# Creative Awakening - Watercolor and Paper Embroidery Art Retreat with Artist Ana Falceta in Portugal

Spend a week of mixed media exploration with artist Ana Falceta, blending watercolor, mark-making and embroidery on paper into a single layered creative process. Set in the countryside of Portugal’s Ribatejo region, this retreat invites artists of all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned hands, to explore organic shapes and build a personal collection of work that grows more complex with each passing day.

Across a series of immersive studio sessions, you’ll learn Ana’s signature technique of using thread as a drawing tool, layering watercolor, texture and stitch into cohesive compositions. Away from the studio, you’ll spend a full day in the medieval town of Óbidos and its castle grounds, with a stop at a nearby beach, and a half day at Almourol Castle, taking in the wild olive trees, cacti and river reeds along the Tagus.

Your creative haven is a 150-year-old traditional Quinta, with a dedicated studio, swimming pool, and tranquil gardens. Savor chef-prepared meals made from local ingredients, unwind by the pool, and enjoy the company of 15 other like-minded artists.

## Details

- **Dates:** June 12 - 19, 2027
- **Location:** Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **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 Ana Falceta
2. 7 nights of accommodation at a Portuguese Quinta
3. Exclusive use of the property, including living quarters and common areas, the dedicated art studio, pool, orchards, gardens, and stables
4. Spacious and bright indoor art studio (1300 sq. ft./120 sq. m.) equipped with: tables, chairs, professional studio lights, projector, printer-scanner, Bluetooth speaker, field easels, plein-air chairs, plein-air tables, glass jars, paper towels, and black ink bottles with pipettes
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by the private chef
6. Mainly vegan and vegetarian dishes, with all diets catered for, including regular, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
7. Water, coffee, tea, and afternoon snacks available throughout the day
8. Delicious wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
9. Full-day art trip to Óbidos, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
10. Entrance ticket to Óbidos Castle and a visit to a nearby beach
11. Half-day art trip to Almourol Castle and the river beach, with opportunities for painting and sketching on location
12. Liqueur tasting experience with cheese, bread, and traditional sausages during the Almourol trip
13. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities
14. Round-trip transfers from/to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at prearranged times
15. All local tourist taxes and fees
16. Dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator
17. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
18. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Ana Falceta and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — a list of materials recommended by artist Ana Falceta will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- One lunch during the full-day trip to Óbidos
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Portugal
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Watercolor and Embroidery on Paper Art Retreat
Join artist Ana Falceta in the sun-drenched Ribatejo region of Portugal for a week of joyful mixed media exploration, where watercolor, mark-making and embroidery on paper come together into one beautifully layered creative process. At the heart of the retreat is Ana's signature technique: using thread as a drawing tool. Step by step, you'll build toward it, layering paint, texture and stitch into a personal collection of work that grows richer and more complex with each passing day. No prior experience is needed!

Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or you're a seasoned artist looking for fresh inspiration, you'll find plenty to discover and enjoy!

Every day brings a new layer to your evolving collection. Begin by playing with watercolor techniques like resist, layering and texture, then bring your pieces to life with expressive marks in acrylic gouache, ink and pen. Next comes the magic of embroidery on paper, as you learn foundational hand stitches and creative ways to use Ana's own stitching templates. With Ana guiding you through her process for building a piece layer by layer, you'll find your own visual language along the way, and leave with a small, cohesive series of abstract works you'll be truly proud of.

Beyond the studio, two inspiring day trips take you into the gorgeous landscapes of central Portugal. Spend a full day wandering the medieval walled town of Óbidos, with its storybook castle, cobbled streets and walls draped in bougainvillea and climbing vines. Then set off for a half-day at the breathtaking Almourol Castle, rising dramatically from an islet in the Tagus River and surrounded by wild olives, sculptural cacti and river reeds, all endless sources of shapes, colors and textures for your work!

