# Joyous Watercolor Adventures Retreat with Artist Emily Olson in Portugal

Join artist Emily Olson for a watercolor retreat in the peaceful countryside of southern Portugal. Focus on still life, portraiture, landscape, and sketchbook studies while drawing inspiration from the textures, light, and colors of the region. Move through the topics as a lead-up to portraiture. By the end of the retreat, you will have created a focused collection that reflects both the environment and your evolving creative direction.Step outside the studio to observe the surrounding landscape. Visit the historic town of Lagos and sail along the Algarve coast, where cliffs, grottoes, and plant life offer rich material. Sketch on location, gather reference photos, and record compositions that will shape your work throughout the week.Stay in a traditional Portuguese villa surrounded by gardens, with meals prepared on-site each day. Paint outdoors under trees or among flowers, or take quiet time to review your progress. Work with watercolor, sketching, and drawing techniques both in and out of the studio as you develop a personal body of work shaped by your surroundings.

## Details

- **Dates:** June 19 - 26, 2026
- **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,650
- **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 Emily Olson7 nights of accommodation at a Portuguese QuintaExclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, art studio, 2.5 acres of botanical gardens, terraces, swimming pool, and common areas7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners (all meals) carefully prepared by your private chef. All dietary requirements catered for, except life-threatening allergiesLocal wine during dinner serviceSnacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the daySailing trip in a traditional boat to nearby grottoesTrip to the Lagos historic town with a walking tour and time for shopping, sketching, and a beach visitPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesRound-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at pre-arranged timesFully-staffed venue, experienced UpTrek host available throughout the weekAll local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Emily Olson and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials—a list of art materials recommended by artist Emily Olson will be provided five months before the retreatTips for staff (tipping is customary in Portugal)Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Joyous Watercolor Adventures Retreat
Join artist Emily Olson for a watercolor retreat in the peaceful countryside of southern Portugal. Work across still life, landscape, portraiture, and sketchbook studies as a natural progression, starting with simple objects and environments and building toward painting someone with presence and soul. With Emily’s guidance, you will explore foundational watercolor techniques, including palette setup, water control, brush handling, and composition. Begin with still life studies to understand shape, light, and color. Then move into landscapes drawn from the surrounding gardens and scenery, focusing on structure, texture, and atmosphere.Daily classes will include demonstrations, time to work independently, and individual feedback. You will practice value studies, layering, and color mixing, learning how to bring clarity and depth to your work across all subject types. If you have an iPad, bring it to make working with your reference photos easier. With each session, you will build confidence and develop a stronger understanding of how to observe, interpret, and express what you see, whether it’s the curve of a fruit, the shape of a tree, or the expression on a face.The topics covered during your lessons will include:Basic water control, controlling your watercolor when working uprightPainting in a sketchbook, on locationPainting from life, whether that's a still life setup, a model, or the landscapes of the Algarve regionFocusing on valuesNarrowing down complex pieces to simple shapesCreating strong compositionsDefeating artist's block and finding inspirationSketching and painting on the goColor mixing and working with a cohesive palette...and many more.Every aspect of the retreat is thoughtfully designed to ignite your creativity. The vibrant colors of Portugal reflect its rich cultural heritage, and you'll immerse yourself in the beauty of the Algarve region with a visit to the charming town of Lagos. Here, you'll find inspiration in the golden sands, vivid architecture, and the endless blue of the ocean. Additionally, a sailing trip on a traditional boat will take you along the stunning coastline, revealing secluded beaches, hidden caves, and striking rock formations.You'll stay at a lovely Portuguese villa, gather inspiration from its blooming Italian garden, enjoy regional, chef-made cuisine every day, and connect with a community of 14 other artists.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat with Emily. Once you’ve reached the peaceful countryside setting, settle into your comfortable room, take a moment to unwind, and ease into the rhythm of the week ahead. Later in the afternoon, join Emily for an informal tour of the grounds. Wander through the beautiful Portuguese gardens, visit the light-filled art studio, stroll along the shaded terraces, and take in the calm atmosphere around the pool. As the sun begins to set, gather for welcome drinks. Meet your fellow artists and share what brought you here. The evening ends with a relaxed dinner prepared by the on-site chef, paired with a glass of Portuguese wine, as conversations begin and inspiration starts to flow.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Wake up with a hearty breakfast to fuel a day of creative exploration in watercolor. Sit down with a warm cup of coffee and connect with Emily and your fellow artists while reviewing what’s ahead.Begin the morning session by focusing on the essentials of watercolor painting. Emily will walk you through tools, palettes, and foundational techniques. Learn how to control water and pigment, practice different types of washes, and explore how colors mix and interact on paper. Clear demonstrations and hands-on exercises will build your confidence and help you settle into a relaxed, productive rhythm.In the afternoon, bring your sketchbook and step outside. The peaceful surroundings at the venue offer plenty of inspiration: orchards, gardens, and the changing light across the landscape. Fill your pages with studies of still life, natural forms, or scenes from around the estate. Emily will guide you through composition choices, brushwork, and layering techniques, offering feedback to help sharpen your eye and develop your voice on paper.Later, rest or keep drawing outdoors at your own pace. In the evening, gather again to enjoy a relaxed dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of local Portuguese wine.

