# Sketchbook and Soul Painting Retreat with Artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker in Portugal

There's a moment that happens on every retreat, usually around day three, when someone looks up from their sketchbook and says, "I forgot I could feel like this." That's the magic that happens on this weeklong retreat, set in the radiant Portuguese countryside.

Join Jennifer Orkin Lewis (August Wren) and Gayle Kabaker, along with their extra-special guest, yogi Chloe Ward, when they return to the stunning Portuguese countryside in 2027. They taught at this venue on their retreat starting May 28, 2026, and within a few hours everyone had already asked to come back — that's how special this place is!

Over the course of this immersive retreat, you'll build a lasting sketchbook practice, learning how to capture vivid memories and emotions on the page. With daily classes, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback from your two experienced instructors, you'll grow as an artist while getting inspired by Portuguese culture. Artists of all levels and ages are warmly welcomed!

This retreat is more than a painting workshop. It is a fully immersive experience in art, nature, and self-care. Yogi goddess Chloe Ward will lead daily morning yoga, evening meditation, and calming Yin yoga sessions. Nourishing vegetarian, pescatarian, and vegan meals will be prepared by a private chef. This retreat is designed to spark inspiration and leave you feeling refreshed in body, mind, and spirit.

Sink into the soothing resonance of handcrafted Tibetan singing bowls, accompanied by the shimmering voice of the Feng Gong and the deep, expressive tones of the Tam Tam Gong. Guided by mindful breathing, ease into a relaxed state before connecting with the Quinta's horses through presence and shared energy, with the experience naturally unfolding into a unique painting session.

In addition to time at the venue, a guided creative visit will take you to the medieval town of Tomar, where cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a centuries-old castle provide visual inspiration for your sketchbook.

Settle into a charming Portuguese countryside estate (Quinta), enjoy delicious vegan, pescatarian, and vegetarian meals prepared by a private chef, and take in beautiful views of lush gardens, orchards, and rolling hills in the soulful Ribatejo region. Connect with fellow artists, share ideas, and create a sketchbook that celebrates your creative journey and the captivating sights of Portugal.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 18 - 25, 2027
- **Location:** Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $5,200
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 19 students
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

**What's included**

1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis
2. 7 nights of accommodation at a Portuguese Quinta
3. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, pool, orchards, gardens, and stables
4. Spacious and bright indoor art studio (1300 sq. ft./120 sq. m.) equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, portable plein-air chairs, and glass jars
5. Vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef
6. Water, coffee, tea, and afternoon snacks available throughout the day
7. Delicious wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
8. Guided and self-guided yoga sessions each morning
9. A free-flowing, interactive experience, ‘Tuning into Energy with Horses’, with the Quinta’s own herd in the property’s fields
10. Art trip to Tomar, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location, including entrance to Tomar Castle and a visit to the nearby river beach Praia Fluvial do Lago Azul
11. Sound Healing session using Tibetan bowls, Feng Gong, and Tam Tam, with painting opportunities
12. Private transportation for all planned activities
13. Round-trip transfers from/to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at prearranged times
14. All local tourist taxes and fees
15. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
16. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
17. Access to a private Facebook group with Jennifer Orkin Lewis, Gayle Kabaker, and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials - a list of art materials recommended by artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker will be provided five months before the retreat
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Tomar
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Portugal
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Sketchbook and Soul Retreat
**What this week actually is:**

This isn't a "produce a portfolio" kind of retreat. It's a sketchbook retreat, which means the goal isn't a perfect painting; it's a fuller way of seeing. You'll help you build (or deepen) a real sketchbook practice: capturing the people, places, and small everyday moments around you in a way that feels like *you*, not like an exercise in getting things "right."

