# Sketching the Essence of Morocco – An Ink and Watercolour Retreat with Artist Eunice Friend in Morocco Join artist Eunice Friend for a sun-drenched week in Morocco, where watercolor and ink meet argan forests, ochre kasbahs, saffron-spiced tagines, and the rust-red foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Over the course of this creative retreat, you'll learn to sketch quickly on location, then develop those sketches into more complete paintings back in the studio. Whether you're filling your first sketchbook or pushing an existing painting practice further, you'll head home with a sketchbook brimming with Morocco and several finished watercolor and ink pieces, along with a toolkit of new techniques to carry into everything you create next. Your retreat unfolds at an enchanting traditional eco-lodge at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, surrounded by argan forests, verdant valleys, and genuine Berber hospitality. Between classes, unwind with a complimentary hammam treatment while panoramic mountain views stretch out from every terrace. The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Beyond the studio, Morocco itself will become your canvas. Head into Agadir's bustling Medina on a half-day trip to Souk El Had, one of the country's most vibrant markets, before a scenic cable car carries you above the coast to the legendary Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress. Travel to the imperial city of Taroudant on a full-day trip for guided sketching among ancient ramparts and sun-dappled souks. Another full-day trip will take you into Morocco's wildlife, to the stunning Souss-Massa National Park, a natural reserve home to over 230 bird species and a sanctuary for the bald ibis, a rare and endangered bird species. Every evening, gather for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine, while special cultural moments throughout the week, from a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony to an argan oil demonstration with local Berber women, will weave the spirit of Morocco into every part of your experience. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in a traditional pottery or cooking class at the venue, immersing yourself further in the local culture of Morocco. ## Details - **Dates:** October 19 - 26, 2027 - **Location:** Agadir, Morocco - **Starting Price:** $4,200 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 16 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 artist Eunice Friend 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, wooden French easels, plein-air chairs, aluminum field easels, and a printer/scanner 3. 7 nights of accommodation at a traditional eco-lodge 4. Exclusive use of the entire property including living quarters, all common areas, workshop spaces, swimming pool, SPA, terraces, and gardens 5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 7. Delicious wine and non-alcoholic beverages during dinner service every day 8. Delightful welcome and farewell dinners 9. Homemade snacks, complimentary bottled water, coffee, organic herbal tea, and fresh juices available throughout the day 10. Half-day trip to Souk El Had of Agadir 11. Scenic cable car panorama tour of the coast during the trip to Souk El Had 12. Visit to the Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress during the trip to Souk El Had 13. Full-day art trip to the imperial city of Taroudant, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location 14. Full-day wildlife viewing trip to the Souss-Massa National Park, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location 15. Live Berber folk band for the farewell dinner 16. Argan oil demonstration led by local Berber women 17. Traditional Moroccan Tea Ceremony 18. Complimentary relaxing Moroccan steam bath 'hammam' 19. A traditional pottery or cooking class at the venue (your choice) 20. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities 21. English-speaking guides and chaperones for all planned trips and activities 22. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) at prearranged times 23. All local tourist taxes and fees 24. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 25. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 26. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Eunice Friend and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Eunice Friend five months before the retreat takes place - Tips — tipping is customary in Morocco - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Sketching the Essence of Morocco Settle into a week of watercolor and ink painting on a creative retreat with artist Eunice Friend, set at a traditional eco-lodge in the foothills of Morocco's Atlas Mountains. This retreat is all about capturing the character and atmosphere of Morocco using watercolor and ink. Under Eunice's gentle guidance, you will learn how to sketch quickly on location, then develop those sketches into more complete paintings back in the studio. The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Each day begins with morning exercises at the venue designed to build confidence and key skills before heading out to paint, covering techniques such as simple perspective for buildings, combining ink line with loose watercolor washes, color mixing for sunlit scenes, and ways to simplify busy streets and architectural details. Many of these sessions lead into en plein air painting at the venue and in the heart of Agadir, each kicking off with a short demonstration on how to approach the scene, simplify the shapes, and