# Watercolor and Waves - Watercolor and Mixed Media Retreat with Artist Caroline Simas in Greece

Join an unforgettable women-only art retreat with artist Caroline Simas on the enchanting Greek island of Zakynthos! You will explore the art of watercolor inspired by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean, with views from a sun-drenched setting that seems to whisper invitations to create and grow.

This week-long journey offers artists of all levels the time and space to slow down, tune into the incredible beauty of Greece, draw inspiration from nature, and discover (or deepen) your understanding and love of watercolor. Throughout the retreat, you'll enjoy inspirational art lessons in a breathtaking Mediterranean setting, learning from Caroline as she gently guides you step by step.

Wander the historic streets of Zante, soaking up the charm and stories of this lively Greek town, and set out across the marine park, where you can watch loggerhead turtles in the wild and swim in the blue water of the Keri Caves, capturing Greece's magic through your own artistic lens.

Settle into a welcoming Greek villa filled with nourishing, chef-prepared meals and sweeping views of the sparkling sea. Connect with a wonderful circle of women, sharing insights, laughter, and a deep love of creativity as you build a little collection of art that tells the story of your very own Greek adventure.

## Details

- **Dates:** April 15 - 22, 2027
- **Location:** Planos, Zakynthos, Greece
- **Starting Price:** $4,350
- **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 Caroline Simas
2. Fresh flowers and Mod Podge for the workshop component
3. Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, easels, plein-air artist stools, professional studio lights, a printer-scanner, and appropriate disposal bins
4. 7 nights of accommodation at an elegant seaside villa
5. Exclusive use of the venue's living quarters and common areas, a Shala art studio, pool, jacuzzi, wooden gazebo, spa area, and beautiful terraces
6. All meals included: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chef
7. Water, coffee, tea, juices, and snacks available at all times
8. Special welcome and farewell dinner
9. Delicious wine during dinner service
10. Spacious sea-facing Shala art studio
11. Half-day art trip to Zante Town, with opportunities for sketching and painting on-location
12. Half-day trip to the marine park and Keri Caves, with turtle watching and a stop at Marathonisi Island
13. Greek dance show and band for the farewell dinner
14. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities
15. Guide or chaperone for all planned trips and activities
16. Round-trip transfers from/to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) at prearranged times
17. Experienced retreat admin and/or UpTrek host on location
18. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
19. All local tourist taxes and fees
20. Access to a private Facebook group with Caroline Simas and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials - a list of art materials recommended by artist Caroline Simas will be provided five months before the retreat
- Tips for staff - tipping is customary in Greece
- Extra costs guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Watercolor and Waves Art Retreat
Join artist Caroline Simas for an inspiring women-only art retreat on the sun-drenched island of Zakynthos, Greece. Draw endless inspiration from the surrounding landscape and create a collection of artworks that reflect the beauty of the Mediterranean. Whether you've just picked up a brush or have painted for many years, Caroline's creative courses will prove invaluable in your evolution as an artist. During this weeklong adventure, you'll benefit from daily classes with your instructor, personalized instruction, feedback, and advice as you create.

Caroline's gentle guidance will help you look at your environment through an artistic lens, experiment freely with your ideas, and become more confident in your creative practice. By the end of the retreat, you will have made lovely new friends, feel inspired, and return home with a personal collection of watercolor paintings and a boatload of memories to remember your incredible experience in Greece!

**Topics covered in your classes include:**

- Experimenting with the wonderful world of watercolor
- Creating loose florals, landscapes, and abstracts using watercolor
- Pursuing the magic of masking fluid & mixed media with watercolor
- Color Palette Planning
- Unleashing the artist within through creative play and expression
- Gathering inspiration from the world around you
- Discovering multiple ways to incorporate nature into your art
- Embracing imperfection and silencing your inner critic
- Discovering your creative voice and developing your unique style
- Creating dimensional works using watercolor
- Finding joy in creating “on the go” with watercolor in your travel sketchbook/journal
- ...and many more.