**Over the week you'll cover:**

- An introduction to acryla gouache
- A very special time learning about and drawing the healing horses. (Note from Gayle and Jennifer: Everyone LOVED this. There is nothing quite like hugging a horse, heart to heart.)
- Laying out a sketchbook page: several approaches, so you find the one that fits you
- Color mixing and building palettes you actually love
- Letting go of over-detailing and learning to stay loose
- Working from reference photos to create expressive, alive artwork
- Landscape and still-life painting, on location and in the studio
- Smaller group-requested sessions: learn the basics of figure drawing & faces, how to paint water, painting on a dark ground, and other ideas specific to your group requests

**While they always arrive with a plan, they fine-tune it daily according to the energy and desires of the group.** Every day includes demonstrations, tailored feedback—and a lot of encouragement to explore and let go of the need to be perfect.

Chloe Ward is back, and if you were there this year, you already know why they call her their secret weapon. Each morning, she leads gentle movement and meditation with a thought to carry into the day. Each evening, a slow, still Yin practice or meditation to settle everyone before bed. Every session is entirely optional—but almost nobody skips them, because the rhythm she sets is part of what makes the whole week feel different from ordinary travel.

**Here's what Chloe said after last year's retreat:**

> *"I truly loved joining Gayle and Jennifer's art retreat in Portugal and sharing yoga and meditation with the guests. Every morning you began with gentle movement, meditation, and a thought for the day, each session curated to promote creativity and the flow of energy for the guests. In the evenings, a slow or still practice of Yin or meditation to end the day with soothing energy for a deep, restful sleep. It all aligned beautifully with the art workshops and really ignited the creative flow for us."*

**A guest from their 2026 retreat in Portugal put it better than anyone could:**

> "*Can't begin to gush enough about the amazing week of art, yoga, friendship, and beauty. Gayle and Jennifer are phenomenal—together they lead you through the joyful experience of awakening your inner artist, and very quickly you begin to find new possibilities with color, composition, and self-expression. They are generous with their knowledge, deeply encouraging, and somehow able to meet each participant exactly where they are, whether you arrive as a beginner or with years of experience. Chloe was far more than a yoga instructor; she is a spiritual guide who brought warmth and real connection to every session. And our hosts, Gonçalo, Daniela, and the whole Quinta team, made everything feel seamless and truly special. The setting itself is pure magic—every moment feels intentional and restorative, from morning yoga to long inspiring afternoons outdoors or in the studio to shared meals that turn into laughter-filled evenings."*

Your creative haven for the week boasts terraced grounds, beautiful gardens, welcoming common spaces, and an infinity pool for the afternoon breaks if you're not painting. Delicious, mostly vegetarian, pescatarian, and vegan meals (fish and chicken are options) are prepared by a private chef. We’ll also take a day trip to Tomar, a charming, historically rich city. New scenery, new inspiration, and more pages for your sketchbook by the time you head back.

By the end of the week, you won't just have a stack of paintings. You'll have a sketchbook that tells the story of your time in Portugal and a clearer sense of your own hand, your own eye, and your own way of seeing.

**Who is this for?**

All levels. Truly. Some of their guests have been painting for decades; others are brand new. What everyone has in common is a willingness to show up and try, without judgment of the outcome. You'll be one of 16, a small enough group that you'll actually get to know everyone, and large enough that the room stays full of energy and different perspectives.

This will be their 16th weeklong retreat, and it never stops moving them—watching a room full of strangers become friends over paint water and a lot of laughter. Witnessing the incredible growth and discovery for every single person is so inspiring for them. Jennifer and Gayle wanted a week where making art didn't feel like a performance, where it felt like coming home to something.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at the venue around 4:00 PM after a transfer from Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) around 3:00 PM. Settle into your cozy room and take some time to unwind. Once you're refreshed, gather with your art group for a welcoming orientation tour. Explore the beautiful accommodations, the spacious art studio within the barn, the inviting pool, and the surrounding gardens. To kick off the retreat, enjoy a delightful dinner crafted by the in-house chef, and share a toast with local wine as you discuss the week ahead with your fellow artists.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start the day with a calming yoga session led by Chloe, then enjoy a nourishing breakfast to ease into your creative rhythm. Meet your group over coffee to go over the day’s plan with Gayle and Jennifer.

