# Portraits Without Fear - Reclaiming Your Creative Joy Retreat with Artist Brandi Hofer in Portugal Rediscover joy and confidence in your art-making on a retreat with mixed-media Portrait Artist and Educator Brandi Hofer along the Algarve coast of southern Portugal. You'll learn Brandi's signature portrait method. This is the portrait technique Brandi wishes she had learned in art school; now, she teaches it to thousands. It’s a simple shift in the way artists see and approach drawing that makes portraiture feel more approachable, enjoyable, and achievable. Perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike, this method has helped students gain confidence, improve their skills, and rediscover the joy of creating. More than just learning to draw a face, it’s a technique that can transform the way artists make art for years to come. This empowering method blends watercolor, acrylic washes, pastel, and colored pencil, building portraits in layers so there is always room to adjust, soften, correct, and grow without starting over. You will leave with finished portrait artwork and a sketchbook filled with memories, along with the confidence to trust your own creative process. Designed for artists, makers, kind hearts, and seekers of meaningful expression, this retreat invites you to rediscover why you fell in love with creating in the first place. Mornings open gently with optional creative mindset and yoga sessions guided by Heather, registered Counselling Therapist, trained as an expressive arts therapist and certified yoga instructor. Board a traditional Portuguese sailing boat for a half-day trip through the legendary Grottoes of the Algarve, gliding past golden sea caves and sculpted cliffs. Later in the retreat, wander the historic seaside town of Lagos on a half-day trip, sketching and painting on location while soaking in the colorful streets and laid-back Algarvian atmosphere. Your retreat unfolds at a private quinta perched on a sunlit hilltop above Lagos, where a Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio with floor-to-ceiling windows opens onto an Italian-inspired botanical garden with over 1,500 plant species. Every evening, sit down to a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, from the welcome dinner on your first night to the farewell celebration on your last. ## Details - **Dates:** June 1 - 8, 2027 - **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal - **Starting Price:** $4,650 - **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. Daily art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Brandi Hofer 2. Three optional morning creative mindset and yoga sessions with registered art therapist and certified yoga instructor Heather 3. A welcome art kit from artist Brandi Hofer 4. Beautiful Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars, and a printer-scanner 5. 7 nights of accommodation at a stunning Portuguese Quinta 6. Exclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, Shala art studio, 2.5 acres of botanical gardens, terraces, swimming pool, hot tub, massage cabin, sauna, and common areas 7. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 8. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 9. Delicious local wine served during dinner service every day 10. Snacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the day 11. Half-day boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve on a traditional Portuguese sailing boat 12. Half-day art trip to the Lagos historic town, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location 13. Walking tour with time for shopping and a visit to the beach during the trip to Lagos 14. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities 15. Round-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times 16. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 17. Fully staffed venue, with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on-location 18. All local tourist taxes and fees 19. Access to a private Facebook group with Brandi Hofer 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 Brandi Hofer will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Portugal - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Reclaiming Your Creative Joy Art Retreat Escape the overwhelm and return to the heart of your creative practice on a retreat with artist and educator Brandi Hofer at a private villa on Portugal's Algarve coast. With over 20 years of experience as a professional artist and educator, Brandi has taught thousands of artists across North America and Europe. Her mixed media portrait method was developed through decades of studio practice and close attention to where artists get stuck and where they light up. You will work with a process designed not just to teach technique but to help you trust yourself again. Start from the very foundation of drawing and sketching, building layered backgrounds, learning mixed media dos and don'ts, layering pastels, and mastering multicolored skin tones. From there, Brandi will gently guide you through portrait composition and proportion alongside expressive mark-making in a way that feels approachable and doable, even if drawing has felt hard in the past. Mistakes will become part of the magic, not something to hide. Improve your drawing skills through the process itself, not isolated drills; there will always be room to adjust and surprise yourself. You will not be expected to get it right the first time. Instead, you will build faces through layers instead of pressure, celebrating the process and embracing happy accidents along the way! During three of your mornings, enjoy