# Historic Towns Travel Sketchbook Retreat with Artist Rod Moore in Italy

Explore the rolling landscapes of Tuscany and craft a beautiful travel sketchbook during a weeklong art retreat with artist Rod Moore. Elevate your sketching skills, whether you are opening a sketchbook for the first time or expanding your techniques. Under the guidance of your instructor, employing his acclaimed Moore Method of Painting, you will study the essentials of sketchbook art.Explore layout and design, bring more depth and atmosphere into your pages, and learn how to take reference photos that inspire future works. The retreat offers an inclusive environment for artists of all levels, with a focus on overcoming creative hurdles and enriching your portfolio. Stay in inviting Tuscan apartments featuring traditional "arte povera" furnishings, set among peaceful gardens, a 66-foot (20-meter) pool, rolling vineyards, olive groves, and a private lake. A reconverted 18th-century granary serves as a spacious, well-equipped studio, offering the perfect setting to create while surrounded by breathtaking scenery and historic architecture.Benefit from daily classes, personalized tuition, and art trips to Arezzo, San Gimignano, and a traditional olive oil mill. Alongside fellow artists, enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, a wine tasting experience, and the serene rural atmosphere, making this artistic journey a genuine feast for the senses.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 18 - 25, 2026
- **Location:** Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy
- **Starting Price:** $4,850
- **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 Rod MooreExclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the studio, the large natural garden, extensive vineyards, olive groves, the 66 ft. (20 m.) swimming pool, and the private lake7 nights of accommodation at a Tuscan estateMeals: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefWater, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and snacks available throughout the daySpecial welcome and farewell dinnerWelcome and farewell cocktailsDelicious wine served with dinnerAn on-site wine tour and tastingFull-day trip to San Gimignano, with painting on locationFull-day trip to Arezzo, with painting on locationHalf-day trip to the Frantoio Pasquini oil mill, including olive oil tasting with appetizersPrivate transportation and guide for all planned activitiesFully-staffed venue, experienced UpTrek host available on locationRound-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Rod Moore and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceLunch during the full-day tripsMaterials — a list of materials recommended by Rod Moore will be provided five months before the retreatTips for staff (tipping is customary in Italy)Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Historic Towns Travel Sketchbook Retreat
Step into a world of timeless beauty and artistic discovery with Rod Moore in the heart of Tuscany. This weeklong retreat will take your sketching to new heights, guide you past creative blocks, and breathe new energy into your artistic process. Rod’s method gives beginners a confident foundation and offers experienced painters fresh ways to broaden their skills. By the end of the retreat, you will have created a travel sketchbook alive with images of Tuscany’s historic architecture, winding streets, sunlit piazzas, and the serene rhythm of the countryside.Benefit from daily classes, one-to-one tuition, and art trips shaped around your instructor’s acclaimed Moore Method of Painting. You will learn to design sketchbook pages with depth and atmosphere, capture reference photos that inspire, and translate the intricate details of historic buildings into expressive studies. The art trips form the heart of the experience. In Arezzo, Gothic churches and Renaissance facades rise over lively squares. San Gimignano’s soaring towers dominate the skyline and offer striking lessons in perspective. A traditional olive oil mill invites you to sketch centuries-old stone walls and rustic tools steeped in Tuscan heritage. Each destination immerses you in history and architecture, filling your sketchbook with a sense of place that is both inspiring and unforgettable.The topics covered during your lessons will include:Sketchbook basicsDesign and layoutSimplifying complex scenes for spontaneous sketchingFinding the magic in the subjectSketchbook materials: inks, pens, brushes, watercolor, and gouacheUsing tone to create depth and atmosphere in your sketchesAdding movement and life to your sketchesTaking amazing reference photos when out and aboutDeveloping quick on-location sketches into larger studio sketchesSketching from reference photos...and much more!Experience Italy's lively culture through chef-made food every day, delicious wine served with dinner (plus a wine tasting), a historic venue dating back to medieval times, and the lovely company of 15 other like-minded artists.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), at 4:00 PM and be transferred to the venue, reaching it by 5:00 PM. After settling into your spacious, thoughtfully designed room, explore the cozy apartments, well-equipped writing spaces, peaceful pool, and expansive gardens, all surrounded by serene vineyards and olive groves. Get introduced to your guide for this art adventure, Rod Moore, and chat about the upcoming week over a delightful welcome dinner.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Wake to breakfast and coffee, then meet Rod for a relaxed check-in before heading into the studio.During the morning class, Rod will demonstrate the basics of sketching in ink. Begin with a few easy warm-ups designed to loosen your style. Then move into the study of tone and values as you practice using contrast to bring depth and character to your sketches. The session includes a hands-on still life exercise, along with practice using reference photos chosen to highlight details of Tuscan scenery and architecture.After a light lunch, the afternoon session takes you outside for a plein-air class focused on capturing the surrounding buildings and landscapes.Rod will guide you through sketching subjects that draw the eye, from rustic stone walls to traditional Tuscan rooftops framed by olive trees. As you prepare for the upcoming art trip to Arezzo, you will learn what to look for when sketching historic architecture and how to identify features that make a drawing feel authentic. Rod will share practical tips on organizing and packing your materials for an outing while also offering personalized feedback throughout the session.In the evening, gather for a wine tasting on the property. Walk the vineyard paths, hear the story behind each bottle, and settle in for a shared dinner under the Tuscan sky.

