# Watercolor Serenity Retreat with Artist Emma Lefebvre in Portugal

Join watercolor artist Emma Lefebvre for a week of mindful painting set along the sun-drenched coast of southern Portugal, where deep-blue waters, rugged cliffs, and vibrant coastal landscapes inspire creativity at every turn. Work alongside Emma to dive into color theory, composition, and expressive watercolor approaches. She offers personalized feedback, supportive mentorship, and group discussions that foster reflection and creative development.

Throughout the week, take a half-day trip aboard a traditional Portuguese sailing boat through the legendary Grottoes of the Algarve, gliding past golden sea caves and sculpted cliffs. Later in the retreat, wander the historic seaside town of Lagos on another half-day trip, sketching and painting on location while soaking in the colorful streets and laid-back Algarvian atmosphere.

Your retreat unfolds at a private quinta perched on a sunlit hilltop above Lagos, where a Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio with floor-to-ceiling windows opens onto an Italian-inspired botanical garden with over 1,500 plant species. Enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine bursting with flavor, and make unforgettable memories with a like-minded group of artists.

## Details

- **Dates:** September 17 - 24, 2027
- **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,950
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 16 students
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

**What's included**

1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Emma Lefebvre
2. Beautiful Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, professional studio lights, water cups, and fresh flowers as reference material
3. 7 nights of accommodation at a stunning Portuguese Quinta
4. Exclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, Shala art studio, 2.5 acres of botanical gardens, terraces, swimming pool, hot tub, massage cabin, sauna, and common areas
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Delicious local wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
8. Snacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the day
9. Half-day boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve on a traditional Portuguese sailing boat
10. Half-day art trip to the Lagos historic town, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
11. Walking tour with time for shopping and a visit to the beach during the trip to Lagos
12. Private transportation and chaperone or guide for all planned trips and activities
13. Round-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times
14. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
15. Fully staffed venue, with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on-location
16. All local tourist taxes and fees
17. Access to a private Facebook group with Emma Lefebvre 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 artist Emma Lefebvre will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Portugal
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Watercolor Serenity Retreat
Join watercolor artist Emma Lefebvre for a week of mindful creative exploration on the warm, golden coast of Portugal's Algarve region, where the deep-blue ocean, rugged cliffs, and vibrant coastal seascapes provide a stunning backdrop for creativity. Emma's gentle approach to teaching will lead you through painting florals, landscapes, and scenes captured straight from life. Through her clear demonstrations, you'll discover how to mix colors intuitively, work with watercolor confidently, and produce paintings that express your own personal response to Portugal's serene landscapes.

Each day brings the chance to join warm group discussions that invite reflection and inspire new ideas. With Emma's attentive guidance, you'll get thoughtful, personalized feedback that supports your progress at your pace. Over the course of the week, you'll also venture out on two unforgettable half-day trips exploring the Algarve coast. Board a traditional Portuguese sailing boat and glide through the famous Grottoes of the Algarve, where towering golden cliffs meet turquoise water and hidden sea caves open up around every bend. Later in the retreat, wander the colorful streets of Lagos on a half-day walking trip, with time for loose sketching on location, browsing local shops, finding a sun-warmed spot on one of the town's stunning beaches, or pausing for a delicious coffee by the marina. These trips offer countless sources of inspiration, complementing your art classes at the venue and providing ideas for your artworks.

This retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with watercolor and Emma Lefebvre's work and style of teaching. By the end of the retreat, you’ll have a heartfelt collection of watercolor pieces that reflect your mindful experiences, as well as a deeper sense of how to continue this calm, intentional approach to painting once you return home.

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

- Painting what you see with greater clarity
- Mindfulness techniques in art
- Depicting botanicals with care and creativity
- Building confidence in your artistic choices
- Watercolor fundamentals
- Water control, mixing colors, brush strokes, and mark-making
- On-location sketching
- Developing strong compositions
- Capturing architectural details with expression
- Focusing on smaller details in your work
- ...and many more!

Your home for the week will be a charming Portuguese villa, nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, offering elegant accommodation, lush gardens, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, and sweeping views of Lagos and the endless ocean. Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals featuring regional Portuguese cuisine and connect with a group of 15 other like-minded creatives!

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat. Once there, settle into your comfortable room, take a moment to unwind, and meet your instructor for the week, artist Emma Lefebvre.

