# Abstracting the Spanish Landscape in Oil and Cold Wax Retreat with Artist Lisa Mann in Spain

Spend a transformative art retreat with artist Lisa Mann in the breathtaking Cabo de Gata Natural Park, southern Spain. Learn to create abstract paintings using oil and cold wax medium, utilizing a method that is pure magic when it comes to experimentation and taking risks.

Across immersive painting sessions in the wild beauty of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, draw inspiration from your surroundings and discover how to convey, or abstract, the landscape in meaningful, one-of-a-kind works of art. With hands-on guidance from Lisa, you will learn Lisa’s signature 6-step creative process—a proven and repeatable framework to create meaningful and magical art using oil and cold wax.

Set out on a full-day trip to Almería, where you'll experience the Moorish architecture of the historic La Alcazaba and enjoy lunch and drinks at one of the city's most charming local spots, then take a half-day trip along the Cabo de Gata coastline with lunch in the seaside town of San José.

Relax in your private room surrounded by cacti, tiled paths, and sweeping views of the horizon. Share chef-prepared meals each day and unwind with dinner and conversation after studio hours. Designed for artists of all levels, this retreat will send you home with a cohesive series of abstract paintings to be proud of!

## Details

- **Dates:**  September 13 - 20, 2027
- **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain
- **Starting Price:** $4,850
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 15 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 Lisa Mann
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, professional studio lights, water cups, paper towels, easels, and plein-air artist stools
3. Gamsol / odorless mineral spirits and Citrasolv (or alternative) for the workshop component
4. 7 nights of accommodation at a charming countryside Spanish estate
5. Exclusive use of the entire country estate with three indoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, outdoor spaces (that can be used for workshops), a swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spaces
6. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
7. All diets catered for, including pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
8. Fragrant local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives served during dinner service every day
9. Snack bar with coffee, tea, filtered water, and snacks available throughout the day
10. Full-day art trip to Almería and the Alcazaba Fortress, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
11. Lunch and drinks at a well-known special establishment during the trip to Almería
12. Entrance ticket and guided visit of the Alcazaba Fortress
13. Half-day art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
14. Lunch at a local restaurant in San José during the trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
15. Private transportation and knowledgeable English-speaking guide for all planned trips and activities
16. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) at prearranged times
17. All local tourist taxes and fees
18. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
20. Access to a private Facebook group with Lisa Mann 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 Lisa Mann will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Spain
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Abstracting the Spanish Landscape in Oil and Cold Wax
Centered on abstracting the landscape, this retreat with artist Lisa Mann invites you to draw inspiration from the Spanish surroundings and learn to convey, or "abstract," those landscapes in oil and cold wax. The medium is pure magic when it comes to experimentation and taking risks, and it gives artists of all levels the freedom to make bold, intuitive choices on the canvas. Over a series of immersive painting sessions, you'll gather every technique you need to create stunning abstract paintings, building from your very first layers toward a finished body of work that feels entirely your own!

At the heart of the retreat is Lisa's signature 6-step process for creating abstract, intuitive art, a proven and repeatable framework you can carry home and return to long after you leave. Lisa is first and foremost a fantastic teacher, with a gift for tailoring each retreat to meet you exactly where you are, whether you are easing into abstraction or deepening a practice you have nurtured for years. Alongside the painting, she will share the artistic principles that hold a strong composition together, from value and focal point to the rule of thirds and areas of rest, so you understand not just how to make a mark but why it works. You will learn to draw inspiration from the colors, textures, and shapes of the Spanish landscape and learn to translate that into an abstract painting. Through thoughtfully planned lessons on creating abstract art, Lisa will help you to celebrate vibrant color, lean into rich textures and patterns, and embrace art as a vehicle for self-expression.

These classes will indeed teach you technique with solid guiding principles of strong abstract art. But it is so much deeper than just the tools; it is about teaching you to dig deep to express yourself and have the confidence and courage to create and the freedom to play and rejoice on the canvas.

