# Joyful Painting Art Retreat with Artist Juliette Crane in Italy Join lovely artist Juliette Crane for a transformative painting retreat in the warm, sunlit hills of Tuscany. Bring back joy and curiosity into your art process, find your own personal artistic style, and let your creativity loose. Using mixed media, watercolor, and water-soluble pencils, you'll paint whimsical portraits and animals under Juliette's gentle guidance. You'll create and grow alongside 15 other like-minded artists in a warm and supportive environment. Take part in daily classes with Juliette, with plenty of one-on-one feedback and personalized advice, as well as warm encouragements and insightful demonstrations. Beyond the studio, you will venture to the historic city of Arezzo, where you will visit the famous Roman Catholic basilica Chiesa di San Francesco, and to the quaint town of Figline Valdarno, where market day will provide plenty of inspiration for your art pieces. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience. Learn how to let your creativity flow and reignite your passion for painting with the help of Juliette’s unique teaching method, meant to help and support you at each step in your artistic journey. Stay at a gorgeous Tuscan estate with medieval charm featuring elegant accommodation, lush gardens, a private lake, a spacious art studio, an outdoor pool, and scenic views of Tuscany. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, take part in a wine-tasting experience, and enjoy the lovely company of 15 other fellow creatives. You are invited to immerse yourself in a truly enriching experience that will nurture both your art and your personal well-being! ## Details - **Dates:** May 3 - 10, 2027 - **Location:** Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy - **Starting Price:** $4,550 - **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 Juliette Crane 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, professional studio lights, folding chairs, easels, and easel lamps 3. 7 nights of accommodation at a beautiful Tuscan estate 4. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, the large natural garden, extensive vineyards, olive groves, the outdoor swimming pool, and the private lake 5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 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, soft drinks, and snacks available throughout the day 8. Special welcome and farewell dinner and cocktails 9. Delicious local wine served during dinner service 10. Guided wine tour and tasting experience at the venue estate 11. Full-day art trip to Arezzo, with opportunities for painting and sketching in Piazza Grande 12. Visit to the Chiesa di San Francesco during the trip to Arezzo — a famous Roman Catholic basilica housing Piero della Francesca’s masterpiece, "The Legend of the True Cross" fresco painting 13. Half-day art trip to Figline Valdarno, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location 14. English-speaking guide or chaperone for all trips and planned activities 15. Private transportation for all trips and planned activities 16. Round-trip transfers from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) at prearranged times 17. All local tourist taxes and fees 18. Experienced retreat admin and UpTrek host on location 19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 20. Access to a private Facebook group with Juliette Crane and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Lunch during the full-day trip to Arezzo - Art materials — a list of materials recommended by artist Juliette Crane will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Italy - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Mixed Media Art Retreat Awaken your creativity with lovely artist Juliette Crane during an unforgettable painting retreat in the golden hills of Tuscany. This weeklong adventure is sure to reignite your passion for painting, thanks to Juliette's gentle and encouraging teaching method. You will learn to paint more loosely, silence your inner critic, and look at the world around you with childlike curiosity, all in a supportive and warm environment, under Juliette’s gentle guidance. Using mixed media, watercolors, and water-soluble pencils, you'll study Juliette's signature whimsical portraits and animals. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with mixed media and watercolor, as well as with Juliette’s work and style of teaching. Take part in daily classes with Juliette, with plenty of one-on-one feedback and personalized advice as you discover your own personal artistic style and find your creative voice. Beyond the studio, complement your classes with exciting trips to the medieval city of Arezzo, where you will visit the famous Roman Catholic basilica Chiesa di San Francesco, and the picturesque town of Figline Valdarno, where market day will provide plenty of inspiration for your art pieces. Juliette will offer you invaluable tips and tricks, warmly encouraging you to let your creativity flow and trust your artistic intuition. By the end of the retreat, you'll have created some wonderful layered paintings, in addition to a sketchbook recording of your adventures in Italy. Grab your brush and express your creativity with confidence, loud and proud! **Some of the topics covered in your classes with Juliette include:** - Painting more loosely and spontaneously - Learning simple shape templates for multiple subjects - Experimenting with mixed media - Develop your style and find your creative voice - How to develop a daily practice - Layering with mixed media - Using a sketchbook on the go - Silencing your inner critic - ...and many more! Your home for the week will be a stunning Tuscan estate, dating back to medieval times, which blends modern elegance with historic charm and offers beautiful gardens, a private lake, an outdoor swimming pool, scenic views, and a spacious art studio. Savor delicious chef-prepared meals featuring regional Italian cuisine, take part in a delightful wine-tasting experience on the venue grounds, and enjoy the company of 15 other like-minded creatives, making bonds that will last a lifetime! ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), at 4:00 PM and get transferred to the venue, reaching it by 5:00 PM. After settling into your spacious and elegantly designed room, explore the cozy common areas, the well-equipped workshop space, the peaceful pool, and the expansive gardens, all surrounded by serene vineyards and olive groves. Meet the lovely artist Juliette Crane, your instructor for the retreat, and chat about the upcoming week over a delightful welcome dinner accompanied by delicious welcome cocktails. ### Day 2: Classes at the venue & wine tasting experience Wake up your senses with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts. Ease into the gentle rhythm of the day, preparing for the first day at the retreat, excited to start your creative journey with Juliette and your fellow artists. Your first step into the world of joyful painting starts with a morning class in the spacious studio. Juliette will introduce you to the mixed media materials you will be using throughout the week, demonstrating the unique qualities of each medium. After a couple of warm-ups, you'll begin your first painting by creating a background. Build your layers of color by trying out Juliette's different styles of painting vivid backgrounds, experimenting with blending hues and textures to create a dynamic atmosphere. Juliette will be right by your side, offering warm encouragements and tailored feedback or help, if needed. Pause midday for a relaxed lunch, then continue the day with another afternoon class. Set out into the beautiful gardens of the estate and allow the serene Tuscan landscape to fuel your creativity. Using a sketchbook, Juliette will gently demonstrate how to draw a whimsical portrait or animal using water-soluble pencils and watercolors. After you finish your initial sketch, she'll show you how to add depth, color, and contrast to your drawing, demonstrating each step and offering support or help if needed. Keep sketching for the rest of the afternoon, or continue working on the background you started in the morning. As the class comes to an end, take some time to reset and unwind before dinner. In the evening, gather with Juliette and the group for a delightful wine tasting experience on the venue grounds, exploring the vineyard paths and the wine cellar, and tasting authentic Italian wine flavors. Indulge in a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, and soak in the lovely atmosphere and lively conversations. ### Day 3: Art trip to Arezzo Fuel up with a warm breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee as morning light pours in, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, set out into the first adventure of the retreat and drive with Juliette and the group through the folds of the countryside toward the enchanting town of Arezzo, a sparkling gem tucked into the Tuscan hills, full of charm, stories, and sun-drenched beauty. As you arrive in Arezzo, meander through winding medieval streets and explore quiet corners where Renaissance painters once walked. Visit the famous Roman Catholic basilica Chiesa di San Francesco, which houses "The Legend of the True Cross," a masterpiece by Piero della Francesca. This remarkable series of frescoes is one of the most celebrated works of the Renaissance, depicting a sweeping biblical story through vivid color, dramatic scenes, and groundbreaking use of perspective. If inspired, join Juliette for a relaxed sketching session in Piazza Grande, a square in the town’s center, learning more about light and color when sketching on location. For lunch, settle into a welcoming trattoria and savor a relaxed, authentic Italian meal on your own. Afterward, continue exploring Arezzo at your own pace, taking in the town’s rustic charm. Juliette will gently guide you on how to sketch a simple shape template. This exercise will give you greater flexibility when drawing, as the template can be used for all kinds of subjects, from animals to portraits. Get inspired by your surroundings and capture the essence of Arezzo in your shape template. Return to the venue in the late afternoon and take some spare time to recharge before dinner. Join Juliette and your fellow artists for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine. Reflect on the day’s adventure, sharing insights and reflections with the group, and enjoying the warm and supportive atmosphere. ### Day 4: Classes at the venue Kick off the day with a filling breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts. Settle into the peaceful rhythm of the day, allowing the creative whirl to sweep you away. During the morning class, Juliette will demonstrate how to add realism to your art using depth, contrast, and color, all while working on your layers. Juliette’s gentle teaching style and supportive encouragements will help you learn how to make your background and subject fit together harmoniously and complement each other. Take a break for lunch and enjoy a refreshing meal, then continue the afternoon back in the studio, working on your painting skills. Continue building layers and practicing the tips Juliette showed you during the morning, and don’t be afraid to ask her for help or extra guidance if needed! Throughout the afternoon, she will be available for some lovely one-on-one time with you, giving you advice on how to move forward and helping you gain clarity, confidence, and a fresh perspective on the path ahead. In the late afternoon, enjoy some leisure time to rest and reset. Join Juliette and your fellow artists for a flavorful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant local wine. As the middle of the retreat has approached, raise a glass and toast to your accomplishments and artistic discoveries so far, sharing this beautiful moment with Juliette and your fellow creatives. ### Day 5: Art trip to Figline Valdarno Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, pack your art supplies and prepare for the second exciting adventure of your retreat: a visit to Figline Valdarno, a picturesque Tuscan town just a short drive away. Once in Figline Valdarno, explore the main town square, taking in the rustic charm of the town, with its red brick arcades, sun-softened façades, and patches of greenery. As the weekly market unfolds, walk around the stalls filled with fresh flowers, fruits, vegetables, and antiquities. Sketch if you feel inspired, take reference photos, or simply enjoy discovering this quaint Tuscan town. Return to the venue for a leisurely lunch, then continue the day back in the art studio. In this class, Juliette will guide you on a lovely sketching session about color and florals, inspired by the vibrancy and fresh flowers