### Day 3: Art trip to Arezzo
After a satisfying breakfast, gather your sketchbooks and supplies and board the shuttle for a scenic one-hour drive through the Tuscan countryside to the historic town of Arezzo. Known for its rich artistic heritage and centuries-old streets, Arezzo offers a perfect blend of history, atmosphere, and inspiration for your sketchbook.On arrival, stroll through the winding medieval streets with a local guide who will share stories of the town’s architecture and past. As you explore, Rod will demonstrate his approach to taking reference photos, showing you how to experiment with angles, perspectives, and changing light. Pause to note the most inspiring vistas and consider how you might later translate them into sketches and paintings.Take a mid-morning coffee break at a café in the central square, where you can soak in the rhythms of daily life before continuing your exploration. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal in a trattoria, sampling regional dishes in a relaxed setting.Rejoin Rod for a plein-air sketching session. Choose between focusing on the intricate details of Arezzo’s historic facades or capturing broader views of the town and surrounding countryside. Rod will host a group demonstration to guide you in building a cityscape sketch, followed by time for you to work independently with tailored feedback.In the evening, return to the venue for a three-course dinner, delightfully paired with a glass of local wine.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
The next day starts with a delicious breakfast, followed by a check-in over coffee with Rod and the first workshop of the day.The morning class introduces sketching in watercolor, beginning with a vibrant demonstration of Rod’s techniques. As you explore the balance of water and pigment, Rod will guide you in shaping your sketchbook layout. You will learn how to decide what to include on each page so your sketchbook becomes more than a series of drawings, transforming into a visual story of your artistic journey. The session is designed to strengthen your composition skills and give your sketchbook pages a deeper sense of purpose and meaning.After a well-deserved lunch, the afternoon session focuses on sketching from reference using your photos taken during the art trip to Arezzo.You will practice translating the character of these cityscapes into watercolor sketches, drawing on your impressions from walking their streets and squares. Rod will share his insights on portraying architecture, showing you how to capture the atmosphere of piazzas, the shifting play of light and shadow on stone facades, and the distinctive details that give each town its unique identity. This class emphasizes observation and storytelling, helping you turn your memories of Tuscany’s historic towns into expressive watercolor sketches that preserve the essence of what you experienced.As light moves through the windows and the painting nears its final stage, take a breath and step back. Later, come together with fellow artists for dinner, share what surprised you, and enjoy the calm sense of arrival that follows a full day of work.

