# Telling Your Story through Abstract Art Retreat with Artist Judy Woods in Greece

Embark on an immersive art retreat with acclaimed artist Judy Woods, set on the sun-drenched island of Zakynthos, where sparkling Mediterranean waters, rugged cliffs, and vibrant coastal landscapes inspire creativity at every turn. Guided by Judy’s expert instruction and daily hands-on demonstrations, you’ll explore the expressive world of intuitive mixed-media painting. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with acrylics and mixed media, as well as with Judy’s work and style of teaching.

With an emphasis on bringing a personal story into your work (whether rooted in your own life or drawn from your experiences on the retreat), you’ll develop your unique visual language and experiment with bold techniques, pushing creative boundaries. At the end of the retreat, you will return home with refined techniques, a renewed artistic perspective, and a vibrant body of work that captures the essence of your creative journey in Greece.

Throughout the week, draw inspiration from curated trips to some of Zakynthos’ most iconic locations. Glide across crystalline waters on a scenic boat ride to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach) and explore the lively streets of Zante, the island’s capital.

Stay at a charming Greek villa, soak in the sun at the nearby beach, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine bursting with flavor, and make unforgettable memories with a like-minded group of artists.

## Details

- **Dates:** May 27 - June 3, 2027
- **Location:** Planos, Zakynthos, Greece
- **Starting Price:** $4,650
- **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 Judy Woods
2. Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, easels, plein-air artist stools, professional studio lights, a printer-scanner, and appropriate disposal bins
3. 7 nights of accommodation at an elegant seaside villa
4. Exclusive use of the venue's living quarters and common areas, the Shala art studio, pool, jacuzzi, wooden gazebo, SPA area, and beautiful terraces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free and lactose-free
7. Water, coffee, tea, juices, and snacks available throughout the day
8. Special welcome and farewell dinner
9. Delicious local wine during dinner service every day
10. Spacious sea-facing Shala art studio
11. Half-day art trip to Zante Town, with opportunities for sketching and painting on-location
12. Half-day boat trip to the Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), with a boat ride included
13. Greek dance show and band for the farewell dinner
14. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities
15. Guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities
16. Round-trip transfers from/to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) at prearranged times
17. Experienced retreat admin and/or UpTrek host on location
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. All local tourist taxes and fees
20. Access to a private Facebook group with Judy Woods and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Judy Woods will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Greece
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Telling Your Story through Abstract Art
Join artist Judy Woods for a transformative retreat on the sun-drenched island of Zakynthos, where sparkling Mediterranean waters, rugged cliffs, and vibrant coastal landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for creativity. With her warm and intuitive guidance, Judy will help you unlock your artistic voice through a process of exploration, play, and self-expression, encouraging you to bring your own story into the work, whether rooted in personal history or drawn from your experiences on the retreat.

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with acrylics and mixed media, as well as with Judy’s work and style of teaching. Each day, you’ll take part in immersive art classes with Judy, with a focus on playful exploration. You'll experiment with new materials, explore bold techniques, and push the boundaries of your creativity. From wet and dry media to collage and composition, you’ll be invited to take creative risks and shape a visual language that feels deeply personal. Judy’s thoughtful feedback and supportive teaching will help you build confidence, refine your style, and connect more closely with the emotional and narrative layers within your work.

Throughout the week, you’ll enjoy two unforgettable trips that will inspire your next abstract pieces, expressing the beauty and unique character of Zakynthos. Capture the island’s iconic Navagio Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and legendary shipwreck, reached by a scenic boat ride along crystalline waters. Explore the lively streets of Zante, the island’s capital, filled with sun-drenched Venetian balconies, colorful architecture, and shifting shadows that will inspire sketches and color studies.

You’ll leave not only with a beautiful body of work shaped by Greece, but also with a renewed spirit and a circle of creative friends to inspire you well beyond the retreat.