plan the composition. You'll create quick ink and watercolor sketches on location, capturing the energy and light of the place, then bringing them back to the studio to develop into more finished pieces. By the end of the week, you'll have built a small collection of Moroccan sketches and paintings, documenting markets, architecture, landscapes, and everyday scenes, along with practical skills to carry into your own travels and painting. Expect plenty of feedback and playful creative challenges led by Eunice herself, all within a supportive circle of fellow artists. Beyond the venue, a full-day trip to Taroudant, often called "the grandmother of Marrakesh," will take you through ancient gates and into a Medina where tall city walls and detailed archways frame a world of artisan workshops and bustling spice stalls. With your sketchbook in hand, capture the warm-toned walls and striking architecture that make this imperial city an illustrator's dream. Explore the legendary Souk El Had, one of the largest traditional markets in all of North Africa, spanning over 30 acres of stalls packed with spices, handwoven textiles, leather goods, and colorful ceramics, followed by a scenic cable car ride above the coast to the legendary Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress. Another full-day trip will take you into Morocco's wildlife, to the stunning Souss-Massa National Park, a natural reserve home to over 230 bird species and a sanctuary for the bald ibis, a rare and endangered bird species. **The topics covered during your classes with Eunice include:** - Sketching buildings and streets using simple perspective - Combining ink lines with loose watercolor washes - Simplifying complex scenes for painting - Capturing light and shadow in sunny climates - Painting and sketching en plein air - Developing location sketches into finished paintings in the studio - Gaining confidence in your on-location sketching skills - …and many more! Your venue for the retreat is a traditional fortress turned eco-lodge, nestled among verdant valleys and traditional Berber villages set against a stunning Atlantic coastline. Surrounded by a UNESCO-protected argan forest, with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains from every terrace, you will find no shortage of inspiration in its surroundings. Classes will take place in a spacious air-conditioned indoor studio with views of the argan forest, or in breezy outdoor spaces including the swimming pool terrace and rooftop terrace. You'll also experience the full extent of local hospitality through special cultural moments woven into the week. On your very first evening, you'll take part in a Moroccan tea ceremony, a traditional way for the venue hosts to welcome you at the venue. Later in the week, witness an argan oil demonstration with local Berber women, rejuvenate with a complimentary hammam bath, and close out your final evening with a live Berber folk band concert at your farewell dinner. You will also have the opportunity to take part in a traditional pottery or cooking class at the venue, immersing yourself further in the local culture of Morocco. ### Day 1: Arrival & tea ceremony Land at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and hop on the 1:00 PM transfer to the venue, winding through the Moroccan countryside as the Atlas Mountains come into view. Once there, unpack and unwind in your room before exploring the grounds. Wander the airy terraces, lush gardens dotted with argan and olive trees, the sparkling salt-water pool, and the inviting common spaces that will become your creative home for the week. Meet your fellow artists and your instructor, artist and illustrator Eunice Friend. Settle into the warm atmosphere of the eco-lodge as you explore the grounds together. As the afternoon unfolds, gather for one of the retreat's most cherished cultural moments right from the start, a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony with the venue hosts. This beloved ritual sits at the very heart of Moroccan hospitality. Take your time savoring every sip of the fragrant, high-quality mint tea, engaging all your senses as your hosts guide you through the ceremony's graceful preparation and pouring traditions. If inspired, make some quick sketches of this beautiful moment, kickstarting your creative journey on the retreat with a brief, informal sketching session. As dusk settles over the Atlas foothills, gather for a delectable three-course welcome dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine. ### Day 2: Classes at the venue Fuel up with a satisfying breakfast and head to the studio for the very first class of the retreat. The morning kicks off with some introductions, as Eunice will walk you through the materials and topics that you will cover throughout the week. This class will be dedicated to building confidence and key skills before heading out to paint on the exciting trips that await you the following days. Eunice will teach you wet-in-wet and glazing techniques, then move on to color mixing with a limited color palette. Explore with pigments, layers, and color notes. Towards the end of the class, Eunice will guide you through some quick thumbnail studies, helping you train your eye for composition, value, and the bigger shapes within a scene before committing to a full painting. Over a wholesome lunch, exchange ideas and first impressions with your fellow artists before heading back to the studio. This afternoon will be all about preparing for tomorrow's adventure: the trip to Souk El Had. Eunice will do a demo