# Ionian Watercolor Impressions Retreat with Artist Nicki Traikos in Greece

Chase the Ionian light across your paper on a women-only watercolor retreat with artist Nicki Traikos, set on a sun-drenched Greek island where sparkling Ionian water laps against rugged cliffs and whitewashed villages spill down to the shore. Under Nicki's warm, encouraging teaching, you'll build your sketching and watercolor practice from the very first piece, mixing the blues of the sea, capturing sunlit olive groves and bougainvillea, loosening into free, expressive abstraction, and carrying your own artistic voice onto every page.

The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Whether you are picking up a brush for the very first time or returning to watercolor with fresh energy, Nicki will meet you exactly where you are and make the whole process feel fun and entirely your own!

Over the course of this inspiring retreat, you will enjoy daily classes and demonstrations from Nicki, with personalized feedback in a warm and supportive atmosphere that gives your creativity the space it needs to flourish.

Complement your creative sessions with art trips to some of Zakynthos’ most iconic locations. Glide across crystalline waters on a scenic boat ride to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach), and explore the lively streets of Zante Town, the island’s capital. You'll also slip away to a charming local pottery studio, sketchbook in hand, painting and sketching on location among shelves of handmade ceramics, with a refreshment to enjoy along the way!

Stay at a charming Greek villa, soak in the sun at the nearby beach, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine bursting with flavor, and make lasting memories with a like-minded group of artists.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 23 - 30, 2027
- **Location:** Planos, Zakynthos, Greece
- **Starting Price:** $4,800
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 16 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 Nicki Traikos
2. Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, easels, artist stools, professional studio lights
3. 7 nights of accommodation at an elegant seaside villa
4. Exclusive use of the venue's living quarters and common areas, the Shala art studio, pool, jacuzzi, wooden gazebo, SPA area, and beautiful terraces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free and lactose-free
7. Water, coffee, tea, juices, and snacks available throughout the day
8. Special welcome and farewell dinner
9. Delicious local wine during dinner service every day
10. Half-day art trip to Zante Town, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
11. Half-day boat trip to the Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), with a boat ride included
12. Half-day art trip to a local pottery studio with opportunities for on-location painting and sketching and an included refreshment
13. Greek dance show and band for the farewell dinner
14. Private transportation and guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities
15. Round-trip transfers from/to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) at prearranged times
16. All local tourist taxes and fees
17. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. Access to a private Facebook group with Nicki Traikos and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Nicki Traikos will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Greece
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Ionian Watercolor Impressions Retreat
Bring your watercolor to life on a retreat with artist Nicki Traikos on the island of Zakynthos, where the Ionian light and the wild Greek coastline will feed your painting from morning to evening. For Nicki, this retreat is a return to her Greek heritage, and she is excited to share her love for the food, the warmth of the people, the light on the water, and the rhythm of island life with you!

Transform your sketches into confident, expressive paintings. Nicki will guide you through watercolor and sketching fundamentals, landscape composition, loose botanicals, and finding your own creative voice, with personalized feedback and hands-on encouragement at every step. By the end of the retreat, you will paint with a freedom and style that feels entirely yours!

Nicki teaches the way she paints, with generous energy and a belief that watercolor should feel like play, not pressure. She will meet you wherever you are in your painting practice and help you fall in love with the medium. Through daily sessions, you will build your confidence from the ground up. Nicki will walk you through brush control, water-to-paint ratio, color mixing, and value studies, and from there you will branch into landscape composition, loose botanicals, abstract painting, and your own personal creative expression.

The Greek landscape will become part of your art, from the colors of the coastline to the light on the olive groves, feeding your palette and your imagination as you work. Nicki will be right beside you throughout, offering personalized feedback and helping you bring your own personality and artistic style into every piece you paint. Beyond the studio, take a boat along the crystalline coastline to Navagio Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and legendary shipwreck, and explore the lively streets of Zante Town with its sun-drenched Venetian balconies and colorful architecture. On your trip to a local pottery studio, learn more about Greek symbols, stories, and ethos reflected in their pottery and ceramics.

Whether you are picking up a brush for the first time or looking to push your painting further, you are welcome here!