**Topics covered during the retreat include:**

- Abstract watercolor painting and mark-making using organic shapes
- Watercolor techniques including resist, layering and texture
- Mark-making with acrylic gouache, ink and pen
- Embroidery on paper, Ana’s signature technique
- Working with a stitching template for precision and confidence
- Layering paint, mark and stitch into a cohesive composition
- Building a progressive collection of samples and finished pieces
- Finding your own visual language through a structured creative process
- Tips on presenting and finishing your work
- …and many more!

Your home for the week is a traditional Portuguese Quinta, a 150-year-old countryside estate set in the quiet village of Casével, with lush gardens, a swimming pool, orchards, stables, and a beautifully converted art studio. Delight in chef-prepared meals every day, crafted with fresh local ingredients and paired with a glass of wine. Discover the flavors of the region with a bespoke experience: a liqueur tasting event (paired with cheese, traditional sausages, and fresh bread) on the banks of the Tagus River during the trip to Almourol.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at the venue around 4:00 PM after a transfer from Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at 3:00 PM. Settle into your cozy room and take some time to unwind. Once you’re refreshed, meet artist Ana Falceta and gather with the rest of your group for a welcoming orientation tour.

Explore the beautiful accommodations, the spacious studio within the barn, the inviting pool, and the surrounding gardens. To kick off the retreat, enjoy a delightful dinner prepared by the in-house chef and share a toast with local wine as you discuss the week ahead with your fellow artists.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your day with a tasty breakfast, then join Ana for a quick coffee check-in. You’ll find out more about the plans for the day.

Gather in the studio for your first workshop with Ana. She’ll introduce the week ahead, walking you through the materials you’ll be working with and the rhythm the days will follow. Learn more about the progressive sample collection, the thread that runs through the retreat: a set of small pieces that will grow in complexity as the week goes by, building paint, mark-making and stitch one on top of the other. To ease in, you’ll begin with a series of playful warm-up exercises, working from organic shapes and letting your hand loosen into the process.

Take a break to refuel during lunch, then return to the studio for an afternoon class devoted to watercolor technique. Ana will guide you through resist, layering and texture, showing you how each builds on the last to create depth and movement on the page. You’ll work at a small scale, an approachable size that lets you experiment freely without the pressure of a larger composition.

Enjoy some leisure time to rest and unwind in the late afternoon. Gather with your fellow artists for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of fragrant Portuguese wine.

### Day 3: Art trip to Óbidos
After a nourishing breakfast, set off to Óbidos, one of Portugal’s finest medieval towns. You’ll reach your destination after a short drive through the rolling Ribatejo countryside.

Whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets and pops of bougainvillea make Óbidos one of Portugal’s best-preserved historic towns. Take it all in, hunting for the organic shapes that first inspired the week’s work. Look closely at the buildings around you: weathered facades, curved doorways, small architectural details and close-up textures all offer reference material you’ll return to later, back in the studio. Then head up to Óbidos Castle, a fortress dating to the 12th century and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. You’ll explore the castle and its grounds. This is your chance to bring out your watercolors for some on-location sketching, gathering reference material and quick studies you can carry back to the studio for later paintings.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch on your own at one of the town’s charming cafés before spending the afternoon strolling through Óbidos’ historic center. From there, a short drive takes you to a nearby beach where wide-open skies and Atlantic waves make for a different kind of reference material than the town’s stone and ivy. Take a dip if the weather’s good, or simply settle in with your sketchbook and take in the coastline before heading back to the venue.

In the evening, return to the venue and take some time to relax before dinner. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and share your impressions of the day over a glass of wine in the lovely company of your fellow artists

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
After enjoying a hearty breakfast and a relaxed morning check-in with Ana and fellow artists, start the day with another class in the studio.

Today you turn yesterday’s reference material into artwork. Ana will guide you through translating your Óbidos sketches and photos into watercolor, working from what caught your eye: a fragment of architecture, a repeated shape, a passage of light. Using your samples as a foundation, you’ll build toward a more complex composition, working at a larger scale than you have so far. Ana will walk you through the shift from small studies to bigger pieces.