**The topics covered during your classes with Judy include:**

- Building a painting in layers through playful exploration
- Painting freely and more intuitively
- Finding your voice and telling your story
- Understanding how to achieve strong design
- Learning about colour harmony and how to create it
- Finding joy in the process and learning to silence the inner critic
- Using mixed media: wet and dry along with collage
- Finding freedom in drawing
- And much more...

Your home for the week is a stunning Greek villa perched on terraced grounds with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. You’ll have exclusive access to a bright, sea-facing Shala art studio, welcoming common areas, and a refreshing infinity pool, providing plenty of space to create, relax, and connect with fellow artists. Outside of class, savor authentic Greek cuisine prepared by the venue’s private chef and enjoy leisurely strolls through the villa’s gardens and surrounding paths.

Please note: the retreat venue is located on terraced grounds, with access to the studio, common areas, and accommodations requiring the use of stairways. Getting to the nearby beach also requires descending a steep stairway of approximately 50 meters (164 feet), and there will be plenty of walking during the trips. Therefore, this retreat is not suitable for individuals with low or limited mobility.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Zakynthos Airport for your 3:30 PM transfer to a breathtaking seafront venue overlooking the Mediterranean.

Settle into your elegant room and take a moment to unwind before joining a guided tour of the venue grounds. Discover the inviting pool, the shala art studio, and the inviting common areas. Meet your instructor for the week, Judy Woods, as well as your fellow artists.

As the evening winds down, savor a delightful three-course welcome dinner in a warm and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a glass of wine with Judy and the group and make plans for the week ahead.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Kick off your day with a bold, feel-good breakfast overlooking the Aegean Sea, as the morning light spilling across the sea wakes up your senses. Grab your freshly brewed coffee and settle into lively conversation with Judy and your crew of artists, followed by a quick check-in with the venue hosts. Then take a slow stroll around the estate, soaking up every detail: sun-washed stone pathways, color-drenched palm trees, and the soft sound of waves that might just become your next masterpiece.

The morning will be filled with energy and enthusiasm. Judy will walk you through your materials and explain the focus of the session …and then it’s go time! Judy will quickly teach you new techniques to overcome any nervousness or inhibitions. Her first instruction: play like a 4-year-old!! You'll begin a series of four paintings, building depth and rich texture through expert layering to lay the foundations of your artwork.

Pause midday for a relaxed lunch on the sun-drenched terrace, if the weather is favorable. Take your time to relax, stretch your legs, talk through ideas with fellow artists, or grab a quiet moment to regroup.

The afternoon is where your art gets really personal. Under Judy’s gentle guidance, you’ll dive deep into your authentic visual language, finding meaningful shapes and motifs to tell your story. Judy will demonstrate how these threads can weave your signature style throughout your work. You’ll experiment with your own template shapes using a variety of wet and dry media as you continue developing your growing body of work.

As the day winds down, enjoy some leisure time before dinner. Join Judy and the group for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of fragrant local wine, and surrounded by new friends who just rode the same creative Mediterranean wave.

### Day 3: Boat trip to Navagio Beach
Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with fresh coffee and dive into a lively conversation with Judy about the creative adventure ahead, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Bring your sketchbook and camera, then get ready to head out toward the sea for a breathtaking boat trip along the Zakynthian coast.

Depart from the small port of Porto Vromi and ride across crystalline waters, passing silent caves and jagged cliffs that echo with ancient stillness. The rhythm of the boat, the salt in the air, and the shifting blues around you will awaken your senses and prime your creative eye.

You'll soon arrive at Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, where the bones of an old shipwreck rest in the sand, rusted and storied. Take reference photos, capture quick sketches from the boat, and absorb the textures, light, and mystery of this iconic cove as you hear more about the ship’s rumored smuggling-era past.

After returning by boat to Porto Vromi, enjoy a nourishing lunch back at the venue and take some time to rest, stretch, or simply let the morning’s colors and impressions settle before heading back into the studio.