Settle into your comfortable room, and take a moment to unwind. Later in the afternoon, join Emma and the group for an orientation tour of the grounds. Wander through the beautiful gardens, visit the light-filled art studio, stroll along the shaded terraces, and take in the calm atmosphere around the pool. As the sun begins to set, gather for a relaxed dinner prepared by the chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast and a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee as you join Emma and the venue hosts for a quick morning check-in. Connect with your fellow artists and get into the day's rhythm before your first creative session.

Step into the sunlit studio, where the beauty of the Portuguese villa and the serenity of the gardens around it set the scene for a peaceful creative retreat. With Emma guiding you, settle into the fundamentals of watercolor: loading your brush with intention, learning how water moves across cold-pressed paper, building smooth gradients, and trying out rich washes that echo the changing colors overhead. Discover how pigments blend together, how to steer clear of muddy mixes, and how to build a balanced palette drawn from the soft tones of the landscape. Take your time and let your creativity lead the way as you immerse yourself in the process.

Once you've enjoyed a nourishing lunch made by the venue's chef, head back to the studio, looking forward to tomorrow's boat ride through the Grottoes of Algarve. The afternoon flows naturally into landscape-themed studies. Surrounded by vases of fresh greenery, heather, and seasonal flowers, Emma will walk you through loose, expressive watercolor interpretations. The focus here is on color relationships, confident brushwork, and trusting your instincts as you bring the textures and mood of your surroundings to life on paper.

As the day softens into the evening and golden light settles across the estate, gather with Emma and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local Portuguese wine, a warm end to a full day of creative exploration.

### Day 3: Boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve
Fuel up with a filling breakfast, then head out with Emma and your fellow artists for a half-day trip along the coast of Lagos. Board a traditional Portuguese sailing boat at the marina and glide across the rolling waves of the Atlantic, passing hidden grottoes, secret beaches, striking rock formations, and golden cliffs sculpted by the sea.

Keep your sketchbook and your camera close as the light shifts across the cliffs, paying attention to whatever catches your eye, because the best watercolor pieces often start with a single image that refuses to leave. If the weather is favorable, take a refreshing dip in the inviting sea.

Return to the venue for a relaxed lunch, then move into the afternoon with another art session. Once back in the studio, go through the reference photos and sketches you collected earlier and use them as the spark for a new round of creative exploration. Emma will be available for optional one-on-one guidance, supporting you in simplifying your compositions, selecting harmonious color combinations, and keeping a sense of motion and feeling in your brushwork. Let the mood of the place guide you rather than focusing on exact detail, capturing the serenity of your surroundings and the soft light.

As the day winds down, sit down to a wholesome three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with fragrant wine, sharing stories from the morning's adventure with your fellow artists over delicious food and lively conversation.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Kick off the day with a relaxed breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Emma and the venue hosts. Prepare for another day full of creation and inspiration, allowing the tranquil rhythm of the Portuguese quinta to set the tone for your morning.

In the morning workshop, you'll join Emma and the other artists for an engaging sketching session across the estate grounds. She'll encourage you to look at the property from new and unusual viewpoints, exploring how to render the textures of white-washed walls, beautifully paved paths, impressive aging trees, and the vibrant and diverse garden. Sketch the vibrant greens of the landscape, the intricate mosaic at the pool, and the beautifully laid tiles all around you. With Emma's guidance, learn to simplify these scenes into clean, expressive shapes and confident lines.

Break for a relaxed lunch, then reconvene in the studio for a further afternoon session. In this class, you'll develop your morning sketches further using watercolor. Emma will guide you to embrace a more intuitive approach, allowing pigment and water to interact in ways that evoke movement, atmosphere, and mood. Discover how to build up translucent layers of color, soften edges, and respond to the character of the Portuguese landscape and garden plant life. Here, observation blends with memory to help develop a more personal, expressive visual style.

As the afternoon fades, enjoy some time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather around the table for a tasteful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with local wine.

### Day 5: Art trip to Lagos
After a delicious breakfast and a morning coffee check-in with Emma, pack your sketchbook and art supplies for a half-day trip to the vibrant seaside town of Lagos.

Wander through colorful streets full of stories held in tiled walls, fishing boats, weathered stone, and sunlit doorways framed by bougainvillea. Take your time to browse the shops, stop by the marina for a delicious coffee, find a sunny spot on one of the town's stunning beaches, or simply soak in the laid-back Algarvian atmosphere. Pause to sketch the intricate details of traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos) or the mesmerizing deep-blue ocean, sharpening your eye for composition, shape, line, and color.

After returning to the venue for a relaxed lunch, join Emma in the studio for an afternoon session. Using your morning observations, you’ll begin transforming sketches into watercolor paintings. Refine your compositions and focus on techniques like color matching and expressive mark-making, as Emma helps you embrace a loose, intuitive style that reflects your personal creativity.