In the morning class, get to know the medium of acrylic gouache and warm up with simple exercises that will open up your sketchbook practice. Gayle and Jennifer will guide you through foundational techniques and introduce ways to draw inspiration from the Quinta’s surrounding gardens, orchards, and architecture. Fill your first pages with expressive sketches that respond to your environment.

Pause for a relaxed, plant-based lunch served on-site. Gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy fresh food made with local ingredients. After lunch, unwind at your own pace. Walk through the garden paths, sit by the pool, or connect with fellow artists in one of the Quinta’s peaceful common spaces.

In the afternoon, return to the studio and continue building your sketchbook. Follow along as Gayle and Jennifer demonstrate new approaches to layout, layering, and creative interpretation. Learn to capture anything depending on your own interests. Practice turning reference images into loose, expressive studies using intuitive mark-making and bold color choices. From 5 PM, enjoy Happy Hour wine and snacks while you further express your experiences through your art.

Close the day with a delicious shared dinner, with pescatarian options, and a glass of wine.

### Day 3: Art at the venue + Sound Healing session
Kick off a peaceful morning with a grounding yoga session led by Chloe, followed by a nourishing breakfast served on the terrace.

Settle into the light-filled studio and return to your sketchbook. Draw from recent moments, surroundings, and anything that continues to inspire. Paint and draw freely, tuning in to your environment and letting feeling and curiosity guide the page. Gayle and Jennifer will be there with guidance, encouragement, and thoughtful feedback as needed.

Enjoy a peaceful, plant-based lunch shared in community, offering time to relax and refuel. Take space for rest or reflection. Walk the garden paths, sit by the pool, or add quiet notes to your sketchbook. Let this time support integration and creativity in its quieter form.

In the afternoon, continue working at your own pace. Follow what draws your attention, whether it’s nature, objects, interiors, or memory. Deepen the connection to your surroundings through a sound healing experience with Tibetan singing bowls, Feng Gong, and Tam Tam, inspiring a sense of presence and creative flow as you paint, sketch, or collage. Gayle and Jennifer will move through the space, offering individual support and checking in on your process. This time invites expression without pressure, allowing the rhythm of the day to shape the direction of your work. Relax with a glass of wine and delicious bites from 5 PM onwards, letting your art express the day’s journey.

The evening closes with a nutritious shared meal, with pescatarian options, and a glass of wine. Gather outdoors or in the dining room to reflect, connect, and enjoy the ease that comes from a full day of art, presence, and connection.

### Day 4: Trip to Tomar
Begin with a morning yoga session led by Chloe, followed by a nourishing breakfast. Then set off for a full-day creative journey to the town of Tomar, iconic for its Manueline architectural style and for hosting the historic headquarters of the Knights Templar.

Travel through scenic countryside as the road winds past vineyards and orchards. Arrive in Tomar, a beautifully preserved medieval village with winding stone alleys, climbing flowers, and whitewashed buildings. Explore the old castle walls, photograph colorful tiles, sketch architectural details, or simply wander and absorb the rhythm of the place.

Break for lunch at a small café of your choice or find a quiet spot to relax and reflect. Let the atmosphere of the town move through you as you draw, paint, or write in your sketchbook, responding freely to the textures, colors, and energy around you.

Later in the afternoon, explore the breathtaking river beach of Praia Fluvial do Lago Azul. Enjoy its tranquility, recharge in the sun, listen to the water as it moves, and take in the expansive views. The breeze and natural textures will offer new inspiration as you keep sketching, painting, or writing, however you feel called to create in the moment. If the weather is favorable, why not take a dip in the river?

As evening arrives, return to the Quinta for a shared dinner and a glass of wine. Close the day with connection and reflection, letting the creative energy settle into your sketchbook and your spirit.

