# The Art-Making Buffet Retreat with Former Agent and Artist Lilla Rogers in Tuscany

Join artist, illustrator, author, educator, and former agent Lilla Rogers for an unforgettable week in Tuscany, Italy, to inspire you, play with new tools and techniques, and enrich your creative voice. Throughout the retreat, Lilla is excited to see what you’re working on—feel free to share your portfolio, website, or Instagram for personalized insights and thoughtful feedback.With golden vineyards, peaceful gardens, and cozy country apartments as your home base, you’ll explore a true creative buffet of techniques and materials—Lilla's finest tools.You'll cover 6 main topics across 8 days; some are old favorites, and some are exciting new additions. From vintage and modern lettering, color exploration, borders and motifs, pastel textures, and loose florals to even a sprinkle of Procreate, you will have so much to choose from.You’ll take inspiration outside the studio too. Wander the winding streets of Arezzo, gathering ideas from its historic vintage market. Visit a family-run olive oil mill tucked into the countryside, where traditions, textures, and scents add richness to your art. Then, explore the largest and oldest vintage market in Italy, a trove of mesmerizing antiques!With every step, Lilla shares not only her creative process but also insights from decades in the illustration world, helping you tap into your voice and find new directions for your art. Whether you’re here to grow your skills, refresh your creative energy, or simply soak up the magic of Tuscany, you’ll leave with a heart full of ideas and a hand full of wonderful art!

## Details

- **Dates:** September 28 - October 5, 2026
- **Location:** Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy
- **Starting Price:** $4,500
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes and Ask Agent Lilla Anything sessions, individual instruction, and demonstrations with artist and former agent Lilla RogersExclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the studio, the large natural garden, extensive vineyards, olive groves, the 66 ft. (20 m.) swimming pool, and the private lake7 nights of accommodation at a Tuscan estateMeals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefWater, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and snacks available throughout the daySpecial welcome and farewell dinnerWelcome and farewell cocktailsDelicious wine served with dinnerAn on-site wine tour and tastingFull-day trip to Arezzo and antique market visitHalf-day trip to the Frantoio Pasquini oil mill, including olive oil tasting with appetizersPrivate transportation and guide for all planned activitiesFully-staffed venue, experienced UpTrek host available on locationRound-trip transfers at pre-arranged times from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)All local tourist taxes and feesLilla’s career tarot readingsPlenty of personal feedback: share your artwork, website, or Instagram with Lilla for thoughtful guidance throughout the weekAccess to a private Facebook group with Lilla Rogers and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceLunch during the full-day tripMaterials — a list of materials recommended by Lilla Rogers will be provided five months before the retreatTips for staff (tipping is customary in Italy)Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Art-Making Buffet Retreat
Spend a joyful, creativity-filled week in the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany with the one and only Lilla Rogers, former legendary agent and artist, for a juicy art-making buffet filled to the brim with exciting challenges, techniques, materials, projects, and everything in between. This is your golden ticket to learn from one of the world’s most beloved illustration experts on a delicious variety of topics. You'll cover everything from vintage lettering, unique motifs and borders, pastel textures, loose watercolor and gouache florals, color exploration, and even some Procreate techniques. Whether you're just getting started or you’ve got sketchbooks full of experience, Lilla’s warm and wise guidance will set your imagination on fire—and yes, you’re welcome to show her your work, website, or Instagram and ask for direct feedback throughout the retreat.Each morning begins with our cozy Warm-Up Circle, where you’ll ease into the day with journaling prompts and playful exercises. Lilla will demo her favorite tricks and techniques, and you’ll receive daily cards for each topic you'll study, handcrafted by Lilla. It’s also a relaxed time to share your creative journey and ask for input on your portfolio or personal projects—Lilla loves seeing what you’re working on. Your instructor will help you discover what's unique and special in your art or boost you to the next level in your art career. Along the way, you’ll head out on two fabulous outings: one to the enchanting medieval town of Arezzo and its unforgettable antiques market, and one to a charming, family-owned olive oil mill nestled in the countryside.Whether you're just finding your footing in the art world or you're an experienced professional, Lilla’s gentle and insightful teaching will help you make it happen with joy and purpose. And throughout the week, she’s happy to offer personalized advice—whether that’s brainstorming your next steps, giving tips on your brand presence, or helping you refine your visual voice.In addition to the delightful traditional art Lilla will treat you to, you'll also have the opportunity to journey into the digital realm with Lilla's favorite Procreate techniques. The Procreate part of the workshop is entirely optional (and you don't need to bring an iPad with you), but it's a fantastic chance to explore something new in a supportive environment!And when the afternoon sun stretches long across the hills, you’ll settle onto the terrace with a cup of something lovely for Lilla’s “Ask Me Anything” time. Ask about the illustration world, marketing tips, portfolio polish, or the secrets of staying creatively lit up. It’s the perfect moment to show her your Instagram, website, or current work and get real-time feedback. If the stars align, she might even pull out the tarot cards for a creative career reading. How fun is that?The main topics you'll cover includeVintage and modern lettering—a crowd favorite.Motifs and borders—incorporating decorative swirls, swashes, patterns, and much more to embellish your art.Pastel play—coming up with fresh textures, ready to add to your creative portfolio.Watercolor and gouache florals—playing with paint to create expressive, loose botanicals.Color palette discovery—learn to break free from the palettes you normally use and explore new territory.Procreate techniques—try out Lilla's favorite brushes, techniques, and tricks.Business conversations might include:Pitching a project in a way you enjoy and that reflects your passionsUncovering your creative pathHow to get an agentGrowing your artistic career and staying focusedWhy branching out your style is an asset to your creative careerArt as a meditative practiceLilla’s career tarot readings...and much more.Experience Italy's lively culture through chef-made food every day, delicious wine served with dinner (plus a wine tasting), a historic venue dating back to medieval times, and the lovely company of 15 other like-minded artists.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), at 4:00 PM and be transferred to the venue, reaching it by 5:00 PM. After settling into your spacious, thoughtfully designed room, explore the cozy apartments, well-equipped writing spaces, peaceful pool, and expansive gardens, all surrounded by serene vineyards and olive groves. Get introduced to your guide for this art adventure, Lilla Rogers, and chat about the upcoming week over a delightful welcome dinner.

