# Plein Air Watercolor Landscape Retreat with Artist Matthew White in Spain

Join artist Matthew White for an unforgettable watercolor retreat in Cabo de Gata. Wake to bright Andalusian light, then step into the natural park to paint rugged headlands and luminous coves. You will work en plein air each day with Matthew close by, turning what you see into confident landscapes. Daily classes, clear demonstrations, real time reviews, and personal guidance keep you moving, with tailored advice shaped to your goals.Between sessions, wander the historic streets of Almería and take in the sun worn textures of stone and plaster. Settle in the garden to sketch or stroll the low hills around San José for fresh viewpoints. The raw beauty of Cabo de Gata feeds your imagination with earthy color and expressive line. Share easy conversation over regional Spanish dishes and wine, then head home with a sketchbook full of work that carries your voice and the spirit of this coast.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 21 - 28, 2026
- **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain
- **Starting Price:** $5,050
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, plein-air painting, review sessions, and demonstrations with artist Matthew White7 nights of accommodation at a countryside Spanish estateExclusive use of the entire country estate with indoor and outdoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spacesAll meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefDelicious local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives during dinner serviceSnack bar with coffee, tea, filtered water, and snacks available throughout the dayFull-day trip to Almería with La Alcazaba visit and English-speaking guide, and opportunities for sketching and painting on locationDrinks at a well-known special establishment in AlmeríaLunch included at a local restaurant during the trip to AlmeríaHalf-day trip to the Cabo de Gata natural park coastline with English-speaking guide, and opportunities for sketching and painting on locationLunch included in the San José village during the trip to Cabo de GataPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesPrivate round-trip transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) and the retreat venue at prearranged timesExperienced UpTrek host available throughout the day, fully-staffed venueAll local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Matthew White and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Matthew White will be provided five months before the retreatPlein air easel (only needed if planning to paint outdoors rather than just sketch in a sketchbook)Tips for staff (tipping is customary in Spain)Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Plein Air Watercolor Landscape Retreat
Join artist Matthew White for an enlightening watercolor retreat in Spain, centered in the sunlit landscapes of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Your mornings will start with fresh coastal air and a short walk to paint on site. You will work en plein air every day with Matthew at your side, learning to translate volcanic cliffs, bright coves, and desert flora into confident watercolor. Each day blends clear teaching with generous time at the easel. Expect classes, demonstrations, and thoughtful conversations that keep your momentum strong, plus individual feedback from Matt throughout the day. You will paint and sketch both on location and in the studio so you can test ideas outdoors and refine them indoors; just make sure to bring a plein air easel if you’d like to do more than sketch in a sketchbook while working outside!The retreat welcomes beginners and experienced painters alike. Matt adapts to your needs and walks you through the full on site process, from picking a strong viewpoint and setting up your kit to the final passages that pull a painting together. If you want to build plein air skills, refresh your process, or focus on beautiful landscape work, his steady guidance and personal teaching style keep you moving forward.You will have space to ask questions, show your work, and exchange feedback in real time. With in depth watercolor instruction and coaching tailored to your goals, progress comes quickly and feels sustainable. You will head home with a vibrant collection of paintings inspired by Almería and the coast of Cabo de Gata, plus a workflow you can keep using long after the week ends. With Matt’s guidance, thoughtful feedback, and a supportive group of 15 other artists, you will see clear growth and carry new confidence into your art.The topics covered during your lessons will include:Learn the proper use of valuesPaint light evocativelyLearn how to simplify your paintingsHow to take reference photosLearn how to scope out scenes that can be depicted in watercolorThe entire process of plein-air painting from beginning to end...and much 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 finca 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 Matt, and your retreat group. Join an orientation tour to explore the bright studio, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and the refreshing pool. Over a fabulous welcoming dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week ahead while savoring local Spanish flavors and a glass of regional wine.

### Day 2: Art at the Finca
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the finca, taking in the soft morning light and garden views. Then meet with Matt and the group for a relaxed check-in to go over the plan for the day.The morning session will focus on watercolor foundations and how to use them in landscape painting. Beginners will get a clear, practical skill set to work with, while more experienced artists will see familiar tools in a new way. You will explore how to simplify a scene, break it down into shapes, build a strong value structure, and begin painting en plein air with confidence.After a light lunch in the garden and a cup of herbal tea, you will return to your paintings. Matt will lead a series of warm-up exercises to spark new ideas and loosen up your brushwork. Then watch as he demonstrates his on-location approach, working directly from the gardens and the surrounding Spanish countryside. Follow along, try new techniques, or observe the process up close. Ask questions in the moment and get one-to-one feedback as you go.The day winds down with free time for personal reflection or exploring the nearby countryside. Wrap it up with a three-course dinner, beautifully complemented by local wines and shared with your art group.