In the afternoon, go through the reference photos and sketches you collected earlier and use them as the spark for a new round of creative exploration. Under Judy’s guidance, you’ll translate the forms, motifs, and emotional impressions from the coastline into your own evolving visual language. Judy will be by your side offering insight and encouragement as you develop new pieces inspired by the day’s journey.

As the class winds down, take some time to recharge after a day full of exploration and creativity. Gather with Judy and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
After a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, have a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts, easing into the gentle rhythm of the day. Gather with Judy and the group on one of the sea-facing terraces to discuss your progress before jumping into the first art session of the day.

Continue developing your individual paintings with a focus on how to bring drawing into the work as a descriptive yet abstract element. Judy will lead you through a series of Blind Contour Drawings to strengthen your observational skills and free your drawing hand. Using reference photos from yesterday’s boat trip or inspiration from the surrounding Mediterranean landscape, you’ll begin to draw your Retreat Story into your paintings, making them deeply personal. Judy will demonstrate techniques using both wet and dry media, with a focus on integrating drawing and “telling the story” within an abstract painting.

Take a break for lunch and enjoy a refreshing meal before diving deeper into the process of abstract painting in the afternoon workshop. Judy will demonstrate how to bring clarity to your work and find direction to elevate strength in design and color. She'll help you individually to analyze your work and discover your next steps for each painting. Today is the day your work goes from good to GREAT!

As the day winds down, enjoy some leisure time to reset and relax before dinner. Indulge in a three-course meal prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fine local wine. Share insights and reflections from the day, soaking in the warm atmosphere, lovely company, and a sense of accomplishment as you celebrate your artistic progress.

### Day 5: Art trip to Zante Town
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts, allowing the swirl of creative energy to sweep you away. Grab your sketchbook and head out to the lively coastal town of Zante, Zakynthos’ capital, a place bursting with Mediterranean color and personality.

Once in Zante Town, step into a wonderland of vibrant blooms, sunlit balconies, Venetian arches, and sparkling sea views. Pause to sketch reflections dancing on the harbor, and zoom in on the delicate structures of local plants growing along the waterfront. As you take reference photos and sketch on the spot, you’ll sharpen your eye for composition, shape, line, and the incredible range of colors the island throws at you: from terracotta walls to the mesmerizing turquoise sea.

Return to the venue for a filling lunch, then continue the afternoon with another class focused on creative exploration. Let the impressions of the morning trip spill onto your page as you start another series of paintings. Judy will demonstrate her process for creating harmony with color and show you how she finds the “right” color for the moment. You’ll get to play, mix, and explore the power of bold contrast and gentle nuance, bringing your paintings to life as you integrate shapes and lines. Judy will guide you to choose your Color Heroes and help you unlock the palette that reflects your unique style!

As the class comes to an end, take some time to unwind before dinner. Gather with Judy and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts. Enjoy a lively conversation with Judy and your crew of artists on one of the breezy terraces, setting the tone for a day full of creativity and inspiration.

The morning session is dedicated to developing your individual paintings, building on previous layers with acrylics, collage, and mixed media. Allow the textures and colors of Zakynthos to guide your artistic choices. Get inspired by its wild coastline, sculpted cliffs, bright florals, and luminous blue sea. Apply the techniques you’ve learned and continue to explore and develop your paintings. Alternate between playful curiosity and gentle analysis to discover your unique style. With Judy's experienced guidance, together you'll identify your strengths and find the confidence to develop your own unique visual language. With your growing understanding of design and color and your emerging style, you may surprise yourself with where your painting takes you. Epiphanies and “Aha!” moments will abound!

After a well-deserved lunch, continue deepening your creative process. Refine your work and push your painting toward a more personal expression of your artistic voice. Judy will continue to offer individual guidance and feedback, focusing on your preferences and helping you create work that YOU LOVE and understand where your next steps lie.