### Day 5: Art trip to San Gimignano
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for an art trip to the historic hill town of San Gimignano. After a scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Tuscan countryside, you’ll arrive in one of Italy’s most picturesque towns, celebrated for its medieval towers and UNESCO World Heritage status.Immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere of the town during a guided morning tour led by an English-speaking local guide. Rod will lead a class on location, beginning with a watercolor demonstration in one of the main piazzas. You’ll learn techniques for capturing the rhythm and scale of the town’s dramatic skyline, often called the “Medieval Manhattan.” Next, you may join Rod for an architectural sketching session centered on the towers themselves or take time to explore on your own. Each winding street and stone archway offers an opportunity to study perspective, texture, and the way Tuscan light defines historic walls and rooftops.Enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria, sampling Tuscan specialties and local wines, before continuing your artistic exploration in the afternoon.Sketch the lively Piazza della Cisterna with its triangular layout, or find quieter subjects among churches and hidden courtyards that preserve centuries of history. The carved details of doorways, weathered brickwork, and narrow alleyways reveal layers of craftsmanship that make San Gimignano such a rewarding subject for artists. Take breaks in local cafés to observe daily life, gather reference photos, and add spontaneous studies to your sketchbook.Return to the venue in the evening. Spend your free time by the pool or chatting with your fellow artists, then get ready to enjoy a well-deserved dinner paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 6: Trip to a traditional oil mill
Enjoy a warm breakfast as light filters through the windows, then head out for a short drive to Frantoio Pasquini, a family-owned olive oil mill tucked among the hills and groves of Reggello, just ten minutes away.Your visit begins with a walk through the olive groves, where you’ll see the twisted trunks and silvery leaves that have shaped Tuscan landscapes for centuries. From there, enjoy a guided tour of the mill itself, exploring the production spaces and learning how olives are transformed from fruit on the tree to liquid gold on the table. Along the way, Rod will point out architectural and atmospheric details worth capturing in your sketchbook, from rustic stone walls to the play of light in the groves.After the tour, gather for a tasting in the eno-oleoteca, sampling freshly pressed olive oil along with local specialties like olive pastes. Stay on-site for a relaxed lunch before returning in the early afternoon.The later session focuses on translating the morning’s impressions into watercolor sketches. Using your on-site drawings and photos as reference, Rod will guide you in planning page layouts, experimenting with wet-on-wet washes, and layering color to capture the texture and atmosphere of the mill and groves. He will provide individual feedback throughout, helping you refine your work and bring out the unique character of what you observed.Conclude the day with dinner and a glass of wine, sharing stories and sketchbook pages with your fellow artists.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
On your final day, start with a hearty breakfast and a coffee check-in.Dive right into the morning class, featuring an engaging demonstration from Rod, showcasing the versatility and richness of gouache as a medium. Spend the rest of the class painting from your own reference photos in gouache. Throughout the session, Rod will provide individual feedback, offering personalized advice to enhance your technique and artistic expression.Lunch provides a moment of relaxation before the afternoon class. This session is special: a mini-exhibition of the pieces created during the retreat. Share your work with fellow artists and receive valuable feedback. It's a celebration of your growth and a chance to appreciate the diverse talents of your peers.As the day draws to a close, come together for a special farewell dinner, celebrating the connections made and the artistic journey shared. Toast to your progress and to your unforgettable experiences in Tuscany!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy breakfast with your group, exchange any last contact details, and get ready for your transfer to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR). Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Rod Moore](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/rod-moore) — Impressionist artist and teacher

## Accommodation

### Tuscan Vineyard Estate
Your venue for the retreat with Rod Moore is a serene Tuscan vineyard estate nestled in the Chianti region. Covering 80 acres (32 hectares), the estate dates back to the Middle Ages and once belonged to the influential Medici Tornaquinci family, forever establishing its place in history. Amenities on the estate include a 66-foot (20-meter) swimming pool, extensive gardens, a private lake, and wine cellars. You can also enjoy the large outdoor dining area on the pergola, spacious interior dining area, and airy studio for your classes. During your free time, you're welcome to explore the picturesque surroundings using the scenic walking paths through the private forest, olive groves, and vineyard. The accommodation spaces are spread across two main buildings and a renovated medieval tower, whereas the dining area and studio are located in the reconverted 18th-century granary. These spaces range from spacious private suites to multi-bedroom apartments with amenities spread over multiple floors. The rooms boast stunning views of the estate's expansive gardens, vineyards, or peaceful private lake. Your classes with Rod Moore will be carried out in a spacious 1,560 sq. ft. (145 sq. m.) studio located on the second floor of the granary building. You may also paint on the grounds, with the estate's stunning landscape providing endless inspiration. Please note that the venue may not be suitable for participants with limited mobility, as some rooms and the studio are accessible only by stairs, and getting around the venue spaces requires a short walk. Additionally, being in the Italian countryside, you may encounter some insects during your stay. To preserve the historical character of the estate, the rooms are not equipped with window screens.

### Shared ensuite room
You'll share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared ensuite rooms are available in the main villa, located on the third floor, and in a separate medieval tower (accessible via two sets of stairs). The rooms feature twin beds and are fan-cooled, designed with architecture that keeps the space cool, with an ensuite shower bathroom. The bathroom is shared between the same-gender participants occupying the same room. The shared living rooms provide a comfortable space to relax, alongside a shared kitchen, complete with dining amenities and a TV.

