick sketches to bring back to the studio.

Return to the venue for lunch, then head into an afternoon studio session. Emma will guide you through finishing "The Terrace, St Tropez," then turn your attention to the château's surroundings as you create your own painting inspired by Matisse's style with the skills you've now learned. Michael will walk his group through practicing techniques and skills in their sketchbooks, working in different areas of the château to build a valuable reference library. You'll explore how to "build" a painting from broad washes of color, adding layers of detailed color and tone while working from light to dark, and how tone and color can create space and depth in your work.

Gather for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local French wine, with artisanal cheese and lively conversation after a day spent at the market and in the studio.

### Day 4: Classes at the venue
After a delicious breakfast, head into a full day of painting.

Working on your original piece, Emma will show you how to make background colors recede and your focal point stand out. Explore how to create softness and rhythmic flow in your colors so that the painting has cohesion and joy, and discover the benefit of using neutrals and sludgy colors to make your clean colors pop without being harsh.

Following lunch, dive deeper into brushstrokes and layering paint as you learn to mix specific colors under Emma's guidance. Michael will guide his group through the benefits of working with a limited color palette and how to create gestural brushstrokes to convey movement and form.

Over a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local French wine, share the day's breakthroughs with your fellow artists as artisanal cheese boards make their way around the table.

### Day 5: Art trip to Château de Villandry
After a wholesome breakfast, gather your sketchbook and paints for a full-day trip to Château de Villandry, one of the most celebrated Renaissance châteaux in the Loire Valley.

Explore the world-famous ornamental gardens, from sculpted hedgerows and flowering parterres to the grand vegetable garden laid out in geometric patterns. Take reference photos and capture quick sketches on location with your fellow artists, paying attention to whatever catches your eye. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in the gardens before continuing to explore.

Return to the venue for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local French wine, a welcome chance to share stories and impressions from a day spent in some of France's most extraordinary gardens, with artisanal cheese served alongside.

### Day 6: Art trip to Saumur & wine-tasting event
Sit down to a filling breakfast, then pack your sketchbook for a half-day trip to the medieval town of Saumur. Visit the Château de Saumur, perched high above the Loire River, and sketch the dramatic views from the ramparts. Capture the town's cobblestone streets and riverside atmosphere in quick reference photos and on-location sketches to bring back to the studio.

Return to the venue for a refreshing lunch, then head into an afternoon of painting. Emma will guide you through refining your painting, thinking about color rhythm and flow throughout the piece to bring softness and harmony. Michael will guide his group through mixing colors on the palette and using overlays of transparent washes, exploring the importance of tonal contrast to create the effects of light.

As the evening approaches, join a special wine-tasting event at the château, led by a top local sommelier who spent six years working alongside Gordon Ramsay before returning to his native Loire. Taste your way through the region's finest wines before sitting down to a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef, with artisanal cheese and warm conversation after a week of painting together.

### Day 7: Classes at the venue
Savor a warm breakfast, then head into a final morning of painting.

Emma will help you appraise your painting and work on any areas you'd like to improve, then look back through your reference sketchbooks to recap the skills and colors you've learned and which you especially enjoyed. Your art will never look back from learning to explore and create a beautiful color palette to work with. With Michael you will finish your works and look back on your sketchbooks to find areas to refine.

After lunch, display your favorite pieces in an informal joint exhibition. Take a moment to appreciate how far you've come and celebrate the creative journey you've shared with your fellow artists!

As evening falls, enjoy a special farewell dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local French wine, with artisanal cheese boards and a toast to the friendships formed and the art created over this unforgettable week.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast with Emma, Michael, and your fellow artists before it's time to part ways. Exchange any last contacts, then get ready for your 8:00 AM transfer to Angers (St. Laud) train station. You will arrive at the train station at around 9:00 AM.

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

## Instructors

- [Emma Burnett](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/emma-burnett) — Artist and painting instructor
- [Michael Cruickshank](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/michael-cruickshank) — Landscape painter and painting instructor

## Accommodation

### Historic French Château
Your home for the retreat with artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank will be a 19th-century château nestled in the romantic Loire countryside. You'll have the unique opportunity to stay at a magnificent estate and step back into history, surrounded by the lush greenery of its vineyards.

The estate has three beautifully restored buildings: the main 19th-century château, a rustic coach house, and a cozy farm cottage. Each building exudes elegance and comfort, featuring ornate ceilings, period woodwork, and tiled floors, all while preserving their original charm. The rooms at this stunning venue can be shared or single, and they are distributed across these three buildings.

Indulge in the unique indoor amenities that include a large library brimming with books, a period salon for intimate gatherings, and a games room equipped with a pool table, all found in the main château. The coach house and the farm cottage have their own common rooms as well. Outdoors, you'll find manicured French gardens, a heated swimming pool, and airy terraces. These peaceful spots are perfect for inspiring chats with fellow artists or taking in the fairytale atmosphere.