### Day 3: Trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment
Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast before setting off toward Almería, where stone walls hold stories and sea air sparks the senses.With Matt and your guide, walk through the historic center with your camera ready. Tiled facades, curved alleys, sun-faded shutters, and the rhythm of everyday life will fill your lens with color and form. Wander through Nicolás Salmerón Park beneath tall palms, then follow the port where light bounces off water. At the heart of the day stands the Alcazaba, a tenth-century citadel rising above the city and sea. Its gardens and carved archways offer sweeping views, textured stone, and sacred forms that echo through your artwork.Pause for a long, relaxed lunch at a local spot, where regional flavors and a glass of something cool will carry you into the afternoon. Then return to the city streets or the fortress walls to take more reference photos or sketch on the spot. Wind down with a drink at a café loved for its charm, where conversations drift between tables and the light turns golden. Sit, draw, and capture the tilt of a chair, the shape of a shadow, and the unique gestures of nature.Return to the finca as evening settles across the hills. A warm, chef-prepared dinner will be waiting. As the sky darkens, gather with your art group to share reflections, surrounded by the calm presence of the Spanish countryside.

### Day 4: Art at the Finca
Indulge in a delicious breakfast before gathering for the morning check-in over coffee, a cherished moment to exchange insights with your fellow artists.In the morning session, you’ll return to the paintings you began the day before. Matt will guide you through the next steps with demonstrations and practical insights. As you build on your sketches, you’ll see them begin to shift into finished watercolor pieces. If anything feels unclear or you reach a block, Matt will offer direct help and suggestions to keep your momentum going.After a light lunch and a warm cup of the finca’s herbal tea, you’ll head back outside for the afternoon session. This time, you’ll explore the gardens and surrounding countryside to find new viewpoints for your landscape studies. The Spanish terrain around Cabo de Gata is full of raw beauty. From dry hills and distant sea to native plants and wide skies, the land offers subjects that will challenge and inspire your watercolor practice.Take time to unwind in your own way. Walk through the fields, relax by the pool, or return to the studio if you feel like continuing your work.The day will conclude with a delightful dinner prepared by the chef, perfectly paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 5: Trip to the Cabo de Gata Natural Park
Kick off the morning with a hearty breakfast before setting out into the raw beauty of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This protected UNESCO Geopark stretches across volcanic hills and dry plains shaped by wind and time.Walk narrow paths lined with jagged rock and tough coastal plants. Pause to watch how shadows shift across the stone and how the land holds its stillness. Take photos, sketch quick studies, or take in the view with your senses open. The route will carry you to San José, a small whitewashed town by the sea, and the striking formations at the Reef of the Sirens. Matt will share his criteria for picking the perfect spot, and together, you'll set up shop. The theme of the day will be "capturing the light," and Matthew will guide everyone in working through the plein air painting process from start to finish.Stop for a nourishing lunch at a traditional Andalusian restaurant before returning to the finca for the afternoon session. Join Matt for a relaxed watercolor class where you will review the reference photos and sketches gathered earlier. Choose a few scenes that stand out, then begin developing them into finished pieces with Matt’s guidance. Work with shape, color, and light to capture the energy of the coast and the mood of the places you’ve walked.When the day winds down, return to the finca for a warm dinner prepared by the chef, served with a glass of local wine and the soft air of the Spanish evening.

### Day 6: Art at the Finca
Ease into the morning with a nourishing breakfast as the finca warms in the sun. Then wander through the grounds and follow whatever pulls your attention: a streak of shadow across a wall, cracked stone beneath your feet, or the colors shifting in the garden. Find a spot and begin a plein air study. Matt will move around the grounds, offering ideas and guidance whenever needed.Enjoy lunch outdoors with the group, then return to the studio or keep working outside.In the afternoon class, you’ll shift your focus to reference photos gathered during the trips. Matt will demonstrate how to create a value study using grayscale or a monochromatic palette. You’ll build up a series of washes from light to dark, paying close attention to contrast, depth, and the way shadow shapes space. These studies will strengthen your final paintings and give you a better sense of balance and movement.After class, take time for yourself. Rest by the pool, sit in the shade with your art, or wander farther into the landscape. Use the quiet to absorb the day and reflect on your progress.As the sun drops behind the hills, gather at the finca for a warm, chef-prepared dinner and a glass of local Spanish wine. Share your work, your stories, and the ease of evening with fellow artists around the table.

### Day 7: Art at the Finca
The final full day opens with a refreshing breakfast at the finca, the morning alive with conversation, coffee, and the excitement of finishing what you’ve started. Join Matt and the group for one last check-in and share your ideas.The morning session focuses on bringing your work to its final stage. Choose pieces that still have something to say, revisit early sketches, or polish the paintings that feel nearly complete. Matt will offer guidance as needed, helping you make strong decisions and wrap up with clarity and purpose.After a relaxed lunch, return to the studio for a celebratory group session. Share what you’ve created, listen to the stories behind the work, and offer support as others do the same. The space fills with color and connection, a gallery of moments captured in paint. This is a time to reflect, laugh, and see how far you’ve come.As the sun fades over the hills, gather for a final dinner at the finca. The chef will prepare a special meal paired with local Spanish wine. Raise a glass to the landscapes, the conversations, and the creative fire that made it all come together.

