# Watercolor Journey Through the Highlands Retreat with Artist Karen Rice in Ireland

Join artist Karen Rice for an unforgettable watercolor journey set within a heritage Irish manor estate!

Explore the limitless world of watercolor, guided by the expertise and tailored feedback of your instructor. Explore various painting techniques, gain more confidence in your creative choices, and bond with a supportive community of fellow artists. Benefit from Karen's invaluable guidance throughout the process, from the first brushstroke to the final painting.

Stay in a 17th-century Irish manor house set on a 400-acre estate, with the entire property rented solely for this retreat. Surrounded by ancient woodland and private lakes, enjoy nourishing meals prepared by the private chef and experience the beauty of County Monaghan with visits to the shores of Lough Muckno, the grounds of Castle Leslie, and the colorful Georgian streets of Glaslough Village. Along the way, you'll gather inspiration, sketch, and develop a meaningful watercolor collection to take home, along with a kaleidoscope of unforgettable memories!

## Details

- **Dates:** July 8 - 15, 2027
- **Location:** Clones, Ireland
- **Starting Price:** $4,850
- **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, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Karen Rice
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars, and flowers for reference material
3. Exclusive use of the entire historic 400-acre manor estate, including the Manor House, Cottage, Gatelodge, 2,500 sq. ft. studio, private lake, lakeside sauna, gardens, and private grounds
4. 7 nights of accommodation at a historic Irish manor
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegan and gluten-free
7. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
8. Homemade snacks in the afternoon
9. Complimentary water, coffee, and tea available throughout the day
10. Full-day art trip to Glaslough Village and Castle Leslie Estate, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
11. Half-day art trip to Lough Muckno, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
12. Entrance ticket to Castle Leslie Estate
13. Afternoon tea with a tiered display of savory bites and hand-crafted sweets
14. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities
15. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Dublin Airport (DUB) at prearranged times
16. All 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 artist Karen Rice and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Glaslough Village and Castle Leslie Estate
- Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Karen Rice five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Irish Watercolor Art Retreat
Join artist Karen Rice for a life-changing watercolor retreat set in the tranquil Irish countryside. During this weeklong experience, you will learn from your favorite artist through daily classes and extensive demos, receive tailored feedback, and explore the beauty of Ireland through exciting art trips. The retreat welcomes participants of all experience levels.

Discover the wonderful world of watercolors under Karen's expert guidance and create loose, expressive artwork. You'll cover a wide variety of techniques and experiment, discovering your style and unique strengths during your daily classes. Most importantly, you'll bond with a supportive community of fellow artists. By the end of the art retreat, you'll have created a beautiful collection of watercolor paintings that portray Ireland's beautiful surroundings and Highlands.

Beyond the studio, immerse yourself in Ireland's natural beauty, sketching and painting outdoors in picturesque locations. Capture the still waters and wooded islands of Lough Muckno, the grand lakeside grounds of Castle Leslie, and the colorful Georgian streets of Glaslough Village as you develop a deeper connection to your surroundings.

**Some topics covered during your classes with Karen include:**

- Watercolor basics: wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, damp into wet, damp into damp
- Uniform washes
- Lifting off method
- Plastic card technique
- Spattering technique
- Embracing the happy accident
- How to make your paintings look more 3D by using color, tonal values, texture, mark-making, and size
- Capturing great reference photos and transposing them into paintings
- Exploring abstracts, florals, and landscapes
- Discovering your style
- ...and many more.

Your venue for this art retreat is one of Ireland's rare continuously family-held manor estates, with roots reaching back to 1651 and the same family in residence since the 1730s. The entire property is rented solely for this retreat. Located in the peaceful countryside of County Monaghan, the estate spans hundreds of acres of heritage woodland and private lakes, with formal parterre gardens framing the house. Your classes will take place in a spacious art studio, and between painting sessions you can wander the walking trails or unwind in the sauna. Immerse yourself in Irish hospitality with chef-made meals and a traditional afternoon tea event, complete with a tiered display of savory bites and hand-crafted sweets.

