# Mastering Soft Pastel Retreat with Artist Emma Colbert in Spain

Spend a week getting lost in soft pastel with artist Emma Colbert, exploring animal portraiture, landscape and working en plein air during this colorful retreat. Set on a private estate in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, this retreat welcomes artists of all levels to shake off old habits and see just how far a stick of pastel can take you.

Across a series of studio sessions, Emma will guide you from your very first marks on paper through to more ambitious landscape and animal portrait work, building your confidence one layer of color at a time. Beyond the studio, a full-day trip to Almería brings a guided visit to the historic La Alcazaba alongside plenty of time to wander and gather inspiration in the city, while a half-day excursion to the Cabo de Gata natural park coastline and the fishing village of San José offers a wilder, wide-open change of scenery, all rock, sea and salt air.

Retreat into your own private room between sessions, and gather each evening for chef-prepared meals and wine with your fellow artists. Whatever your starting point, you'll leave with a handful of finished pieces, a newfound love for pastel, and a week's worth of new friendships.

## Details

- **Dates:** October 10 - 17, 2027
- **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain
- **Starting Price:** $5,200
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 16 guests
- **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 Emma Colbert
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, professional studio lights, water cups, paper towels, easels, and plein-air artist stools
3. 7 nights of accommodation at a charming countryside Spanish estate
4. Exclusive use of the entire country estate with three indoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, outdoor spaces (that can be used for workshops), a swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spaces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Fragrant local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives served during dinner service every day
8. Snack bar with coffee, tea, filtered water, and snacks available throughout the day
9. Full-day art trip to Almería and the Alcazaba Fortress, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
10. Lunch and drinks at a well-known special establishment during the trip to Almería
11. Entrance ticket and guided visit of the Alcazaba Fortress
12. Half-day art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park and San José village, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
13. Lunch at a local restaurant in San José during the trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
14. Private transportation and knowledgeable English-speaking guide for all planned trips and activities
15. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) at prearranged times
16. All local tourist taxes and fees
17. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. Access to a private Facebook group with Emma Colbert and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

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

## Program

### Soft Pastel Foundations Art Retreat
This retreat with artist Emma Colbert centers on soft pastel, a wonderfully versatile medium that moves easily between fine detail and bold, expressive mark-making. Open to all levels, the week is designed to build your confidence with the material from the ground up, then push you to apply it across multiple subjects, from animal portraiture to landscape to working en plein air. No prior experience with pastel is needed; you'll leave with a broad, transferable understanding of the medium you can carry into your own practice long after the retreat ends.

The week begins in the studio with an introduction to soft pastel and a paint-along animal portrait to ease you into the material, before you start your own pet or animal portrait project using a personal reference photo. From there, Emma will guide you through the fundamentals of composition, color theory and plein air painting, preparing you for two trips spent gathering reference material out in the Spanish landscape. You'll then bring that material back to the studio, developing it into more ambitious landscape pieces and experimenting with mark-making and expressive technique along the way. By the end of the week, you'll have completed several finished pieces across different subjects, along with practical know-how on caring for, framing and packing your pastel work.

Beyond the studio, set out on excursions to the sun-bleached city of Almería, where you'll gather reference material amid centuries of layered history and take a guided visit to the historic La Alcazaba, and to the wild coastline of Cabo de Gata natural park, where volcanic cliffs and turquoise water offer a striking contrast in landscape and scale. During your trips, enjoy meals at a local spot in Almería and by the water in the fishing village of San José.

**Some of the topics covered in your classes with Emma include:**

- Foundational soft pastel materials, handling and application techniques
- Fine detail and expressive mark-making with pastel sticks
- Animal and pet portraiture from personal reference photos
- Landscape painting in soft pastel
- Plein air painting fundamentals
- Composition and color theory
- Translating reference photos into expressive, finished pieces
- Working across multiple genres and subjects
- Aftercare, framing and packing for soft pastel work
- …and many more!

Nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata Natural Park, your retreat venue is a peaceful oasis surrounded by the region's dramatic natural beauty. With its rustic charm, gardens brimming with native plants, and panoramic views of the rugged terrain, the estate offers endless sources of inspiration. Whether exploring its tranquil pathways or relaxing in the welcoming common areas, you’ll find the perfect setting to immerse yourself in your art and connect with your surroundings.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Almería Airport (LEI) and catch your 3:30 PM transfer to the retreat venue, a short 30-minute journey. Settle into your comfortable room, take some time to relax, and get ready to meet Emma Colbert, your instructor for the week, as well as your fellow artists.