As the class comes to an end, take some time to rest before dinner. Sit down to a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with Portuguese wine, the kind of meal that only feels right after a full day of creating together.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast and a relaxed coffee check-in with Emma and your group, setting the tone for a day of creativity and inspiration.

Spend the morning exploring the estate and its stunning surroundings. Wander through the gardens and pathways, taking time to observe the small, intricate details of the natural environment. Notice the play of sunlight on flora, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, and the textures of the beautiful architecture. Use this time to gather inspiration, take reference photos, and, if you wish, make quick sketches. The goal is to be present and connect with the beauty around you, which will inform your watercolor work later.

After a light lunch at the venue, return to the studio for an immersive painting session. Using the references you’ve gathered, focus on translating the subtle details of nature into your watercolor pieces. Emma will guide you in capturing textures, light, and color, helping you highlight the fine nuances, such as the veins of a leaf or the soft shadows cast by petals. Hone in your observational skills and adopt a relaxed, intuitive painting style. Emma will also provide personalized feedback to support your creative growth.

Take the rest of the afternoon for yourself. Stroll along the property, relax by the pool, or carry on with your art at your own pace. Later, sit down to a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with aromatic wine, exchanging stories and reflections from another richly creative day with your fellow artists.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Emma and the venue hosts. Take a moment to settle into the rhythm of the day, reflecting on everything you’ve created throughout this inspiring retreat.

Spend the final morning workshop with Emma and your fellow artists, dedicated to celebrating your artistic journey. Use this time to refine your floral and landscape paintings. Emma will circulate through the studio, offering one-on-one feedback, helping with final touches, answering any remaining questions, and supporting you as you deepen your relationship with your work. While painting, reflect on how the Portuguese landscape and the retreat's rhythm have influenced your creative process. Emma will share advice on keeping a mindful art practice going at home, nurturing inspiration, and staying open to beauty in everyday life.

Break for lunch at midday, then round out the day with an uplifting end-of-week exhibition. Arrange your pieces, walk through the space, and absorb the group's diverse expressions and stories. There's no obligation to present or explain your work; instead, take the opportunity to appreciate the growth, curiosity, and courage shown by everyone. Emma will provide gentle feedback and acknowledge the progress made while highlighting the sense of community and exploration that defined the experience.

As evening falls, sit down to a special farewell dinner prepared by the private chef, featuring regional Algarvian flavors and paired with local wine. Raise a glass to the friendships formed and the memories made over your time on the Portuguese coast!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one more breakfast with Emma and your fellow artists, and get ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM.

As you make your way back home, take with you a heart brimming with inspiration and lasting memories.

## Instructors

- [Emma Lefebvre](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/emma-lefebvre) — Watercolor artist & YouTuber

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta
Nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, your venue is a chic Portuguese Quinta, perfect for an unforgettable art retreat with Emma Lefebvre. Praised by The Times and Life Magazine as "a jewel of the Algarve," this private estate combines natural beauty with modern comforts. Set atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of Lagos, the marina, and the endless ocean.

At the heart of the estate lies a delightful Italian-inspired garden, featuring over 1,500 plant species, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, elegant statues, and tranquil fountains, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and creative inspiration. The venue's terraces and rooms blend modern amenities with timeless charm, offering a cozy retreat. Accommodations are situated within the main villa and a serene cottage, with each room featuring a private balcony or patio, en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating, plush bathrobes, and high-quality Portuguese Castelbel toiletries.

Your classes with Emma will take place either in the lush garden or in the dedicated Shala art studio, which showcases beautiful Portuguese tiles, ample natural light, cork-insulated floors, air conditioning, and expansive garden views.

Please be aware that moving between the accommodation areas, main dining area, and art studio requires a short walk. Some rooms are only accessible via stairs, therefore the venue may not be suitable for people with low or limited mobility.

### Shared room in the cottage
One ensuite room in the cottage is available for shared occupancy.

You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender guest. The room is located a private cottage situated at the bottom of the venue’s hill, which houses one other single room. In total, three retreat participants will share the garden cottage.

The room will be outfitted with twin beds and features a private bathroom, wall heaters, and air conditioning. You will also have access to the common areas of the cottage: a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table with chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open out onto a large outdoor terrace with BBQ dining and sun beds.

### Shared standard ensuite room
One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy.

You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Located on the north side of the house, the shared standard room offers the peace and quiet so sought after at a retreat. With block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep and comfortable twin beds, the room also has a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, shower seat, and a separate hand shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private terrace with a table & chairs where you can enjoy the last rays of the evening sun.