### Day 2: Pastel & Color experiments (venue)
Your day begins with a cozy, hearty breakfast to fuel your creativity before heading into your very first class with Lilla. This fun and welcoming session sets the stage for the days ahead, as Lilla shares a peek at what’s in store for you. Get a taste of the styles you’ll explore, the fun techniques you’ll play with, and the projects you’ll bring to life.Each morning starts with a series of gentle, guided warm-up exercises in your art journal. These playful prompts help shake off the cobwebs, hush the inner critic, and get your hands moving.Once you’re all warmed up, it’s time to dive into the day’s main project with a Lilla classic: pastel & color experiments. Lilla will open your eyes to the versatility of pastels and how to use them for your textures and motifs. After lunch, dive into the next exciting topic: color discovery. Browse through Lilla's lovely color cards with distinctive imagery, printed up just for this class to guide you in creating new color stories. Your color choices are key to making stunning art. Moving away from the palettes you're most used to is difficult, but Lilla will guide you towards uncharted territory in a kaleidoscope of ways!Time permitting, Lilla will also offer a career tarot reading to a few lucky artists.As the sun begins to dip, it’s time to relax and connect with your fellow artists over a lovely wine-tasting experience hosted right at the venue. Begin with a guided wander through the vineyards and wine cellars, learning the story behind each bottle. End your day with a satisfying dinner, sharing stories and laughter, reflecting on what you’ve made, and dreaming of what’s still to come.

### Day 3: Procreate (venue)
Start your day with a solid breakfast and a chill coffee chat with Lilla as you do your usual morning warm-up in the art journal, then get ready for the next class.In the morning, it’s time to dive into all things Procreate—Lilla will walk you through her favorite brushes, playful techniques, clever tricks, and the gooey oil paint app she can’t get enough of. You’ll explore how to layer color, add texture, and create dynamic compositions digitally, all while keeping that hand-drawn charm. This class is entirely optional (you don't even need an iPad with you), but it's still a great way to branch out and try new tools. This is your chance to see if Procreate is something you'd like to explore further, whether you're just taking your first steps into the digital medium, or you've been wondering about adding digital elements to your traditional work. If you're already well-acquainted with Procreate, why not share your favorite techniques, tips, and brushes with the rest of the group?After lunch, join Lilla for an “Ask Lilla Anything” session. Ask her about the creative world, how to connect with others in illustration, how to promote your work in ways that feel natural, and where your art might really click. If time allows, Lilla may offer a career tarot reading for an extra spark of insight.If you prefer to listen while you work, feel free to keep practicing or jot things down in your journal as ideas come to you.Later in the afternoon, take time to unwind. Go for a walk through the countryside, relax by the pool, or keep lettering if you’re still in the flow. End the day with a satisfying dinner, share what lit you up, and look ahead to what’s next in your creative journey.