### Day 1: Arrival
Land at Dublin Airport Airport (DUB) and hop on the 2:00 PM transfer to the venue. Once there, unpack and unwind in your cozy room. Settle in, then meet artist Karen Rice, your instructor for the week, as well as your art group.

Join a delightful tour of the historic manor, ancient woodlands, and elegant common spaces. As dusk settles, gather with your fellow participants for a delectable welcome dinner, each bite enhanced by a glass of wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee before stepping into the studio for the first time. Discover the day's schedule, then get ready for your first class.

Begin your watercolor exploration by getting familiar with your art materials. Karen will introduce you to a couple of basic techniques, such as wet-on-dry, wet into wet, or damp into damp. Follow along with her demonstrations and practice these essential techniques. After warming up, move on to playing with washes and different effects, like spattering, spritzing, tilting, using plastic cards or salt, and more. Towards the end of the class, practice these techniques with some simple landscape watercolor studies.

Refuel with a satisfying lunch, then return to the studio for your afternoon class. Karen will demonstrate a loose step-by-step Irish landscape for you to paint, encouraging you to use the techniques practiced in the morning's session. She will be available throughout the class for tailored feedback and support if needed.

As the day winds down, take some time to rest and unwind in the late afternoon. Enjoy a tasty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by fragrant wine as you exchange impressions of the first day at the retreat with Karen and your fellow artists.

### Day 3: Art trip to Lough Muckno
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then pack your art supplies and get ready for the first adventure on the retreat: a half-day trip to the stunning Lough Muckno.

Being the largest (and most scenic) lake in Monaghan County, Lough Muckno sits within the old Hope Castle estate grounds, where acres of mature woodland open onto dark, still water dotted with small islands. The views here shift constantly: soft drumlin hills rolling away into the distance, reflections breaking onto the water's surface, or elusive herons scouring the reeds. Spend the morning exploring this natural haven, taking reference photos and quick sketches of scenes that catch your eye.

Return to the venue for a nourishing lunch, then join Karen and your fellow artists in the studio for another afternoon class. Learn how to transform your photos and sketches from the morning's trip into beautiful watercolor paintings. Karen will show you how to choose the perfect layout for your piece and plan a sketch using the photos you took during the trip. Play with the techniques you've learned so far and let your creativity flow.

As the class comes to an end, enjoy some spare time to recharge before dinner. The day ends with a delightful three-course dinner, complemented by a glass of wine. Discuss today's adventure with your fellow artists as night falls.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Start your morning with a refreshing breakfast, then check in with Karen and your fellow artists over coffee before heading into the morning class.

During the morning class, Karen will guide you through the planning and painting of a landscape, focusing on the following elements: size, detail, tone, color, and contrast. Using the surrounding Irish landscape as a source of inspiration, she'll encourage you to experiment with a variety of techniques, such as tilting the paper to experiment with washes and using spattering, salt, and plastic card techniques to enhance depth, details, and texture in your watercolor paintings.

Take a break for lunch and enjoy a refreshing meal, then continue the afternoon with another art session. During this class, you will have the opportunity to practice and refine your watercolor skills and develop your paintings, benefiting from Karen's demonstrations and one-to-one feedback. You will start to gain confidence in watercolor by practicing techniques and washes. You will also learn the importance of tonal values and color mixing to create atmosphere and depth in your paintings.

Take the rest of the late afternoon for yourself, spending it however you'd like. Gather with Karen and your fellow artists for a wholesome three-course dinner paired with a glass of fragrant wine, reflecting on your progress so far and chatting with your fellow artists.

### Day 5: Art trip to Castle Leslie and Glaslough Village
Kick off the day with a satisfying breakfast followed by a coffee check-in to discuss the day ahead. Prepare for an unforgettable full-day trip to Castle Leslie and the nearby Glaslough Village.