### Single standard room - adjacent bathroom
Four single standard rooms available for single occupancy are located within separate apartments in the main villa (second floor) or the medieval tower (second and third floor). Each apartment offers access to a shared living room and either a kitchenette or a full kitchen with a dining table and a TV. You'll have access to an adjacent, private bathroom with a shower or a tub. All rooms are fan-cooled and contain double beds.

### Single superior ensuite room
Four superior single rooms are available for single occupancy, each featuring a double bed and an ensuite bathroom with a shower. The rooms are located within two separate apartments in the main villa (second and third floors). Each apartment includes a shared living room and a kitchenette with a dining table and a TV. In one of the apartments, the shared kitchen and living room are located downstairs from the bedrooms, next to a shared terrace. All rooms are fan-cooled.

### Single deluxe apartment
Four single deluxe apartments are available for single occupancy, each offering the comfort and privacy of having the entire apartment to yourself. Located on the first and second floors in one of the main buildings of the estate, these apartments feature a bedroom with a double bed, a private bathroom with a shower (or wetroom), and a cozy living room. The apartments also include a private kitchen/kitchenette with a dining table. One of the apartments spans both the first and second floors, with amenities and living spaces divided across the levels. Each apartment covers approximately 646 sq. ft. (60 sq. m).

## Food

During your retreat with Rod Moore, you'll savor delicious, authentic Italian cuisine with wonderful meat and vegetable-based dishes crafted by the private chef. The chef uses fresh, seasonal local ingredients to prepare classic Tuscan recipes, offering a true taste of the region's rustic flavors. You will enjoy home-cooked meals that look amazing and feature the tastiest Italian “Nonna”-style (grandma) recipes.Start your day with a Tuscan breakfast, featuring a selection of breads (including whole wheat and the classic Tuscan white with no salt), fruit jams, honey, yogurt, cornflakes, homemade cakes, and croissants. You'll also enjoy Tuscan cheese, eggs, fresh fruits, juices, and a variety of beverages like cappuccino, coffee, tea, milk, almond milk, and soy milk.Lunch is served buffet-style and typically includes a variety of starters, salads, and a first course, accompanied by fresh fruit. In the evenings, you'll be treated to a three course dinner with an antipasto (the first course), followed by a main course with a vegetable side dish, and finished with a delicious dessert. Dinners are paired with wonderful wines produced at the estate.Throughout the day, a selection of snacks such as homemade pastries, cakes, biscuits, and nuts will be available. You can enjoy these along with coffee, tea, juice, and water in the hall of the beautifully restored 18th-century Granary building or on the lovely pergola overlooking the garden and vineyards. You'll also explore the local flavors with a wine-tasting tour of the estate’s own Chianti winery.The retreat includes all meals, except for two lunches during your full-day trips. Please note that while the venue can accommodate diet restrictions (vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, lactose-free) upon request, availability and variety may be limited. 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.

## Getting There

Your art retreat with Rod Moore takes place in the tranquil Vaggio di Reggello area of Tuscany, surrounded by lush vineyards, rolling hills, and historic charm. The serene environment reflects the traditional Tuscan countryside, offering a peaceful blend of culture and nature. Florence, the region’s capital, is 45 minutes away and will serve as your pick-up/drop-off point for transfers.During this retreat, you'll explore the region during three trips: to the historic town of San Gimignano (1.5 hours away), to medieval Arezzo (1 hour away) and to a local family-owned oil mill (10 minutes away). Tuscany's landscape, with its iconic rolling vineyards and olive groves framed by tall, slender Cypress trees, has long inspired artists. The region’s fertile land, particularly its Chianti vineyards, produces world-renowned wines and some of Italy’s finest extra virgin olive oils.Check-in at the retreat begins at 5:00 PM on September 18, 2026, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on September 25, 2026.To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence (local round trips starting from US$120, subject to change, approximately 1 hour journey time). It is best to arrive in Italy 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.Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.How to get from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), to the retreat venue:Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour.Arrival transfer: September 18, 2026 ⁠— 4:00 PM (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 5:00 PM)Departure transfer: September 25, 2026 ⁠— 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) around 11:00 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 Florence before and/or after the retreat, and catch the transfer shuttles from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR).Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Antico Borgo la Torre, Località la Torre, 172, 50066 Vaggio FI, Italy, approximately 200 EUR per way from Florence Airport). Please note that taxi fares may change.

