# Watercolor Discoveries Art Retreat with Artist Nicki Traikos in Italy

Join artist Nicki Traikos for an inspiring art retreat set in the rolling hills and historic villages of Tuscany. Explore the endless possibilities of watercolor painting as you capture the region’s lush botanicals, picturesque landscapes, and charming village scenes. Each day includes personal feedback and direction at the end of studio time, offering one-on-one feedback and support from Nicki.Artists of all experience levels will thrive with Nicki’s personalized instruction. Discover essential watercolor techniques like brush control, water-to-paint ratio, and dynamic brush movements. Explore color palette studies inspired by the Italian landscape and botanicals. Learn how to paint loose botanicals drawn from the surrounding flora and fauna. Practice creating contour sketches and working from still-life references to build sketching confidence and support your watercolor practice. Develop landscape studies and compositions while learning how to create depth and movement across a range of painting projects, including botanicals, landscapes, and still life.Stay at a historic vineyard estate surrounded by sprawling gardens, featuring a private pool, daily chef-prepared meals, and the companionship of 15 fellow artists. Return home with a beautiful collection of paintings and cherished memories from your time spent creating art in the heart of Tuscany.

## Details

- **Dates:** May 4 - 11, 2026
- **Location:** Certaldo, Florence, Italy 
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Nicki Traikos7 nights of accommodation at a historical Tuscan estateExclusive use of the Fienile Fornace and Casale Fornace villas with their living quarters and common areas, a swimming pool, and beautiful Italian gardensMeals: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefSnacks including fruit, biscuits, coffee, tea, and filtered water available throughout the daySpecial three-course welcome and farewell dinnersA special traditional oven-made pizza partyAn exclusive wine-tasting experience in the Holmo gardenItalian wine served with dinner every dayArt trip to the Chianti Classico regionArt trip to San GimignanoPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesExperienced UpTrek retreat host available throughout the dayRound-trip transfers from/to Florence Airport (FLR)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Nicki Traikos and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt supplies - a detailed list of art materials recommended by Nicki Traikos will be provided five months before the retreatTwo lunches during the art tripsTips for staffExtra costs guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Watercolor Discoveries Art Retreat
Join artist Nicki Traikos for a transformative art retreat set amid the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany. Explore vibrant botanicals, lush countryside views, and charming village scenes through expressive watercolor painting. Under Nicki’s expert guidance, you'll dive into her distinctive artistic methods, sparking fresh ideas and reshaping your creative process. With her careful instruction, you'll quiet your inner critic and confidently experiment with new techniques. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this retreat offers something valuable for everyone. By the week's end, you'll have created a finished watercolor painting and filled your book with inspired studies, memories, and impressions of Tuscany.Daily classes include detailed demonstrations, interactive practice sessions, creative challenges, and personalized one-on-one support. Begin by revisiting essential watercolor fundamentals such as brush control, water-to-paint ratio, and dynamic brushwork. Explore themes including botanical studies and Tuscan landscapes, with color palette exercises drawn from the region’s natural beauty. Practice loose botanical painting inspired by local flora and fauna, and develop contour sketching skills using still-life references to strengthen your watercolor foundation.You will receive a dedicated book to work in throughout the retreat. At the end of each studio day, Nicki will offer individual feedback and direction to help you grow your skills and develop your personal style.The topics covered during your lessons will include:Watercolor fundamentals, including brush control and water-to-paint ratioBuilding custom color palettes inspired by the Tuscan landscape and botanicalsPainting loose, expressive botanicals drawn from local floraCreating contour sketches and using still-life references with confidenceStudying landscape composition, perspective, and structureDeveloping depth, light, and movement across a range of subjectsStrengthening your painting practice through guided feedback and supportWorking across a variety of projects, from small studies to finished pieces...and many more!Beyond the classroom, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the stunning Tuscan landscape, relax, and connect with 15 other like-minded artists over a glass of wine. You'll stay in a beautiful historic venue nestled in the Tuscan hills and enjoy art trips to explore the region’s hidden treasures: a journey along the scenic Chianti Classico trail and a visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Florence Airport for your 3:00 PM transfer and set off on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Tuscan countryside to your retreat venue—a historic estate surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. After settling into your room, join an orientation tour of the property, where you’ll explore its serene gardens, inviting common spaces, and stunning landscapes that will serve as inspiration throughout your artistic journey.As the evening unfolds, gather in the Holmo Garden for a wine-tasting session with Nicki Traikos and your fellow artists. Savor fine Italian wines while engaging in conversation about art, technique, and the creative process. The night continues with a welcome three-course dinner, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and look forward to the days of artistic exploration ahead.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
As morning light spills softly over the Tuscan hills, join Nicki and your fellow artists for coffee and a chat about the day's plans.Nicki will begin by outlining the course structure, discussing the topics you'll cover and techniques you'll learn. You’ll be working in a beautiful book provided by Nicki, which you’ll use throughout the retreat to explore a wide variety of painting projects, from expressive botanicals to Tuscan landscapes and still-life studies.Pause for a leisurely, light lunch before diving into the afternoon class. Nicki will offer a refresher on watercolor basics, ensuring you have a solid foundation. Gain confidence in mastering the right balance between water and pigment, applying values, refining brush control, and experimenting with color mixing. You’ll begin a series of short color palette studies drawn from the local flora and surrounding views, using the Italian landscape and native plant life as your starting point.Then, put your skills into action by painting loose, expressive botanicals inspired by the lush gardens around you. You’ll also work on contour sketching exercises and explore how to use simple still-life references to build confidence and structure in your work. As the day progresses, you'll begin to build depth and movement in your pieces through a range of approaches, from quick studies to more developed compositions.The day concludes gently with a chef-prepared dinner and relaxed conversation accompanied by local wine.