**Topics covered in your classes with Nicki will include:**

- Exploring watercolor fundamentals, including brush control and water-to-paint ratio
- Translating sketches into beautiful watercolor paintings
- Building custom color palettes inspired by the Greek landscape and local botanicals
- Capturing the beauty of Greece through your sketchbook
- Painting loose, expressive botanicals drawn from local flora
- Creating contour sketches and using still-life references with confidence
- Studying landscape composition, perspective, structure, and framing
- Developing depth, light, movement, and atmosphere across a range of subjects
- Strengthening your painting practice through guided feedback and support
- Working across a variety of projects, filling the pages of your sketchbooks
- Discovering how personal connection to a place can deepen your creative voice
- ...and many more!

Your home for the week is a stunning Greek villa perched on terraced grounds with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea. You’ll have exclusive access to a bright, sea-facing Shala art studio, welcoming common areas, and a refreshing infinity pool, providing plenty of space to create, relax, and connect with fellow artists. Outside of class, savor authentic Greek cuisine prepared by the venue’s private chef and enjoy leisurely strolls through the villa’s gardens and surrounding paths.

Please note: the retreat venue is located on terraced grounds, with access to the studio, common areas, and accommodations requiring the use of stairways. Getting to the nearby beach also requires descending a steep stairway of approximately 50 meters (164 feet), and there will be plenty of walking during the trips. Therefore, this retreat is not suitable for individuals with low or limited mobility.

### Day 1: Arrival
Catch your 3:30 PM transfer from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) or Solomos Square to a breathtaking seafront venue overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Settle into your elegant room and take a moment to unwind before joining a guided tour of the venue grounds. Discover the inviting pool, the Shala art studio, and the welcoming common areas. Meet your instructor for the week, Nicki Traikos, as well as your fellow artists.

As the evening winds down, savor a delightful three-course welcome dinner in a warm and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a glass of wine with Nicki and the group and make plans for the week ahead.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Enjoy a wholesome breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee, then join Nicki and the group for a quick morning check-in to settle into the rhythm of your first full day at the retreat.

Nicki will open with introductions and an overview of the course structure, walking you through the topics and techniques you will explore over the coming days. Begin the class by sketching whatever piques your interest, whether it's the delicate flowers around the venue or the tranquil beach just a short walk away. With Nicki's guidance, you'll learn how to capture the essence of your subject by simplifying its shapes and working with a more limited color palette. Afterwards, dive into watercolor as you learn how to translate the sketches you've made into unique watercolor paintings using the basics, from the balance between water and pigment to brush control and color mixing. Learn what your brushes can do and experiment with wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques under Nicki's encouraging guidance, building the confidence you will carry through every session ahead.

After a nourishing lunch, return to the studio for another afternoon workshop. During this class, you will create some color and value studies drawn from the local flora and surrounding views, using the landscape and native plant life as your starting point. Learn brush control to create stunning leaves and florals, and experiment with different color palettes. Nicki will also go through landscape sketching and reference photo tips to help you prepare for the next day's exciting trip.

As the class comes to an end, take some time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with Nicki and your fellow artists for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant local wine.

### Day 3: Boat trip to Navagio Beach
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then gather your sketchbook and camera and head out toward the sea.

This morning's trip is a boat ride along the Zakynthian coast, which begins at the small port of Porto Vromi, where you will board a boat taxi and set off across the water. As you sail, your guide will carry you past some of the coastline's most striking sights, from imposing rock formations to secret caves carved into the cliffs. The boat's rhythm, the salty air, and the shifting blues of the sea will awaken your creative eye long before you arrive at your destination, Shipwreck Beach. If the weather is favorable, there may even be a chance to swim in the clear water along the way!

You will soon arrive at Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, an enclosed cove ringed by sheer white limestone cliffs and reachable only by sea. Resting in the sand is the rusting hull of the MV Panagiotis, a cargo ship that ran aground decades ago under circumstances that were never fully explained. Sketch the imposing shipwreck, focusing on the texture of the rusted metal against the pale cliffs and the strange, storied atmosphere of this place, or capture the tranquility of the beach tucked between grand limestone cliffs. Play with colors and channel the essence of Navagio with Nicki's encouraging feedback!

After returning by boat to Porto Vromi, head back to the venue for a nourishing lunch, then move into the afternoon with another art class. Under Nicki's gentle guidance, you will work from your morning sketches and reference photos, putting color down on paper as you develop landscape studies inspired by the trip. Explore thumbnail compositions and color palette exercises inspired by the views you captured, translating the morning's inspiration into beautiful watercolor pieces.

Take some time to unwind in the late afternoon. Join Nicki and your fellow artists for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of local wine.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Wake up your senses with a filling breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee, then join Nicki and your fellow artists in the sea-facing Shala studio.