### Day 3: Art trip to Lagos
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast and a slow coffee as you get ready for a morning in the coastal town of Lagos.After a short drive, arrive in a town shaped by centuries of history. Walk through its winding streets at your own pace. Greek, Roman, Moorish, and Portuguese influences appear in the tiled facades, harbor boats, sun-bleached buildings, and bursts of color from lemon trees and wildflowers. Take loose sketches or snap reference photos as you go. Look for shapes, textures, or lighting that might inspire still life setups, portraits, or landscapes later in the day. A short sketchbook demo with Emily will offer ideas to keep in mind as you move through the town.Head back to the venue for a refreshing lunch, then continue your work in the studio or garden during the afternoon session. Use sketches and photos from the morning to develop thumbnail compositions and value studies. Begin distilling the scenes into monochromatic watercolor paintings that focus on structure and clarity. Emily will guide you in refining your ideas, experimenting with layering, and pulling depth from simple forms. Focus on atmosphere, shape, and line to carry the visual feeling of Lagos into your work.Later, take time for yourself. Rest by the pool, walk through the garden, or return to your sketchbook as the light shifts. In the evening, gather for a fresh dinner prepared on-site and unwind over a glass of local Portuguese wine.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Rise and shine to a refreshing breakfast and a quiet coffee as you ease into the rhythm of the morning. Then join Emily in the studio for a focused session on still life.Work through techniques that strengthen your still life compositions. Focus on shape, light, and form, using watercolor layering to create depth and clarity. Emily will guide you as you refine your brushwork, develop your color choices, and adjust your compositions directly on the page. Begin new work with a fresh setup. Select objects that interest you and consider how their scale, texture, and lighting affect the overall feel. Experiment with smaller-scale studies and simplify your arrangements. Pay close attention to subtle shifts in value and color, using these short studies to sharpen your observation and refine your technique.After a relaxed lunch, head outdoors with your sketchbook or drawing tools. Let the gardens around the venue near Lagos guide your next studies. Find interesting angles, natural arrangements, and floral details to work into your afternoon pieces. Continue your still life exploration using these organic shapes and textures as source material. Emily will offer individual feedback and help you refine your technique, bringing new clarity to your brushwork and compositional choices.In the late afternoon, slow down and enjoy some spare time. Walk through the grounds, sketch outside, or unwind by the pool. As the day winds down, gather again for a fresh dinner prepared on-site and enjoy a glass of local Portuguese wine.