Join an orientation tour to explore the bright studio, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and refreshing pool. Over a delightful welcome dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week that’s ahead while savoring local Spanish flavors and a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a morning check-in with your fellow artists.

This is your first full session with Emma, and she'll introduce you to the world of soft pastel. She'll walk you through her materials and the qualities that make the medium so versatile, from soft blending to bold, expressive mark-making. To get a feel for the pastels in your hand, you'll follow along with a paint-along demonstration built around an animal subject, a gentle, guided way to build confidence with the material before setting off on your own.

After lunch, return to the studio to begin your own project. Bring along a reference photo of a pet, a friend's pet, or any animal that speaks to you, and Emma will guide you through translating that image into a soft pastel piece, focusing on the foundational techniques that will carry you through the rest of the week. There's no pressure to finish today. If your piece needs more time, you can return to it whenever you like over the coming days.

With the afternoon session behind you, the rest of the day is yours. Use the extra studio time if you're inspired to keep going, or unwind by the pool or in the gardens before pre-dinner drinks. Round things off with dinner together, swapping first impressions and getting to know your fellow artists a little better.

### Day 3: Art classes at the venue
Fuel up with a nourishing breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then gather for the morning class.

Today's session moves out into the grounds, where the focus turns to composition and the other essential techniques you'll draw on throughout the retreat. Emma will introduce core color theory principles alongside the practical realities of working from life and plein air, from choosing a vantage point to managing your materials outside the studio. Think of this as laying the groundwork before the color work begins in earnest, building the visual vocabulary for the pieces ahead.

After a break for lunch, the afternoon continues in the same vein. You'll keep exploring the grounds for potential subjects, with Emma sharing tips and tricks specific to plein air work, from framing a scene quickly to adapting when the light shifts. Consider this your practice run: tomorrow's full-day trip to Almería will call on everything you sharpen today, so the more comfortable you feel finding and capturing a subject on the fly, the more you'll get out of the outing.

Take the chance to relax by the pool or in the gardens before pre-dinner drinks. Round out the day with dinner together, trading notes on what caught your eye outdoors.

### Day 4: Art trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment
Begin the day with a filling breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, pack your materials and camera (or simply your phone), and set off for the day: a full day in Almería, gathering reference material you'll return to later in the studio.

Spend the day exploring, snapping reference photos as you go. Emma will help you build a strong collection of inspiration, and if the time allows, you'll have the chance to sketch in plein air right there in the city. Keep an eye out for animal subjects within the landscape too. A stray cat curled in a doorway or birds crossing an open square can bring an unexpected sense of life and movement into your later landscape work.

Break for a relaxing lunch and drinks at one of the city's charming local spots before continuing on to the afternoon's main event: a guided visit to the historic La Alcazaba. This fortified citadel is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Europe, housing gorgeous gardens, imposing towers (such as the Tower of Mirrors), and intricate gates, as well as showcasing impressive Moorish architecture.

Wander its arches and courtyards with your camera or sketchbook in hand, taking in the geometry of the tilework and the play of light across weathered stone. The citadel is another rich source of reference material, worth capturing from every angle you can.

As evening approaches, make your way back to the venue for some leisure time before dinner. Gather with Emma and your fellow artists for a wonderful meal prepared by the private chef, sharing the reference photos and sketches you've collected and swapping stories from the day.

### Day 5: Art classes at the venue
After breakfast, settle into the studio and dig into the material you gathered in Almería.

This is a longer project, and Emma will guide you through bringing your reference photos to life with soft pastel, working primarily with landscape today. She'll share techniques for infusing energy and expression into a piece that started from a photograph, moving beyond a straightforward, literal copy of the reference. You'll spend the morning finding your own voice through mark-making and color choices, exploring just how wide a range the medium can offer once you start pushing past the obvious.

After lunch, continue building on your piece. Depending on how the morning went, you might work toward one more complex composition or break off into a few smaller studies, whichever suits the direction your work is taking. Either way, the afternoon is a chance to keep experimenting and see how far you can build on a single reference image.

With the session wrapped up, the rest of the day is yours. Take a swim, wander the gardens, or simply relax before dinner. Round out the evening with a meal together, comparing notes on the pieces taking shape.