After a nourishing lunch, jump back into the afternoon class. The focus turns to mark-making and Ana’s embellishment techniques. You’ll explore line, gesture and texture across a range of materials, acrylic gouache, ink and pen, layering these marks onto the watercolor foundation you’ve already built. What started as a wash of color becomes textured, gestural, layered with new shapes and lines. Ana will encourage you to work intuitively here, letting the marks respond to what’s already on the page. By the end of the day, your samples will carry the first few elements of the collection you’ve been building since day one: paint, and now, mark.

Take some time to recharge in the late afternoon, then enjoy a delicious three-course dinner paired with a glass of local wine. Share reflections of the day and soak in the lively atmosphere.

### Day 5: Art trip to Almourol Castle
Savor a filling breakfast, then set off for another adventure: a half-day trip to Almourol Castle.

This 12th-century Templar stronghold stands proudly atop a tiny island in the middle of the Tagus River. Wild olive trees, cacti, agave and river reeds crowd the banks around it, giving you plenty to look at before you’ve even reached the towers. You’ll have time to walk the castle grounds and take in the battlements and the light on the water. Use this opportunity to sketch or take reference photos as you go. From there it’s on to the river beach for a stop, then a tasting of local liqueur, cheese, bread and traditional sausages before heading back to the venue.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch once you return, then prepare for the afternoon class, where you’ll incorporate this new inspiration into your collection. You’ll continue developing your mark-making, now drawing on what you’ve just gathered at Almourol, while also shifting more of your attention toward your larger artwork rather than the samples, for those ready to make that jump. Ana will be on hand to guide you through this transition.

As the evening draws in, take some time to relax before dinner. Indulge in a chef-prepared three-course dinner, accompanied by a glass of fragrant Portuguese wine.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Start the day with a hearty breakfast. Follow it up with the usual check-in over coffee, where you and your fellow artists will review the day’s plans.

You’ll stay in the studio all day today, and it’s time to bring in stitch. Your instructor will introduce the tools and materials she works with, sharing her personal favorites and walking you through the basic stitch that will form the foundation of everything you do from here. Learn to work with a stitching template of Ana’s own design, developed to help guide your hand and improve your precision. You’ll come to see thread not just as embellishment, but as a drawing tool in its own right.

After a leisurely lunch, return to the studio for an afternoon session. Depending on your morning progress, you may move into more advanced stitches, building on the basics from the morning, or simply continue developing your projects at your own speed. Either way, this is where paint, mark and stitch begin to come together into a single, cohesive piece. This is the collection you’ve been building since day one, now taking on its final layer.

Later in the evening, join your group for a relaxed three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of local wine. Unwind together with your fellow artists and share impressions of the day.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
You’ll start the day with breakfast before heading into the studio for your final full day of classes.

The workshop begins with a conversation about what comes next for your work: how to present it, frame it and give it a finished feel once you’re home. Ana will share practical guidance drawn from her own experience, from simple framing choices to small finishing touches that can elevate a piece. With this in mind, spend the rest of the morning wrapping up your projects, pulling together the threads (quite literally) of everything you’ve built across the week.

After lunch, finish any remaining details in your work, then prepare for a special event: a celebratory mini-exhibition. Participation is optional, but it’s a wonderful opportunity to share your favorite pieces, exchange thoughts with Ana and your fellow artists, and recognize how far you’ve come over the week.

As the day comes to an end, take some time to recharge before dinner. Gather with Ana and the group for one last delicious farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Raise a glass of wine and toast to the beautiful memories and creative discoveries you have made throughout the week.

### Day 8: Departure
After sharing a final breakfast with Ana and your fellow artists, exchange any last contact details and prepare for your transfer to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). Check-out is scheduled for 10:00 AM, with an expected arrival at the airport around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Ana Falceta](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/ana-falceta) — Textile and mixed-media artist

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta
Your retreat venue is a gorgeous Quinta, a 150-year-old countryside estate. The family-owned farm offers a tranquil and holistic retreat experience, with everything from organic food to stunning natural beauty well accounted for. The expansive grounds feature a lush meditation garden, a refreshing pool bordered by pine trees, a pond, a spacious art studio, orchards, vegetable gardens, and an outdoor arena.