After having taught thousands of artists over the years, Lisa has developed her own signature style for teaching art from the “inside out"—focusing first on tools for self-expression and then infusing your work with solid artistic principles. The results are powerful, meaningful, and glorious abstract works of art. She invites you to dare to FINALLY become the artist you were meant to be and join her!

Each day will open with warm-ups and color exploration, followed by step-by-step projects in cold wax and oil that move through mark-making, composition, veils of color, and texture. As the retreat progresses, you'll turn your attention to your own body of work, taking creative risks and finding calm within chaos as you learn to recognize the moment a painting is truly finished. By the end, you'll have created a small cohesive series of abstract works you'll be proud of, along with a more expressive and confident approach to carry home with you.

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

**With hands-on guidance from Lisa, you will:**

- Learn a comprehensive approach from start to finish on how to create an abstract painting using oil and cold wax
- Learn to use interesting tools besides a paintbrush
- Lean into expressive mark-making
- Embrace adding textures
- Get comfortable using a brayer to create a veil of color
- Learn the elements of a successful composition
- Master how to tell when a painting is done
- Discover new ways to find inspiration from the Spanish landscape
- Develop your personal color palette
- Refine and strengthen your compositions
- Learn Lisa's signature 6-step creative process, a proven and repeatable framework
- Create a small, cohesive series of abstract works you'll be proud of
- …and so much more!!!

By week’s end, you’ll understand where to begin each painting, how to know when it’s finished, and how to stay loose, expressive, and confident in your process. Mostly, you will have a blast learning all of this!

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

**What are oil and cold wax exactly, and why are they different?**

Cold wax is a sumptuous paste that is added to oil paints to create gorgeous abstract paintings. It is what Lisa uses mostly in her own award-winning work, and she will be showing you how to use it.

**The Process:**

Cold wax medium is a paste of beeswax and a small amount of solvent. It has a soft, butter-­like consistency. By adding the cold wax paste to oil paints, you will work in layers to add textures, lines, and form. The wax allows for some transparency of the colors and for the different layers to show through, adding depth to the painting. Like a story being written layer upon layer, a painting is created and then scraped back to reveal pieces of its past.

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

Join an orientation tour to explore the bright studio, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and refreshing pool. Over a delightful welcome dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week that’s ahead while savoring local Spanish flavors and a glass of fragrant wine. Together with Lisa and your fellow creatives, you will take part in a beautiful opening ceremony, creating a safe space and a community of open sharing and support in your journey as an artist.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a gentle morning check-in with your fellow artists and a chance to settle into the rhythm of the retreat.

The morning workshop opens with a thoughtful introduction to the week ahead, guided by Lisa's chosen words for the journey: "To create one's own world takes courage," a quote by Georgia O'Keeffe that sets a beautiful and encouraging tone for everything that follows. You will ease in with a playful warm-up exercise, creating small quadrant paintings to loosen up and get a feel for the materials. From there, Lisa will introduce the cold wax technique, exploring the magic of initial layers and the interplay between opaque and transparent color.

Together you will begin building a layered series, starting with the most important layer of all, intention. Along the way, you will discover the joy of color mixing, working with limited palettes and learning how translucent and opaque colors can bring a painting quietly and beautifully to life. The morning closes with an exploration of one of the most fundamental principles in art, value, and how it can transform the way you see and paint.

Pause midday for a leisurely lunch, then return to the studio refreshed and ready for the afternoon. The second session invites you to bring everything from the morning together in a mini project, a series of small, layered square landscapes. There is no pressure here, just a lovely opportunity to play with what you have learned, let the layers build at your own pace, and see where your intuition takes you.

As the day winds down, take some time to rest and recharge before dinner. Gather with Lisa and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course meal prepared by the private chef and a glass of wine, swapping stories from the day and soaking in the warmth of the retreat's early days.