### Day 5: Art at the venue + Tuning into Energy with Horses
Ease into the day with a quiet morning yoga session led by Chloe, grounding your breath and body before stepping into creative flow. After breakfast, prepare to meet Gayle and Jennifer for the day’s first gathering in the field.

Join a small group of no more than ten and walk together into the open pastures to meet the resident herd. Take part in a guided session connecting through presence, energy, and breath. Let the horses mirror your rhythm and offer new insight into your creative process. Touch, observe, and move with awareness as you tune into the calm power of these gentle beings. Let the sounds of nature and the open space help you drop deeper into your body and your surroundings.

Gather for a nourishing lunch prepared by the chef and shared on the terrace. Let this time offer a reset and a space to connect with others and, take time to rest. Walk the paths, sit by the pool, or continue sketching in a quiet corner.

In the afternoon, return to your creative practice. Follow what calls you, be it shapes from memory, impressions from the field, or the stillness that lingers. Paint and draw in your sketchbook without aiming for perfection. Jennifer and Gayle will move through the space, offering support and encouragement as needed. Enjoy a creative wind-down from 5 PM, complete with wine, snacks, and time to deepen your artistic reflections.

Later, gather once more for dinner, with pescatarian options and a glass of wine. Reflect on the insights of the day and enjoy the company of your fellow artists beneath the evening sky.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
Wake into the rhythm of the sixth day with a morning yoga session led by Chloe, followed by a nourishing breakfast.

Spend the morning moving through the grounds with your sketchbook in hand. Let your surroundings guide your focus: colors, textures, small details, shifting light. Paint and draw what you’re drawn to, allowing the energy of the place to shape your choices. Gayle and Jennifer will be close by, offering ideas and encouragement as you deepen your process.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch outdoors, a quiet pause to give yourself time to rest. Sit quietly in a shaded corner, reflect by the pool, or return to your sketchbook in silence. Let the space hold whatever arises.

In the afternoon, keep following your instinct. Work on unfinished pages, explore something entirely new, or rework a moment that’s stayed with you. Stay with the flow of sketchbooking and painting in acrylic gouache, letting feeling lead the way. Jennifer and Gayle will support you as needed, answering questions and offering gentle guidance to help you stay connected to your creative momentum. Starting at 5 PM, sip on wine and enjoy snacks as you capture the day’s memories in your artwork.

Close out the evening with a shared meal and a glass of wine. The atmosphere will be warm and unhurried, perfect for soaking in the joy of a day spent deep in color, connection, and creative freedom.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Ease into the final morning with yoga led by Chloe, followed by a grounding breakfast served at the Quinta. Join Gayle and Jennifer in the studio for a full day of creative flow.

Let the atmosphere guide you as you return to unfinished work or begin something completely new. Draw, paint, and sketch freely in your acrylic gouache sketchbook, following what feels most alive. Revisit moments from earlier in the week or respond to something freshly observed. Gayle and Jennifer will offer support and feedback as you move through your creative rhythm.

After lunch, enjoy some spare time to rest before diving into a relaxed closing session. Use the time to reflect through your artwork, reconnect with what surprised or moved you, and gather your visual notes from the week into a final spread or piece.

Work at your own pace and allow your process to unfold naturally. As the light fades, take a moment to step back and witness what has been created. Share your favorite pages or images with the group, if you wish. Gayle and Jennifer will hold space for closing reflections and creative encouragement moving forward. At 5 PM, indulge in wine and nibbles while translating your experiences into vibrant sketches and colors.

In the evening, gather for one last shared dinner and a glass of wine. Sit together, celebrate the connections built throughout the retreat, and hold close the color, movement, and inspiration carried across the days spent in community.