of the market in Figline Valdarno. Her gentle teachings will help you craft colorful and dynamic floral artworks inspired by the morning’s adventure. As the class comes to an end, enjoy some time for yourself to recharge before dinner. Gather with Juliette and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of delicious Italian wine. Share insights and reflections from today’s journey, and soak in the warm and lively atmosphere. ### Day 6: Classes at the venue Start your day with a refreshing breakfast and fresh cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts. Join your fellow artists in the spacious art studio for another lovely workshop with Juliette, continuing to work on your painting from the previous day, adding colorful layers, final touch-ups, and refining details. As you work, Juliette will offer gentle guidance tailored to your needs, highlighting your strong points and helping you figure out the next steps. She’ll also help you find your own artistic style and creative voice. The secret to becoming more confident in your artistic practice is to steer away from perfectionism, and Juliette will help you do just that with warm encouragements and supportive guidance, which will help you tone down your inner critic. Pause midday for a relaxed lunch, then continue the day with another afternoon class. During this session, Juliette will demo how to paint eyes with depth and realism. Watch and observe her techniques, or follow along as she does the demo. Whatever you choose to do, she will be there for help and support any time needed. She will also teach you how to paint faces and add contrast to your piece, showing you her signature portrait techniques. As the class comes to a close, take some spare time to relax and recharge. Gather with Juliette and your fellow creatives for another tasteful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of local fine wine. Take in everything that you have learned today and enjoy a heartwarming evening with Juliette and the group. ### Day 7: Classes at the venue Head into your final day at the retreat with a wholesome breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Step into the charming art studio for the morning session. Juliette will help you add the finishing touches to your artworks, polishing and refining any last details. Paint the last few layers, and take a moment to admire and soak in all the progress that you have made throughout the week. Enjoy a nourishing lunch, then continue the day with the last class of the retreat, which will be a celebratory mini-exhibition! Showcase what you have created, share insights about your creative journey, and exchange feedback and ideas with your fellow artists. You will also discuss your paintings with Juliette, celebrating your progress and accomplishments! Juliette will answer any remaining questions and tell you more about painting loosely and drawing from your imagination. As the celebration comes to an end, take some leisure time in the late afternoon. Indulge in a delicious three-course farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef and accompanied by some delightful cocktails. Toast to the art you have created, the meaningful bonds you have forged, and the unforgettable memories you have made! Soak in the heartwarming atmosphere and take with you all the things that you have learned and that have impacted you throughout this beautiful experience. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy one last breakfast with Juliette and your fellow artists, 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. As you make your way back home, take with you the lessons that Juliette has taught you, as well as a heart brimming with inspiration, unforgettable memories, and cherished new friendships that will last long after the retreat ends. Embrace this newfound energy and sense of community as your retreat experience comes to an end, ready to spread positivity and creativity all around you! ## Instructors - [Juliette Crane](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/juliette-crane) — Artist, author, and educator ## Accommodation ### Tuscan Vineyard Estate Your venue for the retreat with Juliette Crane 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 Juliette 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 Two ensuite rooms are available for shared occupancy. Each room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants. One of the rooms is located in the main villa, on the third floor, and the other one is located 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 ensuite shower bathrooms are equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. The shared living rooms provide a comfortable space to relax, alongside a shared kitchen, complete with dining amenities and a TV. ### Single standard room with adjacent bathroom Three single standard rooms with adjacent bathrooms are available for single occupancy. Located in the main villa on the second floor, each room offers access to a shared living room featuring a TV and ining amenities, and a kitchen equipped with a kitchenette and a dining table. Each room has access to an adjacent, private bathroom equipped with a shower or a tub, toilletries, towels, and a haridryer. The rooms are fan-cooled and feature double beds. ### Single standard ensuite room One standard ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room features a double bed and an ensuite bathroom equipped with a shower, toiletries, towels and a hairdryer. It is located in an apartment in the medieval tower (second floor) featuring a shared living room and a full kitchen with a dining table and a TV. The room is fan-cooled. ### Single superior ensuite room Four superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Each room features a double bed and an ensuite bathroom equipped with a shower, toiletries, towels and a hairdryer. The rooms are located within two separate apartments in the main villa, on the 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 deluxe apartments are available for single occupancy. Each apartment offers the comfort and privacy of having the entire space to yourself. Located on the first and second floors in the main villa 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). The bathrooms are equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. ## Food During your retreat with Juliette Crane, 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 