# Travel Artist Books Retreat with Artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair in Spain

Join artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair for a playful, hands-on art retreat in Spain. Open to all experience levels, this retreat invites you to let go of perfection, embrace experimentation, and explore the joy of creating. Through drawing, painting, and collage, you’ll collect inspiration from Spain’s rich colors and jaw-dropping landscapes and turn it into three unique travel art books that capture your journey in a personal way.

Enjoy daily workshops with Carla and Julie, complemented by three exciting art trips. A half-day trip to the Cabo de Gata natural park coastline and the fishing village of San José offers a unique kind of vista landscape, wild and shaped by rock and sea. In contrast, a full-day trip to Almería brings a guided visit to the historic La Alcazaba, rich with carved arches, narrow walkways, and mosaics that inspire intriguing cityscapes.

Stay in your own private room between sessions, and gather each evening for chef-prepared meals and wine with your fellow artists. Whatever your starting point, you'll find yourself among a warm, welcoming community of like-minded creatives!

## Details

- **Dates:** September 20 - 27, 2027
- **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain
- **Starting Price:** $5,500
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 17 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, discussions, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair
2. Art studio equipped with: big metal buckets for sustainable water disposal, professional studio lights, water cups, easels, plein-air chairs, normal chairs, high-speed wireless Internet, paper towels, and tables
3. 7 nights of accommodation at a charming countryside Spanish estate
4. Exclusive use of the entire country estate with three indoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, outdoor spaces (that can be used for workshops), a swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spaces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Fragrant local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives served during dinner service every day
8. Snack bar with coffee, tea, filtered water, and snacks available throughout the day
9. Full-day art trip to Almería and the Alcazaba Fortress, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
10. Lunch and drinks at a well-known special establishment during the trip to Almería
11. Entrance ticket and guided visit of the Alcazaba Fortress
12. Half-day art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park and San José village, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
13. Lunch at a local restaurant in San José during the trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
14. Private transportation and knowledgeable English-speaking guide for all planned trips and activities
15. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) at prearranged times
16. All local tourist taxes and fees
17. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. Access to a private Facebook group with Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Spain
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Travel Artist Books Retreat
Join artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair for a creative, lighthearted art retreat in Spain—an experience designed to help you loosen up, try new things, and immerse yourself in the process of making art. Open to artists of all levels, this retreat is about experimenting without pressure, collecting inspiration from your surroundings, and turning it into three handmade travel books filled with drawings, paintings, and collage.

With Carla and Julie leading the way, you’ll explore simple drawing exercises to build confidence, playful painting prompts, and fun collage techniques using both found and handmade materials. Julie will guide you in combining elements to create unique, layered pages, while Carla will encourage you to embrace the unexpected and let go of the need for things to be “just right.”

The focus is on observation, curiosity, and being present. You’ll record textures, colors, and memories from your Spanish adventure in two smaller artist books and one larger accordion book—each becoming a personal keepsake of your experience.

Beyond the studio, set out on exciting trips to the striking wilds of Cabo de Gata Natural Park, where rugged cliffs and breathtaking seascapes will fuel your creativity, and to the vibrant city of Almería, where you will be inspired by the impressive Moorish architecture of the historic La Alcazaba fortress. During your trips, enjoy delicious meals at a local Andalusian spot by the vivid coastline of San José and at a restaurant in the heart of Almería.

This is an invitation to step away from routine, reconnect with your creativity, and come home with a collection of art that reflects not only places you’ve been, but how they spoke to your creative spirit!

**Topics covered during your workshops include:**

- Create three different travel books
- Letting go of self-doubt and experimenting freely
- Turning your memories and adventures in Spain into creative memorabilia
- Julie's unique collage techniques and combining elements in unique ways
- Carla's methods of loose drawing and watercolor painting
- Taking inspiration from your surroundings
- Mark-making, stamp carving, and creating unique patterns
- Building confidence in your drawing skills (and silencing that pesky inner critic)
- ...and many more!

Nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata Natural Park, your retreat venue is a peaceful oasis surrounded by the region's dramatic natural beauty. With its rustic charm, gardens brimming with native plants, and panoramic views of the rugged terrain, the estate offers endless sources of inspiration. Whether exploring its tranquil pathways or relaxing in the welcoming common areas, you’ll find the perfect setting to immerse yourself in your art and connect with your surroundings.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Almería Airport (LEI) and catch your 3:30 PM transfer to the retreat venue, a short 30-minute journey. Settle into your comfortable room, take some time to relax, and get ready to meet Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair, your instructor for the week, as well as your fellow artists.

