# Landscape Painting Retreat with Artist Chris Fornataro in Greece Join artist Chris Fornataro for an exhilarating art retreat on the breathtaking island of Zakynthos, Greece. Open to painters of every level and medium—oil or acrylic—you'll dive straight into fearless, first-stroke techniques that build confidence and unleash your creativity. Each morning, Chris will lead dynamic demonstrations on taking compelling reference photos, composing strong value studies, and breaking scenes down into simple shapes. Through hands-on practice and individualized feedback, you’ll quickly discover that alla prima isn’t intimidating; it’s a liberating way to capture light, color, and atmosphere in a single session. Afternoons alternate between spirited studio work and plein-air painting on the nearby pristine beach. Your venue for the retreat will be a Greek villa perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the sea, with a spacious sea-facing art studio, an infinity pool, a jacuzzi, a wooden gazebo, and terraced gardens overlooking the coastline. Beyond the studio, board a boat to the iconic Shipwreck Beach and take in the dramatic white limestone cliffs and explore the island's capital, Zante Town, bringing the colors and textures of each trip back to the studio as fuel for your next creation. You'll also slip away to a charming local pottery studio, creating and getting inspired by shelves of handmade ceramics, with a refreshment to enjoy along the way! Each evening, sit down to a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local wine, from the welcome dinner on your first night to a farewell celebration with a Greek dance show and live music. ## Details - **Dates:** April 15 - 22, 2027 - **Location:** Planos, Zakynthos, Greece - **Starting Price:** $5,150 - **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 Chris Fornataro 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, glass jars, professional studio lights, field easels, table-top easels, artist stools, 7.5 l / 2 gallons of Winsor & Newton Sansodor Odorless Solvent, and 16 x 75 ml / 2.54 fl oz bottles of Liquin Original 3. 7 nights of accommodation at an elegant seaside villa 4. Exclusive use of the venue's living quarters and common areas, a 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 dinners 9. Delicious local wine during dinner service every day 10. Spacious sea-facing Shala art studio 11. Half-day art trip to Zante Town, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location 12. Half-day boat trip to the Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), with a boat ride included 13. Half-day art trip to an award-winning olive oil farm (est.1890), home to olive trees over 1500 years old, with a visit to the olive press, a walk in the olive grove, and opportunities for on-location painting and sketching 14. Greek dance show and band for the farewell dinner 15. Private transportation and guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities 16. Round-trip transfers from/to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) at prearranged times 17. All local tourist taxes and fees 18. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 20. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Chris Fornataro and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Chris Fornataro five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Greece - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Landscape Painting Retreat Dive into an unforgettable art retreat with Chris Fornataro on the enchanting, sun-drenched island of Zakynthos, Greece, that will inspire and nurture your inner artist to conquer alla prima and discover it’s far more approachable than you think. Open to all skill levels, this immersive experience teaches you how to translate every cliff, beach, and narrow walkway into vibrant landscape paintings, whether you love oils or acrylics. Each day, Chris brings landscape painting to life with dynamic demos, hands-on practice, and tailored feedback. You’ll master snapping reference photos that sing with potential, crafting bold compositions, and breaking scenes down into simple shapes and values. From quick plein-air sketches under the sun to spirited studio sessions, you’ll see how fearless, first-stroke painting can unleash your creativity. Beyond the studio, you will explore the island of Zakynthos on half-day trips that feed directly into your work. Board a boat to the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), taking in the dramatic white limestone cliffs and turquoise water while gathering colors, textures, light, and reference photos that will inspire your next creations. Later in the week, explore the island's capital, Zante Town, soaking in the architecture, the patterns, the seaside light, and the colors of a town the Venetians lovingly named "The Flower of the East." Sketch if you feel called to do so, paint if the mood takes you, or simply take in the beauty of Zakynthos. You will also explore an award-winning olive oil farm that began its story in 1890. Ancient olive trees over fifteen centuries old rise around you as you walk through the groves, and you will enjoy a guided tasting of their exceptional oils, each one rich with the island’s history. **Topics you will cover include:** - Learning how to take photos for landscape paintings - Figuring out compositional sketches - Doing quick plein-air studies - Exploring urban landscapes - Editing photos for paintings - Practicing value studies - Simplifying photos into shapes - Mastering alla prima painting - ...and many more! The venue, a Greek villa perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the sea, will be your creative home for the retreat. The sea-facing art studio will be equipped with tables, chairs, easels, and professional studio lights, with plenty of space to spread out and paint. Between sessions, cool off in the infinity pool, soak in the jacuzzi, unwind in the wooden gazebo, or head back to the studio for extra painting time. Sit down each evening to delightful three-course dinners prepared by the private chef and paired with local wine. Please note that the retreat venue sits on terraced grounds, with access to the studio, common areas, and accommodations requiring the use of stairways. The beach can be reached by descending a steep stairway of approximately 50 meters (164 feet), and the trips will involve moderate walking. This retreat may not be ideal for those with limited mobility. