# Sketchbook Journaling Retreat with Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in Portugal

Join a whimsical sketchbook art retreat at a traditional Portuguese estate, set among the orchards and quiet countryside of Ribatejo, led by renowned illustrators Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle. This week-long retreat invites artists of all levels to explore travel journaling and grow and foster a sketchbook habit. Chronicle your artistic journey in sketchbooks inspired by Portugal's stunning landscapes and fairytale towns.

Mike and Katrin will teach you all there is to maintaining a solid daily sketchbook habit. Experiment with a myriad of fun techniques and exercises for your travel journal. You'll also cover topics relating to the illustration industry, such as self-promotion, working with clients, finding your style, and many more.

Beyond your classes at the venue, embark on two immersive art trips: a full day in Óbidos, one of Portugal's most enchanting medieval walled towns, and a half-day at Almourol Castle on the Tagus River, framed by wild olives and river reeds. The Almourol trip also includes a regional liqueur tasting on the riverbank of Tagus, paired with local cheese, bread, and traditional sausages.

Your creative haven is a 150-year-old traditional Quinta, with a dedicated art studio, swimming pool, and tranquil gardens. Savor chef-prepared meals made from local ingredients, unwind by the pool, and enjoy the company of 16 other like-minded artists.

## Details

- **Dates:** June 19 - 26, 2027
- **Location:** Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,950
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** guaranteed
- **Group Size:** Max. 18 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 Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle
2. 7 nights of accommodation at a Portuguese Quinta
3. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, 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. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by the private chef
6. Mainly vegan and vegetarian dishes, with all diets catered for, including regular, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Water, coffee, tea, and afternoon snacks available throughout the day
8. Delicious wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
9. Full-day art trip to Óbidos, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
10. Entrance ticket to Óbidos Castle and a visit to a nearby beach
11. Half-day art trip to Almourol Castle and the river beach, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
12. Liqueur tasting experience with cheese, bread, and traditional sausages during the Almourol trip
13. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities
14. Round-trip transfers from/to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at prearranged times
15. All local tourist taxes and fees
16. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
17. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
18. Access to a private Facebook group with Mike Lowery, Katrin Wiehle, and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Óbidos
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Portugal
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Sketchbook Journaling Retreat
Join illustrators Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery for a fun and relaxing sketchbooking retreat in the sun-drenched Portuguese countryside. Draw with a group of other creatives while Mike and Katrin give expert tips and lessons on keeping a daily sketchbook.

Drawing and journaling every day is the best way for artists to find their voice, keep track of their day, and come up with ideas for projects. This retreat will be focused on how to use your sketchbook as a travel diary, a place to experiment with new techniques and materials, and declutter your brain with creative daily exercises.

Our days will be filled with drawing sessions, great food, and exploration of the Portuguese landscape. This retreat is suitable for all students at all skill levels, from those just starting out to working artists. It’ll be a chance to draw, relax, delight in chef-made food, explore the beautiful surroundings, and socialize with a supportive community of artists!

In addition to the hands-on lessons and demos, Mike and Katrin will explain the ins and outs of a range of topics about art and illustration. Having both worked on dozens of books for kids and adults, as well as other freelance projects, they’ll cover self-promotion for artists, working with clients, dealing with artist’s block, finding your style, working on children’s books, and insightful tips for keeping a daily practice.

Beyond the studio, two day trips take you into the landscape of central Portugal: a full day in the medieval walled town of Óbidos, with its castle, cobbled streets, and walls draped in bougainvillea and climbing vines, and a half-day at Almourol Castle, rising dramatically from an islet in the Tagus River, surrounded by wild olives, sculptural cacti, and river reeds.

**Some of the sketchbook lessons will include:**

- Pen and ink
- Simple hand lettering for sketchbooks
- Finding inspiration
- How to keep a travel diary
- How to keep notes about your travels
- Exercises to deal with creative block

**Some of the additional discussions will include:**

- Self-promotion for artists
- Instagram for artists
- Finding your style
- Working on children’s books
- And LOTS more!

Your home for the week is a traditional Portuguese Quinta, a 150-year-old countryside estate set in the quiet village of Casével, with lush gardens, a swimming pool, orchards, stables, and a beautifully converted art studio. Delight in chef prepared meals every day, crafted with fresh local ingredients and paired with a glass of wine. Discover the flavors of the region with a bespoke experience: a liqueur tasting event (paired with cheese, traditional sausages, and fresh bread) on the banks of the Tagus River during the trip to Almourol.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at the venue around 4:00 PM after a transfer from Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at 3:00 PM. Settle into your cozy room and take some time to unwind. Once you're refreshed, meet artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle and gather with your fellow artists 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 prepared 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 classes at the venue
Start your day with a tasty breakfast, then join Mike and Katrin for a quick coffee check-in. You'll find out more about the plans for the day.

Head for the studio for your first class of the retreat and get into the creative flow with a relaxed sketching session. Mike and Katrin will share why keeping a daily sketchbook is such a valuable habit, along with simple, inspiring tips to make the most of it. They'll introduce ways to visually capture moments and encourage playful experimentation with different materials.