delicious home-cooked meals that 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 three-course dinners 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 fragrant 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 one lunch during the full-day trip to Arezzo. The exact menu will depend on the availability of seasonal ingredients. For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below. ## Getting There Your art retreat with artist Juliette Crane 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 the retreat, you will explore the region through two carefully chosen outings: one to the historic city of Arezzo, and another to the nearby market town of Figline Valdarno. Tuscany’s landscape, with its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined hills, has long stirred the imagination of artists. The region’s rich cultural heritage and fertile land, home to Chianti wines and some of Italy’s finest olive oils, offer endless inspiration for painting, writing, and reflection. Check-in at the retreat begins at 5:00 PM on May 3, 2027, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on May 10, 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.** **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: May 3, 2027 ⁠— 4:00 PM** (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 5:00 PM) - **Departure transfer: May 10, 2027 ⁠— 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 Juliette Crane:** - “Juliette is a fantastic teacher who is kind, allows freedom to create your own version of art while guiding you when you ask. She is a quiet, loving and a strong art retreat leader. She has so much talent and shares with everyone. I highly recommend! Thank you!” - “Of course the teaching was the best part of all. Juliette Crane is not only a gifted artist. She’s a wonderful teacher. I enjoyed her demonstration and especially the individual help she gave with any questions. Making her paintings available to us at the end of the retreat was especially sweet and I will treasure your mind forever.I highly recommend retreats with Juliette Crane Retreat. She is as lovely and knowledgeable in real life as she is online.”” - “Wonderful! One of the best experiences ever. Juliette made everything accessible, I felt comfortable as a beginner. I will recommend to everyone. Hope to learn from Juliette again.” - “As a new artist, I arrived with nerves and curiosity, but Juliette’s presence set the tone instantly. Her ease, confidence, and quiet humility created a space that was truly relaxed in every sense of the word. She shared her wisdom generously, never imposing — always inviting. The retreat delivered more than artistic instruction; it offered restoration, inspiration, and a shared rhythm with others who came with open hearts. I left feeling braver, freer, and deeply nourished — creatively and personally. The experience was life changing.” - “Getting to meet Juliette and paint together was exciting and most especially the people I met on this trip will forever be a part of my life.” - “This retreat was an eye-opening experience — not just for learning Juliette’s beautiful and soulful art techniques and guidance, but also for soaking in the wisdom and warmth of the kind, creative souls she brought together. Juliette truly created something magical. I left feeling inspired, expanded, and deeply grateful.” - “Amazing experience overall! Juliette’s demo sessions and instruction taught me so much. She also offered one on one help as asked. Highly recommend ‼️” **Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:** - "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." - "You could not have asked for better accommodations and hospitalities. 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.😀" - "My experience was unlike anything I expected. It was a perfectly homey and relaxing getaway. My accommodations were incredibly comfortable and had everything I needed. Federica and John were so warm and genuine; they never seemed to be just going through the motions." - "Relaxing. Great food and wonderful hosts. Enjoyed the Villa and the grounds." - "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. Federica 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." - "Had a great time during the retreat! The venue and food was great!" ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is this retreat available to all levels?** The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with mixed media and watercolor, as well as with Juliette Crane's work and style of teaching. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Juliette Crane in Tuscany, Italy, takes place between May 3 - 10, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on May 3, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, at 10:00 AM, on the last day, May 10, 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?** Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas free of charge. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. 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](https://uptrek.com/retreat/joyful-painting-art-retreat-artist-juliette-crane-italy#location). 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?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Juliette Crane will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, professional studio lights, folding chairs, easels, and easel lamps 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 Vaggio, Italy, in the beginning of May?** In the beginning of May, the weather in Vaggio, the closest town to the retreat venue, is pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 25°C / 77°F during the day that drop to around 13°C / 55°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 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 workshops and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **Can a non-participating guest join me?** We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Is the retreat available to guests with 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. **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 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/joyful-painting-art-retreat-artist-juliette-crane-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). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/joyful-painting-art-retreat-artist-juliette-crane-italy **Last updated:** 2026-05-06