Start the day with a few quick sketches of botanicals found around the venue, then focus on abstracting and painting loose, expressive landscape pieces using previous sketches to play with the arrangement and mood of your composition. Nicki will guide you through working with watercolor in a freer, more experimental way, exploring how value, color, composition, and movement come together harmoniously.

After a filling lunch, return to the studio for a deeper dive into structure and painting exercises. Continue developing your landscape works, with a focus on color and value, refining technique, and growing your skills. Nicki will move through the room, offering personalized feedback, helping you strengthen the work you have started, and pushing your paintings further.

Enjoy some spare time to relax in the late afternoon. Then, gather with Nicki and your fellow artists for a delightful chef-prepared dinner accompanied by a glass of fine local wine.

### Day 5: Art trip to Zante Town
Begin the day with a refreshing breakfast and a morning check-in with Nicki and your fellow artists, then grab your sketchbook and watercolors for a half-day trip to Zante Town, the island's capital.

Built along a natural harbor and shaped by centuries of Venetian rule, the town is full of color and personality. Sun-drenched balconies, vibrant blooms, weathered arches, and sparkling views out to sea line the streets, and the light alone is worth the trip.

Peruse the narrow streets of the town, sketchbook in hand, and capture the beautiful whitewashed buildings or the busy terraces brimming with life. Nicki will be alongside you, guiding you through the process, helping you gain confidence with each line you draw! Pause at a market stall to sketch the stacked lemons and bunches of herbs, or find a shaded corner to paint a Venetian doorway with the light falling across its stone. Gather reference photos and color notes as you go, paying attention to the way the light hits the buildings and the way the everyday colors of the town arrange themselves into palettes worth painting.

Return to the venue for a filling lunch prepared by your private chef, then head into the studio for the afternoon. Nicki will help you develop the morning's sketches and observations into fuller watercolor paintings, building on the color palettes you mixed in the town and the loose botanical shapes you gathered from the market. You will work on landscape composition, value, depth, and movement as you push your pieces from quick morning studies into something richer and more personal. Nicki will be on hand throughout for one-on-one feedback, helping you bring more of yourself onto the page.

As the afternoon winds down, take some time to recharge by the pool or in the gardens. Gather with Nicki and your fellow artists for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, the colors of Zante Town still fresh in your mind and on your hands!

### Day 6: Art trip to a local pottery studio
Kick off the day with a warm breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then grab your sketchbook and camera for a trip to a local pottery studio on the island.

You will spend the morning in the studio of a local potter, watching them shape clay by hand into pieces that carry centuries of Greek tradition. The artist will walk you through the symbols and stories woven into their work, from the cultural roots of each motif to the meaning carried in the patterns and glazes. Sketch the forms as they take shape on the wheel, paying attention to the curves of the clay, the weight of the finished pieces, the way the light falls across the shelves of drying ceramics, and the marks left by the potter's hands. Watching a working artist in their own studio, surrounded by their tools and their tradition, will give you a perspective on craft that you will carry into your own painting!

Take a moment to sketch as the potter creates traditional ceramics, focus on the symbols and the texture of their work, and find ways to translate it into your sketchbook, guided by Nicki's warm feedback.

Return to the villa for a nourishing lunch prepared by your private chef, then head into the studio for the afternoon. Nicki will help you bring the morning's observations into your painting, turning the ceramic forms and Greek motifs you sketched into starting points for abstract watercolor work. You will experiment with translating three-dimensional shapes onto the page, playing with pattern and texture as you develop pieces that carry something of the morning in them. Nicki will be on hand throughout for one-on-one feedback as you work.

As the afternoon winds down, take some time to recharge by the pool or in the gardens. Gather with Nicki and your fellow artists for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, trading impressions from a morning spent inside one of the island's living artistic traditions.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Savor a warm breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, ready to soak up every last moment of the retreat together with Nicki and your fellow artists.

The morning will bring two painting ideas to choose from, giving you the freedom to follow whichever direction excites you the most. Dive into refining and completing your paintings, pulling together everything you have explored over the course of the retreat. Nicki will answer questions and talk through ideas for continuing your artistic growth at home, from building a consistent painting routine to finding inspiration in your everyday surroundings.

After a relaxed lunch, gather with Nicki for one-on-one feedback on your work. Then comes one of the most rewarding moments of the retreat: a celebratory mini-exhibition where you and your fellow artists will display your finished paintings side by side. As you walk through each other's work, celebrate each other's creative breakthroughs and the amazing range of perspectives that have emerged from the Greek landscape.