As the afternoon winds down, take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the coastal estate. Gather with Judy and the group for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic local wine, sharing reflections of the day’s creative progress.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Start your final full day with a relaxed breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee while chatting with Judy and the group about the creative celebration ahead. Then, have a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts before diving into the last art session of the retreat.

Join Judy and your fellow artists in the sunlit Shala studio, where you will add those final, satisfying touches to your work under her gentle guidance. Learn how to present your paintings for viewing and take the chance to ask any final questions you’ve been saving. Judy will offer one-on-one feedback and help you bring everything together with clarity and confidence.

After a satisfying lunch, it’s time to share your work in a joyful mini-exhibition! Walk around, soak in the incredible progress of the group, and celebrate how far you’ve come. This informal show gives everyone a chance to reflect, offer kind feedback, and cheer each other on. Judy will speak to each artist about their series and offer personal next steps to take home. There will be a toast, of course, because your artistic journey deserves celebration!

As the afternoon comes to an end, enjoy some leisure time to stroll the estate grounds, sit by the pool, or take in some last views of the Aegean Sea before gathering one more time for a celebratory chef-prepared farewell dinner. Enjoy a delightful three-course meal accompanied by local wine, live Greek music and dance, and the warmth of new friendships. Raise a glass to the art you have created, the connections you’ve forged, and the unforgettable memories of your time in Greece!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Judy and your art group, and exchange any last contact details before getting ready for your transfer to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH).

Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Judy Woods](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/judy-woods) — Abstract artist, painting coach

## Accommodation

### Stunning Greek Estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with artist Judy Woods is a seaside estate overlooking the shores of Zakynthos and the vast Mediterranean Sea. Just a 10-minute walk away, the calm Bouka Beach beckons, accessible via a stairway that winds down the hillside.

This boutique venue offers a stately six-bedroom villa alongside a six-bedroom stone tower. All rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, shared or single, exclusively booked for you and your art group.

Every room is a cocoon of comfort, equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a TV, and a handy fridge, all complemented by chic boho décor. Large glass doors frame captivating views, whether of the venue terraces, the gleaming infinity pool, or the boundless sea. Please note that there are no window screens in the rooms.

During your leisure time, you can revel in the stunning infinity pool or unwind in the soothing embrace of a jacuzzi. Adding to the charm is a wooden gazebo, perfectly positioned for basking in the Grecian sun.

Your art classes will take place in the Shala art studio, dramatically poised with the sea as its backdrop. While it is walled on three sides, the studio's face opens generously to the sea, with chairs and tables available for you and your art group. Other workshop spaces include the spacious terraces right next to the infinity pool.

Please note that the venue is not suitable for participants with limited mobility as it is positioned over terraced grounds. To traverse its spaces, you would need to go across some small stairways, and all rooms are accessed via stairs. The steps to the beach are steep and descend about 50 m (164 feet); the beach is a 10-minute walk away from the venue.

### Shared standard ensuite room
One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Tucked away in the stone towers, this twin ensuite room on the first floor marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features two twin beds and a modern ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, shared between the two guests staying together in this room. The room also benefits from access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views.

### Shared superior ensuite room (female only)
One superior ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The shared superior ensuite room is located in the main villa. Covering a generous 35m² on the first floor, it's known as the villa's quietest room, featuring two comfortable twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom. Stepping out, a private patio presents serene vistas of the venue's terrace and garden.

### Shared penthouse
Two penthouses are available for shared occupancy. You will share one penthouse and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. Perched atop the main villa on the second floor, the shared penthouses boast twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy. Private balconies extend from each penthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the sea and terraces.

### Single standard ensuite room
Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The single ensuite rooms are located on the second and third floors of the towers and contain double beds. Sitting at a cozy 16m², the rooms are accessible via stairs. They feature private ensuite bathrooms within the room with a shower enclosure. Each room benefits from access to a small private terrace, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views.

### Single superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. This room located on the first floor, in the stone towers, marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features a private ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower.

