# Portrait Painting Retreat with Artist Chris Fornataro in Portugal

Join artist Chris Fornataro for an unforgettable portrait painting retreat, taking place on the sunny coast of southern Portugal. Designed for artists of all levels, this weeklong art journey will introduce you to the world of portraits, guided by Chris every step of the way.Through Chris' demonstrations, exercises, and tailored feedback, you'll form a solid foundation of portrait painting skills. You'll learn to tackle your subject in an easy-to-understand, accessible way, while creating a beautiful collection of expressive portraits.Paint using both reference photos and a live model, while diving into drawing fundamentals, values, shapes, proportions, skin tone mixing, individual features, alla prima painting, and much more.Outside the studio, explore Portuguese culture through two amazing art trips. Visit the historic town of Lagos and sail along the Algarve coast, where cliffs, grottoes, and the azure sea will breathe new life into your work. Sketch on location and gather reference photos that will shape your work throughout the week.Stay in a traditional Portuguese villa surrounded by gardens, with meals prepared on-site each day. Paint outdoors under trees and among vibrant flowers, or within the spacious, dedicated art studio. Discover your true artistic self alongside a supportive group of 16 artists!

## Details

- **Dates:** November 2 - 9, 2026
- **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Chris FornataroBeautiful Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, and glass jars Paint thinner, medium, and a live model (one full day) are provided for the workshop component 7 nights of accommodation at a stunning Portuguese QuintaExclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, Shala art studio, 2.5 acres of botanical gardens, terraces, swimming pool, and common areasAll meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chefAll diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-freeDelicious local wine served during dinner serviceSnacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the dayHalf-day boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve on a traditional Portuguese sailing boatHalf-day art trip to the Lagos historic town, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-locationWalking tour with time for shopping and a visit to the beach during the trip to Lagos Private transportation for all planned activitiesRound-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged timesExperienced retreat admin and UpTrek host available throughout the weekFully staffed venue, with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on-location All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Chris Fornataro and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Chris Fornataro will be provided five months before the retreatTips for staff — tipping is customary in PortugalOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Portrait Foundations Art Retreat
Join a transformative portrait retreat with artist Chris Fornataro, taking place on the southern coast of Portugal. Explore Chris' accessible and comprehensive method of portrait painting in oils (acrylics are also welcome). While portraiture is difficult to approach for many artists, your instructor will guide you through the entire process, step-by-step; by the end of the week, you'll be able to paint wonderful portraits, either from life or using reference photos.Across 8 days, you'll take part in daily workshops led by Chris, featuring insightful demonstrations, plenty of practice time, and one-on-one feedback from your favorite artist. You'll start with fundamental skills, such as drawing, understanding proportions, simplifying a portrait into basic shapes, or using values correctly to more in-depth techniques about individual features of the face or avoiding muddy colors. You'll mostly paint using reference photos, but you'll also try out painting from a live model throughout a whole day of classes. Painting from a live model will help you capture realistic form and movement.Chris' expressive portraiture style will help you improve your abilities, even if you're at the beginning of your portraiture journey. The course is open to all levels of experience, but it's recommended that you have some familiarity with Chris' art and his teaching approach in order to fully benefit from the retreat. You'll learn to paint loosely without getting bogged down into details, and by the end of the retreat, you'll have your very own collection of wonderful portraits.Topics covered in your classes include:Drawing fundamentals, simplifying a reference photoProportions, basic shapes, representing planesBlocking in featuresMapping out the value areas of your subjectThe interaction between shape, form, and valueIsolating and matching skin tones, using your colors efficientlyPainting loosely and expressivelyAlla prima painting, painting from a live model, and painting using reference photosTips and tricks for portraying individual features...and many more.Every aspect of the retreat is thoughtfully designed to inspire your creativity. The vibrant colors of Portugal reflect its rich cultural heritage, and you'll immerse yourself in the beauty of the Algarve region with a visit to the charming town of Lagos. Here, you'll find inspiration in the golden sands, vivid architecture, and the endless blue of the ocean. Additionally, a sailing trip on a traditional boat will take you along the stunning coastline, revealing secluded beaches, hidden caves, and striking rock formations.You'll stay at a lovely Portuguese villa, gather inspiration from its blooming Italian garden, enjoy regional, chef-made cuisine every day, and connect with a community of 16 other artists.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat with Chris Fornataro. Once you’ve reached the villa, settle into your comfortable room, and take a moment to unwind. Later in the afternoon, join Chris and the group for an orientation tour of the grounds. Wander through the beautiful gardens, visit the light-filled art studio, stroll along the shaded terraces, and take in the calm atmosphere around the pool. As the sun begins to set, gather for a relaxed dinner prepared by the chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast and a cup of coffee shared with Chris and your art group.During the very first class of the retreat, Chris will go over the schedule for the week, telling you more about what you can expect from the workshops. Take this opportunity to set some personal goals. Then, Chris will introduce you to your materials and tools, followed by a few basic drawing demonstrations.Take a break with a relaxed lunch, then return to the studio for an afternoon practice session. Keep working on your drawing skills; drawing is often the hardest part about portrait painting, but Chris will guide you through the process, step-by-step. Using a reference photo, start by identifying the most important shapes and planes, and learn how to simplify the photo. This exercise will help you develop your observational skills.Later, rest in the garden or carry on painting at your own pace. As evening falls, gather for a delicious shared dinner, and enjoy a glass of local wine.