As evening falls, it is time to celebrate you. Put on something special (make sure to pack a lovely outfit!) and come together one more time for a generous farewell dinner, accompanied by a Greek dance show and band. Soak in the pleasant atmosphere, surrounded by delicious food, Greek music, and lively conversations. Raise a glass to the art you have brought to life, the friendships you have forged, and the unforgettable memories you have made!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Nicki and your fellow artists, then get ready for your transfer. The private departure shuttle departs at 9:15 AM, drops off guests with evening flights in Zante Town, and arrives at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Nicki Traikos](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/nicki-traikos) — Artist and Creative Instructor

## Accommodation

### Stunning Greek Estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with artist Nicki Traikos is a seaside estate overlooking the shores of Zakynthos and the vast Ionian Sea. Just a 10-minute walk away, the calm Bouka Beach beckons, accessible via a stairway that winds down the hillside.

This boutique venue offers a stately six-bedroom villa alongside a six-bedroom stone tower. All rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, shared or single, exclusively booked for you and your art group.

Every room is a cocoon of comfort, equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a TV, and a handy fridge, all complemented by chic boho décor. Large glass doors frame captivating views, whether of the venue terraces, the gleaming infinity pool, or the boundless sea. Please note that there are no window screens in the rooms.

During your leisure time, you can revel in the stunning infinity pool or unwind in the soothing embrace of a jacuzzi. Adding to the charm is a wooden gazebo, perfectly positioned for basking in the Grecian sun, a peaceful massage room, and an indoor gym.

Your art classes will take place in the Shala art studio, dramatically poised with the sea as its backdrop. While it is walled on three sides, the studio's face opens generously to the sea, with chairs and tables available for you and your art group. Other workshop spaces include the spacious terraces right next to the infinity pool.

Please note that the venue is not suitable for participants with limited mobility as it is positioned over terraced grounds. To traverse its spaces, you would need to go across some small stairways, and all rooms are accessed via stairs. The steps to the beach are steep and descend about 50 m (164 feet); the beach is a 10-minute walk away from the venue.

### Shared standard ensuite room (female only)
One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. The room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.

Tucked away in the stone towers, this shared ensuite room located on the first floor marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25 m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features twin beds and a modern ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower shared between the two guests staying in the room.

The room also benefits from access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking sunrise views.

### Shared superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. The room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.

The shared superior ensuite room is located in the main villa. Covering a generous 35 m² on the first floor, it's known as the villa's quietest room, featuring comfortable twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom. The room has access to a private patio presenting serene vistas of the venue's terrace and garden. Take in the smell of freshly bloomed flowers and the soft breeze of salty air as you step outside the secluded patio.

### Shared penthouse (female only)
Two penthouses are available for shared occupancy. Each penthouse and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.

Perched atop the main villa, the shared penthouses boast twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy. Located on the second floor, the rooms are accessible via a stairway. Private balconies extend from each penthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the sea and terraces.

Enjoy your morning coffee on the bright balcony surrounded by palm trees, endless skies, and the deep blue sea in the horizon.

### Single standard ensuite room
Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy.

The single standard rooms are located on the second and third floors of the stone towers and are outfitted with comfortable double beds. Sitting at a cozy 16 m², the rooms are accessible via stairs. They feature private ensuite bathrooms with a shower enclosure. Each room benefits from access to a small, private terrace, treating you to breathtaking sunrise views.

### Single superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy.

Located on the first floor, in the stone towers, this room marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25 m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features a private ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower and has access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking sunrise views.

The space exudes warmth and character, adorned with thoughtfully chosen wooden furniture and wicker decorations that perfectly complement its bohemian style.

### Single ensuite room - shared villa (private pool)
Two ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. These single ensuite rooms are located in a shared, separate villa with a private pool.

Found outside of the main villa, they offer privacy and tranquility. The shared villa features two single rooms, located on the second floor of the villa, with stairway access. The rooms are equipped with a comfortable double bed and an ensuite bathroom, complete with a spacious walk-in shower. The shared living areas on the first floor, namely a well-equipped kitchen and a cozy living room, offer a space to connect, converse, or simply unwind.

Conveniently, the single ensuite rooms in the villa are the nearest accommodations to the art workshop space. Outside, a private terrace presents spectacular views of the pool, the art studio, and the picturesque bay beyond. But the pièce de résistance is the exclusive private pool, inviting guests to take a refreshing dip under the Greek sunshine.