### Day 5: Sailing trip
Begin with a hearty breakfast and a slow coffee as you settle into the day. Slowly make your way to Lagos Marina for a morning on the water.Step onto a traditional Portuguese sailboat and glide along the coastline. Watch as the boat moves past towering cliffs, narrow grottoes, and small beaches tucked between stone outcrops. The light flickers across the surface of the water and shifts along the rock walls, offering endless shapes and textures. Keep your sketchbook and camera close. Take reference photos, make loose studies, and collect visual notes that capture the rhythm, contrast, and movement of the landscape. Look for forms and compositions that spark an idea you’ll want to explore more deeply later.Back at the venue, enjoy a simple lunch and review your work from the morning. Notice what details stood out and which ideas feel ready to grow.In the afternoon, join Emily for a watercolor session built around translating your observations into finished work. Start by selecting one or two elements from the morning and develop thumbnail sketches to experiment with layout. Create value studies to understand light and structure, then begin layering watercolor to build shape and form. Emily will guide you in capturing the essence of what inspired you earlier, helping you refine your choices and move with intention from sketch to composition.As the day winds down, take time for yourself. Walk through the gardens, sketch outdoors, or rest by the pool. In the evening, gather for a fresh dinner prepared on-site and share stories from the day over a glass of local Portuguese wine.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
Let the morning unfold slowly with a filling breakfast and an easy coffee among the group before settling into a day of focused painting.Settle into your space and continue developing your landscape work, using references gathered earlier in the week or drawing directly from the venue’s surroundings. Focus on refining value studies, experimenting with color, and exploring the textures and shapes that define your chosen scene. Emily will be nearby throughout the morning to check in, offer guidance, and sit down one-on-one to discuss your process and progress.Pause for a simple lunch and take a moment to reflect on the direction your work is heading. In the afternoon, explore the grounds with fresh eyes and respond to whatever catches your attention. Paint freely in your sketchbook or on larger paper, letting the moment guide you. Whether you’re drawn to a figure, a branch, or a corner of the garden, follow that instinct. Emily will move through the group, offering individual feedback and answering questions. Use this time to revisit ideas, test new approaches, or build on what you started earlier. Let the day unfold through your painting.As the afternoon winds down, rest in the garden or walk to the beach for a quiet moment to yourself. In the evening, come together again for a fresh dinner prepared on-site and look back on how your work has grown.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Ease into the morning with a quiet breakfast and slow coffee, giving space to reflect on the work you've done and the creative ground still left to explore.The focus today is portraiture. Join Emily in the studio to work from a live model, practicing how to build structure and proportion while capturing presence and emotion through watercolor. Learn how to mix skin tones that stay clear and vibrant and how to layer paint with subtlety and control. Emily will demonstrate key techniques and offer individual feedback as you refine your approach and deepen your confidence with the human form.After a relaxed lunch, continue exploring portraiture through a subject of your choice. Paint someone in the group, work from a family photo, or return to a portrait you started earlier. Choose what feels most meaningful and stay open to discovery. Emily will be available for one-on-one feedback and questions throughout the afternoon. Later, gather for a mini-exhibition. Share what you've created, speak about the process behind your pieces, and celebrate the work of the group. Emily will offer closing reflections and individual insights on your development.As the light softens, come together for the farewell dinner. Raise a glass, share stories, and enjoy the quiet rhythm of the evening as the retreat nears its close.

### Day 8: Departure
Join Emily and your fellow artists for breakfast to share any last contact details, say your goodbyes, and get ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Emily Olson](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/emily-olson) — Watercolor artist and teacher

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta
Nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, your venue is a chic Portuguese Quinta, perfect for an unforgettable art retreat with Emily Olson. Praised by The Times and Life Magazine as "a jewel of the Algarve," this private estate combines natural beauty with modern comforts. Set atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of Lagos, the Marina, and the endless ocean.At the heart of the estate lies a delightful Italian-inspired garden, featuring over 1,500 plant species, a refreshing pool, elegant statues, and tranquil fountains, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and creative inspiration. The venue's terraces and rooms blend modern amenities with timeless charm, offering a cozy retreat. Accommodations are situated within the main villa and a serene cottage, with each room featuring a private balcony or patio, en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating, plush bathrobes, and high-quality Portuguese Castelbel toiletries.Art classes will take place either in the lush garden or in the dedicated art studio, which showcases beautiful Portuguese tiles, ample natural light, cork-insulated floors, air conditioning, and expansive garden views.Please be aware that moving between the accommodation areas, main dining area, and art studio requires a short walk. Some rooms are only accessible by stairs, so the venue may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

### Shared room in the cottage (female only)
You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender guest. The room is located a private cottage situated at the bottom of the venue’s hill, which houses one other single room. In total, three retreat participants will share the garden cottage. The room will be outfitted with twin beds and features a private bathroom, wall heaters, and air conditioning. You will also have access to the common areas of the cottage: a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table with chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open out onto a large outdoor terrace with BBQ dining and sun beds.