The morning begins at Castle Leslie, a historic estate set on 1,000 acres of ancient woodland, rolling lakeside landscapes, and historic gardens, famously the venue for Paul McCartney and Heather Mills' 2002 wedding. Use this time to sketch what inspires you, capture textures and patterns, or take reference photos for later. Make sure to check out Glaslough Lake and the Victorian Walled Garden, where seasonal flowers, heritage plants, and charming architectural details offer no shortage of subjects to work from.

Enjoy lunch on your own at the Castle's restaurant, then prepare for an afternoon of exploration. Visit the nearby Glaslough Village, deemed one of the prettiest villages in Ireland and known for its stunning stone-cut Georgian architecture and colorful streets. Take a leisurely walk through the village, practicing the techniques you have learned so far as you sketch the charming streets and stop wherever inspiration strikes, whether that's a tranquil corner for a coffee or simply a pretty view worth capturing.

As the afternoon ends, return to the venue for some spare time to rest and refresh. The evening features a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then return to the studio and settle in with Karen and your fellow artists as the retreat enters its final stretch.

This morning you will be exploring color mixing and layered washes while shaping compositions that balance harmony with expression. Karen will show you the importance of line and color in your paintings. She will demonstrate a structured process that will help you develop your work with confidence using sketches, reference photos, and your imagination.

After a relaxed lunch, return to the studio for an unhurried afternoon of painting. Continue working on a previous piece or start something new inspired by the trips and landscapes you've encountered throughout the week, pacing your work to the rhythm of the day. Karen will encourage you to continue practicing the basics, such as water control, brush techniques, and color theory, to build on your knowledge and confidence. She will also offer one-on-one support if needed and answer any questions you may have.

As the class comes to an end, take some time to relax before dinner. In the evening, gather for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine. Reflect on the week so far with your fellow artists and soak in the evening's lovely atmosphere.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
The last day of the retreat starts with a filling breakfast and continues with a coffee check-in in the company of Karen and your fellow artists, reflecting on your journey so far.

During the morning class, you will focus on your personal artistic growth. This session is an ideal time to address any lingering questions and gain valuable advice on how to continue your watercolor journey when you return home. Karen will offer guidance on enhancing your paintings, helping you bring them to completion with confidence.

Take a break for lunch and enjoy a delicious meal, then get ready for a special event: a celebratory mini-exhibition, showcasing the work you've created throughout the week. While participation is optional, it's a wonderful opportunity to display your achievements, exchange constructive feedback, and celebrate the progress made during the retreat in a supportive environment.

As the afternoon comes to an end, take some time to recharge before dinner. Gather one final time for a delightful three-course farewell dinner prepared by the private chef. Raise your glass to a week of creative discoveries and new friendships, savoring the warmth of Karen and your fellow creatives, with whom you have forged unforgettable memories.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy breakfast together with Karen and your fellow artists, exchange any last contacts, and catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Dublin Airport (DUB), arriving at the airport at around 11:45 AM.

## Instructors

- [Karen Rice](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/karen-rice) — Watercolor artist and teacher

## Accommodation

### Historic Irish Manor Estate
Set against the emerald backdrop of County Monaghan's rolling drumlins, your venue for the retreat with Karen Rice is one of Ireland's rare continuously family-held manor estates, dating back to the mid-17th century. Established in 1651 and in the same family's hands since the 1730s, this historic Irish manor estate offers an exclusive glimpse into authentic Irish heritage. The entire 400-acre property will be exclusively rented for you and your art group, and is located within a sanctuary of ancient woodlands and sweeping meadows, with towering oaks scattered throughout.

The Manor House serves as the heart of the estate, containing eight beautiful bedrooms and an elegant dining room where group meals are shared. Additional accommodation includes The Cottage, a four-bedroom home a short seven-minute walk from the Manor, and the Gatelodge, a two-bedroom residence ten minutes away on foot. For ease of travel across the 400 acres, a staff-driven golf cart is on hand to transport guests between the Gatelodge and the Manor.