### Single deluxe suite
One deluxe suite is available for single occupancy.

Located on the first floor of the main villa, this spacious suite stretches across a generous 40 m², making it the venue's crown jewel. Its centerpiece is the grand double bed, ensuring a restful sleep and plenty of comfort. The deluxe suite also features an elegant ensuite bathroom, equipped with a modern shower and a double sink.

Yet, the suite's breathtaking views are what's truly captivating. Double glass doors beckon you outwards, revealing a mesmerizing tableau of the pristine pool, the inviting terrace, and the azure sea endlessly stretching beyond. Enjoy beautiful views of the sea and access to the main villa's private patio, where you can bask in the sun or take a dip in the infinity pool.

## Food

Experience the wealth of Ionian cuisine with tantalizing dishes prepared by a private chef. The venue earned its foodie destination moniker thanks to its family recipes passed down through generations and fresh ingredients sourced from local markets or grown on-site. Of course, your chef's passion for the traditions of Zakynthos is the driving force behind every feast.

Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread consisting of freshly baked pastries and bread, yogurt, organic honey, jams, butter, cereal, and local fruit. Coffee, tea, milk, and fresh juices will be served with breakfast.

For lunch, refuel with a light salad, or opt for the traditional baked feta, various platters (with aubergine, tzatziki, and chickpea dips, saganaki, and grilled halloumi, all served with pitta bread), pasta, and seafood courses.

Dinner is an elaborate three-course affair, starting with an appetizer such as Zante Bruschettas, followed by herbal oven lamb, rabbit stew with cheese, agalas stuffed chicken, moussaka with aubergines, stuffed tomatoes with herbs, ragout and pasta, grilled octopus, sea bream, or prawns. Top it off with a sweet treat and pair it with a crisp white. You'll enjoy plentiful, aromatic wine during dinner service.

Dinner on the last evening of the retreat will be an extraordinary event, as you'll complement your delicious meals with a traditional Greek dance and music show.

All meals are included. Between meals, you will have access to a snack bar with water, tea, juices, coffee, and homemade snacks. The exact menu will vary based on the availability of seasonal ingredients.

## Getting There

Located in the quiet beachside village of Planos, on the Greek island of Zakynthos, your retreat venue stands proud atop a rocky hill overlooking the Ionian Sea. The amazing views from this sunny haven provide a small taste of what Zakynthos has to offer: crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, pristine beaches, and the tranquil Greek village below. The capital of the island (Zante) and Zakynthos International Airport are only 30 minutes away by car, and the mysterious Navagio Beach with its history of shipwrecks and smugglers is one hour away.

**Please arrive at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH).**

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 Greece 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 from Zakynthos International Airport to the retreat venue:**

Private transfers at prearranged times are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly domestically to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. For the arrival, in order to best accommodate all travel plans, we offer two transfer options that you can choose from. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on September 23, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on September 30, 2027, right in time for your 9:15 AM departure transfer.

**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:**

**September 23, 2027** **\- 3:30 PM.** We offer two complimentary pick-up shuttle options (arriving at the venue a little after 4:00 PM). **Please let us know which one you prefer:**

- **Option 1:** Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) – Meet the driver just outside the main exit doors of the Arrivals Hall.
- **Option 2:** [Solomos Square](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yKPaV3mRqWWq19No6) – Meet at the "Road Train Stop" (ideal if you are arriving very early or staying in Zante Town the night before).

If you experience any travel delays, please notify us in the WhatsApp group or contact your UpTrek host.

**Departure Transfer:**

**September 30, 2027 - 9:15 AM.** The shuttle leaves the retreat venue at 9:15 AM, includes a drop-off stop in Zante Town for guests with evening flights, and arrives at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) around 10:30 AM.

**If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:**

\- Spend extra days in Zakynthos before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to Zakynthos International Airport.

\- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: 63 Thesi Bouka, Gaidaros Tragaki, Tragaki 291 00, Greece, 40 euros - approximately US$45 per way. Please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with artist Nicki Traikos:**

- "I was able to not only meet but learn from Nicki - a dream of mine since I began painting. Nicki is not only a gifted painter, she is a selfless teacher who now how to adapt lessons to the needs of her students and bring them to the next step in their painting journey. I would highly recommend this experience for anyone who is ready for an adventure where you are truely pampered while exploring the world and yourself!"

- "Nicki’s teaching style was so warm and encouraging. She was amazing."