### Day 4: Lettering & trip to a traditional oil mill
Following a hearty breakfast, head out for a sun-soaked half-day adventure to Frantoio Pasquini, a family-run olive oil mill that has been pouring love and tradition into every drop since 1920. Just a short ten-minute ride from the venue, this charming spot is tucked into the rolling hills of Reggello, surrounded by silvery olive trees and glowing green groves that dance in the breeze.At the mill, you’ll wander through the olive orchards and peek behind the scenes at how the oil is made, where old-world know-how meets a splash of modern magic. You’ll learn the story of four generations who have nurtured this land and perfected their craft. Fresh-pressed and full of flavor, the olive oil is served alongside local treats like bold, savory olive pastes that will wake up every corner of your palate.Let the colors soak in: the deep greens of the trees, the warm golds of the oil, the soft sunlit stone of the buildings. Take it all in as inspiration, and tuck those sensory moments into your creative pocket. Who knew olive oil could be so poetic?Return to the venue just in time for lunch, then prepare for a follow-up class in the studio. It’s time to dive into the day’s main project: vintage and modern lettering. With your special lettering cards, lovingly created by Lilla just for this retreat, you’ll get to explore a wide variety of styles and details like fonts, embellishments, serifs, strokes, line weight, shadows, bevels, and more. Choose your favorite bits and build your own whimsical, personal lettering library.As the day draws to a close, enjoy a relaxed and satisfying dinner. Pour a glass of local wine, chat about what surprised you most, and toast to a day well spent.

### Day 5: Decorative motifs (venue)
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast and a cheerful check-in with Lilla and your hosts, then grab your supplies and get ready to dive into the next creative session. The morning kicks off with a bit of journaling warm-ups to get your mind flowing and your hand moving.Today's sessions will be all about motifs and borders! Another signature element in Lilla's art, motifs and borders are an excellent way to add a bit of flavor to your art, from paintings to lettering projects. Motifs are little doo-dads, bits and bobs, or icons; decorative bits you can add to anything to make it more personal. These can vary from flowers, vines, scrolls, and patterns to objects. Lilla will show you how to incorporate motifs, swirls, swashes, and lettering into your orders. They're easy to draw and they bring a lot of impact to the table. After lunch, join Lilla for an “Ask Lilla Anything” session. Ask her about the creative world, how to connect with others in illustration, how to promote your work in ways that feel natural, and where your art might really click. If time allows, Lilla may offer a career tarot reading for an extra spark of insight.If you prefer to listen while you work, feel free to keep practicing or jot things down in your journal as ideas come to you.As evening settles in, gather for dinner with your fellow artists, share laughs, swap discoveries, and look ahead to whatever surprises tomorrow may bring.

### Day 6: Trip to Arezzo
Kick off your day with a cozy, cheerful breakfast before setting off on a full-day adventure to the enchanting town of Arezzo, a sparkling gem tucked into the Tuscan hills, full of charm, stories, and sun-drenched beauty. After breakfast, hop aboard a comfy shuttle and enjoy a peaceful one-hour ride through golden fields, olive groves, and vineyard-dotted countryside, watching the landscapes shift like brushstrokes on a canvas.As you arrive in Arezzo, the magic begins. This town may be lesser-known, but it’s bursting with treasures. With a warm and knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you’ll meander through winding medieval streets and explore quiet corners where Renaissance painters once walked.Most importantly, you'll visit the antique market of Arezzo, a beloved local tradition. Considered one of the best antique fairs in Tuscany, this was the first market of its kind in Italy (going strong since 1968). It’s a wonderland for artists and visual storytellers—a chance to find vintage ephemera, rare prints, unusual objects, and centuries-old imagery you can bring back to draw from later. Take time to linger in the Piazza Grande, one of the most beautiful squares in all of Tuscany, and wander the many stalls brimming with artisan goods, intricately carved furniture, old paintings, elegant decorative objects, and much more.Take with you intriguing items that will inspire your lettering or the upcoming class on motifs and borders. When you're done exploring, enjoy a coffee in the Piazza and watch the world go by to the soft soundtrack of clinking cups and nearby footsteps on cobblestones.For lunch, settle into a welcoming trattoria and savor a relaxed Tuscan meal on your own. Afterward, freely explore Arezzo in the afternoon at your own pace. You might visit a charming old bookstore, peek into hidden courtyards, or spot a sweeping view of the countryside.Return to the venue just in time for dinner, full of warmth, wonder, and stories ready to be shared. Over dinner, discuss treasured finds from the trip.