### Shared superior room - garden view (female only)
One superior room with garden view is available for shared occupancy.

You will share this garden view room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. This cozy room has the largest terrace on the property, looking towards the Italian garden, Zen garden, and art studio, and enjoys a gorgeous yellow glow when the rising sun shines through the South-East windows. If you prefer to sleep in, the room also has block-out electric blinds that completely cover the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. It features comfortable twin beds, a mini-fridge, and access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, equipped with a shower seat and a separate hand shower as well.

### Shared superior room - sea view
Three superior rooms with sea view are available for shared occupancy.

You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The rooms feature comfortable twin beds, block-out electric blinds for the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and private bathrooms with deep bathtubs and showers. The rooms also have access to private balconies or terraces with gorgeous sea views, equipped with sun beds, tables, and chairs. The rooms benefit from 180-degree sea and country views from the balconies and terraces spanning Lagos to Luz.

### Shared deluxe room - sea view
One deluxe room with sea view is available for shared occupancy.

This spacious room with its private bathroom will be shared between two same-gender guests. This room features two comfortable single beds and has access to a private bathroom with two sinks, a walk-in shower, and a deep bathtub. Additionally, the room has block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep. This dramatic silver, white, and black themed room enjoys a large terrace above the ponds looking out South West towards the bay of Praia da Luz. Just open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

### Single room in the cottage
One room in the cottage is available for single occupancy.

This private room is equipped with a single bed and features an ensuite bathroom along with wall heaters and air conditioning. The room is situated in the private cottage located at the base of the estate’s hill. Within the cottage, there is another double-occupancy ensuite room, making the cottage a shared space accommodating three retreat participants.

The guest staying in this room will have access to the common areas of the cottage, which consist of a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table, and chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a large outdoor terrace equipped with BBQ dining facilities and sun beds.

### Single deluxe master suite - sea view
One deluxe master suite with sea view is available for single occupancy.

This private, comfortable room has a fresh and airy feel to it, using the classic Portuguese colors of white and blue. The room enjoys a Balinese-style four-poster bed, a separate lounge area, a mini-fridge, and a spacious bathroom with a spa bath and separate walk-in shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private bougainvillea-edged balcony with sea views, sun bed, table, and chairs. Block-out curtains can be used to ensure a deep night's sleep.

## Food

The Algarve region promises a complete culinary experience, offering an array of exquisite flavors. During your art retreat with Emma Lefebvre, a private chef will prepare daily meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients or produce from the venue's gardens. Each dish provides a delicious exploration of Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisines.

Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread, featuring oatmeal, fresh fruits, warm pastries, local hams, and perfectly prepared eggs. For lunch, enjoy light yet satisfying dishes like orzo salad, Moroccan bowls, or a classic tuna Niçoise.

In the evenings, savor a comforting dinner crafted by the chef, with options such as Piri Piri prawns, zesty citrus salmon, or a creamy Brazilian coconut stew. End your dining experience with delectable desserts like cakes, tarts, and mousses, complemented by fragrant local wines.

All meals are included, and dinners are paired with specially selected wines. Throughout the day, you'll have access to refreshments such as water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like fruit and biscuits.

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

Read more about the food options served during the retreat below. Please note that the dishes served may vary based on the availability of seasonal and local ingredients.

## Getting There

The retreat with artist Emma Lefebvre will be held in the Algarve, a stunning region located at the southernmost point of the Portuguese coast. The charming coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, with their whitewashed buildings, add to the region's enchanting allure. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, savoring exquisite cuisine, exploring historic architecture, and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.

The retreat includes a visit to Lagos, a historic port town that has been a cultural crossroads for civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Just a 10-minute drive from the retreat location, Lagos boasts vibrant architecture, cozy cafés, and unique shops. You'll also enjoy a sailing trip across the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. Praia da Luz, the nearest beach, is only 4 km (2.5 miles) from the venue, while Faro Airport, the main transfer point, is about an hour's drive away.

**Please arrive at Faro Airport (FAO).** We strongly advise allowing ample time for international travel and recommend arriving in Portugal at least one day before the retreat begins to account for any potential flight delays, acclimate to the time zone, and rest after your journey.

Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.