The venue, a stunning Greek villa perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the sea, will be your creative haven. You'll have exclusive access to a sea-facing studio and welcoming common areas, as well as a refreshing infinity pool, with plenty of space to work and relax. You'll enjoy two trips, one to the historic Zante Town and another out across the marine park to watch the loggerhead turtles and swim in the Keri Caves, both offering inspiring experiences you can translate into your artwork. Outside of your art sessions, unwind by the infinity pool and savor Greek cuisine prepared by a private chef, with creative conversations among fellow artists over a glass of local wine.

Please note: The retreat venue is located on terraced grounds, with access to the studio, common areas, and accommodations requiring the use of stairways. The beach can be reached by descending a steep stairway of approximately 50 meters (164 feet). Additionally, the trips involve moderate walking, so this retreat may not be ideal for those with limited mobility.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Zakynthos Airport for your 3:30 PM transfer to a breathtaking seafront venue overlooking the Mediterranean. Settle into your elegant room and take a moment to recharge before joining a guided tour of the grounds. Discover the inviting pool, the shala art studio, and the thoughtfully designed communal areas. In the evening, savor a delightful three-course welcome dinner in the lively company of your fellow artists.

Enjoy a glass of wine as Caroline shares insights about the week’s plans, giving you a chance to connect with the group and look forward to the creative journey ahead.

After dinner, if time permits, you'll receive your first creative assignment: a reflective journal prompt and the making of a handmade travel-sized sketchbook journal to use for the week. Meditate upon your first meeting with your art group and your first impressions of Greece. Caroline will share details about The Art Buffet and the agenda for the next morning.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, then meet Caroline and your art group over coffee for a relaxed morning check-in before diving into the first session.

The morning class begins with reflective journaling, guided by Caroline’s creative prompts. Once you've gathered your thoughts, jump into your first artistic theme. Caroline will teach and demonstrate watercolor basics and color theory, and you’ll experiment with a variety of watercolor techniques.

After a well-earned lunch, return for another afternoon session with Caroline.

You’ll wander around the venue grounds together and learn to create contour sketches of landscapes, architectural elements, florals, and botanicals. Then, you will return to the studio for more watercolor landscape instructions, followed by another exciting artistic theme: Flower Power! Using fresh flowers and greenery, you’ll experiment with ink stamping and pressing onto watercolor paper, creating delicate floral and botanical patterns in your sketchbook. Caroline will also guide you through embellishing the cover of your art journal, making it a reflection of your creative journey.

Before wrapping up, you’ll receive the next journaling prompt to spark inspiration. The late afternoon is yours to unwind by the pool, take a stroll to the beach, or chat with fellow artists.

Gather with Caroline and your fellow artists for a shared dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Over delicious food and a glass of wine, reflect on the day’s creative flow and enjoy the easy company of your art group.

As the evening settles in, Caroline has saved the best for last: a surprise team-building activity! Unwind with the group after dinner and take part in a fun and light activity, fostering a supportive and positive environment where everyone feels connected and engaged.

### Day 3: Trip to Zante Town
After a refreshing breakfast, ease into the day with a coffee check-in, centering yourself and setting intentions for the creative journey ahead. With sketchbooks and supplies in hand, head out for a short ride to Zante Town, the vibrant capital of Zakynthos.

Once there, let the city’s charm fuel your inspiration. Stroll through St. Mark’s Square, where Venetian-style arches and balconies invite you to slow down and take in every intricate detail. Step inside frescoed Byzantine churches or admire the sun-washed hues of traditional Greek homes. For a quiet moment, wander down to the shoreline, letting the rhythm of the waves settle your thoughts. Throughout your time in town, follow Caroline’s creative scavenger hunt prompts, keeping an eye out for colors, textures, and details that spark ideas.