### Day 3: Trip to San Gimignano
Begin your day with a filling breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, preparing for another creative day in the heart of Tuscany.In the morning, head out to San Gimignano, a town seemingly untouched by time, with its medieval towers rising dramatically against the Tuscan sky. Known as the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages," this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers plenty of inspiration around every corner. Wander cobblestone streets lined with stone buildings, explore bustling piazzas filled with local artisans, or stroll out to the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the rolling countryside. Sketch as you go or gather impressions for use in upcoming landscape studies and composition work back at the studio.Enjoy lunch on your own at a local trattoria, savoring regional dishes or sampling San Gimignano’s renowned gelato. Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure, sketching quiet corners of the town, or simply soaking up the relaxed Tuscan atmosphere.End the day back at the venue, unwinding with a leisurely dinner and glass of wine while sharing sketches and reflections with the group.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, gathering with Nicki and your fellow artists for a relaxed morning check-in.Today's focus is on capturing graceful botanicals in watercolor. Nicki will guide you through assembling and developing loose floral compositions inspired by the surrounding gardens. Begin with contour drawing exercises and still-life studies to build confidence and precision in your sketches. Then move into painting, exploring expressive brushwork, water-to-paint ratio, and color palette studies using the local flora and the broader Tuscan landscape as your visual foundation. Along the way, you’ll practice techniques for creating depth and movement in your work, building on your individual style.Pause midday for a delicious lunch and lively conversation about your artistic progress. In the afternoon, continue building on your earlier studies by translating smaller compositions into more detailed paintings, refining form, color, and structure. If your focus leans toward landscape or architectural elements observed earlier in the week, Nicki will support integrating those into your current work as well. Whether working indoors or surrounded by native plants in the garden, the emphasis stays on watercolor’s fluid qualities and personal expression.The day wraps up with a leisurely dinner and a glass of local wine, perfect for reflecting on your creative achievements and preparing for what’s next.

### Day 5: Trip to Chianti Classico
Fuel up for the day's adventures with a nourishing breakfast and steaming cup of coffee, then venture out into the picturesque landscapes of Chianti Classico, one of Tuscany’s most captivating regions.Your first stop is the charming town of Castellina, where history meets cozy cafés and inviting shops. Stroll leisurely through its winding streets, absorbing the rich textures and colors that can inspire future landscape studies and color palette exploration.Next, make your way to Radda in Chianti, an ancient village known for its medieval atmosphere. Wander around the lovely piazza, peek into intriguing alleyways, and take your time to enjoy lunch at one of the welcoming local spots.Later in the day, arrive at Panzano, a tranquil village nestled between Florence and Siena. Embrace the slower pace here by sketching the daily scenes unfolding around you, capturing expansive vineyard vistas, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.Return to the venue as evening settles in, concluding your day with a leisurely dinner and a glass of local wine.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
Kick off the day with a satisfying breakfast and a relaxed coffee chat with Nicki and your fellow artists before diving into your creative practice.Today’s focus centers on deepening your painting practice through landscape composition and expressive brushwork. Using earlier sketches and inspiration from the Tuscan setting, begin the morning with thumbnail studies and color palette exercises drawn from the surrounding hills and village scenes. Nicki will guide you through ways to structure your compositions, adjust values, and apply techniques that add depth and movement to your work.After enjoying lunch, return to the studio to continue your artistic work. Spend the afternoon adding final touches to your favorite pieces, choosing a theme that resonates deeply, such as botanicals, rolling hills, or Tuscan village views. Nicki will be available for personalized feedback, ensuring your work captures your vision. Throughout the day, Nicki will offer individual feedback and support to help refine your approach. Whether you focus on finishing works in progress or begin something new, the emphasis remains on practicing technique and growing your skills through guided instruction.As the afternoon fades, unwind with a stroll through the gardens, a refreshing dip in the pool, or continue painting if inspiration still flows. Wrap up the day with a relaxed dinner prepared by the chef, accompanied by a glass of local wine.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Ease into the final day of your retreat with a relaxed breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee.During the morning class, focus on refining and completing your paintings. Feel free to ask Nicki any lingering questions about challenging techniques, ideas for continuing your artistic growth at home, or ways to build a consistent painting routine.Enjoy lunch together before joining Nicki for an informal Q&A centered on your creative process and next steps as an artist. The day wraps up with a mini-exhibition, where Nicki provides personalized feedback, highlighting ways to further develop your artistic skills and vision. Reflect on your progress and enjoy insights from fellow artists.As evening arrives, gather for a farewell dinner paired with a glass of local wine, reminiscing about your time spent painting and connecting with others. Take pride in your collection of sketches, paintings, and experiences captured across Tuscany, ready to inspire future creations.