**Here's how to get from Faro Airport (FAO) to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour. Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 17, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on September 24, 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 17, 2027 — 3:00 PM** (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)

**Departure Transfer: September 24, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Faro Airport (FAO) around 11:00 AM)

**If the pre-set transfer times do not align with your travel plans, please consider the following alternatives:**

- Extend your stay in Faro before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Faro Airport (FAO).
- Arrange for a taxi to transport you to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Bonita, Matos Morenos Quatro Estradas, 8600-115 Lagos, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately US$150 each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

**Reviews from the past UpTrek retreat with Emma Lefebvre:**

- "Emma is such a wonderful teacher and she made special efforts to tailor extra lessons to the needs and requests of the students."

- "Wonderful!!!!! Thanks to Emma, of course. She is a lovely person and a patient, thoughtful teacher, now a friend!"

- "Lovely Emma is such an excellent teacher and so much fun to be around! The Watercolor Art Retreat grounds, views and accommodations were absolutely stunning!"

- "The teaching was so much more than I had hoped for. I didn’t believe in-person instruction would elevate my artwork any more than continued practice and watching videos. Boy was I wrong!!! Emma was there every step of the way offering support and suggestions to take everything to the next level. She was also so encouraging and down to earth. My artwork has improved exponentially from this retreat and I was able to make wonderful new friendships. For anyone unsure, DO IT, you will have an unforgettable experience and your art will improve by leaps and bounds!!"

- "Emma’s mindful watercolor retreat exceeded my expectations in every way. It was an exceptional retreat experience. Even more important to me were the intention, care, joy, and grace offered by Emma, and the other participants. In our world of busyness and disconnect, we created a peaceful sanctuary. Practicing daily serenity is a gift. The joy of this experience “hath made my cup runneth over.” I will forever treasure my experience on this retreat. It was a combination of healing as well as “enlightenment.” I look forward to future opportunities, both with UpTrek and Emma."

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

- "The venue was glorious! The grounds filled with beautiful flora. The main house, so tasteful, classy and comfortable. The staff was outstanding, such kind and helpful folks that were genuinely welcoming and happy to be there. Everyone was so accommodating. This venue was a wealth of views I am eager to paint. Our food was superb, healthy and a wide variety of choices. I have already signed up for next year! And, I stayed in the little cottage, loved it. A delightful respite during breaks, very comfortable. Thoroughly enjoyed staying there, and I booked it again. This was one of my favorites Uptrek has planned for us."

- "I shared a room with a stranger who quickly became a friend. We had plenty of space for our “stuff.” The gathering areas (patios and living room) were charming and comfortable. We ate outside for every meal (since the weather was so mild), and each meal was delightful and delicious. Our excursions were fun, especially the sailboat to the grottoes."

- "UpTrek was easy to work with and responsive to questions. The venue in Portugal, Quinta Bonita, which has a studio, was a wonderful location for an art retreat with lots of inspiration. A walking tour of Lagos with time for shopping and taking pictures for painting as well as a boat trip of the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve."

- "The venue was spectacular and inspired our creativity. The staff were attentive in every way. The food reflected our diverse preferences and was so delicious. From my registration for this retreat through my departure, the communication and organization reflected the highest of standards. Thanks @uptrek! This was an experience of a lifetime."

- "The venue and catering were stunning; I felt taken care of and like I was a guest in someone's home."

- "It was a fabulous retreat. The venue was spectacular and the hosts always went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. I look forward to exploring more Uptrek Retreats in the future. Thank you!"

- "I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The venue was lovely as were the wonderful ladies (and gentleman) who looked after us. The food was especially good."

- "Beautiful venue, excellent teacher, wonderful participants. The food was delicious. I had such a wonderful time and would definitely recommend another Uptrek retreat to others."

- "I had a FABULOUS time! The retreat venue was so welcoming and such a peaceful place to spend the week."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

This retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with watercolor and Emma Lefebvre's work and style of teaching.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Emma Lefebvre in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between September 17 - 24, 2027.

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

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 17, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on September 24, 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. Wi-Fi is available in all areas at no additional cost.

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

Yes. 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 plan to arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Portugal a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included.

Refer to the [Location](https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-serenity-retreat-artist-emma-lefebvre-portugall#location) tab for further details. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.

**What’s the weather like in Algarve, Portugal, in September?**

The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, in September is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 29°C (84°F) during the day that drop to around 17°C (66°F) at night. The Algarve 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, a sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

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

Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them during your stay for a small fee payable on-site.

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

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

Tables, chairs, paper towels, professional studio lights, water cups, and fresh reference flowers are included and 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 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Portugal for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.

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

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

**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.

**Can a non-participating guest join me?**

We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.

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

Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility, as the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.

**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-serenity-retreat-artist-emma-lefebvre-portugal#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-serenity-retreat-artist-emma-lefebvre-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-09-03