### Day 8: Departure
After sharing a final breakfast with your group and exchanging contact details, prepare for your transfer to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). Check-out is scheduled for 10:00 AM, with an expected arrival at the airport around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Jennifer Orkin Lewis](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/jennifer-orkin-lewis) — Artist, Illustrator, Author, Teacher
- [Gayle Kabaker](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/gayle-kabaker) — Illustrator, Writer, Visual storyteller

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta
Your retreat venue is a gorgeous Quinta, a 150-year-old countryside estate. The family-owned farm offers a tranquil and holistic retreat experience, with everything from organic food to stunning natural beauty well accounted for. The expansive grounds feature a lush meditation garden, a refreshing pool bordered by pine trees, a pond, a spacious art studio, orchards, vegetable gardens, and an outdoor arena.

The accommodation spaces are spread across four units, whose designs combine traditional design with modern elegance. Ranging from restored farmhouses with wooden beams, reconstructed barns with a regal feel, or cozy garden villas, each space exudes charm and personality. The main villa where meals will be served features welcoming common spaces, such as a bright lounge, a cafe, and a dining room with a large fireplace.

The rooms can be shared or single, with ensuite or shared bathrooms. The meticulous attention to detail makes each room a cocoon of comfort, offering gorgeous views over the pool, gardens, or scenic countryside stretching beyond.

Your classes with Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker may take place in the well-lit, spacious art studio located in a reconverted barn, while the expansive estate grounds provide a picturesque backdrop for plein-air sessions. Surrounded by the nearby countryside, a paradisiac garden, and small woodland, there's no better place to get inspired by the beauty of nature.

### Shared standard ensuite room
One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy.

This room is designed for two same-gender participants, with high-quality single beds, generous space, and a private ensuite bathroom (shared only between the two of you). It’s ideal if you're coming solo but open to meeting someone like-minded. The bathroom is equipped with a shower, hairdryer, and a full set of towels, including pool towels and luxurious bed linen. In the room, you'll also find coffee and tea facilities. Heating and A/C are available seasonally, and Wi-Fi is provided throughout the villa, including in your room.

You’ll also have access to the villa’s common areas: the pool, outdoor terraces, lounge spaces, and the on-site café.

### Shared superior ensuite room - private veranda
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for shared occupancy.

You’ll share each room with one other same-gender participant. Located on the first floor of a converted stone barn in the garden villas, each shared superior room includes two comfortable twin beds, premium bed linen, and luxurious bath and pool towels. The room features a private ensuite bathroom, shared only between the two of you, with a shower plus toiletries and a hairdryer. You’ll also have coffee and tea facilities, a reusable water bottle, and Wi-Fi access.

Each room opens to a private outdoor veranda with seating, offering views of either the blooming courtyard or the shimmering pool. If you’re coming solo, sharing a room can be a great way to meet someone who’s here for the same reasons you are.

### Shared bathroom - single room
Four rooms with shared bathrooms are available for single occupancy.

You will share the bathroom of each room with one other retreat participant, but you will have the bedroom all to yourself. Equipped with comfortable double beds, these four single rooms feature beautiful views over the surrounding gardens.

Two rooms are located in the main villa on the second floor, while the other two are located in one of the garden villas on the first floor. The rooms in the garden villa also feature private verandas. The spacious bathrooms shared between the rooms feature a tub or a shower.

### Single standard ensuite room
One single room with an ensuite shower bathroom is available for single occupancy.

The room is located in the main villa on the second floor, featuring a comfortable double bed and cozy décor. All guests benefit from access to the common lounge in the main villa, the outdoor terrace, the adjacent veranda leading to the pool, and the Quinta's cafe.

### Single superior ensuite room - private veranda
Five superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy.

These rooms feature modern ensuite bathrooms with a tub or a shower, comfortable double beds ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. Three of the rooms are located in the garden villas on the first floor, having access to a private veranda with views towards the venue's stunning gardens or the picturesque countryside.

The other two rooms are located in a beautiful cottage, on the first floor, offering access to a cozy shared living room and fully-equipped kitchen of the cottage, as well as a private veranda with views to the meditation garden.