Join an orientation tour to explore the bright studio, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and refreshing pool. Over a delightful welcome dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week that’s ahead while savoring local Spanish flavors and a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Begin your day by fueling up with breakfast before the very first class of the retreat.

Head to the studio for an introductory workshop. Get the creative juices flowing with a warm-up exercise, becoming more familiar with your materials. Dive into the start of your first project: a mini travel book. Julie and Carla will demonstrate a couple of playful techniques, such as drawing, collage, and using mixed media. Focus on experimentation and approach your practice with curiosity.

Pause for a wholesome lunch, exchanging ideas before returning to the studio. The afternoon is dedicated to the preparation of the second project, the larger book. Carla and Julie will show you how to prep the pages with paint and collage, helping you plan out your later additions. Throughout the week, you'll work on these projects in tandem.

With the afternoon session behind you, the rest of the day is yours. Unwind by the pool or in the gardens before pre-dinner drinks and round things off with dinner together, swapping first impressions and getting to know your fellow artists a little better.

### Day 3: Art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
Wake up to a delicious breakfast, then prepare for the week's first adventure: an art trip to the wild coastline of Cabo de Gata Natural Park.

Volcanic cliffs meet turquoise water here, offering a unique landscape: big, wild shapes, and sweeping curves of rock and sea. Take some time to snap reference photos or simply take in the beauty of nature, letting the scale of the coastline guide your next brushstrokes. If inspired, make simple, loose sketches, which you'll later use as starting points during your afternoon workshop.

Head to the fishing village of San José for lunch by the water. Linger over the surroundings: the boats in the harbor, the low white buildings, and the particular quality of light along this stretch of coast.

Return to the venue and head to the studio to look over the inspiration you've gathered in Cabo de Gata. With Julie's and Carla's help, you'll choose your favorite subjects and carve them onto stamps. This new tool will help you in an upcoming mark-making exercise. Craft collage pieces using paper items collected at the market, and embellish them with drawings and paint. Try out unique techniques, such as spraying watercolor through lace.

Toward the end of the class, you'll start working on your third travel book. Using your work so far, spend the remainder of the class preparing your pages with shapes and patterns.

Take some time to relax after the class. Join your fellow artists for a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic Spanish wine.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Following a hearty breakfast, prepare yourself for a full day of creative exploration.

You'll spend the whole day at the venue working on your travel books. Work at your own pace, asking Julie and Carla for advice whenever necessary. Let your ideas flow freely and keep filling your book pages with loose drawings, colorful paintings, or even snazzy collage pieces. Carla will also explain the structure of your second travel book in further detail, performing demonstrations along the way.

After a light lunch, the afternoon continues in a similar fashion, giving you ample time to fully immerse yourself in your travel books. Julie will give a demonstration on creating collages, expanding your artistic toolset. Continue adding, deleting, swapping, layering, and pasting elements over the pages of your book. Don't rush the process and trust your intuition. The goal is not the destination, but the colorful journey you'll embark on!

As the class comes to a close, you have the rest of the late afternoon to enjoy as you please. In the evening, join Carla, Julie, and your fellow artists for a wonderful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and a glass of fragrant wine, closing out another rich and creative day.

### Day 5: Art trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment
Begin the day with a filling breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, pack your sketchbook and materials, and set off to explore Almería, where sun-bleached stone and centuries of layered history make for endless visual material.

Spend the early hours wandering the city center, camera or sketchbook in hand, honing your on-location sketching skills. Look closely at the buildings around you: weathered facades, curved doorways, small architectural details, and close-up textures all offer reference material you'll return to later, back in the studio.

Break for a relaxing lunch and drinks at one of the city's charming local spots, and if time allows, create a quick sketch based on the surrounding cityscape. Explore and snap some reference photos of the architecture, as you immerse yourself in this beautiful city.

Continue to the afternoon's main event: a guided visit to the historic La Alcazaba. This fortified citadel is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Europe, housing gorgeous gardens, imposing towers (such as the Tower of Mirrors), and intricate gates, as well as showcasing impressive Moorish architecture.

Wander its carved arches and take in the intricate mosaics, explore the narrow walkways, and take in the simple beauty of its gardens. Capture the atmosphere with reference photos or quick sketches as you go, keeping an eye out for whatever catches your attention.

As evening approaches, make your way back to the venue and take some leisure time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with Carla, Julie, and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic wine. Share reflections and insights about today’s adventure, enjoying an evening full of laughter and lively conversation.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Enjoy an energizing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee before joining the morning class.