on how to prepare for on-location painting and sketching, preparing you for what you're going to see and how to capture it on your pages. You will practice specific techniques, do simple people sketches, and convey market life and atmosphere. Then, engage in a fun and playful group activity in which you will do 10-minute sketches, practicing the techniques and skills you have just learned. As the class comes to an end, enjoy some spare time to recharge before dinner. Round off the day over a sumptuous three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, every bite complemented by a glass of wine and the warmth of Euncie and your fellow artists finding your creative rhythm together. ### Day 3: Trip to Souk El Had in Agadir Enjoy a delicious breakfast and settle into a relaxed coffee check-in as you map out plans for an unforgettable half-day trip into the heart of Agadir. You'll head straight to the buzzing Souk El Had, one of the largest traditional markets in all of North Africa, where over 30 acres of stalls overflow with spices, handwoven textiles, leather goods, colorful ceramics, and fragrant herbs. With a chaperone at your side, weave through the market's winding corridors, surrounded by the kind of color and texture that fills a sketchbook in minutes. Photograph and sketch anything that catches your eye, from intricate tilework and hand-dyed fabrics to mountains of saffron and cumin. Eunice will do a short demo on how to approach the scene, simplify shapes, and plan the composition. Practice plein air painting and create quick ink and watercolor sketches inspired by the bustling Souk El Had market. From the market, a scenic cable car carries you above the rooftops for a sweeping panorama of the Agadir coastline, delivering you to the hilltop Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress, perched dramatically over the Atlantic with extraordinary views stretching to the horizon. Make quick sketches if you feel inspired, or take reference photos of the sweeping views over Agadir. Head back to the venue for a relaxing lunch, then join Eunice and your fellow artists for another afternoon session. During this class you will develop the sketches from the morning's trip into bigger, finalized pieces. Then, step out into the venue's expansive gardens and enjoy a plein air painting session, drawing inspiration from the surrounding views of the Kasbah. Take the late afternoon to rest and unwind before dinner. Enjoy a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine, swapping favorite market finds and souk stories with your fellow artists as the Moroccan evening settles around you. ### Day 4: Classes at the venue & argan oil demonstration Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, then settle in over coffee with Eunice to talk through the day's creative plans. Head to the studio and dive into a morning class focused on building confidence and strengthening key skills. Take part in a freehand watercolor group exercise in which you will paint directly with the brush and no pencil guidelines, learning to identify the essential shapes and values of a subject without becoming distracted by unnecessary detail. Then, Eunice will guide through another group activity: an ink-first practice exercise. Begin with simple ink lines to establish the key shapes and structure of the scene, then add watercolor washes to develop confidence in observation while avoiding overworking the details. Refuel over a filling lunch, swapping ideas with your fellow artists before heading back to the studio. The afternoon opens with a demo on preparing for tomorrow's exciting trip to Taroudant. Eunice will walk you through specific techniques, simple perspective principles without the use of rulers, and breaking buildings into simple shapes such as doors, windows, and arches. Then, move on to some ink-confidence exercises, strengthening your skills. Work with loose watercolor washes and color mixing for sunlit walls. As the class comes to an end, enjoy some spare time to relax. Before dinner, take part in an argan oil demonstration led by local Berber women. Sketch if you feel inspired or simply take in the atmosphere and cultural immersion of the moment. In the evening, gather for a sumptuous three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine. ### Day 5: Trip to Taroudant Grab a tasty breakfast and settle into a relaxed coffee check-in as you prepare for the adventure ahead. Hop on the transfer for a full-day trip to the imperial city of Taroudant, often called "the grandmother of Marrakesh" for its ancient ramparts and timeless atmosphere. Enter through massive gates in the city's six-mile ring of red-ochre walls and plunge into the Medina, where tall archways and sun-dappled alleyways frame a world of artisan workshops and bustling commerce. Wander through stalls packed with pyramids of ground spices, handwoven fabrics in every color, and fragrant herbs, drawing ideas from the sensory feast around you. Eunice will do a short demo on how to approach the scene, simplify the shapes, and plan the composition. Practice your plein air painting skills and create quick ink and watercolor sketches on location, capturing the vibrancy and urban scenes of Taroudant. Enjoy a nourishing packed picnic lunch from the venue, then continue the afternoon exploring the city of Taroudant. Find a quiet corner to sketch the weathered red-ochre ramparts as the light shifts, or post up near a sleepy square to capture the silhouettes of palm trees against pisé walls, creating quick ink and watercolor sketches of