Back at the venue in the afternoon, gather for another class with Caroline. After reflecting on the morning’s journaling and your time in Zante Town, Caroline will introduce the art of cyanotype printing, a historic technique that uses UV-sensitive paper to capture delicate botanical impressions. Learn how to preserve flowers in striking blueprints, and while your cyanotypes are drying, Caroline will teach a guided lesson on monochromatic blue and white watercolor paintings and pattern play. Before wrapping up, she will leave you with a fresh creative prompt to carry into the evening.

As the day winds down, take some time for yourself, whether that means a swim, a quiet walk, or lingering in conversation and creativity with fellow artists around the Art Buffet. Later, sit down for a relaxed dinner, sharing stories and reflections of the day’s creative discoveries.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before gathering with Caroline for a morning check-in, where you'll go over the day's plans and reflect on yesterday’s journal prompt.

During the morning workshop, Caroline will guide you on how to use mixed media techniques with watercolor, teaching you how to create a series of layered backgrounds and setting the stage for an upcoming collage project.

Pause for a light lunch before diving back into another afternoon session. Building on the mixed-media techniques from the morning session, you’ll transform your patterned backgrounds into expressive collage pieces. Using maps, travel guides, and magazines from the region, you’ll create a layered, mixed-media artwork that captures the essence of Greece. Cut, collage, and paint over these materials to craft a personal interpretation of the landscapes, architecture, or stories that have surrounded you throughout the retreat. Before wrapping up, Caroline will share a new journal prompt to carry into the evening.

As the day winds down, take some time for yourself. Head to Bouka Beach with a sketchbook, letting the waves set the rhythm of your lines, or simply relax by the pool and reflect on the creative process. The day ends with a laid-back dinner, a glass of wine, and lively conversation.

### Day 5: Trip to the marine park, Marathonisi Island, and the Keri Caves
Start your morning with a refreshing breakfast, setting the tone for a day full of creativity and discovery. Gather your art supplies and ease into the rhythm of the day, ready to take in the stunning coastal scenery.

Out across Laganas Bay, the water turns clear and impossibly blue. This whole stretch of coast is a protected marine park, home to the loggerhead sea turtles that nest here through the summer, and you may be lucky enough to watch one glide gracefully beneath the surface. It is one of the most magical gifts this corner of Greece has to offer. Take reference photos and quick sketches, or simply soak it all in.

You'll pause at Marathonisi, the little turtle-shaped island ringed with pale sand and shallow, glassy water, then carry on to the Keri Caves, where the sea glows a deep blue inside the rock. There's time to swim in the cool, inviting water and slip into the caves for a moment you won't soon forget. Caroline will share creative challenges along the way to spark fresh ideas.

Afterward, head back to the venue for a well-earned lunch.

In the afternoon, gather for an art session with Caroline, reflecting on the morning’s adventure and your latest journal prompt. Then, dive into a new creative watercolor exercise inspired by your time at the beach. Capture the essence of the sea, the playful turtles, or the play of light on the cliffs.

As evening falls, come together for a relaxed dinner, sharing stories from the day over a satisfying meal and a glass of wine. Let the peaceful night settle in, a perfect close to a day filled with inspiration and creativity.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
On the sixth day of your retreat in Greece, begin with a nourishing breakfast, followed by a peaceful coffee check-in with your fellow artists. Reflect on your latest journaling prompt and set your intentions for the creative day ahead.

For your morning session, Caroline will lead the group into a lesson on using masking fluid and the importance of negative space in your watercolor paintings. While your masking fluid dries, you can revisit and refine any unfinished projects.

After lunch, your creative session brings a special collaborative project. Working alongside your fellow artists, you’ll create watercolor mixed media abstracts. Follow Caroline’s guidance as you experiment with mark-making, washes, layering, contrast, and composition, then join forces to bring the final pieces to life — an artistic tribute to the creativity and camaraderie built over the week. Before finishing, you'll receive a new journaling prompt to carry into the evening.