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

## Instructors

- [Matthew White](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/matthew-white) — Artist / Instructor

## Accommodation

### Spanish countryside estate
Your venue for the retreat with Matthew White is a sprawling countryside estate found in the embrace of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This beautifully restored property, a harmonious blend of traditional farmhouses and modern comforts, sits amidst an otherworldly landscape.The natural beauty of the Mediterranean 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. You needn't stray too far from the Finca to find inspiration for your art, but if you're feeling adventurous, you're free to trek through the park at your leisure.The accommodation itself is a perfect fusion of regional charm and exotic elegance, with rooms that blend Andalusian artistry and Balinese tranquility. Each room offers orthopedic mattresses, soft cotton linens, plush towels, and contemporary amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The single rooms themselves are located in clusters of farmhouses, and all feature ensuite bathrooms. Other amenities include two swimming pools, vast gardens, airy terraces, and well-appointed common spaces.Your classes with Matthew will primarily take place on the expansive grounds of the Finca, surrounded by nature’s stunning display, or in a well-lit, 4000 sq. ft. (375 sq. m.) studio. In your free time, relax by one of the two outdoor pools, including an adult pool and a heated pool, or stroll through lush gardens, mingling with fellow artists.Please note that a short walk connects accommodation areas, the studio, and the main building for meals. Furthermore, since the venue is located in the middle of a natural park, expect to encounter some insects during your stay. The Finca embraces a design philosophy that harmonizes with its stunning natural surroundings, and as such, the rooms are not equipped with window screens, as to offer unobstructed, panoramic views of the landscape. We ask that you do not leave the door or window open throughout the day or night, to avoid insects coming into your room. Do not worry, as there are no dangerous insects in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve.

### Single standard ensuite room
Thirteen single standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are spread across the retreat venue. They have private bathrooms and terraces with gorgeous views of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. You'll benefit from a comfortable double bed.

### Single superior ensuite room
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The single superior rooms are more spacious, have separate private bathrooms, and are located closer to the workshop space where art classes will take place. The rooms feature access to a private shaded terrace with tables and chairs, as well as fantastic views of the Natural Park. You'll benefit from a comfortable double bed.

## Food

Embark on a Mediterranean culinary odyssey during your retreat with Matthew White. Each meal, intricately prepared by a private chef weaves together the rich tapestry of local flavors. Savor the finest Iberian meats, or relish seafood so fresh it seems to carry the essence of the sea itself. Crisp, sun-kissed fruits and verdant vegetables, plucked from local orchards and gardens, add a burst of freshness to every dish.Iberian tradition is defined by a dance of spices: saffron's exotic fragrance, parsley's fresh, green zing, and paprika's smoky warmth. The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its healthy and vibrant recipes, serves as the cornerstone of this gastronomic journey.This retreat includes all meals, and refreshing beverages like water, coffee, and tea are readily available. You'll enjoy fragrant wine and non-alcoholic alternatives during your dinner service.

## Getting There

The art retreat takes place at a sprawling countryside estate. Tucked away in Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, this estate is only a quick 30-minute trip from stunning beaches like Genoveses and Mónsul. The park has many paths for walking, revealing amazing views of the unique volcanic landscape, famous for its appearances in movies like "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" or "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly."Cabo de Gata Natural Park is vast, covering 38,000 hectares, and remains untouched by urbanization and overcrowded tourism. It's filled with dramatic cliffs, both modern and wild beaches, hidden coves, and old fishing villages. The soil here is rich in minerals and supports many plants like palms, agave, and hemp. This attracts animals like turtles, lizards, and birds, such as owls, kestrels, and even flamingos in the summer.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 Airport 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 September 21, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on September 28, 2026, by 10:00 AM. Arrival transfer:September 21, 2026 — 3:30 PM (leaving from Almería Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)Departure transfer:September 28, 2026 — 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, 60 euros - approximately US$66 per way; please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

Reviews of the previous UpTrek retreats with Matthew White:"What a superb experience! I thoroughly enjoyed the retreat. Matthew was patient, very clear in his explanations, and very thoughtful at all times, even well not feeling well. A really high quality experience, and I feel very satisfied with the retreat.""Matt is an excellent artist and gave in-depth presentation of his skill. We learned a number of techniques to help us.""Matthew is an excellent instructor. Learned a lot.""I had a great time! Matt is a very patient and good teacher. His techniques are easy to understand. I have learnt a lot from him and noticed that my painting skills have improved quite a bit. "Reviews of the 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.""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.""The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions really added to the experience.""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."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with Matthew White is open to all levels of experience.When is the retreat available? The retreat with artist Matthew White in Almería, Spain, takes place between September 21 - 28, 2026.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 September 21, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on September 28, 2026.Is Wi-Fi available?Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.How do I get to the retreat venue?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. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.What’s the weather like in Almería, Spain in September?The weather in Almería, Spain in September is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 26°C / 79°F during the day that drop to around 15°C / 59°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 art supplies do I need for the workshop?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Matthew White will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat.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 art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic 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 art 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. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.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 artist 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/plein-air-watercolor-landscape-retreat-artist-matthew-white-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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**Last updated:** 2026-02-05