# Landscape Painting Retreat with Artist Chris Fornataro in Italy

Join artist Chris Fornataro for an immersive art retreat in the stunning countryside of Tuscany, Italy. 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 near the tranquil private lake.

Stay in inviting Tuscan apartments featuring traditional "arte povera" furnishings, set among peaceful gardens, a 66-foot (20-meter) pool, rolling vineyards, olive groves, and a private lake. A reconverted 18th-century granary serves as a spacious, well-equipped studio, offering the perfect setting to create while surrounded by breathtaking scenery and historic architecture.

Benefit from daily classes, personalized tuition, and art trips to Cortona and a traditional olive oil mill. Alongside fellow artists, enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, a wine tasting experience, and the serene rural atmosphere, making this artistic journey a genuine feast for the senses.

## Details

- **Dates:** October 5 - 12, 2027
- **Location:** Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy
- **Starting Price:** $4,950
- **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, glass jars, paper towels, professional studio lights, easels, easel lamps, 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 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 Cortona, with opportunities for painting and sketching in Piazza della Repubblica
12. Half-day trip to the Frantoio Pasquini oil mill, including olive oil tasting with appetizers
13. English-speaking guide or chaperone for all trips and planned activities
14. Private transportation for all trips and planned activities
15. Round-trip transfers from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) at prearranged times
16. All local tourist taxes and fees
17. Experienced retreat admin and UpTrek host on location
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. Access to a private Facebook group with Chris Fornataro and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Cortona
- Art materials — a list of materials recommended by artist Chris Fornataro 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

### Landscape Painting Retreat
Settle into a week-long travel journaling retreat with artist Chris Fornataro in the enchanting Tuscan countryside 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.

**Topics covered during your classes with Chris 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!

Beyond the studio, you will venture into the Tuscan landscape on two exciting trips. Spend a full day in Cortona, a hilltop town of Etruscan origins, where stone lanes, terracotta rooftops, and sweeping views over the Val di Chiana will offer endless material for your journal. Visit Frantoio Pasquini, a four-generation olive oil mill in the hills of Reggello, where you can take reference photos and draw inspiration from the region’s charm.

Your home for the week will be a Tuscan countryside estate, with a dedicated art studio, sunlit terraces, a refreshing pool, and views of the surrounding vines. 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, arriving 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 Chris Fornataro, your instructor for the retreat, and gather for a welcome ceremony before sitting down to a delightful dinner with welcome cocktails, sharing your excitement for the week ahead.

### Day 2: Classes at the venue & wine tasting experience
Greet the morning with a nourishing breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee before a quick check-in with the venue hosts. Prepare for your first full day with Chris and your fellow artists, ready to step into a world of whimsy and magic!

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 venue gardens.

As the class comes to an end, take some time to rest and unwind in the late afternoon. Before dinner, gather with Chris and your fellow artists and enjoy an in-house wine tasting with appetizers, savoring the authentic flavors of Italy. Indulge in a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and raise a glass of wine, toasting to the start of your artistic journey on the retreat!

### Day 3: Trip to a traditional olive oil mill
Enjoy a warm breakfast as light filters through the windows, then head out for a short drive to Frantoio Pasquini, a family-owned olive oil mill tucked among the hills and groves of Reggello, just ten minutes away.

Your visit begins with a walk through the olive groves, where you’ll see the twisted trunks and silvery leaves that have shaped Tuscan landscapes for centuries. From there, enjoy a guided tour of the mill itself, exploring the production spaces and learning how olives are transformed from fruit on the tree to liquid gold on the table.

After the tour, gather for a tasting in the eno-oleoteca, sampling freshly pressed olive oil along with local specialties like olive pastes. Stay on-site for a relaxed lunch before returning in the early afternoon.

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 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.

In the late afternoon, take some time to relax before dinner. Join Chris and your fellow artists for a tasteful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and share insights from today’s adventure.

### Day 4: Classes at the venue
Enjoy a generous breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a quick check-in with the venue hosts.

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 gardens or the lake, 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 Tuscany 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 evening approaches, take some time to rest before dinner. Savor a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and accompanied by a glass of wine, soaking in the warm and lovely company of your fellow artists.

### Day 5: Art trip to Cortona
Enjoy a warm breakfast as morning light pours in, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, set out with Chris and your fellow artists through the folds of the countryside toward the enchanting town of Cortona, an ancient Etruscan hilltop town perched above the Val di Chiana, with sweeping views that stretch all the way to Lake Trasimeno on clear days.

As you arrive in Cortona, begin high above the town at the Basilica di Santa Margherita, then wander down scenic pathways lined with Gino Severini’s Via Crucis, a series of mosaic stations by the Cortona-born Futurist painter. Observe how he uses bold shapes and vivid color to create movement, then put your new skills into practice. Frame striking compositions of the terracotta rooftops and layered hills below, take reference photos of details that stand out to you, and pause for quick compositional sketches when inspired.

Take time to linger in the Piazza della Repubblica, Cortona’s lively main square framed by the medieval Palazzo Comunale and its grand stone staircase, and paint or sketch the scene unfolding around you. Try a quick plein-air study of this urban landscape, simplifying the buildings, steps and passersby into shapes and values, or simply enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

For lunch, settle into a welcoming trattoria and savor a relaxed Tuscan meal on your own. The afternoon is yours to explore Cortona at your own pace. Continue to sketch and snap reference photos as you explore the town, admire Fra Angelico’s “Annunciation” at the Museo Diocesano, peek into hidden courtyards, follow a winding side street, or spot a sweeping view of the countryside.

As the afternoon comes to an end, return to the venue right in time for dinner. Take some time to unwind and freshen up, then join Chris and your fellow artists for a wholesome three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of local wine. Share reflections of today’s adventure and toast to another day filled with creativity and inspiration.

### Day 6: Classes at the venue
Greet the morning with a nourishing breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then check in briefly with the venue hosts, settling into the gentle rhythm of the day.

You'll spend the entire day at the venue, diving deep into translating landscapes from your own photos or ones Chris provides. The morning 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.

Refuel with a delightful lunch, then reconvene in the studio. The 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.

In the late afternoon, take some time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with Chris and your fellow artists for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine.

### Day 7: Classes at the venue
Head into your final day with a wholesome breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then check in briefly with the venue hosts before making your way to the studio one last time.

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.

Take some leisure time in the late afternoon, then raise a glass at a spectacular three-course farewell dinner accompanied by cocktails, toasting to the art you have made and the people you are taking home with you.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Chris 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 Chris 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

- [Chris Fornataro](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/chris-fornataro) — Artist, educator

## Accommodation

### Tuscan Vineyard Estate
Your venue for the retreat with artist Chris Fornataro 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 Chris 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 third floor.

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 Chris Fornataro, 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 Cortona.

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 Chris Fornataro 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 Cortona, and to Frantoio Pasquini, a four-generation olive oil mill in the nearby hills of Reggello. 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 October 5, 2027, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on October 12, 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: October 5, 2027 ⁠— 4:00 PM** (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 5:00 PM)
- **Departure transfer: October 12, 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 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:**

- "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 art retreat with artist Chris Fornataro is suitable for all experience levels.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Chris Fornataro in Tuscany, Italy, takes place between October 5 - 12, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 5, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, at 10:00 AM, on the last day, October 12, 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/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-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 workshops?**

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

Tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, professional studio lights, easels, easel lamps, 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 Vaggio, Italy, in October?**

In October, 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 14°C / 57°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/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-italy#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/landscape-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-italy
**Last updated:** 2026-10-21