Outdoors, there are walks across the grounds and wild swimming in the freshwater lake. A wood-fired sauna sits on a private pebble beach at the water's edge. Wander through the organic walled gardens or rest beneath the canopy of veteran trees. Classes will take place in a spectacular 2,500 sq ft (230 m²) indoor studio found within the Manor. On the first floor, common areas include the study and the billiard room. The second floor houses most of the other shared spaces, including the dining room, the living room, and the drawing rooms.

The manor retains its historic layout to maximize estate views. The studio is accessed via stairs (located in the central atrium of the Manor, on the first floor). The bedrooms of the Manor are found on the third floor.

Navigating the venue will involve climbing stairs, so it may not suit participants with limited mobility.

Officially accredited as a Wildlife Estate, this 17th-century Irish manor house anchors a 400-acre property where sustainable preservation is a way of life. The farm-to-fork dining ethos draws on produce harvested daily from the 4-acre kitchen garden, and a long-standing commitment to biodiversity shapes how the land is cared for. The entire estate is rented solely for the artist and their guests, offering the genuine, unhurried warmth of traditional Irish hospitality in a setting that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.

### Shared ensuite room (Lodge)
One shared standard room with an ensuite bathroom in The Gatelodge is available for double occupancy, shared between two same-gender participants. Found on the second floor of The Gatelodge (stairs access), this twin room comes with two comfortable single beds. The room benefits from access to a private ensuite bathroom, featuring a spacious shower.

Initially built in 1825, this uniquely designed lodge was restored and renovated for modern comfort. Situated atop a small hill (stairs access), it overlooks one of the entrances of the estate, the surrounding countryside, and the nearby forest. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan kitchen, a cozy living room with a wood-burning stove, and a private wild garden.

### Shared standard ensuite room (Cottage)
You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. There are two shared standard rooms located on the first floor of the Cottage. Each room will be outfitted with twin beds and has access to a private, ensuite shower bathroom.

The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table.

### Shared superior room - private adjacent bathroom (Manor) (female only)
You will share this room and its private, adjacent bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The room is located on the third floor of the Manor (stairway access) and will be outfitted with twin beds.

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The adjacent bathroom (located on the hallway, right next to the room) features a free-standing tub and a shower. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

### Single ensuite room (Lodge)
One single ensuite room located in the Gatelodge is available for single occupancy. Found on the second floor (stairs access), the room contains a comfortable double bed. You'll have access to a private ensuite bathroom, featuring a spacious shower.

Initially built in 1825, this uniquely designed lodge was restored and renovated for modern comfort. Situated atop a small hill (stairs access), it overlooks one of the entrances of the estate, the surrounding countryside, and the nearby forest. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan kitchen, a cozy living room with a wood-burning stove, and a private garden.

### Single room - private adjacent bathroom (Cottage)
One single ensuite room located in the Cottage is available for single occupancy. Found on the first floor, the room contains a comfortable double bed. You'll have access to a private, adjacent bathroom (located across the hallway), featuring a tub and an overhead shower.

The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table.

### Single standard ensuite room (Cottage)
One single standard ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room is located on the first floor of the Cottage and contains a small double bed. You will have access to a private, ensuite shower bathroom.

The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table.

### Single standard room - shared bathroom (Manor)
You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. This single-occupancy room shares a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site.

Equipped with a comfortable double bed, the room is located on the third floor of the Manor (stairway access). There is a separate sink within the room as well.

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

### Single superior room - shared bathroom (Manor)
You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. This single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site.

The superior single room is larger than the standard and features an antique half-tester bed. Located on the third floor of the Manor, the room has gorgeous views over the surrounding estate. The room also contains several separate seating areas.