optional creative mindset and yoga sessions with Heather, registered Counselling Therapist, trained as an expressive arts therapist and certified yoga instructor. You are welcome to simply sit and take part in the creative mindset exercise without doing the yoga. **Topics covered during your classes with Brandi Hofer include:** - How to make custom papers and properly stretch them for wet media work - Learning composition and color theory - Learning photography, lighting and cropping with your phone in preparation for portraits - Learning portrait composition and placement that feels natural - Letting go of perfectionism and frustration, and learning to trust the process - Developing drawing skills organically through process and play - How to layer watercolor, pastels, and colored pencils to build multicolored skin tones — and what media to avoid - Starting a daily sketchbook habit filled with empowerment, play, morning visualization, and creative mantras that will keep you going - Building a body of work (finished pieces and sketchbook progress) that makes you excited and keeps you motivated to create more - Making creative friendships, memories, and connections that will last a lifetime - …and many more! Beyond the studio, explore the Algarve coast through two unforgettable half-day trips. Board a traditional Portuguese sailing boat and glide through the famous Grottoes of the Algarve, where towering golden cliffs meet turquoise water and hidden sea caves open up around every bend. Later in the retreat, wander the colorful streets of Lagos on a half-day walking trip, with time for loose sketching on location, browsing local shops, finding a sun-warmed spot on one of the town's stunning beaches, or pausing for a delicious coffee by the marina. Your home for the week will be a charming Portuguese villa, nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, offering elegant accommodation, lush gardens, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, and sweeping views of Lagos and the endless ocean. Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals featuring regional Portuguese cuisine and connect with a group of 15 other like-minded creatives! ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat with artist Brandi Hofer. Once you’ve reached the villa, settle into your comfortable room, and take a moment to unwind. Later in the afternoon, join Brandi and the group for an orientation tour of the grounds. Wander through the beautiful gardens, visit the light-filled art studio, stroll along the shaded terraces, and take in the calm atmosphere around the pool. As the sun begins to set, gather for a relaxed dinner prepared by the chef, paired with a glass of wine. Brandi will introduce the retreat and invite everyone to share what brought them here. ### Day 2: Art classes at the venue Join Brandi and Heather for an energizing morning of gentle yoga and a creative mindset session, setting the perfect tone for a day filled with inspiration and artistic adventure. As you enjoy a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, take a moment to appreciate the calm and inspiration that surrounds you. In the morning workshop, Brandi will open with introductions and dive straight into paper prepping and play, guiding you through how to make custom papers and properly stretch them for wet media work. You will explore the mixed media process from the ground up, learning the dos and don'ts of working with each material and why you will use each one at every step. With Brandi’s support and encouragement, you’ll build a strong foundation and feel genuinely excited to experiment and express yourself, even before you pick up a pencil. After savoring a nourishing lunch prepared by your private chef, return to the studio for an afternoon focused on guided drawing techniques and expressive mark-making. Brandi will lead you through the essentials of dynamic line work, helping you develop both skill and confidence that will carry you through every future session. Embrace the freedom to try new things and celebrate your progress in a supportive, uplifting environment. As the day winds down, treat yourself to some relaxation by the pool or wander through the beautiful gardens, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, gather with your fellow artists for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine. Share your first impressions and creative breakthroughs from a day filled with exploration and play. ### Day 3: Boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve Fuel up with a filling breakfast, then head out with Brandi and your fellow artists for a half-day trip along the coast of Lagos. Board a traditional Portuguese sailing boat at the marina and glide across the rolling waves of the Atlantic, passing hidden grottoes, secret beaches, striking rock formations, and golden cliffs sculpted by the sea. Keep your sketchbook within reach as you take in the ever-changing light dancing across the cliffs, capturing whatever inspires you in the moment. Savor the freedom to sketch, observe, and simply enjoy the scenery. If the weather is favorable, dive into the refreshing sea for an invigorating swim, soaking up the joy and excitement of the day! After returning to the venue, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your private chef, giving yourself time to relax and recharge. Step into the studio for a hands-on session focused on facial structure and traits. With Brandi’s supportive guidance, you’ll explore the fundamentals of portrait technique and composition, learning through playful experimentation. Explore through process and play in a way that makes drawing faces feel approachable and doable. As the day winds down, sit down to a three-course dinner crafted by your private chef and paired with local wine, sharing stories from the morning's adventure with your fellow artists over good food and warm conversation. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Enjoy the optional morning creative mindset and gentle yoga session with Brandi and Heather before enjoying a delicious breakfast and a warm cup of coffee. Get ready for an inspiring morning dedicated to preparing for your main portrait artwork. With Brandi’s expert guidance, you’ll dive into the world of portrait photography using just your phone, discovering how to capture beautiful lighting and compelling compositions. Enjoy the fun of photographing each other, creating personal reference images that will make your artwork truly unique. As you move into the creative process, you’ll bring together everything you’ve learned so far, blending mixed media techniques with your growing drawing and layering skills to lay the foundation for your signature piece. After a satisfying lunch prepared by your private chef, return to the studio feeling refreshed and ready for an afternoon focused on the art of skin tones and pastels. Brandi will demonstrate how to build rich, multicolored skin tones through thoughtful layering, helping you deepen your understanding of how to create warmth, depth, and dimension in your portraits. Embrace the excitement of experimenting with color and technique, knowing you are supported every step of the way as you bring your vision to life. Wind down with a dip in the pool or time in the hot tub, then gather for a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, swapping notes on a day spent building toward your main portrait. ### Day 5: Art trip to Lagos After a delicious breakfast and a morning coffee check-in with Brandi, pack your art supplies for a half-day trip to the vibrant seaside town of Lagos. Wander through colorful streets full of stories held in tiled walls, fishing boats, weathered stone, and sunlit doorways framed by bougainvillea. Bring your sketchbook along and paint and sketch on location, capturing portraits in the sketchbook through play and experimentation. Use the energy of the town as creative fuel, letting the light and atmosphere of Lagos feed directly into your mark-making. Take time to browse the shops, stop by the marina for a delicious coffee, find a sunny spot on one of the town's stunning beaches, or simply soak in the laid-back Algarvian atmosphere. Return to the venue for lunch prepared by your private chef, then head into an afternoon of sketchbooking. Continue working with your drawing skills and techniques, building on the portraits you captured in the morning and developing them further in the studio under Brandi's guidance. Sit down to a three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with Portuguese wine. ### Day 6: Art classes at the venue Start your day by joining Brandi and Heather for an optional creative mindset session and gentle yoga, giving yourself space to stretch, breathe, and set a positive intention for the day ahead. Enjoy a generous breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, savoring the peaceful energy of the morning as you prepare to dive into your art. Dedicate your morning to working on your main portrait artwork, allowing yourself to fully engage with your creative process. Brandi will be there to offer guidance and encouragement as you apply everything you have learned, pushing your skills and vision further. Focus on bringing together the composition and expression you have been developing, knowing you are creating a piece you can truly be proud of. After a nourishing lunch prepared by your private chef, immerse yourself in your art once more. The afternoon is yours to continue refining your portrait, with Brandi providing one-on-one support to help you deepen your work and trust your creative instincts. Celebrate each step of progress, and let your confidence grow as your piece comes together. Take a well-deserved break to relax by the pool, allowing your mind and body to recharge. As evening arrives, gather with your fellow artists for a memorable three-course dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine. ### Day 7: Art classes at the venue Savor a nourishing breakfast and a morning cup of coffee, then join Brandi for a final check-in before heading into your last day of painting. Begin your morning by finishing your main portrait artwork, bringing it to completion with Brandi’s support. As you work, take pride in how far you have come and allow yourself to enjoy the creative process. Afterward, spend some time reviewing your sketchbook and reflecting on the skills and insights you have gained during the retreat. Use this moment to set meaningful goals for your creative journey ahead, thinking about why you chose to be here and how you want to continue growing as an artist. Following lunch prepared by your private chef, gather with your fellow artists for a joyful mini-exhibition and closing circle. Display your finished portraits and sketchbook creations, and celebrate the creative progress you have all made together. Take this opportunity to share your experiences, encourage one another, and leave the retreat feeling inspired, confident, and ready to carry your artistic passion forward! As evening falls, gather for a special farewell dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with local wine, celebrating everything you have created and the connections you have made. ### Day 8: Departure Join Brandi and your fellow artists for breakfast to share any last contact details and get ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM. ## Instructors - [Brandi Hofer](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/brandi-hofer) — Mixed media artist, muralist, and educator ## Accommodation ### Portuguese Quinta Nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, your venue is a chic Portuguese Quinta, perfect for an unforgettable art retreat with Brandi Hofer. Praised by The Times and Life Magazine as "a jewel of the Algarve," this private estate combines natural beauty with modern comforts. Set atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of Lagos, the marina, and the endless ocean. At the heart of the estate lies a delightful Italian-inspired garden, featuring over 1,500 plant species, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, elegant statues, and tranquil fountains, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and creative inspiration. The venue's terraces and rooms blend modern amenities with timeless charm, offering a cozy retreat. Accommodations are situated within the main villa and a serene cottage, with each room featuring a private balcony or patio, en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating, plush bathrobes, and high-quality Portuguese Castelbel toiletries. Your classes with Brandi will take place either in the lush garden or in the dedicated Shala art studio, which showcases beautiful Portuguese tiles, ample natural light, cork-insulated floors, air conditioning, and expansive garden views. Please be aware that moving between the accommodation areas, main dining area, and art studio requires a short walk. Some rooms are only accessible via stairs, therefore the venue may not be suitable for people with low or limited mobility. ### Shared room in the cottage One ensuite room in the cottage is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender guest. The room is located a private cottage situated at the bottom of the venue’s hill, which houses one other single room. In total, three retreat participants will share the garden cottage. The room will be outfitted with twin beds and features a private bathroom, wall heaters, and air conditioning. You will also have access to the common areas of the cottage: a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table with chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open out onto a large outdoor terrace with BBQ dining and sun beds. ### Shared standard ensuite room One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. Located on the north side of the house, the shared standard room offers the peace and quiet so sought after at a retreat. With block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep and comfortable twin beds, the room also has a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, shower seat, and a separate hand shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private terrace with a table & chairs where you can enjoy the last rays of the evening sun. ### Shared superior room - garden view One superior room with garden view is available for shared occupancy. You will share this garden view room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. This cozy room has the largest terrace on the property, looking towards the Italian garden, Zen garden, and art studio, and enjoys a gorgeous yellow glow when the rising sun shines through the South-East windows. If you prefer to sleep in, the room also has block-out electric blinds that completely cover the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. It features comfortable twin beds, a mini-fridge, and access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, equipped with a shower seat and a separate hand shower as well. ### Shared superior room - sea view Three superior rooms with sea view are available for shared occupancy. You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with one other same-gender participant. The rooms feature comfortable twin beds, block-out electric blinds for the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and private bathrooms with deep bathtubs and showers. The rooms also have access to private balconies or terraces with gorgeous sea views, equipped with sun beds, tables, and chairs. The rooms benefit from 180-degree sea and country views from the balconies and terraces spanning Lagos to Luz. ### Shared deluxe room - sea view One deluxe room with sea view is available for shared occupancy. This spacious room with its private bathroom will be shared between two same-gender guests. This room features two comfortable single beds and has access to a private bathroom with two sinks, a walk-in shower, and a deep bathtub. Additionally, the room has block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep. This dramatic silver, white, and black themed room enjoys a large terrace above the ponds looking out South West towards the bay of Praia da Luz. Just open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean. ### Single room in the cottage One room in the cottage is available for single occupancy. This private room is equipped with a single bed and features an ensuite bathroom along with wall heaters and air conditioning. The room is situated in the private cottage located at the base of the estate’s hill. Within the cottage, there is another double-occupancy ensuite room, making the cottage a shared space accommodating three retreat participants. The guest staying in this room will have access to the common areas of the cottage, which consist of a spacious lounge area, indoor dining