Take a break to refuel during lunch, then continue your classes in the afternoon. Take an observational walk around the venue for fresh inspiration. Mike and Katrin will demonstrate their go-to techniques using pen, ink, and watercolor. Then, it’s time to dive into a fun creative exercise, using the surrounding landscape as a muse.

As the class comes to an end, enjoy some leisure time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with your fellow artists for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of fragrant, Portuguese wine.

### Day 3: Art trip to Óbidos
After a nourishing breakfast, set off for a day of adventure and exploration with a short drive through the rolling Ribatejo countryside to Óbidos, one of Portugal’s finest medieval towns.

Spend the morning visiting the striking 12th-century Óbidos Castle and its grounds, where sweeping views over the town and landscape await. Mike and Katrin will guide you through noticing your surroundings, helping you to find beauty all around you and weave it into your sketchbook pages in unexpected ways.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch on your own at one of the town's charming cafés before spending the afternoon exploring Óbidos' historic center, where narrow stone streets are adorned with vibrant cascades of bougainvillea, climbing ivy, and terracotta pots against whitewashed walls. From there, a short drive brings you to a nearby beach where wide-open skies, rolling Atlantic waves, and the ever-changing textures of sand and shore create a breathtaking seascape. Keep your sketchbook and camera close, continuing to notice and record quick impressions of the beautiful details around you.

In the evening, return to the venue and take some time to relax before dinner. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and share your impressions of the day over a glass of aromatic wine in the lovely company of your fellow artists.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
After enjoying a hearty breakfast and a relaxed morning check-in with Katrin, Mike, and fellow artists, start the day with another creative session in the studio.

Spend the morning refining your sketches of Óbidos. This session is all about turning your reference photos into fun, quirky artworks. Mike and Katrin will show you new sketching techniques to help you capture the magic of the scenes and lively cityscapes. Take your time and feel free to ask for help whenever you need it.

After a nourishing lunch, jump back into the afternoon class. Katrin and Mike will share creative ways to overcome artist’s block and use your sketchbook as a wellspring of fresh ideas. They’ll also offer helpful tips on pitching book ideas and give you a peek into the world of children’s books and the broader illustration market.

Take some time to recharge in the late afternoon, then enjoy a hearty three-course dinner paired with a glass of local wine. Share reflections of the day and soak in the lively atmosphere of stories and laughter.

### Day 5: Art trip to Almourol Castle
Savor a filling breakfast, then set off for another adventure: a half-day trip to Almourol Castle.

Rising from a small rocky islet in the middle of the Tagus River, the castle is surrounded by wild olive trees, sculptural cacti, agave plants, and river reeds. The landscape here is truly striking, the kind of place where the plants themselves feel like subjects worth stopping for. This 12th-century landmark is rich in myths and the romantic spirit of the Templar Knights. Wander through the castle grounds, taking in the dramatic towers, shifting light, and reflections on the water.

Wander down to the river beach where the shallows run clear and bright, gathering the beautiful details of your surroundings on your sketchbook pages. The trip ends with a delightful tasting experience of regional liqueur, paired with local cheese, bread, and traditional sausages, before making your way back to the venue for lunch.

Back at the venue, enjoy a leisurely lunch, then dive into the afternoon art session. With Katrin and Mike by your side, you’ll go through the materials you gathered during the trip, picking out your favorite moments to add to your sketchbook or expand on. They’ll guide you step-by-step to help turn the day’s experiences into meaningful artwork.

As the evening draws in, take some time to relax before dinner. Indulge in a chef-prepared three-course dinner, accompanied by a glass of fragrant, Portuguese wine.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Start the following day with a hearty breakfast. Follow it up with the usual check-in over coffee, where you and your fellow artists will review the day’s plans.

Guided by Mike and Katrin, you’ll explore the venue seeking inspiration for your sketches, or developing your previous works. Craft compositions that are both compelling and personal. They will help you explore integrating ink and pen for added structure and contrast. These combined methods will help you create pieces that reflect the vibrant culture of Portugal and your own artistic vision.

After a leisurely lunch, dive back into the afternoon session, reserved for further personal practice. If you need some extra guidance, Mike and Katrin will be on hand to demonstrate a more difficult technique, give you some pointers, or evaluate your work so far and suggest new directions.

Later in the afternoon, join your group for a relaxed three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of local wine. Unwind together with your fellow artists and share impressions of the day.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Join your art group for a final hearty breakfast before preparing for your last art session with your instructors.

Spend the morning adding the final touches to your sketchbook journal. This is your chance to apply all the insightful techniques you've practiced throughout the retreat. Mike and Katrin will be available for questions, personalized feedback, and specific pointers.

Following lunch, gather for a special mini-exhibition event—optional but warmly encouraged. Offer and receive constructive feedback, celebrating your amazing growth. If you have any lingering questions, take full advantage of a Q&A session with Mike and Katrin, exploring topics like keeping a sketchbook, perfecting your technique, or anything related to illustration.

As the day comes to an end, take some time to recharge before dinner. Gather with your fellow artists for one last delicious farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Raise a glass of wine and toast to the beautiful memories and creative discoveries you have made throughout the week.