### Shared standard ensuite room (female only)
You will share the standard room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Located on the north side of the house, the shared standard room offers the peace and quiet so sought after at a retreat. With block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep and comfortable twin beds, the room also has a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, shower seat, and a separate hand shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private terrace with a table & chairs where you can enjoy the last rays of the evening sun.

### Shared superior room - sea view (male only)
*Please note: there is currently one male only spot left for this room option.You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The four shared superior rooms with sea views feature comfortable twin beds, block-out electric blinds for the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and private bathrooms with deep bathtubs and showers. The rooms also have access to private balconies or terraces with gorgeous sea views, equipped with sun beds, tables, and chairs. The rooms benefit from 180-degree sea and country views from the balconies and terraces spanning Lagos to Luz.

### Single room in the cottage
This private room is equipped with a single bed and features an ensuite bathroom along with wall heaters and air conditioning.The room is situated in the private cottage located at the base of the estate’s hill. Within the cottage, there is another double-occupancy ensuite room, making the cottage a shared space accommodating three retreat participants.The guest staying in this room will have access to the common areas of the cottage, which consist of a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table, and chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a large outdoor terrace equipped with BBQ dining facilities and sun beds.

### Single superior room - garden view
This cozy room has the largest terrace on the property looking out over the Italian garden, Zen garden, and art studio, and enjoys a gorgeous yellow glow when the rising sun shines through the South-East windows. If you prefer to sleep in, the room also has block-out electric blinds that completely cover the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. It features comfortable twin beds, a mini-fridge, and access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, equipped with a shower seat and a separate hand shower as well.

### Single deluxe master suite - sea view
The master suite on the property is available for single occupancy. It has a fresh and airy feel to it, using the classic Portuguese colors of white and blue. The room enjoys a Balinese-style four-poster bed, a separate lounge area, a mini-fridge, and a spacious bathroom with a spa bath and separate walk-in shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private bougainvillea-edged balcony with sea views, sun bed, table, and chairs. Block-out curtains can be used to ensure a deep night's sleep.

## Food

The Algarve region promises a complete culinary experience, offering an array of exquisite flavors. During the retreat, a private chef will prepare daily meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients or produce from the venue's gardens. Each dish provides a delicious exploration of Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisines.Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread, featuring oatmeal, fresh fruits, warm pastries, local hams, and perfectly prepared eggs. For lunch, enjoy light yet satisfying dishes like orzo salad, Moroccan bowls, or a classic tuna Niçoise.In the evenings, savor a comforting dinner crafted by the chef, with options such as Piri Piri prawns, zesty citrus salmon, or a creamy Brazilian coconut stew. End your dining experience with delectable desserts like cakes, tarts, and mousses, complemented by fragrant local wines.All meals are included, and dinners are paired with specially selected wines. Throughout the day, you'll have access to refreshments such as water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like fruit and biscuits.Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot accommodate dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or fulfill last-minute requests.Read more about the food options served during the retreat below. Please note that the dishes served may vary based on the availability of seasonal and local ingredients.