the city life and architecture. Return to the venue in the late afternoon and take some time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with Eunice and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine, perfect for swapping stories from the day's explorations. ### Day 6: Trip to Souss-Massa Reserve Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and a coffee check-in with Eunice and your fellow artists, then pack your sketchbook and art supplies and head out to the last adventure of the retreat: a full-day trip to the Souss-Massa National Park. Spend the morning exploring this gorgeous natural reserve in a 4x4 car, being on the lookout for wildlife subjects such as flamingos, desert warblers, and spoonbills. The National Park presents a mesmerizing tapestry of natural wonders. Here, the coastline gracefully dances alongside dunes, estuaries, wetlands, and lagoons, culminating in the pristine beaches that define Souss-Massa. Notably, the Massa beach, stretching an impressive 15km, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. This national park is a sanctuary for over 230 bird species, serving as both a resting point for migratory birds and a winter refuge. Its highlight remains the presence of around 400 bald ibis, a rare and endangered species. Other species that thrive here are Eleonora's Falcon, Tawny Eagles, Dark Chanting Goshawks, ospreys, marbled teals, Audouin's gulls, and various migratory birds. Keep your sketchbook in hand as you travel through the park, making quick ink and watercolor sketches of the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. As with any wildlife viewing trip, a lot of patience and sharp observation are required. If you're lucky, sketch any majestic bird that appears before you or take reference photos to use later back in the studio. Take a break for lunch and enjoy a packed picnic meal from the venue, then continue venturing into the Souss-Massa National Park. Under Eunice's gentle guidance, sketch whatever piques your interest, capturing the wildlife and wilderness of this stunning natural reserve. As the afternoon unfolds, return to the venue and take some time to recharge before dinner. Join Eunice and your fellow creatives for a wholesome three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fine wine, sharing stories and impressions from today's exciting trip. ### Day 7: Classes at the venue Begin your final day on the retreat with a satisfying breakfast and a coffee check-in with Eunice and your fellow artists, reflecting on your creative journey so far. The morning session will be dedicated to developing and refining your works, adding any last details and final touch-ups, or starting something new if you feel inspired. Eunice will be there to guide you and offer individual support if needed. After a tasty lunch, gather for the most rewarding session of the week: a celebratory mini-exhibition showcasing all your works from throughout the week. Share the ideas and inspiration behind your pieces, receive warm feedback from your fellow creatives, and celebrate together how far you've come over the course of this unforgettable week. As the sun sets over the Atlas Mountains, gather one final time for a special farewell dinner prepared by the private chef. Raise your glass to a week of creative discoveries and new friendships, all while a live Berber folk band fills the evening with music, drums, and celebration. It's the perfect send-off for a week you won't soon forget. Immortalize the moment with one last sketch of the mesmerizing performers, if you feel inspired. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy a warm final breakfast together and exchange contacts with Eunice and your fellow artists before soaking in the last views of the mountains and gardens. Catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), arriving at the airport at around 1:00 PM. ## Instructors - [Eunice Friend](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/eunice-friend) — Multidisciplinary artist and art educator ## Accommodation ### Traditional Eco-Lodge Set against breathtaking landscapes, your venue, a traditional fortress, effortlessly marries authentic Berber elegance with modern comfort. Crafted in harmony with the local Berber community, this eco-lodge is a beacon of sustainable excellence. Nestled among flourishing argan, olive, and fruit trees, each room showcases panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and Tighanimine Elbaz village below. Rejuvenate with features like a salt-water pool, a holistic SPA with a complimentary hammam treatment, and expansive terraces with awe-inspiring vistas. Seek inspiration as you wander gardens dotted with argan trees and palms. Your classes will take place in a spacious 1,180 ft² indoor studio or in breezy outdoor spaces, including the scenic rooftop terrace. Please note that navigating the venue will involve climbing lots of stairs; the venue is not suited to participants with limited mobility. The venue stands as a testament to eco-conscious hospitality, harmonizing comfort with genuine Berber heritage in a lush, sustainable setting. From its eco-friendly construction by expert local craftsmen, specialists in rammed earth, tadelakt, stone, and wood, to the conservation-oriented philosophy of the eco-lodge, everything has been thought through to promote Moroccan values of humanity, traditions, and heritage. ### Shared standard ensuite room You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The shared standard ensuite room will be fitted with twin beds and feature