The room also benefits from access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views. The space exudes warmth and character, adorned with thoughtfully chosen wooden furniture and wicker decorations that perfectly complement its bohemian style.

### Single ensuite room - shared villa
Two ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. These single ensuite rooms are located in a shared, separate villa with a private pool. Found outside of the main villa, they offer privacy and tranquility. The shared villa features two single bedrooms (located on the second floor of the villa, stairway access), occupied by one participant each. Both single rooms are equipped with a comfortable double bed and an ensuite bathroom, complete with a spacious walk-in shower. The shared living spaces on the first floor— a well-equipped kitchen and a cozy living room—offer areas to connect, converse, or simply unwind.

Conveniently, the single ensuite rooms in the villa are the nearest accommodations to the art workshop space. Outside, a private terrace presents spectacular views of the pool, the art studio, and the picturesque bay beyond. But the pièce de résistance is the exclusive private pool, inviting guests to take a refreshing dip under the Greek sunshine.

### Single deluxe suite
One deluxe suite is available for single occupancy. Located on the first floor of the main villa, this spacious suite stretches across a generous 40m², making it the venue's crown jewel. Its center point is the grand double bed, promising restful slumbers and comfort. The deluxe suite features an elegant ensuite bathroom, equipped with a modern shower. Yet, it's the breathtaking views that truly captivate; double glass doors beckon you outwards, revealing a mesmerizing tableau of the pristine pool, the inviting terrace, and the azure sea endlessly stretching beyond.

## Food

Experience the wealth of Ionian cuisine with tantalizing dishes prepared by a private chef. The venue earned its foodie destination moniker thanks to its family recipes passed down through generations and fresh ingredients sourced from local markets or grown on-site. Of course, your chef's passion for the traditions of Zakynthos is the driving force behind every feast.

Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread consisting of freshly baked pastries and bread, yogurt, organic honey, jams, butter, cereal, and local fruit. Coffee, tea, milk, and fresh juices will be served with breakfast.

For lunch, refuel with a light salad, or opt for the traditional baked feta, various platters (with aubergine, tzatziki, and chickpea dips, saganaki, and grilled halloumi, all served with Pitta bread), pasta, and seafood courses.

Dinner is an elaborate three-course affair, starting with an appetizer such as Zante Bruschettas, followed by herbal oven lamb, rabbit stew with cheese, agalas stuffed chicken, moussaka with aubergines, stuffed tomatoes with herbs, ragout and pasta, grilled octopus, sea bream, or prawns. Top it off with a sweet treat and pair it with a crisp white. You'll enjoy plentiful, aromatic wine during dinner service.

Dinner on the last evening of the retreat will be an extraordinary event, as you'll complement your delicious meals with a traditional Greek dance and music show.

All meals are included. Between meals, you will have access to a snack bar with water, tea, juices, coffee, and homemade snacks. The exact menu will vary based on the availability of seasonal ingredients.

## Getting There

Located in the quiet beachside village of Planos, on the Greek island of Zakynthos, your retreat venue stands proud atop a rocky hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The amazing views from this sunny haven provide a small taste of what Zakynthos has to offer: crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, pristine beaches, and the tranquil Greek village below. The capital of the island (Zante) and Zakynthos International Airport are only 30 minutes away by car, and the mysterious Navagio Beach with its history of shipwrecks and smugglers is one hour away.

**Please arrive at** **Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH).**

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 Greece 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.

**How to get from Zakynthos International Airport to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly domestically to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on May 27, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on June 3, 2027, by 10:00 AM.

**Arrival Transfer:**

**May 27, 2027 - 3:30 PM** (leaving from Zakynthos International Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure Transfer:**

**June 3, 2027 - 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Zakynthos International Airport around 10:30 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.**

**If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:**

\- Spend extra days in Zakynthos before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to Zakynthos International Airport.

\- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: 63 Thesi Bouka, Gaidaros Tragaki, Tragaki 291 00, Greece, 40 euros - approximately US$45 per way. Please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with artist Judy Woods:**

- "Judy Woods is a great teacher. She brought out the best in everyone's art making. I very much appreciated the tips she introduced to me. My artwork has been enhanced in a way I never would have imagined. Sooooooooo glad I went on this retreat."

- "I had the most wonderful and inspiring week! We all bonded so quickly. We painted, laughed and cried a lot together, The teaching was excellent, the accommodation just gorgeous and the whole retreat so well planned! I learned a lot... about intuitive abstract painting techniques... but also about myself. It was a truly spiritual and inspirational week and my heart and soul are still full! Thanks again to Judy, Uptrek, and everyone who made this trip so special."

- "The retreat was in a gorgeous setting with very comfortable accommodations. Judy Woods is an outstanding teacher."

- "It was a life-changing experience."

- "Judy was an amazing teacher, and the group got along wonderfully! We created a lot of great art!!"

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

- "Well it was lovely in all aspects! David’s gourmet food was a dining extravaganza! The quaint villa & the nearby town were enormously refreshing. The love & care put into the service was above reproach! I would highly suggest this venue to anyone interested in seeing Greece!"

- "The hosts really made my trip special by their loving and kind hearts! They made me feel like family as well as all their staff! The estate was breathtaking and I hope to visit again soon! It was magical and I truly appreciate everything done for us while there, their openness and especially the hugs! I miss them and the warm generosity and kindness. It's true that I felt more at ease, comfortable and hugged being a stranger welcomed there, than I actually do coming back home...!!! That is saying a lot about the character and hearts of Karen and David! It reflected in everything and everyone whom works there. That is why it works so well, as David says, that's Living, doing what you love! Thank you to all for the fond memories ;)"

- "The venue is beautiful. Waking up to see the sunrise was a perfect way to start the day. Food was authentic and delicious. We had some hot days in the studio, but apparently, this was a heat wave, but otherwise, it worked well. Staff was genuinely sweet and accommodating, and hard working. It was interesting to experience the Greek way of life. Our hosts cared about every detail. I enjoyed it so much that I will return next year and bring my daughter. Uptrek, thank you for finding this gem!"

- "Beautiful location! There was a lovely mix of art classes at the retreat, and excursions to paint or take reference photos! Our hosts were warm, kind, and very talented in cooking and treating guest! Thank you for an experience of a lifetime!"

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Is the retreat available to all levels?**

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with acrylics and mixed media, as well as with Judy Woods' work and style of teaching.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Judy Woods in Planos, Zakynthos, Greece takes place between May 27 - June 3, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on May 27, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, June 3, 2027, after breakfast. **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.

**I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?**

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

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

Please arrive at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Greece a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included.

If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly locally to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/telling-your-story-through-abstract-art-retreat-artist-judy-woods-greece#location).

**What should I pack?**

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, 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 and you are welcome to use them during your stay for an additional fee payable on-site.

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

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Judy Woods will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, easels, plein-air artist stools, professional studio lights, a printer-scanner, and appropriate disposal bins are included and will be available at the venue. **Students will bring their own art supplies based on the instructor’s list of recommended materials.**

**What’s the weather like in Zakynthos in late May?**

The weather in late May in Zakynthos is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 26°C / 79°F during the day that drop to around 15°C / 59°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before your departure to the retreat and to pack accordingly.

**How many people are to be expected at the retreat?**

Maximum 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests traveling from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states may enter Greece for tourist purposes without a visa. Please contact us for further guidance.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.

**What language is used during the retreat and other activities?**

The retreat is available in English.

**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 is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. Accommodation spaces and most of the main facilities are only accessible via stairs. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the trips.

**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 artists 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/telling-your-story-through-abstract-art-retreat-artist-judy-woods-greece#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/telling-your-story-through-abstract-art-retreat-artist-judy-woods-greece
**Last updated:** 2026-06-29