### Day 3: Sailing trip
Begin with a hearty breakfast and a cup of coffee shared with Chris and the group. After you’ve had your fill, gear up for the first trip of the retreat: an exciting sailing adventure across the Atlantic coast.Step onto a traditional Portuguese boat from the Lagos Marina, then set sail across the rolling waves. Spend the morning exploring hidden grottoes, secret beaches, and stunning rock formations that dot the shoreline. Remember to snap a few photos of the gorgeous seascapes you’ll encounter. Experiment with the composition of your photos or sketch right on the boat if you don't mind the wobble. Enjoy the breeze in your hair and go for a dip in the ocean if the weather's favorable.After returning to the venue, pause for a delicious lunch. You'll then regroup in the studio for the next step in your portrait journey.Building on the previous day's shape and form techniques, you'll move on to integrating values into your drawing. Chris will help you break your photo into flat value shapes and guide you through representing them on your canvas. The exercise will help you understand the relationship between shape, value, and form, and how all of this interacts with light. Should you need an extra hand, Chris will be available for some one-to-one time with you.The day ends with some spare time, wrapped up with another mouthwatering dinner prepared by the private chef.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Begin the day with a refreshing breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee. After the morning check-in, head into the studio for a new class.Today you'll tackle painting from life with the help of a model. While painting from reference photos is an invaluable skill, alla prima live painting should be approached differently, and Chris will show you his method of doing so. Applying what you've learned so far, practice getting shapes and proportions correctly while minding the edges created by the light. Work at your own pace, asking your instructor for advice whenever necessary.After a relaxed lunch, the afternoon session will focus on depicting skin tones and mixing color. Chris will demonstrate how to isolate and match skin tones, how to identify different values and color zones of the face, and how to mix and match your paint appropriately.In the late afternoon, stretch out by the pool, take a walk through the garden, or continue painting on your own. As the sunlight fades, gather for a shared dinner and share creative insights with your fellow artists.