ensuite shower bathrooms. It has a panoramic view of the argan grove and a palm grove below. The room is decorated in a traditional Berber style, with woven rugs and earthy, warm colors. ### Shared superior ensuite room You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The three shared superior rooms will be fitted with twin beds and feature ensuite bathrooms with a shower. They are decorated in a charming Moroccan style, using eco-friendly materials that give the space an authentic oriental feel. Located in the towers on the third floor, the rooms measure about 35 m² (or 377 sq. ft.) and offer a lovely view of the gardens of the venue and the surrounding argan grove. They have access to stunning private shaded terraces equipped with sunbeds, xeric plants, tables, and chairs. ### Single standard ensuite room Two standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located on the first and second floor, these small and tastefully decorated rooms feature a comfortable double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, AC, and Wi-Fi. ### Single superior ensuite room Three single superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Decorated in a traditional Berber style with woven rugs and earthy colors, the larger rooms feature a double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. They have a panoramic view of the argan grove and a palm grove below. ### Single deluxe suite Three deluxe suites are available for single occupancy. Each bright and spacious suite accommodates one retreat participant and consists of two bedrooms (one master bedroom and one smaller room, where you can relax) and a private bathroom. The master bedroom features a four-poster bed. Located on the second floor of the fortress, the suites feature air conditioning and Wi-Fi. ## Food Indulge in the rich tapestry of Moroccan flavors during the art retreat with Eunice Friend. The talented chef at the venue will delight you with authentic dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients: succulent fruits, crisp vegetables, olives, wild almonds, and highlights like velvety goat cheese, golden argan oil, and mountain honey. Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with every bite, as each meal reflects the country’s vibrant traditions and the soulful artistry of its cuisine. Quench your thirst with a range of beverages, from cool water and zesty juices to fragrant coffee and soothing herbal tea. As the sun sets, revel in 'aperitivo hour', complementing dinner with unlimited wine. Every meal promises to nourish both your creativity and wellness. All meals are included. Please let us know in advance about specific dietary requirements. However, note that we cannot cater to severe or life-threatening allergies. Delight yourself with the food options served at the retreat below. The menu may vary based on the availability of seasonal ingredients. ## Getting There Taking place at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the art retreat with Eunice Friend will be hosted at an eco-friendly fortress, surrounded by a UNESCO-protected argan forest. This stunningly beautiful region is just 20 minutes from Agadir, on Morocco's Atlantic coast. During your retreat, you'll explore Agadir's historic Medina on a guided half-day trip to Souk El Had, complete with a cable car panorama of the coast, before ascending to the Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress. Further afield, you'll sketch your way through the imperial city of Taroudant. **To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK).** 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 Morocco 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 booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation. **How to get from Marrakesh to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately three hours. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on October 19, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on October 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.** **Arrival transfer:** **October 19, 2027** — 1:00 PM (leaving from Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 4:00 PM) **Departure transfer:** **October 26, 2027** — 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK at approximately 1:00 PM) **If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:** - Spend extra days at a hotel in Marrakesh before or after the retreat and catch the transfer shuttles to/from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK). - Land in Agadir and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Atlas Kasbah, Tighanimine El-Baz, 80 000 Agadir, Morocco; approximate cost: US$32 - 300 MAD/Moroccan Dirham). Taxi fares may vary. - Land in Marrakesh and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Atlas Kasbah, Tighanimine El-Baz, 80 000 Agadir, Morocco; approximate cost: US$160 - 1500 MAD/Moroccan Dirham). Taxi fares may vary. ## Reviews **Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:** - "I have to say the retreat was beyond my expectations. I really thought it would be a wonderful time, which it was, but I wasn't expecting it to be so nice to get to know everyone. It was a great experience and I got to learn a lot. I wish I didn't have to leave because it’s been wonderful and I’m definitely going to do it again sometime." - "The retreat was amazing!!!! The venue was outstanding and the hospitality of everyone involved at the venue was so warm and friendly. I would recommend the art retreat experience to everyone who is contemplating such an adventure. You