### Day 3: Art classes at the venue
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, followed by a gentle morning check-in before settling into the day. Today carries a beautiful and liberating theme, one that Lisa invites you to sit with as you paint: what would our lives look like if we allowed ourselves to truly play freely?

The morning begins with a relaxed warm-up of observation sketching and mark-making, a chance to loosen up and let your hand move without overthinking. From there, you will dive into a wonderful group project, four quadrant paintings using a limited palette of complementary colors. Every artist in the room works from the same palette, and the magic is in seeing just how differently each painting turns out. It is a joyful reminder that there is no single right answer, only your own.

Lisa will then guide you deeper into the cold wax technique, this time exploring how to build texture and bring mark-making into your layers. You will add the second layer to your ongoing layered series, this one devoted entirely to play, before closing the morning with a look at two of painting's most powerful principles, focal point and the rule of thirds, brought to life through a gentle slideshow.

Pause midday for a leisurely lunch, then return to the studio feeling refreshed and inspired. The afternoon is yours to create, with a beautiful project waiting: a monochromatic diptych, two paintings side by side that work together as one. The focus will be on mark-making, and there will be plenty of time to work at your own pace, let the layers develop naturally, and simply enjoy the process. Lisa will be there throughout, offering gentle guidance and encouragement as you find your own rhythm and voice.

As the class winds down, the rest of the late afternoon is yours to enjoy however you like. In the evening, join Lisa and your fellow artists for a wonderful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and a glass of fragrant wine, closing out another rich and creative day.

### Day 4: Art trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment
Begin the day with a filling breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, pack your supplies and prepare for the first adventure of the retreat: a trip to the beautiful city of Almería, where stone walls hold centuries of stories and sea air weaves through the town’s rhythm.

A guided walk through Almería’s historic heart will immerse you in the dialogue between past and present. Visit the city’s most renowned landmark: the impressive La Alcazaba de Almería. This fortified citadel is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Europe, housing gorgeous gardens, imposing towers (such as the Tower of Mirrors), and intricate gates, as well as showcasing impressive Moorish architecture. From its stone walls, which hold centuries of history, you can enjoy sweeping views of Almería and its port. Sketch if you’re moved to, take reference photos, and stay open to what catches your eye.

After a refreshing lunch and drinks at a local Andalusian spot, continue your day exploring the town of Almería. As you move through the city, stop to make quick sketches or take reference photos to use later back in the studio. Notice how light grazes weathered walls, how flowers trace delicate patterns across stucco, and how the sky shifts its hues above the rooftops.

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

### Day 5: Art classes at the venue
Wake up your senses with a nourishing breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with Lisa and the venue hosts. Ease into the gentle rhythm of the day as you settle into the studio, ready to explore order and movement in your work.

Center on order and movement, guided by one of Lisa's favorite ideas, that each of our paintings is its own journey, an adventure we have the power to steer for our viewers through composition. Warm up by mixing a three-color palette and a classic Zorn palette, discovering just how much range and mood you can draw from only a handful of colors. From there, Lisa will introduce new cold wax techniques built around shapes and stencils, showing you how to bring real structure and rhythm to the surface. As you build the third layer of your ongoing series, order and shapes, she will weave in focused lessons in composition, teaching you how to lead the eye across the canvas and hold it exactly where you want.

Take a break for a satisfying lunch, then return to the studio for an afternoon devoted to one of the most joyful experiments of the retreat. Discover for yourself why collage and cold wax medium are a match like none other, tearing and layering materials as you push your work in surprising new directions. Lisa will be on hand throughout, offering help and encouragement while you enjoy plenty of unhurried time to create and follow your instincts.

As the class comes to an end, enjoy some optional one-on-one time with Lisa, receiving warm, personalized feedback and talking through the direction your creative practice is taking. Take this chance to ask any questions on your mind and reflect on just how far your work has come since the first day. It is a valuable moment to step back and set your sights on the pieces still ahead.