### Day 5: Art trip to Lagos
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast and refreshing coffee alongside Chris, pack a few light supplies, and embark on the second trip of the retreat.Take the short drive through the sunlit countryside and arrive in Lagos, a town full of stories held in tiled walls, fishing boats, and weathered stone. Wander at your own pace. Stop to sketch or snap photos of doorways, patterns, shadows, or scenes that catch your attention. Explore angles, light, and patterns as you discover the colorful history of Lagos. Make sure to stop by the marina for a delicious coffee, accompanied by the endless rows of swaying boats.Return to the venue for lunch, then regroup in the studio. The suite of techniques at your disposal will help you move on to the next step: quick, loose portrait sketches. Learn more about controlling the density of your paint, creating soft and hard edges, and how to work from thin to thick. The goal is to paint expressively, focusing less on individual details and features, and bringing form, shape, and value to the forefront.Later, stroll through the garden, stretch out by the pool, or chat with your fellow artists. As day turns to night, gather again for a shared dinner and a delicious glass of wine.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
Kick off the day with a delicious breakfast and coffee alongside Chris and prepare your materials for another creative day.You'll spend this whole day getting into specific details about the features of the face. Start with a workshop on the eyes. Chris will explain more about the shape of the eye, how to represent the form using values, and about how light interacts with the light. Likewise, you'll also learn more about the planes of the nose and how to block it in correctly.After a light lunch, return to the studio. This crash course on facial features ends with a workshop about the mouth; this is one of the hardest features to get right, and Chris will walk you through correctly depicting its shape. Spend the rest of the workshop practicing what you've just learned by starting a new portrait or further developing your previous ones.Later, cool down with a dip in the pool or stroll through the gardens to reflect on your progress. The day wraps up with a nourishing dinner, shared with your art group and washed down with a glass of wine.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Ease into the final full day with a satisfying breakfast and a delicious coffee, then return to the studio for a final morning session.Take this chance to add the final touches to your portraits. Chris will be available for any last-minute questions, guiding your process and giving you invaluable pointers for the next steps in your creative journey. You may also start a new portrait altogether if you're feeling ambitious, putting the invaluable new skills you've learned to good use!After a peaceful midday break, get ready for a truly special event. Gather together for a mini-exhibition and closing circle. While participation is not obligatory, this is an excellent opportunity to give and receive constructive feedback from your peers and, most importantly, celebrate how far you've come!The retreat wraps up with a special farewell dinner, carefully prepared by the chef. Share insights, laugh, and reminisce on the wonderful adventure you've experienced with your art group.

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

## Instructors

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

## Accommodation

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

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

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

### Shared superior room - garden view
One superior room with garden view is available for shared occupancy. You will share this garden view room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. This cozy room has the largest terrace on the property, looking towards the Italian garden, Zen garden, and art studio, and enjoys a gorgeous yellow glow when the rising sun shines through the South-East windows. If you prefer to sleep in, the room also has block-out electric blinds that completely cover the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. It features comfortable twin beds, a mini-fridge, and access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, equipped with a shower seat and a separate hand shower as well.

### Shared superior room - sea view
Three superior rooms with sea view are available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The rooms feature comfortable twin beds, block-out electric blinds for the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and private bathrooms with deep bathtubs and showers. The rooms also have access to private balconies or terraces with gorgeous sea views, equipped with sun beds, tables, and chairs. The rooms benefit from 180-degree sea and country views from the balconies and terraces spanning Lagos to Luz.

### Shared deluxe room - sea view (female only)
One deluxe room with sea view is available for shared occupancy. This spacious room with its private bathroom will be shared between two same-gender guests. This room features two comfortable single beds and has access to a private bathroom with two sinks, a walk-in shower, and a deep bathtub. Additionally, the room has block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep. This dramatic silver, white, and black themed room enjoys a large terrace above the ponds looking out South West towards the bay of Praia da Luz. Just open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