Using the fresh inspiration gathered in Almeria, and keep developing your books. Draw, paint, or create colorful collage pieces while reflecting on your experiences. As always, Carla and Julie will be on hand, ready to give you a nudge in the right direction.

After enjoying a bite, you'll spend the afternoon filling in your pages with scenes that inspired you, focusing on the larger book. This casual workshop is a great chance to work leisurely, sharing ideas with your fellow artists.

In the late afternoon, enjoy some spare time to relax and reset, whether that means a swim in the pool or a wander through the gardens and the surrounding nature. When evening comes, indulge in a hearty three-course dinner cooked up by the private chef and paired with a glass of fine local wine.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Kick off the final day of the retreat with a nourishing breakfast before gathering over coffee to discuss plans for wrapping up your creative journey. With inspiration from previous trips and yesterday’s work, the focus shifts to reviewing and refining your travel books.

The morning unfolds in the studio, where you’ll have time to consolidate everything you’ve explored throughout the retreat. Add final touches, refine details, and build layers in your collage pieces. There's no pressure to completely 'finish' your projects; polish as much or as little as you like. The goal is to bring all the techniques you've covered together. Julie will show you how to bind the large travel book towards the end.

This energy continues into the afternoon, with more time to finalize your pieces and prepare for a special event. The retreat ends in style with a mini-exhibition, a book-sharing circle where you'll get to show off your amazing process. Share your travel book pages, gather feedback, and celebrate the diversity of styles and perspectives within the group. Whether showcasing your work or simply admiring others’, it’s a moment to reflect on the progress made and the inspiration gained.

As the celebration comes to an end, take some spare time to freshen up and unwind before dinner. Gather with Carla Sonheim, Julie Liger-Belair, and the group one more time for a three-course farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with fragrant local wine. Raise a glass to the new friendships, creative breakthroughs, and unforgettable memories you have made throughout the retreat!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a light breakfast, bid farewell to Carla and Julie and your fellow artists, and board the 10:00 AM transfer to Almería Airport (LEI). You'll reach your destination at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Carla Sonheim](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/carla-sonheim) — Artist, illustrator, author, designer
- [Julie Liger-Belair](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/julie-liger-belair) — Mixed-media collage artist, educator, creative guide

## Accommodation

### Spanish countryside estate
Your venue for the retreat with artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair is an astonishing countryside estate, located in the south of Spain, in a unique nature reserve named Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This elegantly restored property, a harmonious blend of traditional elements and modern comfort, sits amidst an otherworldly landscape. The natural beauty of the Andalusian panoramas is the estate's most breathtaking feature, with vistas that stretch out from the spacious terraces. You'll be treated to a visual symphony of fiery sunsets descending over rugged cliffs and the untamed wilderness of valleys.

The accommodation itself is a seamless fusion of regional charm and modern elegance, with rooms that blend Andalusian artistry and Balinese tranquility. All the rooms at this venue are designed for single occupancy, each outfitted with orthopedic mattresses, soft cotton linens, 100% cotton American Curl towels, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The single rooms themselves are located in clusters of casitas (small typical Spanish houses), and all feature ensuite bathrooms. Other amenities of the venue include the swimming pool, vast gardens, airy terraces, and well-appointed common spaces.

Your classes with artists Carla and Julie will take place across three dedicated workshop spaces: one spacious 4000 sq. ft. (375 sq. m.) charming tent reconverted into a studio, one intimate 430 sq. ft. (40 sq. m.) indoor workshop space adjacent to the main studio, and another small circular studio indoors.

In your spare time, you can relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy leisurely strolls through the estate’s gardens while socializing with your fellow artists.

Please note that a short 3- to 5-minute walk connects the accommodation areas, the studios, and the main building for meals. The terrain across the property is gently hilly, which may present challenges for those with low and limited mobility.

Furthermore, since the venue is located in the middle of a natural park, you may encounter some insects during your stay. The Finca embraces a design philosophy that harmonizes with its surroundings, and as such, the rooms are not equipped with window screens in order to preserve unobstructed, panoramic views of the landscape.

It is recommended to keep doors and windows closed throughout the day and night to avoid insects entering your room. Rest assured, there are no dangerous insects in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve.

### Hilltop single standard ensuite room
Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated along the peaceful edge of the estate grounds, each room includes a private bathroom and essential amenities, such as a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, toiletries, a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, a smart TV, and an outdoor terrace.

The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Unwind after a day filled with creativity and connection by stepping out onto your charming private terrace. Take a moment to relax and reflect while enjoying the stunning scenery of Gabo de Gata Natural Park.