### Day 6: Art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
Wake up to a delicious breakfast, then prepare for the week's next adventure: an art trip to the wild coastline of Cabo de Gata natural park.

Volcanic cliffs meet turquoise water here, offering a striking landscape all its own: big, wild shapes, sweeping curves of rock and sea, and a rawness that pushes you toward looser, more expressive mark-making. Take some time to sketch or simply take in the landscape, and keep gathering reference photos as you go, since this new coastal material will feed straight into this afternoon's session.

From there, continue on to the fishing village of San José, where you'll stop for lunch by the water. Linger over the surroundings here too: the boats in the harbor, the low white buildings, the particular quality of light along this stretch of coast.

Back at the studio in the afternoon, put this fresh material to work. Using a sketch or photo from the coastline, you'll develop it into a more finished piece, following the same approach as your Almería project but with the sea and cliffs of Cabo de Gata as your subject this time. Emma will be on hand to guide you through translating what you've just seen into a finished work.

Take some time to relax before dinner. Join your fellow artists for a meal prepared by the private chef, comparing notes on the coastline and the pieces you've started from it.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Start the morning with a nourishing breakfast before beginning your final full day of classes.

The workshop begins with a conversation about what comes next for your pastel work: how to protect it, frame it, and pack it safely for the journey home. Emma will share her own aftercare tips, from fixative and storage to the small choices that keep a finished piece looking its best. With this in mind, spend the rest of the morning wrapping up your projects, polishing whichever pieces you want to bring to a finished state.

Enjoy lunch, followed by a cheerful mini-exhibition. Lay out your work and see the range of pieces you've built across the week, from your first paint-along to your Almería and Cabo de Gata landscapes. Share the stories behind your favorites and take in just how far you've come since that first pastel stick touched paper on day two.

As the celebration winds down, take some spare time to freshen up and unwind before dinner. Gather with Emma and the group for one more meal together, raising a glass to the new friendships, creative breakthroughs, and unforgettable memories made throughout the retreat.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a light breakfast, bid farewell to Emma and your fellow artists, and board the 10:00 AM transfer to Almería Airport (LEI). You'll reach your destination at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Emma Colbert](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/emma-colbert) — Soft Pastel Artist

## Accommodation

### Spanish countryside estate
Your venue for the retreat with artist Emma Colbert is an astonishing countryside estate, located in the south of Spain, in a unique nature reserve named Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This elegantly restored property, a harmonious blend of traditional elements and modern comfort, sits amidst an otherworldly landscape. The natural beauty of the Andalusian panoramas is the estate's most breathtaking feature, with vistas that stretch out from the spacious terraces. You'll be treated to a visual symphony of fiery sunsets descending over rugged cliffs and the untamed wilderness of valleys.

The accommodation itself is a seamless fusion of regional charm and modern elegance, with rooms that blend Andalusian artistry and Balinese tranquility. All the rooms at this venue are designed for single occupancy, each outfitted with orthopedic mattresses, soft cotton linens, 100% cotton American Curl towels, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The single rooms themselves are located in clusters of casitas (small typical Spanish houses), and all feature ensuite bathrooms. Other amenities of the venue include the swimming pool, vast gardens, airy terraces, and well-appointed common spaces.

Your classes with Emma will take place across three dedicated workshop spaces: one spacious 4000 sq. ft. (375 sq. m.) charming tent reconverted into a studio, one intimate 430 sq. ft. (40 sq. m.) indoor workshop space adjacent to the main studio, and another small circular studio indoors.

In your spare time, you can relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy leisurely strolls through the estate’s gardens while socializing with your fellow artists.

Please note that a short 3- to 5-minute walk connects the accommodation areas, the studios, and the main building for meals. The terrain across the property is gently hilly, which may present challenges for those with low and limited mobility.

Furthermore, since the venue is located in the middle of a natural park, you may encounter some insects during your stay. The Finca embraces a design philosophy that harmonizes with its surroundings, and as such, the rooms are not equipped with window screens in order to preserve unobstructed, panoramic views of the landscape.

It is recommended to keep doors and windows closed throughout the day and night to avoid insects entering your room. Rest assured, there are no dangerous insects in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve.

### Hilltop single standard ensuite room
Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated along the peaceful edge of the estate grounds, each room includes a private bathroom and essential amenities, such as a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, toiletries, a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, a smart TV, and an outdoor terrace.