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

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

## Food

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

## Getting There

The art retreat with Chris Fornataro will be held in the Algarve, a stunning region located at the southernmost point of the Portuguese coast. The charming coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, with their whitewashed buildings, add to the region's enchanting allure. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, savoring exquisite cuisine, exploring historic architecture, and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.The retreat includes a visit to Lagos, a historic port town that has been a cultural crossroads for civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Just a 10-minute drive from the retreat location, Lagos boasts vibrant architecture, cozy cafés, and unique shops. You'll also enjoy a sailing trip across the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. Praia da Luz, the nearest beach, is only 4 km (2.5 miles) from the venue, while Faro Airport, the main transfer point, is about an hour's drive away.Please arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We strongly advise allowing ample time for international travel and recommend arriving in Portugal at least one day before the retreat begins to account for any potential flight delays, acclimate to the time zone, and rest after your journey.Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.Here's how to get from Faro Airport (FAO) to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour. Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on November 2, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on November 9, 2026, by 10:00 AM.Arrival Transfer: November 2, 2026 — 3:00 PM (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer: November 9, 2026 — 10:00 AM (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Faro Airport (FAO) around 11:00 AM)If the pre-set transfer times do not align with your travel plans, please consider the following alternatives:Extend your stay in Faro before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Faro Airport (FAO).Arrange for a taxi to transport you to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Bonita, Matos Morenos Quatro Estradas, 8600-115 Lagos, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately US$150 each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

Reviews from 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 venue was glorious! The grounds filled with beautiful flora. The main house, so tasteful, classy and comfortable. The staff was outstanding, such kind and helpful folks that were genuinely welcoming and happy to be there. Everyone was so accommodating. This venue was a wealth of views I am eager to paint. Our food was superb, healthy and a wide variety of choices. I have already signed up for next year! And, I stayed in the little cottage, loved it. A delightful respite during breaks, very comfortable. Thoroughly enjoyed staying there, and I booked it again. This was one of my favorites Uptrek has planned for us.""I shared a room with a stranger who quickly became a friend. We had plenty of space for our “stuff.” The gathering areas (patios and living room) were charming and comfortable. We ate outside for every meal (since the weather was so mild), and each meal was delightful and delicious. Our excursions were fun, especially the sailboat to the grottoes.""UpTrek was easy to work with and responsive to questions. The venue in Portugal, Quinta Bonita, which has a studio, was a wonderful location for an art retreat with lots of inspiration. A walking tour of Lagos with time for shopping and taking pictures for painting as well as a boat trip of the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve.""The venue was spectacular and inspired our creativity. The staff were attentive in every way. The food reflected our diverse preferences and was so delicious. From my registration for this retreat through my departure, the communication and organization reflected the highest of standards. Thanks @uptrek! This was an experience of a lifetime.""The venue and catering were stunning; I felt taken care of and like I was a guest in someone's home.""It was a fabulous retreat. The venue was spectacular and the hosts always went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. I look forward to exploring more Uptrek Retreats in the future. Thank you!""I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The venue was lovely as were the wonderful ladies (and gentleman) who looked after us. The food was especially good.""Beautiful venue, excellent teacher, wonderful participants. The food was delicious. I had such a wonderful time and would definitely recommend another Uptrek retreat to others.""I had a FABULOUS time! The retreat venue was so welcoming and such a peaceful place to spend the week."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels?The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with oil painting, as well as Chris Fornataro's work and style of teaching.When is the retreat available?The retreat with artist Chris Fornataro in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between November 2 - 9, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on November 2, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on November 9, 2026.Is Wi-Fi available?WiFi is available in all areas at no additional cost.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?Please plan to arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Portugal a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included.Refer to the Location tab for further details. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.What’s the weather like in Algarve, Portugal, at the beginning of November?The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, at the beginning of November is generally mild and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 21°C (70°F) during the day that drop to around 13°C (55°F) at night. The Algarve region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.Can I do laundry while on the retreat?Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay.What 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, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, glass jars, paint thinner, medium, and a live model are provided for the workshop component and will be available at the venue.How many people are to be expected on the retreat?There is a maximum number of 16 participants.Do I need a visa?Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Portugal for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport, in Faro, or Lagos (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros in cash.Are there any age restrictions?There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility, as the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.What language is used during the 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/portrait-painting-retreat-artist-chris-fornataro-portugal#book)** — no deposit required.

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

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**Last updated:** 2026-05-04