### Single deluxe ensuite room
One single deluxe ensuite room in main villa is available for single occupancy.

This master bedroom is located on the second floor, and features a spacious ensuite bathroom (with tub and shower), bespoke décor reminiscent of the vast blue ocean, and wide windows overlooking the gardens. The large double bed ensures a restful sleep, and the air conditioning will guarantee you remain comfortable even on the hottest of days.

All guests benefit from access to the common lounge in the main villa, the outdoor terrace, the adjacent veranda leading to the pool, and the Quinta's cafe.

## Food

During your art retreat with Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker, you'll delight in delicious vegan, pescatarian, and vegetarian meals prepared by the private chef. The fresh ingredients are either grown organically at the farm or sourced locally.

Start your morning with a nutritious breakfast buffet, featuring yogurt, muesli, seeds and nuts, fresh fruit, croissants, eggs, sweet jams, and a selection of juices, coffee, and tea. Lunches include a starter (like a variety of soups or salads) and a main course (such as black bean burgers, lasagna, pasta with sundried tomatoes, and ratatouille with sweet potato and rice).

End your evenings in style with a three-course feast, starting with a creamy vegetable soup or a fresh salad, followed by a main course like dahl curry with rice, falafel with goat cheese and figs, butternut steak with egg and spinach sauce, and many more. Top it off with a sweet treat, including chocolate mousse, tapioca pudding with mango, lemon and walnut cake, apple crumble, prune half-moon cookies, or fresh fruit.

You will have delectable pescatarian dinner options on Days 2, 3, and 5.

Your selection of drinks includes delicious wine served with dinner or coffee, tea, and water available throughout the day. If you need a quick bite, refuel with a mid-afternoon snack.

During your trips, enjoy the flavors of the region with several tasting experiences, including local wine, traditional liqueur, cheese, and sausages.

All meals are included, except one lunch, during the full-day trip to Tomar.

Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.

## Getting There

The retreat takes place in the serene Ribatejo region of Portugal, next to the quiet village of Casével. The surroundings reflect the traditional Portuguese countryside, with its swaying fields, sprawling vineyards, and cork oak forests typical of the Tagus Valley. Lisbon, the country's capital, is one hour away by car and will also serve as your pick-up/drop-off point for the transfers. During your retreat, you'll embark on several art trips, visiting the historic town of Tomar (50 minutes away from the venue) and a nearby river beach, as well as the Tomar Castle.

The region is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. The valley's vivid, ever-changing palettes of greens and browns, as well as the Tagus River itself, make for stunning scenes. Ribatejo's culture was influenced by many civilizations across the ages (the Celts, Romans, and Moors, for example), and it was favored by many Portuguese nobles throughout the medieval era. As such, the region features incredibly well-preserved medieval castles and towns.

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 18, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on September 25, 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.**

**To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS).**

We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Portugal a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.

**Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.**

**How to get from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers to and from Lisbon Airport (LIS) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour.

- **Arrival Transfer: September 18, 2027—3:00 PM** (departure from Lisbon Airport (LIS), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)
- **Departure Transfer: September 25, 2027—10:00 AM** (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Lisbon Airport (LIS) 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 Lisbon before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Lisbon Airport (LIS).
- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Carvalhas, Rua José Ferreira Fazenda, 2000-466 Casével, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately 205 EUR / 220 USD each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis:**

- **"**Gayle and Jennifer and UpTrek put together a memorable retreat! The instructors are a perfect team. The activities and demos they plan are well thoughtout and provide so much information from their many years as successful, professional artists. The participants are given the space to learn and experiment with new techniques and also have time to relax in a beautiful environment. I would sign up for another trip with Gayle and Jennifer and Uptrek again in a heartbeat. Thanks so much for a memorable experience."

- "Loved it, so amazing! Beautiful venue, great people, excellent teachers!!"

- "It was perfect and amazing and delightful. Exceeded all of my expectations!!"