### Single standard ensuite room
Three standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated closer to the main venue spaces (such as the studios, dining areas, and common lounges), each room features a private bathroom and necessary amenities. The rooms are equipped with toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace.

Enjoy the tranquil scenery outside your quaint private terrace, or take a moment to rest on the comfortable double bed, outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and smooth cotton linens.

### Single superior ensuite room - open terrace
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated near the parking and outside reception, each room features access to a quaint open terrace, perfect for soaking in the tranquil nature of Cabo de Gata Natural Park.

The rooms include necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, Wi-Fi, and a double bed outfitted with smooth cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. The bathroom is equipped with toiletries, bath and hand towels, and a hairdryer.

For one of the rooms, the shower is located within the room, separated by a curtain.

Recharge between workshops and other activities in a space of comfort and peace, with a stunning private terrace in the front. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take some time to reflect and relax.

### Single superior ensuite room - enclosed terrace
Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in close proximity to the studios, each room features access to a secluded, enclosed terrace. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities, such as a private bathroom, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water. The bathroom comes with a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, and toiletries.

Enjoy the privacy of your charming private terrace, situated in the rear, thus creating a peaceful space to relax and reflect. Unwind in-between sessions on the comfortable bed in your room, complete with an orthopedic mattress and delicate cotton linens.

### Single standard suite - open terrace
Two standard suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated in the heart of the estate, each room features a private bathroom and essential amenities, including a kitchenette (complete with a microwave, sink, and kitchen counter equipped with drawers, mugs, cutlery, and small plates), toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a smart TV, a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water, and an idyllic open terrace.

The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi.

Relax in a comfortable and independent space after a full day of creativity and connection. Step outside onto the inviting private terrace, located in the rear, and take a moment to reflect in a peaceful spot or enjoy the gentle breeze and surrounding landscape.

### Single superior suite - enclosed terrace
Two superior suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in the center of the estate grounds, each suite features a stunning enclosed terrace and necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom (providing toiletries, hand and bath towels, and a hairdryer), a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, heating controlled via thermostat, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a double bed complete with delicate cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress.

All rooms also include a kitchenette fully equipped with a microwave, sink, kitchen counter, mugs, cutlery, and small plates.

Unwind after your creative sessions in a calm and inviting environment that blends comfort with independence. Step outside onto the private, secluded terrace, situated at the rear, breathe in the fresh air, and take some time to reflect, or soak in the serene views of the estate and its natural surroundings.

## Food

Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey during artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair's art retreat, right in the heart of Andalusia. Each meal, prepared by a private chef, highlights the rich flavors of the region. Discover the flavor of Iberian meats, delicious seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local orchards and gardens.

Traditional Mediterranean spices bring depth and warmth to every dish, reflecting the vibrant, healthy flavors that make this cuisine so celebrated. Iberian tradition is defined by a dance of spices: saffron's exotic fragrance, parsley's fresh, green zing, and paprika's smoky warmth.

Breakfasts are served buffet-style and include a variety of sweet and savory items. Light lunches consist of a starter (such as seasonal soup) alongside a main course, and dinners include a starter, a hearty main course, and a dessert.

Your retreat includes all meals, and refreshing beverages like water, coffee, and tea are readily available throughout the day. During your trips, lunches are served at some of the best local restaurants in the area, which are renowned for their warm hospitality, delicious local dishes, and pleasant atmosphere. Indulge in exquisitely cooked meals that showcase Spanish regional cuisine, accompanied by fragrant wines.

The exact menu served varies based on the availability of regional ingredients.

## Getting There

The venue for your art retreat with Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair is a sprawling countryside estate, nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in the South of Spain. Just a 30-minute trip brings you to the area’s most iconic beaches, such as Genoveses and Mónsul, both known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and cinematic history. The park is renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, famous for its appearances in movies and TV series such as "Black Mirror", "Game of Thrones" and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”. The uniqueness of the nature reserve also comes from the region’s rich history shaped by numerous cultures, including the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moors.

The Cabo de Gata Natural Park stretches over 38,000 hectares and is celebrated as one of Spain’s most pristine coastal reserves. Its rugged cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, framing stretches of unspoiled beaches, wild coves, and charming fishing villages where time seems to have slowed. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, nurtures an abundance of desert-adapted plants, including wild palms, agave, aloe, and hemp. In the spring, wildflowers bloom all over the land, adding color to the dry ground.