table, and chairs, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen satellite television and DVD player, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a large outdoor terrace equipped with BBQ dining facilities and sun beds. ### Single deluxe master suite - sea view One deluxe master suite with sea view is available for single occupancy. This private, comfortable room has a fresh and airy feel to it, using the classic Portuguese colors of white and blue. The room enjoys a Balinese-style four-poster bed, a separate lounge area, a mini-fridge, and a spacious bathroom with a spa bath and separate walk-in shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private bougainvillea-edged balcony with sea views, sun bed, table, and chairs. Block-out curtains can be used to ensure a deep night's sleep. ## Food The Algarve region promises a complete culinary experience, offering an array of exquisite flavors. During your art retreat with Brandi Hofer, a private chef will prepare daily meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients or produce from the venue's gardens. Each dish provides a delicious exploration of Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisines. Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread, featuring oatmeal, fresh fruits, warm pastries, local hams, and perfectly prepared eggs. For lunch, enjoy light yet satisfying dishes like orzo salad, Moroccan bowls, or a classic tuna Niçoise. In the evenings, savor a comforting dinner crafted by the chef, with options such as Piri Piri prawns, zesty citrus salmon, or a creamy Brazilian coconut stew. End your dining experience with delectable desserts like cakes, tarts, and mousses, complemented by fragrant local wines. All meals are included, and dinners are paired with specially selected wines. Throughout the day, you'll have access to refreshments such as water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like fruit and biscuits. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot accommodate dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or fulfill last-minute requests. Read more about the food options served during the retreat below. Please note that the dishes served may vary based on the availability of seasonal and local ingredients. ## Getting There The retreat with artist Brandi Hofer will be held in the Algarve, a stunning region located at the southernmost point of the Portuguese coast. The charming coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, with their whitewashed buildings, add to the region's enchanting allure. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, savoring exquisite cuisine, exploring historic architecture, and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality. The retreat includes a visit to Lagos, a historic port town that has been a cultural crossroads for civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Just a 10-minute drive from the retreat location, Lagos boasts vibrant architecture, cozy cafés, and unique shops. You'll also enjoy a sailing trip across the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. Praia da Luz, the nearest beach, is only 4 km (2.5 miles) from the venue, while Faro Airport, the main transfer point, is about an hour's drive away. **Please arrive at Faro Airport (FAO).** We strongly advise allowing ample time for international travel and recommend arriving in Portugal at least one day before the retreat begins to account for any potential flight delays, acclimate to the time zone, and rest after your journey. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation. **Here's how to get from Faro Airport (FAO) to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour. Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 1, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 8, 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: June 1, 2027 — 3:00 PM** (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM) **Departure Transfer: June 8, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Faro Airport (FAO) around 11:00 AM) **If the pre-set transfer times do not align with your travel plans, please consider the following alternatives:** - Extend your stay in Faro before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Faro Airport (FAO). - Arrange for a taxi to transport you to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Bonita, Matos Morenos Quatro Estradas, 8600-115 Lagos, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately US$150 each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change. ## Reviews **Reviews from other workshops with artist Brandi Hofer:** - "Love how Brandi's teaching methods and techniques help take the "frozen from fear" element out of doing art!" - Michelle - "I have struggled with portraits in the past, and Brandi has helped me a lot with my confidence in portraiture. Brandi is doing a beautiful thing to support the artists who love the magic that she teaches. Artists supporting artists." - Carina - "Brandi’s philosophy and teaching method eliminated so much second-guessing for me. She really reinforces that the practice for the artist, the hobbyist, the creative or the curious is about play and experimentation. Not about being hard on ourselves. There’s enough of that crap out there. Now here I am with my first two portraits that I have ever done, with enough confidence to show them in person and on my social media. I am flabbergasted." - Kylie - "Brandi helped me reconnect with the joy of creating art again. The techniques she teaches have become part of my own portrait practice. More than anything, the