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with artist Rod Moore:"Having been a member of the Learn to Paint Academy for several years, I was very excited to meet Rod and see his process in person. Almost every day we had an excursion to a nearby town, local farm, or winery. There were art museums and outdoor markets, lots of photo and sketching opportunities, and many chances to observe the local culture. There was also lots of free time to complete works on progress or take a dip in the pool. The meals were first class and were a special time for us to get to know and appreciate the other participants. I made several friendships that I know will last a lifetime.""The instructor demonstrated processes, showed how to mix colors and very patiently provided feedback. I learned correct techniques and how to place shadows. I would enjoy taking another class with Rod Moore.""Rod Moore is an amazing teacher and the venue exceeded my expectations. Not only was the property an inspiration for our artwork, but we went on tours of nearby historic towns where we collected reference photos for future creations. This art retreat with Rod, the hosts, and the 14 lovely ladies I sketched with was an experience of a lifetime! I’d do it again in a heartbeat!!""It was a great retreat - I was able to paint, get feedback and learn! Well worth time and cost. Rod is kind and caring - for folks like me who are beginners.""This was the trip of a lifetime for me, combining a long desired trip to Europe, with an opportunity to develop my passion for painting. The artist, Rod Moore, was knowledgeable & approachable. Overall, an incredible experience."Reviews of the venue:"Great painting opportunities, great scenery everywhere you looked. You could not have asked for better accommodations and hospitality. The food was delicious, the owners were very accommodating and the table where we all gathered for the evening meals couldn't have been more picturesque.""Federica and John and the staff at the venue were FANTASTIC. They were warm, friendly, and gracious throughout my whole time there. I really didn’t expect to say that my time at the venue was equal and experience as my time participating in the art retreat. John showed us the vineyard and the whole wine making process. Frederica was always there and available and friendly and lovely. I just can’t speak highly enough about them and their staff. The venue itself was breathtaking.""The setting at the venue was absolutely stunning and provided us with lots of inspiration for our paintings. The food was great and the wine was superb. We had a terrific group of talented artists of all levels and I will treasure my time here forever.""John, Federica and Duccio were fabulous hosts. The fact that they sat with us each night for dinner and engaged in conversation with everyone was specially appreciated.""The property is absolutely beautiful, set in the Italian countryside. It truly lived up to my expectations with the vineyards, olive groves, lake, pool, and so much more. Our apartment/room was very comfortable. Bravo to the chef, the food was amazing, the wine from their vineyard paired perfectly with dinner. Federica and John were so warm, accommodating, and easy to communicate with, which made the experience even more special. Overall I had an amazing time and would happily return.""Perfect! The food, wine, hospitality, wine and grounds tour, field trips, and accommodations all were exceptional. I wouldn't change a thing!"

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with artist Rod Moore is open to all levels of experience. When is the retreat available?The retreat with artist Rod Moore in Tuscany, Italy, takes place between September 18 - 25, 2026. Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 18, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast, at 10:00 AM, on the last day, September 25, 2026. Is Wi-Fi available?Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas free of charge. 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. How do I get to the retreat venue?Please arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR). 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 Italy 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. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. If you cannot find suitable connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence. For more details, please see the Location tab. Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, a swimsuit, sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. Can I do laundry while on the retreat?You are welcome to use the laundry facilities during your stay. The venue provides self-service washing machines and drying racks, but please note that the venue doesn't have a dryer. What supplies do I need for the workshop?Tables, chairs, easels, plein air stools, professional studio lights, easel lamps, glass jars, and paper towels for the workshop component are included. All other art supplies are not included; participants are responsible for bringing their own materials. A detailed list of materials recommended by artist Rod Moore will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. What’s the weather like in Vaggio, Italy, in late September?In late September, the weather in Vaggio, the closest town to the retreat venue, is warm and sunny. You can expect average highs of 28°C / 82°F during the day that drop to around 17°C / 63°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather before your departure for the art retreat and pack accordingly. Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport in Florence. You will need cash for small purchases during the day trips, for tipping the staff (tipping is customary), and for any extras you might want to purchase at the retreat venue. How many people are to be expected on the retreat?Maximum of 16 participants. Do I need a visa?Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Italy for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance. Are there any age restrictions?No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. What language is used during the workshop 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 artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. Is the retreat available to guests with low and limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with low and limited mobility. The indoor studio is located a short walk away from the accommodation spaces, and the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets. Certain rooms are only accessible via stairs, and the property itself is generally hilly.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 and your payment method is charged, 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/historic-towns-travel-sketchbook-artist-rod-moore-italy#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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**Last updated:** 2026-03-10