The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Unwind after a day filled with creativity and connection by stepping out onto your charming private terrace. Take a moment to relax and reflect while enjoying the stunning scenery of Gabo de Gata Natural Park.

### Single standard ensuite room
Two standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated closer to the main venue spaces (such as the studios, dining areas, and common lounges), each room features a private bathroom and necessary amenities. The rooms are equipped with toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace.

Enjoy the tranquil scenery outside your quaint private terrace, or take a moment to rest on the comfortable double bed, outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and smooth cotton linens.

### Single superior ensuite room - open terrace
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated near the parking and outside reception, each room features access to a quaint open terrace, perfect for soaking in the tranquil nature of Cabo de Gata Natural Park.

The rooms include necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, Wi-Fi, and a double bed outfitted with smooth cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. The bathroom is equipped with toiletries, bath and hand towels, and a hairdryer.

For one of the rooms, the shower is located within the room, separated by a curtain.

Recharge between workshops and other activities in a space of comfort and peace, with a stunning private terrace in the front. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take some time to reflect and relax.

### Single superior ensuite room - enclosed terrace
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in close proximity to the studios, each room features access to a secluded, enclosed terrace. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities, such as a private bathroom, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water. The bathroom comes with a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, and toiletries.

Enjoy the privacy of your charming private terrace, situated in the rear, thus creating a peaceful space to relax and reflect. Unwind in-between sessions on the comfortable bed in your room, complete with an orthopedic mattress and delicate cotton linens.

### Single standard suite - open terrace
Two standard suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated in the heart of the estate, each room features a private bathroom and essential amenities, including a kitchenette (complete with a microwave, sink, and kitchen counter equipped with drawers, mugs, cutlery, and small plates), toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a smart TV, a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water, and an idyllic open terrace.

The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi.

Relax in a comfortable and independent space after a full day of creativity and connection. Step outside onto the inviting private terrace, located in the rear, and take a moment to reflect in a peaceful spot or enjoy the gentle breeze and surrounding landscape.

### Single superior suite - enclosed terrace
Two superior suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in the center of the estate grounds, each suite features a stunning enclosed terrace and necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom (providing toiletries, hand and bath towels, and a hairdryer), a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, heating controlled via thermostat, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a double bed complete with delicate cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress.

All rooms also include a kitchenette fully equipped with a microwave, sink, kitchen counter, mugs, cutlery, and small plates.

Unwind after your creative sessions in a calm and inviting environment that blends comfort with independence. Step outside onto the private, secluded terrace, situated at the rear, breathe in the fresh air, and take some time to reflect, or soak in the serene views of the estate and its natural surroundings.

## Food

Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey during Emma Colbert's art retreat, right in the heart of Andalusia. Each meal, prepared by a private chef, highlights the rich flavors of the region. Discover the flavor of Iberian meats, delicious seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local orchards and gardens.

Traditional Mediterranean spices bring depth and warmth to every dish, reflecting the vibrant, healthy flavors that make this cuisine so celebrated. Iberian tradition is defined by a dance of spices: saffron's exotic fragrance, parsley's fresh, green zing, and paprika's smoky warmth.

Breakfasts are served buffet-style and include a variety of sweet and savory items. Light lunches consist of a starter (such as seasonal soup) alongside a main course, and dinners include a starter, a hearty main course, and a dessert.

Your retreat includes all meals, and refreshing beverages like water, coffee, and tea are readily available throughout the day. During your trips, lunches are served at some of the best local restaurants in the area, which are renowned for their warm hospitality, delicious local dishes, and pleasant atmosphere. Indulge in exquisitely cooked meals that showcase Spanish regional cuisine, accompanied by fragrant wines.

The exact menu served varies based on the availability of regional ingredients.

## Getting There

The venue for your art retreat with Emma Colbert is a sprawling countryside estate, nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in the South of Spain. Just a 30-minute trip brings you to the area’s most iconic beaches, such as Genoveses and Mónsul, both known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and cinematic history. The park is renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, famous for its appearances in movies and TV series such as "Black Mirror", "Game of Thrones" and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”. The uniqueness of the nature reserve also comes from the region’s rich history shaped by numerous cultures, including the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moors.