### Day 7: Watercolor and gouache florals (venue)
Start your final day with a delicious breakfast and a cozy coffee catch-up with Lilla. Laugh, sip, stretch, and get ready to wrap things up in style.Today is all about florals—bold, juicy, joy-filled florals in watercolor and gouache! Get ready to splash, layer, and play as Lilla shows you her favorite ways to bring flowers to life on the page. You’ll learn how to make loose, expressive petals, build rich, vibrant blooms, and mix colors that absolutely sing. She’ll demo magical techniques with inky linework, gum arabic, resists, and more—tools that will take your florals from lovely to utterly electric.After a relaxed lunch, return to the studio for today's second creative exploration. You’ll be working from another inspiring set of cards, specially designed by Lilla to fire up your imagination, spark bold choices, and keep things delightfully unpredictable. Want to go wild with color? Try a new shape? Add a pop of contrast or a swoosh of ink? Now’s the time. Lilla will be right there with you, offering one-on-one encouragement, cheering you on, and helping you lean into the fun of it all.Enjoy some free time later in the day, wandering through the olive trees, relaxing by the pool, or working on your art. If time permits, Lilla may do a career tarot reading.Later in the day, slow things down with a relaxed, celebratory dinner. Swap stories, toast to your growth, and soak in those last sweet hours in Tuscany. You’ll head home with new tools, fresh confidence, a head full of color, and a heart packed with joy.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy breakfast with your group, exchange any last contact details, and get ready for your transfer to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR). Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Lilla Rogers](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/lilla-rogers) — Illustrator, mentor, artistic agent

## Accommodation

### Tuscan Vineyard Estate
Your venue for the retreat with Lilla Rogers is a serene Tuscan vineyard estate nestled in the Chianti region. Covering 80 acres (32 hectares), the estate dates back to the Middle Ages and once belonged to the influential Medici Tornaquinci family, forever establishing its place in history. Amenities on the estate include a 66-foot (20-meter) swimming pool, extensive gardens, a private lake, and wine cellars. You can also enjoy the large outdoor dining area, party hall, and spacious studio for your classes. During your free time, you're welcome to explore the picturesque surroundings using the scenic walking paths. The accommodation spaces are spread across two main buildings and a smaller, separate villa, whereas the common area and studio are located in the reconverted 18th-century granary. These spaces range from cozy, intimate suites to multi-bedroom apartments with amenities spread over multiple floors. The rooms boast stunning views of the estate's expansive gardens, vineyards, or peaceful private lake. Your classes with Lilla will be carried out in a spacious 1,560 sq. ft. (145 sq. m.) studio located on the second floor of the granary building. You may also create on the grounds, with the estate's stunning landscape providing endless inspiration. Please note that the venue may not be suitable for participants with limited mobility, as some rooms and the studio are accessible only by stairs, and getting around the venue spaces requires a short walk. Additionally, being in the Italian countryside, you may encounter some insects during your stay. To preserve the historical character of the estate, the rooms are not equipped with window screens.

### Shared ensuite room (female only)
You'll share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared superior rooms are available in the main villa, located on the third floor, and in a separate medieval tower (stairway access). The rooms feature twin beds and is fan-cooled, designed with architecture that keeps the space cool, with an ensuite shower bathroom. The bathroom is shared between the same-gender participants occupying the same room. The shared living rooms provide a comfortable space to relax, alongside a shared kitchen, complete with dining amenities and a TV.