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

### Day 6: Art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park
Fuel up with a refreshing breakfast and a hot cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then prepare for today's adventure, a trip into the striking wilds of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Anticipation builds as you leave the studio behind for a morning out in the very landscape that inspires the retreat.

This protected UNESCO Geopark unfolds in soft, earthy tones, where rugged cliffs, rolling hills, flowering shrubs, and wind-shaped stone create an ever-changing palette of color and light. Stroll the sandy paths bordered by clusters of coastal blooms, taking in the gentle shifts of color and texture that make this coastline such rich material for abstraction. Lisa will lead discussions of how to capture the colors, the shapes, and the textures of a landscape and how to capture the essence of your surroundings that you will carry back to the studio. Focus on the nature around you and draw deep inspiration from the breathtaking seascapes of the Cabo de Gata coastline.

The day's route continues with a visit to the seaside town of San José, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Andalusian spot nestled by the vivid coastline, framed by turquoise waters and wild coastal vegetation. Linger a while over the flavors of the coast before heading back to the venue.

The afternoon is where things get bold, as you embrace chaos and courage, because there is no better place to take risks than on your canvas! Lisa will introduce expressive cold wax techniques using the brayer and luminous veils of color, then reductive methods that take color away to reveal what lies beneath. As you build layers four and five of your series, give yourself full permission to break the rules. In a playful, freeing mini project, learn to create calm from a totally chaotic piece, with generous time to create and a set of questions to get you unstuck whenever you don't know what to do next, plus Lisa's trusted guidance on how to know when a painting is truly done.

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

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Ease into the morning with a delicious breakfast before turning to rest and stillness, a gentler counterpoint to the previous day's bold energy.

Lisa will share refined cold wax techniques including donor surfaces and the reduction technique, along with luminous glazing, as you complete the sixth and final layer of your series, stillness and rest. Together you'll consider areas of rest as an artistic principle, learning how the calm passages of a painting give the eye somewhere to breathe.

Enjoy a delicious lunch, followed by a cheerful mini-exhibition. Celebrate everything you have created, and watch your completed series come together for all to admire. Your growth of the past days will become wonderfully clear!

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

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

## Instructors

- [Lisa Mann](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/lisa-mann) — Abstract artist

## Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## Food

Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey during Lisa Mann’s art retreat, right in the heart of Andalusia. Each meal, prepared by a private chef, highlights the rich flavors of the region. Discover the flavor of Iberian meats, delicious seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local orchards and gardens.

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

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

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

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

## Getting There

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

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

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

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

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

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

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to *Almería*, we recommend you fly to Madrid or Barcelona and fly domestically to Almería (local round trips starting from US$89, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on September 13, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on September 20, 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 13, 2027 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from Almería Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure transfer:**

**September 20, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at *Almería Airport* a little after 10:30 AM)

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

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

## Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, but some prior familiarity with oil, cold wax, and Lisa Mann's work and style of teaching is recommended.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Lisa Mann in Almería, Spain, takes place between September 13 - 20, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive at the retreat venue after 4:00 PM on September 13, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on September 20, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Is Wi-Fi available?**

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.

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

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

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

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

For more information, see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/abstracting-spanish-landscape-oil-cold-wax-retreat-artist-lisa-mann-spain#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.

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

The weather in Almería, Spain, in September is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 30°C / 86°F during the day that drop to around 20°C / 68°F at night. The Almería region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year.

**What should I pack?**

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

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

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

Tables, chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, Gamsol / odorless mineral spirits, Citrasolv (or alternative), high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, professional studio lights, water cups, paper towels, easels, and plein-air artist stools 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 15 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

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

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

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

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

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

**Are there any age restrictions?**

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

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

Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven terrain across the nature reserve. You will also need to walk between the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the main building where meals are served.

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

The retreat is available in English.

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

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

**Do I need travel insurance?**

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/abstracting-spanish-landscape-oil-cold-wax-retreat-artist-lisa-mann-spain#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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**Last updated:** 2026-10-02