- "There are not enough words to describe this retreat. Nicki clearly put her heart and soul into this. The instruction was outstanding. She was there for us, making this a very personal experience for each artist. The planning and organization were so smooth, and inspiring, allowing for the creative energy to be exciting and expressed throughout. She brought together a group of like minded, passionate, non - judgmental supportive ladies. More than 10 stars for Nicki, as this experience will be a highlight always."

- "Nicki, our watercolor instructor, was encouraging and inspiring in helping us meet and exceed our potential as artists."

- "Nicki is a great teacher and I am already thinking ahead for next year."

- "Nicki created a very creative teaching environment and was always so helpful individually and as a group. The group was an interesting collection of creative ladies, all with different levels of painting experience. We learned from each other. Great experience overall!!"

- "I had a wonderful time on the retreat. Communication from Uptrek was great, the food was awesome, gorgeous lodgings, and the most fantastic teacher! I would definitely do it again."

- "This retreat with Nicki Traikos was more amazing than I could have possibly imagined!!! It was a dream come true!!! Nicki is one of the kindest people you will ever know in addition to being an incredible art teacher. I will treasure these memories forever!!! Thank you, UpTrek!!!!"

- "magnificent retreat! From the day we got there everything was wonderful. Nicki’s teaching was amazing. She is an amazing person. Everything down to the last detail was perfect. Will definitely book again."

- "Truly a ‘pinch-me’ moment from start to finish. The watercolor instruction by Nicki was excellent. There was instant rapport with the other watercolor painters, and staff. I could not have asked for a better experience. I would definitely sign up for another UpTrek retreat."

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:**

- "Well it was lovely in all aspects! David’s gourmet food was a dining extravaganza! The quaint villa & the nearby town were enormously refreshing. The love & care put into the service was above reproach! I would highly suggest this venue to anyone interested in seeing Greece!"

- "The hosts really made my trip special by their loving and kind hearts! They made me feel like family as well as all their staff! The estate was breathtaking and I hope to visit again soon! It was magical and I truly appreciate everything done for us while there, their openness and especially the hugs! I miss them and the warm generosity and kindness. It's true that I felt more at ease, comfortable and hugged being a stranger welcomed there, than I actually do coming back home...!!! That is saying a lot about the character and hearts of Karen and David! It reflected in everything and everyone whom works there. That is why it works so well, as David says, that's Living, doing what you love! Thank you to all for the fond memories ;)"

- "The venue is beautiful. Waking up to see the sunrise was a perfect way to start the day. Food was authentic and delicious. We had some hot days in the studio, but apparently, this was a heat wave, but otherwise, it worked well. Staff was genuinely sweet and accommodating, and hard working. It was interesting to experience the Greek way of life. Our hosts cared about every detail. I enjoyed it so much that I will return next year and bring my daughter. Uptrek, thank you for finding this gem!"

- "Beautiful location! There was a lovely mix of art classes at the retreat, and excursions to paint or take reference photos! Our hosts were warm, kind, and very talented in cooking and treating guest! Thank you for an experience of a lifetime!"

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat with artist Nicki Traikos is open to all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Nicki Traikos in Planos, Zakynthos, Greece takes place between September 23 - 30, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 23, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, September 30, 2027, after breakfast. **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. However, 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 Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). We recommend arriving in Greece a day early to adjust to the new time zone, but please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Complimentary scheduled transfers are included: a 3:30 PM arrival pick-up from either Zakynthos International Airport or Solomos Square, and a 9:15 AM departure shuttle that stops in Zante Town before continuing to the airport. If connecting flights to Zakynthos are limited, we recommend flying to Athens and taking a 1-hour domestic flight (round trips starting around US$150). The transfer journey to the venue takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/ionian-watercolor-impressions-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-greece#location).

**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 during your stay for an additional fee payable on-site.

**What supplies do I need for the workshops?**

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Nicki Traikos will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, easels, artist stools, and professional studio lights are included and will be available at the venue. **Students will bring their own art supplies based on the instructor’s list of recommended materials.**

**What’s the weather like in Zakynthos in late September?**

The weather in late September in Zakynthos is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 26°C / 79°F during the day that drop to around 16°C / 61°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 Greece for tourist purposes without a visa. Please contact us for further guidance.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.

**What language is used during the retreat 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 is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. Accommodation spaces and most of the main facilities are only accessible via stairs. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the trips.

**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 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/ionian-watercolor-impressions-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-greece#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/ionian-watercolor-impressions-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-greece
**Last updated:** 2026-10-26