## Getting There

The art retreat with Emily Olson will be held in the Algarve, a stunning region located at the southernmost point of the Portuguese coast. The charming coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, with their whitewashed buildings, add to the region's enchanting allure. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, savoring exquisite cuisine, exploring historic architecture, and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.The retreat includes a visit to Lagos, a historic port town that has been a cultural crossroads for civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Just a 10-minute drive from the retreat location, Lagos boasts vibrant architecture, cozy cafés, and unique shops. You'll also enjoy a sailing excursion across the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. Praia da Luz, the nearest beach, is only 4 km (2.5 miles) from the venue, while Faro Airport, the main transfer point, is about an hour's drive away.Please arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We strongly advise allowing ample time for international travel and recommend arriving in Portugal at least one day before the retreat begins to account for any potential flight delays, acclimate to the time zone, and rest after your journey.Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.Here's how to get from Faro Airport (FAO) to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour. Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 19, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on June 26, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer: June 19, 2026—3:00 PM (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer: June 26, 2026—10:00 AM (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Faro Airport (FAO) around 11:00 AM)If the pre-set transfer times do not align with your travel plans, please consider the following alternatives:Extend your stay in Faro before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Faro Airport (FAO).Arrange for a taxi to transport you to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Bonita, Matos Morenos Quatro Estradas, 8600-115 Lagos, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately US$150 each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with artist Emily Olson:"Emily was very efficient with her presentations. Her knowledge of watercolor art and her ability to demonstrate painting techniques allowed participants to increase their watercolor art skills. Emily responded to questions to help us complete our art projects. The opportunity to paint at the instructional area, poolside, and by the Atlantic Ocean was inspiring. ""Emily is just as generous with her time, caring, sweet, and talented as she appears in her videos! She didn’t disappoint!""Learning from Emily in person was incredible, and way beyond what I expected.""Emily is as warm and friendly as she appears in her YouTube art videos. It was wonderful getting to know her. Although all of the attendees were at different experience levels, Emily did a great job helping us where we were and encouraging us to explore new ways of painting."Retreat venue reviews:"The venue was glorious! The grounds filled with beautiful flora. The main house, so tasteful, classy and comfortable. The staff was outstanding, such kind and helpful folks that were genuinely welcoming and happy to be there. Everyone was so accommodating. This venue was a wealth of views I am eager to paint. Our food was superb, healthy and a wide variety of choices. I have already signed up for next year! And, I stayed in the little cottage, loved it. A delightful respite during breaks, very comfortable. Thoroughly enjoyed staying there, and I booked it again. This was one of my favorites Uptrek has planned for us.""I shared a room with a stranger who quickly became a friend. We had plenty of space for our “stuff.” The gathering areas (patios and living room) were charming and comfortable. We ate outside for every meal (since the weather was so mild), and each meal was delightful and delicious. Our excursions were fun, especially the sailboat to the grottoes.""UpTrek was easy to work with and responsive to questions. The venue in Portugal, Quinta Bonita, which has a studio, was a wonderful location for an art retreat with lots of inspiration. A walking tour of Lagos with time for shopping and taking pictures for painting as well as a boat trip of the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve.""The venue was spectacular and inspired our creativity. The staff were attentive in every way. The food reflected our diverse preferences and was so delicious. From my registration for this retreat through my departure, the communication and organization reflected the highest of standards. Thanks @uptrek! This was an experience of a lifetime.""The venue and catering were stunning; I felt taken care of and like I was a guest in someone's home.""It was a fabulous retreat. The venue was spectacular and the hosts always went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. I look forward to exploring more Uptrek Retreats in the future. Thank you!""I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The venue was lovely as were the wonderful ladies (and gentleman) who looked after us. The food was especially good.""Beautiful venue, excellent teacher, wonderful participants. The food was delicious. I had such a wonderful time and would definitely recommend another Uptrek retreat to others.""I had a FABULOUS time! The retreat venue was so welcoming and such a peaceful place to spend the week."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this art retreat available to all levels?The art retreat with Emily Olson is open to all levels of experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artist Emily Olson in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between June 19 - 26, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 19, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on June 26, 2026.Is Wi-Fi available?WiFi is available in all areas at no additional cost.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art 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 plan to arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Portugal a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at pre-arranged times are included. Refer to the Location tab for further details. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.What’s the weather like in Algarve, Portugal, in late May?The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, in late May is generally sunny and mild. You can expect average highs of 26°C (79°F) during the day that drop to around 17°C (63°F) at night. The Algarve region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.Can I do laundry while on the retreat?Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay.What art supplies do I need for the workshop?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Emily Olson will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. How many people are to be expected on the art retreat?There is a maximum number of 15 participants.Do I need a visa?Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Portugal for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport, in Faro, or Lagos (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros in cash.Are there any age restrictions?There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility, as the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.What language is used during the art workshop and other activities?The art retreat is available in English.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.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.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 artist or by UpTrek?If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the artist' 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/joyous-watercolor-adventures-retreat-artist-emily-olson-portugal#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/joyous-watercolor-adventures-retreat-artist-emily-olson-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-03-23