will come back a changed person!!!" - "It was relaxing and I am inspired due to the trip. It was so nice to be there. At home, I haven't the time to draw and paint for myself all day long. I felt blessed to have long days of painting workshops. The accommodation was so friendly and helpful in every small detail." - "Overall a wonderful retreat and experience. The venue was stunning, and the hosts were so incredibly kind and helpful. A truly remarkable and memorable experience!" - "I didn't really have any expectations when I booked other than I knew I was going to paint. I didn’t know where that was going to go but I was hopeful and excited about the discovery aspect of it, and it far exceeded my expectations. It was worth every mile and every penny to get here. The creativity, the empowerment, and the enlightenment I went through... I had a lot of “aha” moments and I gained clarity which is what I was hoping for. I’m excited to go back home and put new ideas into practice and have new inspiration. And we’re in Morocco! It’s Morocco! To me, that was a bucket list country to visit, and what better way to experience this beautiful culture than painting and absorbing the colors and the people and the kindness that’s here? It’s just been a whirlwind of amazing experiences. It’s been incredible and an amazing experience filled with so many sensory experiences from colors to smells to visuals, landscapes, fishing villages, mountains, and deep saffrons and rusts and browns and earth tones to beautiful Azul blues and whites... It’s just been incredible. And again, as I said, worth every mile journeyed and every penny spent to get there. And the Kasbah is fantastic - this is the perfect place for a retreat. I will take it all back home and I will play and I promise to keep experimenting and keep pushing myself. It’s been brilliant, so wonderful..." ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is the retreat available to all levels?** The retreat is open to all levels of experience, though you'll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with ink and watercolor, as well as Eunice Friend's work and style of teaching. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Eunice Friend in Agadir, Morocco, takes place between October 19 - 26, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 19, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the retreat, October 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. Free Wi-Fi is available in the main reception space, dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are catered for. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Please note, however, that we cannot accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately three hours. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Morocco a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Alternatively, you can land in Agadir and take a taxi to the retreat venue. The retreat venue is approximately a 20-minute drive from Agadir Al-Massira International Airport (AGA). For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketching-the-essence-of-morocco-ink-watercolor-retreat-artist-eunice-friend-morocco#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation. **What’s the weather like in Agadir, Morocco, in October?** The weather in Agadir, Morocco, in October is warm, sunny, and ideal for painting outdoors. You can expect average highs of around 28°C / 82°F during the day, dropping to cool lows of around 15°C / 59°F at night. Agadir sees around 11 hours of sunshine each day in October, so days are long and bright, though a light jacket is still worth packing for evenings and early mornings. **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **Can I do laundry while on the retreat?** Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Eunice Friend will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, wooden French easels, plein-air chairs, aluminum field easels, and a printer/scanner 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 16 participants. **Are SPA treatments included?** A complimentary relaxing Moroccan steam bath 'hammam' is included in your retreat. A full range of massage treatments, salt cave spa treatments, salt therapies, and purifying wildflower baths can be scheduled upon arrival to be paid for on location. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Morocco for tourist purposes without a visa. Please contact us for further guidance. **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** Credit cards are becoming widely accepted in big cities (hotels, restaurants); however, most of the country runs on cash. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in Morocco. Take out cash from an ATM at the airport. You will need cash for taxis, small purchases, market visits, and tipping. Tipping is customary in Morocco. **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. **Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with low or limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven streets. Getting around the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the relaxation areas requires a short walk and climbing stairs. **What language is used during the workshops and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketching-the-essence-of-morocco-ink-watercolor-retreat-artist-eunice-friend-morocco#book)** — no deposit required. See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketching-the-essence-of-morocco-ink-watercolor-retreat-artist-eunice-friend-morocco **Last updated:** 2026-07-08