### Day 8: Departure
After a delightful breakfast with Nicki and the art group, it’s time to say your goodbyes and exchange any last-minute contact details. Prepare for your transfer to Florence Airport, with check-out scheduled for 10:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Nicki Traikos](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/nicki-traikos) — Artist and Creative Instructor

## Accommodation

### Historical Tuscan Estate
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of a historic estate nestled in the heart of Tuscany, just a short distance from Florence. This 395-acre self-sustaining property perfectly marries traditional charm with modern comforts. Two beautifully restored villas, Casale Fornace and Fienile Fornace, will be exclusively booked for you and your art group. The villas feature vaulted ceilings, terracotta floors, and a welcoming fireplace in the common area. The stylish bedrooms are adorned with Tuscan marble and wooden accents. These adjacent villas offer convenient access to a private pool.Art classes can be enjoyed outdoors in the estate's picturesque gardens or the nearby countryside. Indoors, sessions are held in the meeting rooms of the main villa, just a 4-minute walk from Casale Fornace and Fienile Fornace (approximately 250 meters or 800 feet). The estate also boasts an outdoor pool, panoramic gardens, and spacious terraces ideal for al fresco dining. The property produces its own wine, olive oil, and truffles from its expansive woodland.With a history that traces back to Roman and medieval times, the estate seamlessly blends Italian heritage with contemporary comforts. The stunning views of the Val d'Elsa Valley provide a captivating backdrop for your art retreat.Please note that the venue may not be suitable for participants with limited mobility, as some rooms are accessible only by stairs, and getting to the studio and accommodations requires a short walk uphill across cobbled paths. Additionally, being in the Italian countryside, you may encounter some insects during your stay. To preserve the historical character of the villas, the rooms are not equipped with window screens.

### Shared standard ensuite room (female only)
You will share the standard ensuite room and its bathroom with another same-gender guest. The three shared standard ensuite rooms are located in Fienile Fornace, on the first and second floors. They feature twin beds and ensuite bathrooms. The rooms offer shared access to a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a dishwasher. Outdoors, there is a swimming pool, a barbecue, and a patio.

### Shared superior ensuite room
You will share the superior ensuite room and its bathroom with another same-gender guest. The shared superior ensuite rooms are part of two beautiful apartments in Casale Fornace. The rooms have twin beds and ensuite bathrooms. They offer access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a rustic fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a patio with chairs and a table overlooking the beautiful Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided.

### Shared bathroom - single room (female only)
You will share the bathroom with one other same-gender retreat participant, but you will have this single room to yourself. The four single rooms with shared bathrooms are located in the spacious apartments of Casale Fornace, on the first and second floors. Each of the rooms is equipped with a comfortable double bed and shares a large, modern bathroom with one other single-occupancy room, meaning that two same-gender guests will share an on-site bathroom. The rooms also offer access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a beautiful fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a private patio with chairs and a table overlooking the enchanting Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided.

### Single superior ensuite room
Three single superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in beautiful apartments in Casale Fornace on the second floor. Each of the rooms is equipped with a comfortable double bed and has an ensuite bathroom. They also offer access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a beautiful fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a patio with chairs and a table overlooking the beautiful Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided.