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

### Single standard ensuite room (Manor)
One single ensuite room located in the Manor is available for single occupancy. The room is located on the third floor of the Manor (stairway access) and will be outfitted with a double bed. The ensuite bathroom (with a shower) is accessible by climbing a 5-step stairway.

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

### Single superior ensuite room (Manor)
Two single superior rooms located within the Manor are available for single occupancy. Found on the third floor, the rooms include a comfortable double bed. You'll have access to a private, ensuite bathroom (tub).

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

### Deluxe ensuite room (Manor)
One single deluxe room located within the Manor is available for single occupancy. Found on the third floor, the room is equipped with a king bed (half-tester). You'll have access to a private, ensuite bathroom (tub with shower attachment).

More spacious than the single superior ensuites, the deluxe room also includes a separate seating area, as well as an antique chaise longue.

All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room).

## Food

During your art retreat, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The curated menu combines traditional Irish dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks.

Start each day with a choice of hot dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttery pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like savory tarts served with garden greens, hearty seasonal salads with crusty bread, or homemade soup accompanied by traditional soda bread.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, with selections such as locally sourced fish with seasonal veggies, roasted vegetable dishes served with steaming grains, or flavorful meat dishes with flatbreads. Conclude on a sweet note with desserts like citrus pots with homemade shortbread, warm chocolate treats with vanilla ice cream, garden fruit crumble with fresh custard, or a selection of homemade sorbets.

Experience authentic Irish hospitality with three-course welcome and farewell dinners, paired with flavorful wine. Throughout the retreat, enjoy fresh power juices during morning art classes. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water will be readily available all day. Treat yourself to a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up.

All meals are included except for one lunch during the full-day trip to Glaslough Village and Castle Leslie Estate. The exact menu served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients. For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below.

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

The venue for your retreat with Karen Rice is a majestic 17th-century heritage Irish manor estate, hidden away in the rolling drumlins of County Monaghan, Ireland. This "undiscovered" region is a landscape of ancient secrets and artistic legacy, just minutes from the historic town of Clones, famous for its intricate lace-making tradition and monastic ruins, including a well-preserved 10th-century Round Tower. The area is steeped in a rich literary history, serving as the muse for the poet Patrick Kavanagh, whose verses immortalized these very stony grey soils and mist-covered hills.

The manor estate itself is a fully enclosed, 400-acre sanctuary, celebrated as one of Ireland’s most romantic and secluded domains. Its grounds are a living tapestry of heritage woodlands, sweeping meadows, and grounds that have been cultivated by the same family for three centuries. Majestic oaks and towering beech trees form cathedral-like canopies over the walking paths, while the estate’s two private freshwater lakes offer a mirror-like stillness perfect for wild swimming or relaxation. As you sketch by the water’s edge, you might spot kingfishers flashing blue across the surface or red squirrels darting through the canopy.

**To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Dublin Airport (DUB).** We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel. It is best to arrive in Ireland a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.

Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

**How to get from Dublin to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Dublin Airport (DUB) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on July 8, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on July 15, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Arrival transfer:**

**July 8, 2027** — 2:00 PM (leaving from Dublin Airport DUB, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 3:45 PM)

**Departure transfer:**

**July 15, 2027** — 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Dublin Airport DUB at approximately 11:45 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 Dublin before or after the retreat and catch the transfer shuttles to/from Dublin Airport (DUB).
- Land in Dublin and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Hilton Park, Clones, Co. Monaghan, Ireland; approximate cost: €200 EUR). Taxi fares may vary.

## Reviews

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Karen Rice:**

- "This retreat was the most amazing art experience I have ever had. I have followed Karen’s tutorial online and was so excited to actually do the workshop with her."

- "Everything about this retreat was perfect. Karen’s teaching is amazing. I have followed her tutorials since Covid began and loved having face-to-face time with her. We all want Karen to do another retreat next year."

- "Well planned and executed. Everyone helped/supported/encouraged everyone else."