### Day 8: Departure
After sharing a final breakfast with Mike, Katrin, and your fellow artists, exchange any last contact details, and 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

- [Mike Lowery](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/mike-lowery) — Author and Children’s Book Illustrator
- [Katrin Wiehle](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/katrin-wiehle) — Author and Illustrator

## 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 interiors combine traditional design with modern elegance. Ranging from restored farmhouses with wooden beams to 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 Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle will take place in the well-lit, spacious art studio located in a reconverted barn. The expansive gardens of the estate provide endless inspiration for your botanical studies. Surrounded by the nearby countryside, peaceful gardens, and small woodland, you'll have endless subjects to choose from.

### Shared standard ensuite room (female only)
You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Found on the second floor of the main villa, the shared standard ensuite room comes with two comfortable single beds, bespoke design, and quality fabrics and bedding. The room benefits from access to an ensuite bathroom with a tub and overhead shower, shared between the two occupants of the room.

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.

### Shared superior ensuite room - private veranda
Four superior rooms are available for shared occupancy. You will share each room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender participant. The four shared superior rooms are located in one of the garden villas.

The rooms include comfortable twin beds, premium linen and towels, and coffee and tea facilities. Each room has an ensuite bathroom with a shower or tub and access to a private veranda with outdoor seating. The rooms have views of the blooming courtyard or the shimmering pool.

### Shared bathroom - single room (female only)
You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room 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 each two rooms feature a tub or a shower.

### Single standard ensuite room
One 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
Two superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Each room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable double bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The rooms are located within the garden villas, on the 1st floor. Each room also benefits from access to a private veranda, with views towards the gardens or the countryside beyond.

### Single deluxe ensuite room
One 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 Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle, you'll delight in delicious meals prepared by the private chef. The dishes are mainly vegan or vegetarian, crafted with fresh ingredients, 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. Dinners are a three-course feast (starter, main course, and dessert).

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

During your trip to Almourol, discover the flavors of the region with a traditional liqueur tasting experience, paired with fresh bread, cheese, and sausages.

All meals are included, except one lunch during the full-day trip to Óbidos. The exact menu will depend on the availability of seasonal ingredients.

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 Óbidos (one hour away from the venue) and a nearby beach, as well as the Almourol Castle (30 minutes away).

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 June 19, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 26, 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: June 19, 2027—3:00 PM** (departure from Lisbon Airport (LIS), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)
- **Departure Transfer: June 26, 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 of previous UpTrek retreats with Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle:**

- "What an absolutely wonderful experience! Mike & Katrin were excellent teachers and so generous with their time and knowledge. The retreat venue was beautiful, clean, and the hospitality just marvelous. Made so many memories and new friends— I hope to go again!"

- "Something I appreciate about how Mike and Katrin lead these retreats is that the art we make is directly connected to the places and experiences we have. I love art as a way of processing the world around me and the cultures I encounter, and I love that Mike and Katrin approach their sketchbooking this way too."

- "A dream come true. Mike and Katrin are beautiful humans. I’m so glad they were part of everything we did (meals, excursions, etc.) and not just classroom instructors. I learned a lot! Mike even went out of his way to give a handful of us some extra tips and tricks in Procreate. I loved every minute of this experience. Every single participant became a friend. What a special group of people. What a special trip. You have my heart."

- "I had an amazing time!! Near the end I think we were all very tired 😂 — but all in all one of the most memorable trips I’ve had. Mike and Katrin are fantastic instructors with such a great sense of humour."

- "This was the most amazing trip, and it far exceeded all expectations I had. I would not change a single thing."

- "The retreat was a wonderful experience! I'd definitely do it again. Being able to venture out to towns and practice what we came to do which was creating a traveling sketchbook has me amped to travel more and be mindful of my practice. Thank you to everyone involved for such an amazing experience and opportunity!"

- "Everything was great! Very satisfied. Beyond expectations. Mike and Katrin were ever so willing to share their knowledge with us and always so positive and affirming while giving helpful feedback. This retreat has given me the impetus to keep making art everyday and an important part of my life. I got to try new things and made a lot of lovely new friends. I would definitely participate in another retreat with Mike and Katrin. Can’t wait!!!"

- "Thank you so much! I enjoyed every bit of it. Loved making new friends with the same interests (drawing). I would definitely do this again. It was inspiring and very informative. Mike and Katrin let us play and have fun with every assignment which allowed us to approach thing’s creatively. I really enjoyed the freedom to express without any restriction."

**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 retreat available to all levels?**

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in Ribatejo, Portugal, takes place between June 19 - 26, 2027.

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

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 19, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 26, 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 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-journaling-retreat-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-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 June?**

The weather in Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal, in June, is generally pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 26°C (79°F) during the day that drop to around 14°C (57°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 not available at the retreat venue.

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

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

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 retreat?**

There is a maximum number of 18 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 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 workshop and other activities?**

The retreat is available in English.

**What happens if I need to cancel?**

Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy)

**Do I need travel insurance?**

Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.

For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip)

Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide **the reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.

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

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

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

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

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

**Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?**

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketchbook-journaling-retreat-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-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-journaling-retreat-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-08-19