- "Jennifer & Gayle created the vibe for great group interaction & support. I had a wonderful time and the pace worked for me....lessons, painting time, trip to the beach, demonstrations, exploring the gardens & socializing!"

- "Everything was exceptional. The location, hospitality, instruction, and others who participated in the retreat. I will recommend the lodgings (accommodations, staff, and food) to others, I will recommend the UpTrek organization, and I will recommend Jen and Gayle as art instructors to others. It was a magical week."

- "I thoroughly enjoyed this retreat! Jennifer and Gayle are wonderful teachers. They are down to earth and so much fun! Great for all levels. Uptrek’s organization and professionalism is outstanding. Feel confident in booking a retreat with them. The service, warmth and kindness of the staff at the venue went above & beyond our expectations. Many memories and friendships were made!"

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

- "Oh, how do I even begin...The Quinta could not be more perfect for our artsy retreat! The staff was absolutely amazing and made me feel special and valued. I feel energized, motivated and walked away with new friendships and memories I will cherish forever. Thank you!!"

- "The retreat was lovely. The food was absolutely wonderful and all of the staff treated me kindly. Every time I turned around they were asking if any of us needed help. The other ladies that joined the retreat were absolutely wonderful and I look forward to keeping in contact with my new friends."

- "So beautiful and serene. Truly a respite from the world’s cares."

- "This was a life-changing experience! The venue, setting, cleanliness, and service were outstanding—superb, five stars. Our host, Gerhard, anticipated our every need and made us feel pampered like queens."

- "The retreat was truly an amazing experience. The location was magical and Gerhard and Dani did an exceptional job taking care of everything and everyone with smiles on their faces each and every day. Our chef made vegetarian meals that were delightful and creative. UpTrek took all of the planning and details to the next level. I didn't have to think and could just enjoy each moment!"

- "Beautifully manicured property with attentive staff and excellent cuisine. The art studio is spacious and light filled with lovely views."

- "Danielle and Gerhard were amazing hosts at the Quinta. We were very spoiled by them. The flow of the whole retreat was perfect. It didn’t feel like we were cramming in things - we truly had a chance to relax and do what we came to do - paint."

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Is this art retreat available to all levels?**

The art retreat with artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker is open to all experience levels.

**When is the art retreat available?**

The art retreat with artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis in Ribatejo, Portugal, takes place between September 18 - 25, 2027.

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

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 18, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on September 25, 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. Wi-Fi is available in all areas at no additional cost.

**I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art 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. The venue mainly serves vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

**How do I get to the retreat venue?**

Please plan to arrive at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). 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 Lisbon Airport (LIS) at pre-arranged times are included.

Refer to the [Location](https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketchbook-and-soul-painting-retreat-artists-jennifer-orkin-lewis-gayle-kabaker-portugal#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 Ribatejo, Portugal, in September?**

The weather in *Casével*, Ribatejo, Portugal, in September, is generally sunny and warm. You can expect average highs of 24°C (75°F) during the day that drop to around 16°C (61°F) at night. The climate of the Ribatejo area is generally mild, without excesses, with plenty of sunshine, 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 cardigan 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 upon request, for an additional fee.

**What art supplies do I need for the workshop?**

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat.

Tables, chairs, paper towels, portable plein-air chairs, and glass jars are included and will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.**

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

There is a maximum number of 19 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 Lisbon. You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue accepts payments with both cash and card.

**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 art 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 art workshop and other activities?**

The art 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](https://uptrek.com/cms1200bc/v2.0.0/retreat-experience/CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide **the reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.

We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.

**Do I have to pay a deposit?**

No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.

**Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?**

UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed and your payment method is charged, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

**Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the 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/sketchbook-and-soul-painting-retreat-artists-jennifer-orkin-lewis-gayle-kabaker-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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**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketchbook-and-soul-painting-retreat-artists-jennifer-orkin-lewis-gayle-kabaker-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-09-22