Your classes will take place outdoors, on the covered deck, or on the shaded pergolas. Indoors, a spacious, bright studio awaits; it is located in the central courtyard and benefits from plenty of natural light.

Please note that the retreat is not suitable for participants with limited mobility - the upper floor rooms are only accessible via stairs, and the art trips will involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets. As the venue is located in the French countryside, expect some insects during your stay. Since the venue is not equipped with window screens (to preserve its original architecture), some insects may come into your room if you leave the windows open.

### Shared room with shared bathroom
One double room with a shared bathroom is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room with another same-gender participant. The room also shares its shower bathroom with one other single occupancy room, meaning that three retreat participants will be sharing the spacious bathroom.

Located in the farm cottage on the second floor, the room features two comfortable twin beds with delicate woodwork and beautiful beams supporting the high domed ceiling. Participants staying at the farm cottage also have shared access to the living room and a fully-equipped kitchen, as well as a charming terrace.

### Shared standard ensuite room
Three standard ensuite rooms are available for shared occupancy. Each room is shared between two same-gender participants. Two of the rooms are located in the coach house (on the first and second floor), while the other one is located on the second floor of the château.

The rooms feature private ensuite shower bathrooms, comfortable twin beds, and tall French windows with gorgeous views of the courtyard. Participants staying in these rooms will also have access to the shared spaces of the coach house, and respectively, the château, as well as the outdoor terrace.

### Shared superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room with another same-gender participant.

Located on the top floor of the château, the room features an ensuite shower bathroom and two comfortable double-sized beds, as well as access to shared living room and the dining areas of the château. The room has tall French windows overlooking the beautiful gardens of the venue and a shared outdoor terrace.

### Single room with shared bathroom
One room with a shared bathroom is available for single occupancy. You will have this room all to yourself and share the shower bathroom with two other retreat participants.

Located in the farm cottage on the second floor, this room shares a large bathroom with another double occupancy room down the hall; three guests will be sharing the spacious shower bathroom in the farm cottage. The room itself is furnished with a comfortable double bed and features original wooden beams and charming decorations. Participants staying at the farm cottage also have shared access to the living room and a fully-equipped kitchen, as well as a charming terrace.

### Single standard ensuite room
Two standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. These rooms are located on the second floor of the coach house. They are spacious and feature double beds and ensuite bathrooms, as well as access to the shared spaces of the coach house, such as a living room, a dining area, and an outdoor terrace.

### Single superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. Located on the second floor of the château, this bright room offers a spacious double bed for your comfort. Tall windows frame picturesque views of the enchanting French gardens below. Ensuiring convenience and privacy, this room features an ensuite bathroom and access to the shared spaces of the château, such as the living room, the library, the dininga area, and the outdoor terrace.

### Single deluxe suite
Two single deluxe suites are available for single occupancy. Located on the second and top floor of the château, these rooms feature a double- or king-sized bed. They have ensuite bathrooms with a tub and a separate shower and feature access to the shared spaces of the château, such as the living room, the library, the dininga area, and the outdoor terrace.

## Food

No trip to France is complete without a tour of its culinary heritage. During your retreat with Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank, you'll be treated to an authentic gastronomic journey that will delight your senses.

Each morning, wake up to a delicious breakfast buffet brimming with freshly baked bread, croissants, a variety of local cheeses, eggs, and the essential cup of tea or coffee. During lunch, enjoy a light two-course meal featuring creamy soups, fresh salads, sandwiches, baked tarts, or other French staples. Dinner is a three-course feast, perfectly complemented by aromatic local French wine.

Moreover, you'll learn why the Loire Valley is one of France's most celebrated wine regions with a unique wine-tasting event. The experience will be led by a top local sommelier who refined his skills working alongside none other than chef Gordon Ramsay before returning to his native Loire.

Your retreat includes all meals, afternoon snacks, artisanal cheese platters, wine during dinner service, and a selection of tea, coffee, and water available throughout the day. During your full-day trip to Château de Villandry, you'll enjoy a packed lunch prepared by the private chef at the venue. All meals will be prepared under the supervision of the venue's nutritionist.

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.

For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below.

## Getting There

The art retreat with artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank will take place in the heart of France's picturesque Loire Valley. This stunning region will provide ample inspiration for your paintings, thanks to its magnificent châteaux (castles), sprawling vineyards, historic towns, and scenic landscapes. The Loire Valley is one of France's foremost wine regions, and its lush valleys have earned it the title of "The Garden of France".

During your retreat, you'll visit Château de Villandry, a Renaissance-era castle famous for its architecture and expansive gardens, found 50 miles away from the retreat venue. Saumur, the birthplace of Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, is a mere 15 miles from the venue, boasting a magnificent château and a vibrant local culture. Just 25 miles away, you'll find Angers, the transfer pick-up/drop-off point.

Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on September 13, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on September 20, 2027, by 8:00 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.**

**We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel. It is best to arrive in France a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by potential flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.**

Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat has been guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at the Angers (St. Laud) train station.