## Food

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, expertly crafted by the venue’s chef. Each meal is a celebration of local ingredients, including olive oil and wines produced on the estate. The chef, renowned both in Italy and internationally, infuses every dish with creativity and a deep respect for the region's culinary traditions.You'll enjoy meals that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, all while staying true to the rustic, homemade essence of Italian cooking. All meals are included, except for two lunches during day trips to San Gimignano and Chianti Classico. Snacks are available in the garden or the cozy fireplace room. Lunch can be enjoyed in the garden, by the pool, or at the bar, while dinner will be served either in the garden or the fireplace room.The retreat includes 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners. Lunches during the art trips are not included.The retreat also includes a wine-tasting session, a traditional pizza party, and special welcome and farewell dinners featuring multiple courses and exquisite wines.Please notify us of any dietary requirements at least one month before the retreat. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. We are also unable to cater to dietary requests made less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the event, or accommodate last-minute changes.Read more about the food options below.

## Getting There

The art retreat with Nicki Traikos will take place at a historic estate nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, where peace and tradition blend seamlessly. This stunning region is famed for its rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, and its charming medieval towns along the renowned Chianti Classico trail. The medieval village of Certaldo, famous as the birthplace of Boccaccio, is just 6 miles (10 km) from the estate. The romantic city of Florence, your pick-up and drop-off point, is also nearby, only an hour’s drive away (28 miles or 45 km).Check-in at the retreat begins at 4:00 PM on May 4, 2026, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on May 11, 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: May 4, 2026 ⁠— 3:00 PM (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)Departure transfer: May 11, 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: Tenuta di Sticciano, Via di Sticciano, 207, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy, approximately 200 EUR per way from Florence Airport. Please note that taxi fares may change.)

## Reviews

Reviews from the past UpTrek retreat with Nicki Traikos:"There are not enough words to describe this retreat. Nicki clearly put her heart and soul into this. The instruction was outstanding. She was there for us, making this a very personal experience for each artist. The planning and organization were so smooth, and inspiring, allowing for the creative energy to be exciting and expressed throughout. She brought together a group of like minded, passionate, non - judgmental supportive ladies. More than 10 stars for Nicki, as this experience will be a highlight always.""I loved every moment of this experience. Nicki was an excellent teacher and accommodated everyone’s needs.""Nicki created a very creative teaching environment and was always so helpful individually and as a group. The group was an interesting collection of creative ladies, all with different levels of painting experience. We learned from each other. Great experience overall!!""I had a wonderful time on the retreat. Communication from Uptrek was great, the food was awesome, gorgeous lodgings, and the most fantastic teacher! I would definitely do it again."Reviews of the venue:"Absolutely beautiful venue. Staff were very cordial and welcoming.""The venue was wonderful, accommodations were very comfortable and attractive, the staff was top notch…the villages we went to were charming, just the right amount of time, the guide was great, and the landscape was breathtaking! The overall agenda was well put together…loved the night of the aperitifs and music! (The climb to the top of the hill to the main villa was a little challenging for me, I must admit.) A great group of people…it was fun to mingle with an entire group of artists and compare notes. A beautiful relaxing environment, the service was outstanding, the food was delicious, well-presented, and very enjoyable…loved trying a lot of new things. I thought Ana from Uptrek was great and very helpful. She was always kind and quickly walked me through any questions I had prior to the trip."By the end of the week, I had mastered the daily hill climb up to the classroom area without being nearly as short of breath - that was a good exercise for me. The itinerary was great, and the tours to San Gimignano and Chianti were wonderful. Lucas, the tour guide, was an amazing historian, so use him when you can! And Patrick, the singing bus driver! The staff were most gracious and attentive. They even printed up copies of my reference photos so I didn’t have to wear down my cell phone battery. Kudos to all of them!""All of the staff was excellent, very accommodating. I loved the food and the wine, it was truly amazing. I loved the breakfast especially, I’m not used to having that kind of variety, lunch and dinner were equally wonderful.""The venue was just lovely! Beautiful and great inspiration to paint!""The venue was gorgeous and very accommodating.""This was an incredible retreat. Just unbelievable. The venue and accommodations were spectacular and the food was out of this world. Who knew I loved wild boar so much? The staff were accommodating and fun to be around, and I would pick up a little Italian as I got my morning cappuccino (also the best I've ever enjoyed)."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this art retreat available to all levels? The art retreat with Nicki Traikos is open to all levels of experience.When is the painting retreat available?The art retreat with artist Nicki Traikos in Italy takes place between May 4 - 11, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on May 4, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day, May 11, 2026.Is Wi-Fi available?Wi-Fi is available in the dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art 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 good 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.What art supplies do I need for the workshop?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Nicki Traikos will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. What’s the weather like in Certaldo, Italy, in May?In May, the weather in Certaldo, the closest town to the retreat venue, is pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 24°C / 75°F during the day that drop to around 14°C / 57°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 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 painting 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 art 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 art studio is located a 4-minute walk away from the accommodation spaces, and the art 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 artist 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/watercolor-discoveries-art-retreat-artist-nicki-traikos-italy#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:** 2026-04-22