- "From the arrival to departure my needs were met and my learning was vast. I have to mention the fun had by me and the relationships we made. I would go to this retreat again in a heartbeat! Karen made our time there worth every moment. The painting and support was beyond expectations!"

- "Perfect. Great food, fab hosts, great learning opportunities in an ideal location. Instructions by Karen were super as usual."

- "Karen is an excellent instructor and incredibly personable. And the venue exceeded my expectations. From the quietude and beauty of the property to the wonderful meals, everything was wonderful. The hosts have my highest recommendation -- and Karen as a teacher! (And my thanks to \*you\*, Ana (Uptrek), for so seamlessly facilitating all the details. I felt very comfortable going into the trip because of all the prep beforehand.)"

- "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions added to the experience and of course, Karen is a wonderful & fun teacher! Kudos for organizing!"

- "I loved the experience of an entire week of painting with Karen Rice. I learned so much - not only about painting, but of myself as an artist. Karen was very easy to talk to and she filled the week with instruction that focused on techniques as well as how to paint from our own photos. I also loved painting and sharing with other artists. I'm looking forward to the next retreat!"

- "Karen is a wonderful teacher and made the experience better than I had anticipated. The side trips were well arranged and the tour guide was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat with artist Karen Rice is open to all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Karen Rice in Clones, Ireland, takes place between July 8 - 15, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on July 8, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the retreat, July 15, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Is Wi-Fi available?**

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available in the main reception space, dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms.

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

Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are catered for. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Please note, however, that we cannot accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies.

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

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Dublin Airport (DUB) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Ireland a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-journey-through-the-highlands-retreat-artist-karen-rice-ireland#location).

**What’s the weather like in Clones, Ireland, in July?**

The weather in Clones, Ireland, in late July is generally sunny and pleasant, though often changeable. You can expect average highs of 18°C / 64°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°F at night. Clones enjoys long daylight hours (approx. 16 hours) and lush green landscapes during this season; the temperatures are comfortable for exploring the estate without being too hot or too cold.

**What should I pack?**

Please pack clothing suitable for layering (t-shirts, sweaters, and a rain jacket), as the weather can change quickly. We recommend sturdy walking shoes or boots for exploring the estate grounds, a swimsuit, sunscreen and sunglasses, insect repellent, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

**Can I do laundry while on the retreat?**

Yes, laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue. Washing machines, dryers, and laundry detergent are provided in all properties. Irons and ironing boards are also available for guest use.

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

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

Tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars, and flowers for reference material are included and will be available at the retreat 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.

**Is the sauna free to use?**

Yes. The sauna is available daily from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The sauna takes approximately 45 minutes to heat up, so please plan accordingly within these times (though times can be flexible upon request). It can accommodate up to 8 guests at once.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the EU may enter Ireland for tourist purposes without a visa. If your flight connects through the UK (e.g., London Heathrow), you generally do not need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if your layover is under 24 hours and you do not pass through border control. However, we strongly recommend confirming your specific transit requirements [here](https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control/layovers-and-transiting). **Please contact us for further guidance.**

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

The currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted throughout Ireland, including in local towns like Clones, and for most services at the venue. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in Ireland.

However, we recommend carrying some cash for smaller local pubs, taxis, or small purchases in rural shops. ATMs are available in Clones town and at the airport. Tipping is customary in Ireland.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.

**Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?**

Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven streets. Getting around the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the relaxation areas requires a short walk and climbing stairs.

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

The retreat is available in English.

**What happens if I need to cancel?**

Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy)

**Do I need travel insurance?**

Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.

For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip)

Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.

We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.

**Do I have to pay a deposit?**

No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.

**Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?**

UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

**Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?**

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-journey-through-the-highlands-retreat-artist-karen-rice-ireland#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/watercolor-journey-through-the-highlands-retreat-artist-karen-rice-ireland
**Last updated:** 2026-08-03