**How to get to Angers (St. Laud) train station:**

The best (quickest and most affordable) option is to fly to Paris and catch a train to Angers (St. Laud) train station from Gare Montparnasse Paris. It's a very pleasant, direct train journey (1 hour, 40 minutes).

Please keep in mind that the journey from the Paris (CDG) Airport to Gare Montparnasse Paris train station takes 1 hour by train.

Another convenient option is to fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport and take a direct TGV train from the airport terminal (Roissy–CDG 2 TGV) to Angers (St. Laud) train station. This is a comfortable and straightforward journey that takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes on average, with no need to transfer into the city.

Please note that while this route may be slightly more expensive than taking the train from Gare Montparnasse, it avoids the need to travel across Paris with luggage and may save time depending on your arrival.

**You can book train tickets to Angers (St. Laud) train station from one of the following:**

- [https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/](https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/)
- [https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times/paris-to-angers-st-laud](https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times/paris-to-angers-st-laud)
- [https://www.omio.com/trains](https://www.omio.com/trains)

**How to get from Angers (St. Laud) train station to the retreat venue:**

Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Angers (St. Laud) train station are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour.

- Arrival transfer: **September 13, 2027 ⁠— 4:00 PM** (leaving from Angers (St. Laud) train station, arriving at the retreat venue around 5:00 PM)
- Departure transfer: **September 20, 2027 — 8:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Angers (St. Laud) train station around 9:00 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 or Angers before and/or after the retreat, and catch the transfer shuttles from/to Angers (St. Laud) train station
- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Château de la Vigne, La Croix Patron, 49700 Concourson-sur-Layon, France, approximately 160 EUR/170 USD per way from Angers. Please note that taxi fares may vary.)

## Reviews

**Reviews of past UpTrek retreats at this venue:**

- "The venue exceeded my expectations. From the quietude and beauty of the property to May's wonderful meals, everything was wonderful. Guy, May, and Roger have my highest recommendation as hosts. And my thanks to \*you\*, Ana (UpTrek), for so seamlessly facilitating all the details. I felt very comfortable going into the trip because of all the prep beforehand."

- "Perfect. Great food, fab hosts, great learning opportunities in an ideal location."

- "From the arrival to departure my needs were met and my learning was vast. I have to mention the fun had by me and the relationships we made. I would go to this retreat again in a heartbeat! Food was wonderful and May, Guy, and Roger were the best."

- "Well planned and executed. Everyone helped/supported/encouraged everyone else."

- "Gracious hosts, delicious food, comfortable accommodations, friendly participants, fun field trips, and fabulous art instruction."

- "I know it sounds dramatic but this trip was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. To begin with, the venue was lovely. May and Guy were fantastic hosts and May is an incredible chef. The meals were outstanding as was their hospitality. Thank you for helping to make everything up front go smoothly. I’m back to reality now but have wonderful memories 😊"

- "May and Guy were great hosts. I have never been so looked after dietary wise thanks to May’s excellent cooking skills. Also thank you to you Ana, you have always been very responsive and friendly thereby making it an easier journey for us all."

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Is the retreat available to all levels?**

The retreat is open to all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank takes place between September 13 - 20, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 13, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day at 8:00 AM, on September 20, 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.**

**Is Wi-Fi available?**

Yes.

**I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?**

Yes, but 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.

**How do I get to the retreat venue?**

Round-trip train station transfers from/to Angers (St. Laud) train station at prearranged times are included. The arrival transfer on the first day of the retreat leaves at 4:00 PM from Angers (St. Laud) train station, and the departure transfer on the last day leaves for Angers (St. Laud) train station at 8:00 AM, arriving at the train station a little before 9:00 AM. The retreat venue is located an hour's drive from Angers (St. Laud) train station. The TGV train journey from Paris to Angers takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/exploring-mixing-developing-colors-landscapes-florals-artists-michael-cruickshank-emma-burnett-france#location). Please hold off booking any flights or trains until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

**What should I pack?**

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, 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 artists Emma Burnett and Michael Cruickshank will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, easels, professional studio lights, projector, printer/scanner, glass jars, paper towels, fruits, flowers, and items from the local market 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.**

**What’s the weather like in Doué-en-Anjou in September?**

The weather in September in Doué-en-Anjou, the closest town to the retreat venue, is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 21°C / 70°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before your departure to the retreat and to pack accordingly.

**How many people are to be expected at the retreat?**

Maximum 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests traveling from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states may enter France for tourist purposes without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.

**What language is used during the retreat and other activities?**

The retreat is available in English.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.

**Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?**

There will be plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets during the trips; the trips may not be suitable to participants with low or limited mobility.

**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.

**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://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://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 cancelled by the instructors or by UpTrek?**

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructors' 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/exploring-mixing-developing-colors-landscapes-florals-artists-michael-cruickshank-emma-burnett-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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**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/exploring-mixing-developing-colors-landscapes-florals-artists-michael-cruickshank-emma-burnett-france
**Last updated:** 2026-05-21