### Single standard room - adjacent bathroom
Four single standard rooms available for single occupancy are located within separate apartments in the main villa (second floor) or the medieval tower (second and third floor). Each apartment offers access to a shared living room and either a kitchenette or a full kitchen with a dining table and a TV. You'll have access to an adjacent, private bathroom with a shower or a tub. All rooms are fan-cooled and contain double beds.

### Single superior ensuite room
Five superior single rooms are available for single occupancy, each featuring a double bed and an ensuite bathroom with a shower. The rooms are located within separate apartments in the main villa (third floor) or the medieval tower (second floor). Each apartment includes a shared living room and either a kitchenette or a full kitchen with a dining table and a TV. In two of the apartments, the shared kitchen and living room are located downstairs from the bedrooms. All rooms are fan-cooled.

### Single deluxe apartment
Four single deluxe apartments are available for single occupancy, each offering the comfort and privacy of having the entire apartment to yourself. Located on the first and second floors in one of the main buildings of the estate, these apartments feature a bedroom with a double bed, a private bathroom with a shower, and a cozy living room. Two of the apartments include a kitchenette, while the other two offer a separate kitchen with a dining table. One of the apartments spans both the first and second floors, with amenities and living spaces divided across the levels. Each apartment covers approximately 646 sq. ft. (60 sq. m).

## Food

During your retreat with Lilla Rogers, you'll savor delicious, authentic Italian cuisine with wonderful meat and vegetable-based dishes crafted by the private chef. The chef uses fresh, seasonal local ingredients to prepare classic Tuscan recipes, offering a true taste of the region's rustic flavors. You will enjoy home-cooked meals that look amazing and feature the tastiest Italian “Nonna”-style (grandma) recipes.Start your day with a Tuscan breakfast, featuring a selection of breads (including whole wheat and the classic Tuscan white with no salt), fruit jams, honey, yogurt, cornflakes, homemade cakes, and croissants. You'll also enjoy Tuscan cheese, eggs, fresh fruits, juices, and a variety of beverages like cappuccino, coffee, tea, milk, almond milk, and soy milk.Lunch is served buffet-style and typically includes a variety of starters, salads, and a first course, accompanied by fresh fruit. In the evenings, you'll be treated to a buffet dinner with an antipasto (the first course), followed by a main course with a vegetable side dish, and finished with a delicious dessert. Dinners are paired with wonderful wines produced at the estate.Throughout the day, a selection of snacks such as homemade pastries, cakes, biscuits, and nuts will be available. You can enjoy these along with coffee, tea, juice, and water in the hall of the beautifully restored 18th-century Granary building or on the lovely pergola overlooking the garden and vineyards. You'll also explore the local flavors with a wine-tasting tour of the estate’s own Chianti winery.The retreat includes all meals, except for one lunch during your full-day trip. Please note that while the venue can accommodate diet restrictions (vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, lactose-free) upon request, availability and variety may be limited. 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

Your art retreat with Lilla Rogers takes place in the tranquil Vaggio di Reggello area of Tuscany, surrounded by lush vineyards, rolling hills, and historic charm. The serene environment reflects the traditional Tuscan countryside, offering a peaceful blend of culture and nature. Florence, the region’s capital, is 45 minutes away and will serve as your pick-up/drop-off point for transfers.During this retreat, you'll explore the region during two trips: to the historic town of Arezzo (1 hour away) and to a local family-owned oil mill (10 minutes away). Tuscany's landscape, with its iconic rolling vineyards and olive groves framed by tall, slender Cypress trees, has long inspired artists. The region’s fertile land, particularly its Chianti vineyards, produces world-renowned wines and some of Italy’s finest extra virgin olive oils.Check-in at the retreat begins at 5:00 PM on September 28, 2026, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on October 5, 2026.To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence (local round trips starting from US$120, subject to change, approximately 1 hour journey time). It is best to arrive in Italy 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 Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), to the retreat venue:Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour.Arrival transfer: September 28, 2026 ⁠— 4:00 PM (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 5:00 PM)Departure transfer: October 5, 2026 ⁠— 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) around 11:00 AM)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 Florence before and/or after the retreat, and catch the transfer shuttles from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR).Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Antico Borgo la Torre, Località la Torre, 172, 50066 Vaggio FI, Italy, approximately 200 EUR per way from Florence Airport). Please note that taxi fares may change.