As the day winds down, take some time for yourself. Relax by the pool, go for a quiet walk, or continue working on your art. Later, gather for an easygoing dinner, sharing stories and laughter over a glass of wine, reflecting on another fulfilling day of creativity and inspiration.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Start your final day with a warm gathering over breakfast, sharing reflections on yesterday’s journaling prompt and setting the tone for a meaningful last day of art-making.

Explore an unconventional approach to painting by using locally brewed Greek coffee as your medium. This rich, earthy pigment will bring a warm, natural tone to your artwork, encouraging experimentation with textures and washes you might not typically use. Caroline will also teach you how to add ink detail to your dried washes.

After lunch, return for an afternoon filled with thoughtful creativity and celebration. Caroline has prepared a series of activities to close the retreat on a high note, from hand-painting notecards with watercolor and mixed media to a surprise reflection project that captures the essence of your journey in Greece. The session culminates in a mini-exhibition, where you’ll share favorite pieces, exchange insights, and celebrate the growth and inspiration sparked throughout the retreat.

As the sun sets, gather one last time for a farewell dinner filled with laughter, music, and dancing. Enjoy the rhythms of live Greek music, savor a wholesome shared meal, and toast to a week of creativity, connection, and new friendships that will carry on beyond your time here.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Caroline and your art group, then get ready for your transfer to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH). Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Caroline Simas](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/caroline-simas) — Artist, mentor, creative business coach

## Accommodation

### Stunning Greek Estate
Your elegant venue for the art retreat with artist Caroline Simas is a seaside estate overlooking the shores of Zakynthos and the vast Mediterranean Sea. Just a 10-minute walk away, the calm Bouka Beach beckons, accessible via a stairway that winds down the hillside.

This boutique venue offers a stately six-bedroom villa alongside a six-bedroom stone tower. All rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, shared or single, exclusively booked for you and your art group.

Every room is a cocoon of comfort, equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a TV, and a handy fridge, all complemented by chic boho décor. Large glass doors frame captivating views, whether of the venue terraces, the gleaming infinity pool, or the boundless sea. Please note that there are no window screens in the rooms.

During your leisure time, you can revel in the stunning infinity pool or unwind in the soothing embrace of a jacuzzi. Adding to the charm is a wooden gazebo, perfectly positioned for basking in the Grecian sun.

Your art classes will take place in the Shala art studio, dramatically poised with the sea as its backdrop. While it is walled on three sides, the studio's face opens generously to the sea, with chairs and tables available for you and your art group. Other workshop spaces include the spacious terraces right next to the infinity pool.

Please note that the venue is not suitable for participants with limited mobility as it is positioned over terraced grounds. To traverse its spaces, you would need to go across some small stairways, and all rooms are accessed via stairs. The steps to the beach are steep and descend about 50 m (164 feet); the beach is a 10-minute walk away from the venue.

### 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. Tucked away in the stone towers, this twin ensuite room on the first floor marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features two twin beds and a modern ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, shared between the two guests staying together in this room. The room also benefits from access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views.

### Shared superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The shared superior ensuite room is located in the main villa. Covering a generous 35m² on the first floor, it's known as the villa's quietest room, featuring two comfortable twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom. Stepping out, a private patio presents serene vistas of the venue's terrace and garden.

### Shared penthouse
Two penthouses are available for shared occupancy. You will share one penthouse and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. Perched atop the main villa on the second floor, the shared penthouses boast twin beds and an ensuite shower bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy. Private balconies extend from each penthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the sea and terraces.

### Single standard ensuite room
Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The single ensuite rooms are located on the second and third floors of the towers and contain double beds. Sitting at a cozy 16m², the rooms are accessible via stairs. They feature private ensuite bathrooms within the room with a shower enclosure. Each room benefits from access to a small private terrace, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views.