The Cabo de Gata Natural Park stretches over 38,000 hectares and is celebrated as one of Spain’s most pristine coastal reserves. Its rugged cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, framing stretches of unspoiled beaches, wild coves, and charming fishing villages where time seems to have slowed. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, nurtures an abundance of desert-adapted plants, including wild palms, agave, aloe, and hemp. In the spring, wildflowers bloom all over the land, adding color to the dry ground.

The park is also a haven for wildlife. While kestrels and owls patrol the skies, turtles and lizards bask on warm rocks. In the summer, you can spot flocks of flamingos wading in the salt flats of Las Salinas, where migratory birds find refuge. This diversity of flora and fauna, paired with the park’s striking geology, creates an atmosphere that feels both raw and magical.

**Please arrive at Almería Airport (LEI).**

We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat.

**How to get from Almería Airpor**t **to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to *Almería*, we recommend you fly to Madrid or Barcelona and fly domestically to Almería (local round trips starting from US$89, 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 October 10, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on October 17, 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:**

**October 10, 2027 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from Almería Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure transfer:**

**October 17, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at *Almería Airport* a little after 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 *Almería* before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to *Almería Airport*.
- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: La Boca de Los Frailes, 04118 Níjar, Almería, Spain, 80 euros - approximately US$93 per way; please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

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

- "It was wonderful! I loved the venue and location. It was beautiful and peaceful. Staff were friendly and helpful. The weather was wonderful. Not too hot and there was usually a cool breeze."

- "Wonderful resort, excellent staff, great place to do art!!!! Met 15 new friends and a lovely cat. Food very good!"

- "The venue was perfect, the accommodations very comfortable, the food delicious, and the staff friendly and helpful. Overall, the experience was perfect in every way."

- "The retreat was fantastic. The venue was perfect. The meals were excellent and I appreciated the care that went into making sure that I was able to have really good vegan meals. The side trips were well arranged and Emilio, the tour guide, was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."

- "It was great to have flexibility in the schedule from the venue. The staff were very attentive and responded to all requests. The venue and surrounding areas provided inspiration for creativity. Visiting San Jose was really enjoyable especially the lunch and having the opportunity to go in the sea and do some local shopping."

- "Beautiful spot, wonderful staff, good food, good space for working on our art. I loved my room with its patio overlooking the valley and the sunrises in the morning. Our guide, Emilio, was very knowledgeable and funny with a lot of energy."

- "The venue is very well-chosen. The staff all very helpful and friendly. I loved everything. Thank you so much everyone, also UpTrek for informing us friendly and constantly."

- "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions really added to the experience."

- "My room was beautiful. The pool was fabulous. The food was amazing. Thank you Manuel, Juan, Jorge, and the rest of the team. You made it such a special time for me and the perfect way to celebrate my birthday."

- "This was not my first UpTrek workshop, and the one in Almería, Spain, proved to be just as exceptional as the previous ones. The overall program was, once again, nothing short of fantastic. Thank you, UpTrek, for consistently delivering wonderful experiences."

- "I cannot say enough good things! The staff at the venue were AMAZING-thoughtful and caring. The tour guide, Emilio was so knowledgeable and kind. Our Uptrek advisor, Andra, was on top of things and also so kind. Honestly, it was one of the best trips I've ever taken."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Emma Colbert in Almería, Spain, takes place between October 10 - 17, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive at the retreat venue after 4:00 PM on October 10, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on October 17, 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?**

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.

**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?**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat.

For more information, see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/mastering-soft-pastel-retreat-artist-emma-colbert-spain#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.

**What’s the weather like in Almería, Spain, in October?**

The weather in Almería, Spain, in October is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 25°C / 77°F during the day that drop to around 16°C / 61°F at night. The Almería 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, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

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

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

Tables and chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, professional studio lights, water cups, paper towels, easels, and plein-air artist stools will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.**

**How many people are to be expected on the retreat?**

There is a maximum number of 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Spain for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance.

**Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?**

Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport, in Almería, or in Níjar (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros cash.

**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.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.

**Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?**

Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven terrain across the nature reserve. You will also need to walk between the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the main building where meals are served.

**What language is used during the workshops and other activities?**

The retreat is available in English.

**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/mastering-soft-pastel-retreat-artist-emma-colbert-spain#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/mastering-soft-pastel-retreat-artist-emma-colbert-spain
**Last updated:** 2026-07-22