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with artist and agent Lilla Rogers:"What a gorgeous week in France; making art everyday alongside such lovely like-minded artists, with the most delicious food and beautiful surroundings. Lilla gave us a wonderful experience, with really thoughtful and generous inspiration material, sharing her art process, industry knowledge and career journey, and doing some of her famous career tarot readings! What fun, what love, what beautiful ink-filled days!""As a beginning MATS student, I was lucky enough to fill a last minute opening for the retreat in France. It was a wonderful creative experience! Lilla is an exceptional teacher, insightful with deep experience of her own which she shares generously. Lilla is both very encouraging and direct in her feedback. It’s the best kind of challenge. The atmosphere and approach encouraged us to focus, experiment, learn and share. And have fun! The camaraderie among students was an added pleasure. Being there was special, and we all wanted to soak it up, learn from Lilla, and from each other. The setting was beautiful, the food fantastic, and the schedule made time for focus, relaxation, exploration, and lots of laughter and fun. We were free to put our energy towards creativity. I look forward to having the chance to attend any (and all!) of Lilla’s future retreats, having experienced the exceptional Lettering Retreat in France in April 2024. I expect future retreats will be as well-organized and creatively rewarding as the first. Thanks again for the wonderful retreat, and ongoing MATS classes!""A beautiful inspiring and uplifting course. Gorgeously curated by Lilla Rogers. Totally made with love and joy and passion. I could not have asked for anything more. X""This retreat exceeded my expectations! Lilla was just wonderful! She is so knowledgable and so nurturing to her students. She's an excellent teacher and so much fun to be around. 10/10""The retreat with Lilla Rogers far exceeded my expectations. The teaching itself was excellent, of course - but I was not expecting to have so much information and such a generous amount of time from Lilla - it was wonderful. Live demos, chances to try new materials, endless inspiration and the opportunity to do all of this in the company of people who shared the same passion - truly life-changing. This was a trip of a lifetime for me - but I would not hesitate to attend a retreat every single year if I was able to do so!""What a “pinch me” moment to be among Lilla and the other attendees. There was a lot of camaraderie from the start. Learned so much from the daily instruction and have already begun incorporating what Lilla taught into my daily art routine. She brings a level of inspiration, insight and intelligence to her courses that is unparalleled. Have been taking MATS classes online for years, but being with Lilla live was on a whole other level. She cares a lot about her students and gets the best out of us. Thank you to everyone one of you for this magical experience! Look forward to attending another one!""My experience on the Retreat With Lilla Rogers was a dream! Lilla is an experienced, well-prepared, positive teacher, and attracts groups of diligent, talented participants. Our group was a dynamic mix, a natural result of Lilla's years of pulling all sorts of creative people together through her world-wide illustration courses. That broad outreach could fill many retreats. Thank you to everyone involved - for me, it was the trip of a lifetime, and an important part of my professional development as an artist."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with Lilla Rogers is open to all levels of experience. When is the retreat available?The retreat with artist Lilla Rogers in Tuscany, Italy, takes place between September 28 - October 5, 2026. Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 28, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast, at 10:00 AM, on the last day, October 5, 2026. Is Wi-Fi available?Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas free of charge. 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 Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR). 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 Italy 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. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. If you cannot find suitable connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence. For more details, please see the Location tab. Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, a swimsuit, 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?You are welcome to use the laundry facilities during your stay. The venue provides self-service washing machines and drying racks, but please note that the venue doesn't have a dryer. What supplies do I need for the workshop?A detailed list of materials recommended by artist Lilla Rogers will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. What’s the weather like in Vaggio, Italy, in September?In September, the weather in Vaggio, the closest town to the retreat venue, is pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 22°C / 72°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather before your departure for the art retreat and pack accordingly. Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport in Florence. You will need cash for small purchases during the day trips, for tipping the staff (tipping is customary), and for any extras you might want to purchase at the retreat venue. How many people are to be expected on the retreat?Maximum of 16 participants. Do I need a visa?Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Italy for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance. Are there any age restrictions?No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. What language is used during the workshop 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 artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. Is the retreat available to guests with low and limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with low and limited mobility. The indoor studio is located a short walk away from the accommodation spaces, and the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.What happens if I need to cancel?Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: Purchase insurance. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. Do I have to pay a deposit?No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed 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/the-art-making-buffet-retreat-former-agent-artist-lilla-rogers-tuscany#book)** — no deposit required.

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

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**Last updated:** 2025-10-09