The park is also a haven for wildlife. While kestrels and owls patrol the skies, turtles and lizards bask on warm rocks. In the summer, you can spot flocks of flamingos wading in the salt flats of Las Salinas, where migratory birds find refuge. This diversity of flora and fauna, paired with the park’s striking geology, creates an atmosphere that feels both raw and magical.

**Please arrive at Almería Airport (LEI).**

We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat.

**How to get from Almería Airpor**t **to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to *Almería*, we recommend you fly to Madrid or Barcelona and fly domestically to Almería (local round trips starting from US$89, 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 September 20, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on September 27, 2027, by 10:00 AM. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Arrival transfer:**

**September 20, 2027 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from Almería Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure transfer:**

**September 27, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at *Almería Airport* a little after 10:30 AM)

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

- Spend extra days in *Almería* before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to *Almería Airport*.
- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: La Boca de Los Frailes, 04118 Níjar, Almería, Spain, 80 euros - approximately US$93 per way; please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

**Reviews from past UpTrek retreats with Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair:**

- "Carla and Julie lovely and professional. It was a fabulous gathering, lots of laughs and memories."

- "Carla and Julie are the best! They came prepared with an organized program and provided us with so much - sharing their knowledge, amazing art, ideas, and supplies. They kept us engaged and encouraged! I thoroughly loved the sharing of ideas with everyone. We had an exceptional group that became instant friends as we shared art, stories, and experiences."

- "The art experience was superb learning from Carla is always a delight and the inclusion of Julie only added to the beauty of color and new and different style."

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

- "It was wonderful! I loved the venue and location. It was beautiful and peaceful. Staff were friendly and helpful. The weather was wonderful. Not too hot and there was usually a cool breeze."

- "Wonderful resort, excellent staff, great place to do art!!!! Met 15 new friends and a lovely cat. Food very good!"

- "The venue was perfect, the accommodations very comfortable, the food delicious, and the staff friendly and helpful. Overall, the experience was perfect in every way."

- "The retreat was fantastic. The venue was perfect. The meals were excellent and I appreciated the care that went into making sure that I was able to have really good vegan meals. The side trips were well arranged and Emilio, the tour guide, was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."

- "It was great to have flexibility in the schedule from the venue. The staff were very attentive and responded to all requests. The venue and surrounding areas provided inspiration for creativity. Visiting San Jose was really enjoyable especially the lunch and having the opportunity to go in the sea and do some local shopping."

- "Beautiful spot, wonderful staff, good food, good space for working on our art. I loved my room with its patio overlooking the valley and the sunrises in the morning. Our guide, Emilio, was very knowledgeable and funny with a lot of energy."

- "The venue is very well-chosen. The staff all very helpful and friendly. I loved everything. Thank you so much everyone, also UpTrek for informing us friendly and constantly."

- "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions really added to the experience."

- "My room was beautiful. The pool was fabulous. The food was amazing. Thank you Manuel, Juan, Jorge, and the rest of the team. You made it such a special time for me and the perfect way to celebrate my birthday."

- "This was not my first UpTrek workshop, and the one in Almería, Spain, proved to be just as exceptional as the previous ones. The overall program was, once again, nothing short of fantastic. Thank you, UpTrek, for consistently delivering wonderful experiences."

- "I cannot say enough good things! The staff at the venue were AMAZING-thoughtful and caring. The tour guide, Emilio was so knowledgeable and kind. Our Uptrek advisor, Andra, was on top of things and also so kind. Honestly, it was one of the best trips I've ever taken."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The art retreat is open to artists of all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair, Spain, takes place between September 20 - 27, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive at the retreat venue after 4:00 PM on September 20, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on September 27, 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 all areas.

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

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

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

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat.

For more information, see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/travel-artist-books-retreat-artists-carla-sonheim-julie-liger-belair-spain#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.

**What’s the weather like in Almería, Spain, in late September?**

The weather in Almería, Spain, in late September is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 28°C / 82°F during the day that drop to around 18°C / 64°F at night. The Almería region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year.

**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.

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

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Carla Sonheim and Julie Liger-Belair will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Big metal buckets for sustainable water disposal, professional studio lights, water cups, easels, plein-air chairs, normal chairs, high-speed wireless Internet, paper towels, and tables 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 17 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

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

**Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?**

Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport, in Almería, or in Níjar (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros cash.

**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.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

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 to host people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven terrain across the nature reserve. You will also need to walk between the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the main building where meals are served.

**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/travel-artist-books-retreat-artists-carla-sonheim-julie-liger-belair-spain#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/travel-artist-books-retreat-artists-carla-sonheim-julie-liger-belair-spain
**Last updated:** 2026-10-21