class gave me permission to use tools and processes that helped close the gap between being a beginner and feeling expressive and confident in my work. It made portraiture feel approachable, freeing, and genuinely enjoyable." - Lauren **Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:** - "The venue was glorious! The grounds filled with beautiful flora. The main house, so tasteful, classy and comfortable. The staff was outstanding, such kind and helpful folks that were genuinely welcoming and happy to be there. Everyone was so accommodating. This venue was a wealth of views I am eager to paint. Our food was superb, healthy and a wide variety of choices. I have already signed up for next year! And, I stayed in the little cottage, loved it. A delightful respite during breaks, very comfortable. Thoroughly enjoyed staying there, and I booked it again. This was one of my favorites Uptrek has planned for us." - "I shared a room with a stranger who quickly became a friend. We had plenty of space for our “stuff.” The gathering areas (patios and living room) were charming and comfortable. We ate outside for every meal (since the weather was so mild), and each meal was delightful and delicious. Our excursions were fun, especially the sailboat to the grottoes." - "UpTrek was easy to work with and responsive to questions. The venue in Portugal, Quinta Bonita, which has a studio, was a wonderful location for an art retreat with lots of inspiration. A walking tour of Lagos with time for shopping and taking pictures for painting as well as a boat trip of the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve." - "The venue was spectacular and inspired our creativity. The staff were attentive in every way. The food reflected our diverse preferences and was so delicious. From my registration for this retreat through my departure, the communication and organization reflected the highest of standards. Thanks @uptrek! This was an experience of a lifetime." - "The venue and catering were stunning; I felt taken care of and like I was a guest in someone's home." - "It was a fabulous retreat. The venue was spectacular and the hosts always went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. I look forward to exploring more Uptrek Retreats in the future. Thank you!" - "I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The venue was lovely as were the wonderful ladies (and gentleman) who looked after us. The food was especially good." - "Beautiful venue, excellent teacher, wonderful participants. The food was delicious. I had such a wonderful time and would definitely recommend another Uptrek retreat to others." - "I had a FABULOUS time! The retreat venue was so welcoming and such a peaceful place to spend the week." ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is this retreat available to all levels?** The retreat welcomes all levels of experience. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with artist Brandi Hofer in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between June 1 - 8, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on June 1, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on June 8, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Is Wi-Fi available?** Yes. Wi-Fi is available in all areas at no additional cost. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Please plan to arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Portugal a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. Refer to the [Location](https://uptrek.com/retreat/portraits-without-fear-reclaiming-your-creative-joy-retreat-artist-brandi-hofer-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 Algarve, Portugal, at the beginning of June?** The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, at the beginning of June is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 28°C (82°F) during the day that drop to around 18°C (64°F) at night. The Algarve region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year. **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **Can I do laundry while on the retreat?** Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them during your stay for a small fee payable on-site. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Brandi Hofer will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, field easels, plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars, and a printer scanner are included and will be available at the venue. **Students will bring their own art supplies based on** **the instructor’s list of recommended materials.** **How many people are to be expected on the retreat?** There is a maximum number of 16 participants. **Do I need a visa?** Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Portugal for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us. **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport, in Faro, or Lagos (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros in cash. **Are there any age restrictions?** There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. **Can a non-participating guest join me?** We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility, as the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets. **What language is used during the workshops and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/portraits-without-fear-reclaiming-your-creative-joy-retreat-artist-brandi-hofer-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). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/portraits-without-fear-reclaiming-your-creative-joy-retreat-artist-brandi-hofer-portugal **Last updated:** 2026-06-25