### Single superior ensuite room
One superior ensuite room is available for single occupancy. This room located on the first floor, in the stone towers, marries traditional Zakynthian charm with boho flair. Spanning a spacious 25m², the room is accessible by descending a stairway from the main terrace. The room features a private ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower.

The room also benefits from access to a shared patio in the towers, treating you to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrise views. The space exudes warmth and character, adorned with thoughtfully chosen wooden furniture and wicker decorations that perfectly complement its bohemian style.

### Single ensuite room - shared villa
Two ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. These single ensuite rooms are located in a shared, separate villa with a private pool. Found outside of the main villa, they offer privacy and tranquility. The shared villa features two single bedrooms (located on the second floor of the villa, stairway access), occupied by one participant each. Both single rooms are equipped with a comfortable double bed and an ensuite bathroom, complete with a spacious walk-in shower. The shared living spaces on the first floor— a well-equipped kitchen and a cozy living room—offer areas to connect, converse, or simply unwind.

Conveniently, the single ensuite rooms in the villa are the nearest accommodations to the art workshop space. Outside, a private terrace presents spectacular views of the pool, the art studio, and the picturesque bay beyond. But the pièce de résistance is the exclusive private pool, inviting guests to take a refreshing dip under the Greek sunshine.

### Single deluxe suite
One deluxe suite is available for single occupancy. Located on the first floor of the main villa, this spacious suite stretches across a generous 40m², making it the venue's crown jewel. Its center point is the grand double bed, promising restful slumbers and comfort. The deluxe suite features an elegant ensuite bathroom, equipped with a modern shower. Yet, it's the breathtaking views that truly captivate; double glass doors beckon you outwards, revealing a mesmerizing tableau of the pristine pool, the inviting terrace, and the azure sea endlessly stretching beyond.

## Food

Experience the wealth of Ionian cuisine with tantalizing dishes prepared by a private chef. The venue earned its foodie destination moniker thanks to its family recipes passed down through generations and fresh ingredients sourced from local markets or grown on-site. Of course, your chef's passion for the traditions of Zakynthos is the driving force behind every feast.

Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread consisting of freshly baked pastries and bread, yogurt, organic honey, jams, butter, cereal, and local fruit. Coffee, tea, milk, and fresh juices will be served with breakfast.

For lunch, refuel with a light salad, or opt for the traditional baked feta, various platters (with aubergine, tzatziki, and chickpea dips, saganaki, and grilled halloumi, all served with Pitta bread), pasta, and seafood courses.

Dinner is an elaborate three-course affair, starting with an appetizer such as Zante Bruschettas, followed by herbal oven lamb, rabbit stew with cheese, agalas stuffed chicken, moussaka with aubergines, stuffed tomatoes with herbs, ragout and pasta, grilled octopus, sea bream, or prawns. Top it off with a sweet treat and pair it with a crisp white. You'll enjoy plentiful, aromatic wine during dinner service.

Dinner on the last evening of the retreat will be an extraordinary event, as you'll complement your delicious meals with a traditional Greek dance and music show.

All meals are included. Between meals, you will have access to a snack bar with water, tea, juices, coffee, and homemade snacks. The exact menu will vary based on the availability of seasonal ingredients.

## Getting There

Located in the quiet beachside village of Planos, on the Greek island of Zakynthos, your retreat venue stands proud atop a rocky hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The amazing views from this sunny haven provide a small taste of what Zakynthos has to offer: crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, pristine beaches, and the tranquil Greek village below. The capital of the island (Zante) and Zakynthos International Airport are only 30 minutes away by car, and the mysterious Navagio Beach with its history of shipwrecks and smugglers is one hour away.

**Please arrive at** **Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH).**

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 Greece 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.

**How to get from Zakynthos International Airport to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly domestically to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on April 15, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on April 22, 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:**

**April 15, 2027 - 3:30 PM** (leaving from Zakynthos International Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure Transfer:**

**April 22, 2027 - 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Zakynthos International Airport around 10:30 AM)

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

\- Spend extra days in Zakynthos before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to Zakynthos International Airport.

\- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: 63 Thesi Bouka, Gaidaros Tragaki, Tragaki 291 00, Greece, 40 euros - approximately US$45 per way. Please note that taxi fares may vary).

## Reviews

**Reviews of previous UpTrek retreats with Caroline Simas:**

- "Caroline is kind, enthusiastic, and attentive to individual students. Her lessons were well planned and appropriate to the group, both advanced and beginning artists. She is a talented artist and shared examples of her work in a way that was not intimidating. She truly inspired me."

- "Caroline was tuned in to each student and taught so many fun new skills. We all bonded over meals and conversation. We encouraged each other and enjoyed instruction from Caroline. Everyone was pleasantly surprised at finding a new medium or subject for their art."

- "Fabulous!! Caroline was a wonderful teacher and encourager. Everything was well organized but flexible as circumstances changed. She was very sensitive to individual needs and concerns."

- "The art classes were well prepared by Caroline. I have been on other art retreats, but they focused on touring or cooking with art as a minor part of the retreat. This retreat was totally focused on art. Hooray!"

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

- "Well it was lovely in all aspects! David’s gourmet food was a dining extravaganza! The quaint villa & the nearby town were enormously refreshing. The love & care put into the service was above reproach! I would highly suggest this venue to anyone interested in seeing Greece!"

- "The hosts really made my trip special by their loving and kind hearts! They made me feel like family as well as all their staff! The estate was breathtaking and I hope to visit again soon! It was magical and I truly appreciate everything done for us while there, their openness and especially the hugs! I miss them and the warm generosity and kindness. It's true that I felt more at ease, comfortable and hugged being a stranger welcomed there, than I actually do coming back home...!!! That is saying a lot about the character and hearts of Karen and David! It reflected in everything and everyone whom works there. That is why it works so well, as David says, that's Living, doing what you love! Thank you to all for the fond memories ;)"

- "The venue is beautiful. Waking up to see the sunrise was a perfect way to start the day. Food was authentic and delicious. We had some hot days in the studio, but apparently, this was a heat wave, but otherwise, it worked well. Staff was genuinely sweet and accommodating, and hard working. It was interesting to experience the Greek way of life. Our hosts cared about every detail. I enjoyed it so much that I will return next year and bring my daughter. Uptrek, thank you for finding this gem!"

- "Beautiful location! There was a lovely mix of art classes at the retreat, and excursions to paint or take reference photos! Our hosts were warm, kind, and very talented in cooking and treating guest! Thank you for an experience of a lifetime!"

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with the medium, as well as with Caroline Simas's work and style of teaching.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Caroline Simas in Planos, Zakynthos, Greece takes place between April 15 - 22, 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.**

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on April 15, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, April 22, 2027, after breakfast.

**Is Wi-Fi available?**

Yes.

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

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

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

Please arrive at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Greece 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. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly locally to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-waves-retreat-artist-caroline-simas-greece#location).

**What should I pack?**

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, 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 an additional fee payable on-site.

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

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Caroline Simas will be provided after booking, five months before the retreat begins. Tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, fresh flowers, and Mod Podge for the workshop component are included and will be available at the venue.

**What’s the weather like in Zakynthos in April?**

The weather in April in Zakynthos is usually sunny and warm. 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 yourself before your departure to the retreat and to pack accordingly.

**How many people are to be expected at the retreat?**

Maximum 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

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

**Are there any age restrictions?**

The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.

**What language is used during the retreat 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 limited mobility?**

Unfortunately, the retreat venue is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. Accommodation spaces and most of the main facilities are only accessible via stairs. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the art trips.

**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 artists or by UpTrek?**

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the artists' 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-waves-retreat-artist-caroline-simas-greece#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-waves-retreat-artist-caroline-simas-greece
**Last updated:** 2026-07-14