The accommodation spaces are spread across four units, whose interiors combine traditional design with modern elegance. Ranging from restored farmhouses with wooden beams to reconstructed barns with a regal feel or cozy garden villas, each space exudes charm and personality. The main villa where meals will be served features welcoming common spaces, such as a bright lounge, a café, and a dining room with a large fireplace.

The rooms can be shared or single, with ensuite or shared bathrooms. The meticulous attention to detail makes each room a cocoon of comfort, offering gorgeous views over the pool, gardens, or scenic countryside stretching beyond.

Your classes with Ana Falceta will take place in the well-lit, spacious art studio located in a reconverted barn. The expansive gardens of the estate provide endless inspiration for botanical studies. Surrounded by the nearby countryside, peaceful gardens, and small woodland, you'll have endless subjects to choose from.

### 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.

Found on the second floor of the main villa, the shared standard ensuite room comes with two comfortable single beds, bespoke design, and quality fabrics and bedding. The room benefits from access to an ensuite bathroom with a tub and overhead shower, shared between the two occupants of the room.

All guests benefit from access to the common lounge in the main villa, the outdoor terrace, the adjacent veranda leading to the pool, and the Quinta's café.

### Shared superior ensuite room - private veranda
Two superior rooms are available for shared occupancy. You will share each room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender participant. The shared superior rooms are located in one of the garden villas.

The rooms include comfortable twin beds, premium linen and towels, and coffee and tea facilities. Each room has an ensuite bathroom with a shower or tub and access to a private veranda with outdoor seating. The rooms have views of the blooming courtyard or the shimmering pool.

### Shared bathroom - single room
Four rooms with shared bathrooms are available for single occupancy. You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself.

Equipped with comfortable double beds, these four single rooms feature beautiful views over the surrounding gardens. Two rooms are located in the main villa on the second floor, while the other two are located in one of the garden villas on the first floor. The rooms in the garden villa also feature private verandas. The spacious bathrooms shared between each two rooms feature a tub or a shower.

### Single standard ensuite room
One standard room with an ensuite shower bathroom is available for single occupancy.

The room is located in the main villa on the second floor, featuring a comfortable double bed and cozy décor. All guests benefit from access to the common lounge in the main villa, the outdoor terrace, the adjacent veranda leading to the pool, and the Quinta's café.

### Single superior ensuite room - private veranda
Four superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy.

Each room features a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower, a comfortable double bed ensuring a restful sleep, and stunning bespoke design. The rooms are located within the garden villas, on the 1st floor. Each room also benefits from access to a private veranda, with views towards the gardens or the countryside beyond.

### Single deluxe ensuite room
One deluxe ensuite room in main villa is available for single occupancy.

This master bedroom is located on the second floor, and features a spacious ensuite bathroom (with tub and shower), bespoke décor reminiscent of the vast blue ocean, and wide windows overlooking the gardens. The large double bed ensures a restful sleep, and the air conditioning will guarantee you remain comfortable even on the hottest of days.

All guests benefit from access to the common lounge in the main villa, the outdoor terrace, the adjacent veranda leading to the pool, and the Quinta's café.

## Food

During your art retreat with Ana Falceta, you'll delight in delicious meals prepared by the private chef. The dishes are mainly vegan or vegetarian, crafted with fresh ingredients, grown organically at the farm or sourced locally.

Start your morning with a nutritious breakfast buffet, featuring yogurt, muesli, seeds and nuts, fresh fruit, croissants, eggs, sweet jams, and a selection of juices, coffee, and tea. Lunches include a starter (like a variety of soups or salads) and a main course. Dinners are a three-course feast (starter, main course, and dessert).

Your selection of drinks includes delicious wine served with dinner, coffee, tea, and water available throughout the day. If you need a quick bite, refuel with a mid-afternoon snack.

During your trip to Almourol, discover the flavors of the region with a traditional liqueur tasting experience, paired with fresh bread, cheese, and traditional sausages.

All meals are included, except one lunch during the full-day trip to Óbidos. The exact menu will depend on the availability of seasonal ingredients.