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Zakynthos Airport for your 3:30 PM transfer to a breathtaking seafront venue overlooking the 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 inviting common areas. Meet your lovely instructor for the retreat, Chris Fornataro, 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 Chris and the group, and chat about the adventures ahead. ### Day 2: Art classes at the venue Wake up to the scent of fresh coffee and share a nourishing breakfast with Chris and your fellow artists, discussing your plans for the day. The morning begins with using photo references to inform your paintings. Chris will show you how to analyze a photo like a painter: breaking down its composition, identifying key elements, and simplifying the scene into a quick sketch. You’ll have plenty of time to experiment and practice these techniques, and Chris may demonstrate turning a reference photo into a small, expressive painting. After a leisurely lunch, you’ll head outside to explore the villa’s unique architecture and surrounding landscapes. Together, you’ll scout for striking compositions as Chris demonstrates how to frame scenes and capture their mood through photography. This relaxed yet focused session will help you spot painting-worthy subjects everywhere. A great starting point is the breathtaking Bouka Beach visible from the venue. The early evening will be yours to spend however you like. Keep working in the studio, take a dip in the infinity pool, wander down to the beach, or simply lounge in the terraced gardens with a good conversation. Sit down to a three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local wine, sharing first impressions from a full day of creation. ### Day 3: Boat trip to Navagio Beach Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast, then grab your camera for a half-day boat trip to one of the island's most dramatic landscapes. You will sail towards Navagio Beach, known locally as Smugglers Cove, enclosed by sheer white limestone cliffs and accessible only by sea. At the heart of the cove, you will find the rusting hull of the MV Panagiotis, a cargo ship that ran aground under circumstances that have never been fully resolved. From the boat, you'll take in the colors, textures, light, and dramatic forms around you. The boat will cruise at a relaxed pace, and if the weather permits, you may go for a swim in the turquoise water. Head back to the venue for a relaxing lunch, then join Chris and your fellow artists for another afternoon session. Work on practicing your landscape skills by using the photos you’ve taken during your boat trip. Chris will provide a demo on the first stages of painting, showing you how to move from initial sketches to blocking in key shapes and values. Learn how to simplify complex scenes and bring them to life in your paintings. Block out shapes, then experiment with painting from blurred photo references; these techniques will help you focus on the bigger picture without getting lost in details. You'll have plenty of time to ask Chris questions, get feedback, and gain confidence in your process. Take the late afternoon to rest and unwind before dinner. Enjoy a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine, swapping impressions about your time at sea with your fellow artists as the Grecian evening settles around you. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Wake up to a hearty breakfast, then settle in over coffee with Chris to talk through the day's creative plans. Begin the morning as you continue developing and add finishing touches to the pieces you started yesterday. Whether you’re refining sketches, adding layers to your paintings, or experimenting with new techniques, Chris will be on hand to offer personalized support and encouragement. Refuel over a filling lunch, then head outdoors for an inspiring afternoon session. Chris will guide a plein-air painting demo, perhaps near the pool or the beach, to help you observe and interpret the landscape around you. Together, you’ll walk the grounds of the villa, taking in the textures, colors, and light that make Zakynthos a favorite with landscape painters. Chris will point out key elements to notice when observing your environment, helping you better translate your surroundings into art. As the class comes to an end, enjoy some spare time. Take a dip in the pool or a stroll through the terraced gardens in the late afternoon, then settle in around the dinner table for a tasty three-course meal prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of local wine. Soak in the lovely atmosphere of the evening, filled with laughter and lively conversation. ### Day 5: Art trip to Zante Town Settle in with a warm breakfast, then gather your sketchbook and art supplies for a half-day trip to Zante Town, the island's capital. Explore the town at your own pace with a local guide on hand to point you toward the most striking views. Zante Town will greet you with the sea on one side and green hills behind it, and you will find no shortage of visual inspiration to gather for your work back in the studio. Take reference photos, absorb the patterns of the architecture and the coastline, or simply enjoy the morning. Return to the venue for a nourishing lunch prepared by your private chef, then head into the studio for the afternoon. Dive deep into translating landscapes from your own photos of Zante Town. The session will begin with value studies, exploring the composition and structure of your chosen subject, perhaps even working in black and white to hone your understanding of light and shadow. Chris will offer one-on-one feedback throughout the session, ensuring you feel confident and supported as you develop your skills. Soak up the last of the afternoon sun by the pool before gathering for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, sharing reference photos and stories from a morning on the water. ### Day 6: Art trip to an olive oil farm with olive oil tasting Settle in with a warm breakfast and a morning cup of coffee, then gather your sketchbook and supplies for a half-day art trip to an award-winning olive oil farm established in 1890, home to olive trees over 1500 years old. Wander among the ancient trees with your sketchbook in hand, sketching gnarled trunks and botanical forms while gathering reference photos. You will also enjoy an olive oil tasting experience, connecting you to the local landscape through its flavors. Return to the villa for a nourishing lunch prepared by your private chef, then head into the studio for the afternoon. This afternoon is all about refining details, building layers, and making your landscapes come to life. Whether you continue in the studio or opt for an optional plein-air session to capture the sunset directly, Chris will be there to guide you, answer questions, and help you navigate any challenges in your process. Unwind by the pool or on the terraced gardens, then gather for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, sharing sketches of ancient olive trees as the Greek sunset spills across the sea. ### Day 7: Art classes at the venue Kick off the final full day with a nourishing breakfast before joining Chris in the studio. The morning kicks off with a wrap-up session, a good chance for you to focus on any techniques you feel need further practice time. It’s a flexible session designed to allow you to work on what you prefer, whether it’s finishing a piece you’ve been developing or starting something entirely new. Revisit topics that caught your attention and experiment with newfound confidence. Chris will paint alongside you, offering one-on-one feedback, providing additional teaching if needed, and answering any questions to help you make the most of this final session. Following a laid-back lunch, prepare for a special group event. Everyone will have the chance to showcase their work during a mini-exhibition, where you can share your pieces, gather feedback from peers, and discuss your creative process in a supportive and encouraging environment. Chris will guide the discussion, offering insights on where to go next with your painting practice and helping you reflect on how far you’ve come. Participation is optional, but the exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your progress and exchange ideas with your art group. As evening falls, dress up and gather for a farewell dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine. After dinner, head outside for a Greek dance show with live music to close out the retreat under the Greek sky. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy one last breakfast with Chris and your fellow artists, then get ready for your transfer to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH). Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 10:30 AM. ## Instructors - [Chris Fornataro](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/chris-fornataro) — Artist, educator ## Accommodation ### Stunning Greek Estate Your creative haven for the art retreat with artist Chris Fornataro 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. 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 One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Tucked away in the stone towers, this twin ensuite room on the first floor marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features two twin beds and a modern ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, shared between the two guests staying together in this 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. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The shared superior ensuite room is located in the main villa. Covering a generous 35m² on the first floor, it's known as the villa's quietest room, featuring two comfortable twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom. ### Shared penthouse Two penthouses are available for shared occupancy. You will share one penthouse and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. Perched atop the main villa on the second floor, the shared penthouses boast twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy. Private balconies extend from each penthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the sea and terraces. ### Single standard ensuite room Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The single ensuite rooms are located on the second and third floors of the towers and contain double beds. Sitting at a cozy 16m², the rooms are accessible via stairs. They feature private ensuite bathrooms within the room 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. This room located on the first floor, in the stone towers, marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features a private ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The room also benefits from 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 bedrooms (located on the second floor of the villa, stairway access), occupied by one participant each. Both single rooms are equipped with a comfortable double bed and an ensuite bathroom, complete with a spacious walk-in shower. The shared living spaces on the first floor— a well-equipped kitchen and a cozy living room—offer areas 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 40m², making it the venue's crown jewel. Its center point is the grand double bed, promising restful slumbers and comfort. The deluxe suite features an elegant ensuite bathroom, equipped with a modern shower. Yet, it's the breathtaking views that truly captivate; double glass doors beckon you outwards, revealing a mesmerizing tableau of the pristine pool, the inviting terrace, and the azure sea endlessly stretching beyond. ## 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. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot. ## Getting There 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 airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) 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 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on April 15, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on April 22, 2027, by 10:00 AM. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Arrival Transfer:** **April 15, 2027 - 3:30 PM** (leaving from Zakynthos International Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure Transfer:** **April 22, 2027 - 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Zakynthos International Airport 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 past UpTrek retreats with Chris Fornataro:** - “I learned a lot from having instruction in person and the benefit of one-on-one critiques. Chris’ teaching style is very laid back and positive. He is a true coach. We had a terrific group of talented artists of all levels and I will treasure my time here forever.” - “Chris Fornataro was an excellent teacher, enabling a wide range of levels.” - “I enjoyed working with the other students. The instructor and hosts were very attentive. I learned about composition and blocking in large shapes first to get the proper color balance and value. I learned to make more decisive brush strokes.” - “Great painting opportunities, great scenery everywhere you looked. Wonderful tips from Chris on how to improve our paintings, photos and techniques.” - “Painting with Chris Fornataro was a fun and rewarding experience. He's a great teacher who expertly guided us through the critical steps needed to progress, no matter where we were in our painting journey.” - “I enjoyed the classes with Chris. I feel he worked to cover all levels of experience. Enjoyed the experience as a whole and would try another. This group was open and Chris was receptive to our ideals.” - “Teaching was perfect. Not too intense but just right.” **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 art retreat with artist Chris Fornataro is suitable for all experience levels. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Chris Fornataro in Planos, Zakynthos, Greece takes place between April 15 - 22, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on April 15, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, April 22, 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 allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Greece a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly locally 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 30 minutes. For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-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 Chris Fornataro will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, paper towels, glass jars, professional studio lights, field easels, table-top easels, artist stools, 7.5 l / 2 gallons of Winsor & Newton Sansodor Odorless Solvent, and 16 x 75 ml / 2.54 fl oz bottles of Liquin Original 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 Zakynthos in April?** The weather in early April in Zakynthos is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 18°C / 64°F during the day that drop to around 10°C / 50°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?** There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. **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/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-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). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-greece **Last updated:** 2026-09-17