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

## Getting There

The retreat with Ana Falceta takes place in the serene Ribatejo region of Portugal, next to the peaceful village of Casével. The surroundings reflect the traditional Portuguese countryside, with its swaying fields, sprawling vineyards, and cork oak forests typical of the Tagus Valley. Lisbon, the country's capital, is one hour away by car and will also serve as your pick-up/drop-off point for the transfers. During your retreat, you'll embark on two exciting trips, visiting the historic town of Óbidos (one hour away from the venue) and a nearby beach, as well as the Almourol Castle (30 minutes away).

The region is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. The valley's vivid, ever-changing palettes of greens and browns, as well as the Tagus River itself, make for stunning scenes. Ribatejo's culture was influenced by many civilizations across the ages (the Celts, Romans, and Moors, for example), and it was favored by many Portuguese nobles throughout the medieval era. As such, the region features incredibly well-preserved medieval castles and towns.

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 12, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 19, 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.**

**To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS).**

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 Portugal a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.

**Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.**

**How to get from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to the retreat venue:**

Private airport transfers to and from Lisbon Airport (LIS) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour.

- **Arrival Transfer: June 12, 2027—3:00 PM** (departure from Lisbon Airport (LIS), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)
- **Departure Transfer: June 19, 2027—10:00 AM** (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Lisbon Airport (LIS) 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 Lisbon before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Lisbon Airport (LIS).
- Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Carvalhas, Rua José Ferreira Fazenda, 2000-466 Casével, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately 205 EUR / 220 USD each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

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

- "Oh, how do I even begin...The Quinta could not be more perfect for our artsy retreat! The staff was absolutely amazing and made me feel special and valued. I feel energized, motivated and walked away with new friendships and memories I will cherish forever. Thank you!!"

- "The retreat was lovely. The food was absolutely wonderful and all of the staff treated me kindly. Every time I turned around they were asking if any of us needed help. The other ladies that joined the retreat were absolutely wonderful and I look forward to keeping in contact with my new friends."

- "So beautiful and serene. Truly a respite from the world’s cares."

- "This was a life-changing experience! The venue, setting, cleanliness, and service were outstanding—superb, five stars. Our host, Gerhard, anticipated our every need and made us feel pampered like queens."

- "The retreat was truly an amazing experience. The location was magical and Gerhard and Dani did an exceptional job taking care of everything and everyone with smiles on their faces each and every day. Our chef made vegetarian meals that were delightful and creative. UpTrek took all of the planning and details to the next level. I didn't have to think and could just enjoy each moment!"

- "Beautifully manicured property with attentive staff and excellent cuisine. The art studio is spacious and light filled with lovely views."

- "Danielle and Gerhard were amazing hosts at the Quinta. We were very spoiled by them. The flow of the whole retreat was perfect. It didn’t feel like we were cramming in things - we truly had a chance to relax and do what we came to do - paint."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Ana Falceta in Ribatejo, Portugal, takes place between June 12 - 19, 2027.

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

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 12, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 19, 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. 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. The venue mainly serves vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

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

Please plan to arrive at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). 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 Lisbon Airport (LIS) at pre-arranged times are included.

Refer to the [Location](https://uptrek.com/retreat/creative-awakening-watercolor-paper-embroidery-art-retreat-artist-ana-falceta-portugal#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 Ribatejo, Portugal, in mid-June?**

The weather in Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal, in mid-June, is generally pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 24°C (75°F) during the day that drop to around 15°C (59°F) at night. The climate of the Ribatejo area is generally mild, without excesses, with plenty of sunshine, 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 cardigan 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 upon request, for an additional fee.

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

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

Tables with protective covers, chairs, professional studio lights, projector, printer-scanner, Bluetooth speaker, field easels, plein-air chairs, plein-air tables, glass jars, paper towels, and 8 bottles (45 ml) of Pebeo Graphic India Black Ink with pipettes 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 Lisbon. You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue accepts payments with both cash and card.

**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 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 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 workshop 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](CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide **the reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.

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

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

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

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

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

**Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the 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/creative-awakening-watercolor-paper-embroidery-art-retreat-artist-ana-falceta-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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