# Spring Watercolor Botanicals Art Retreat with Artist Harriet de Winton in Portugal

Join Harriet de Winton for a captivating watercolor retreat set along Portugal’s sunlit southern coast. This immersive experience invites you to explore the art of watercolor painting, focusing on the beauty of local botanicals, flowers, and gentle landscapes. With Harriet’s guidance, you’ll experiment with a range of techniques, refine your composition skills, and build confidence in your creative choices. This retreat is open to artists of all levels of experience.

Step beyond the studio to connect with Portugal’s landscapes during a visit to the historic town of Lagos and a sailing trip along the Algarve’s striking coastline. Gather inspiration from the colors, textures, and plant life around you, filling your journal with sketches and notes that reflect the essence of your surroundings.

Your stay includes accommodation in a traditional Portuguese villa surrounded by flourishing gardens, daily meals prepared on-site, and the company of like-minded artists. Spend time painting outdoors, where the plants and trees around you create an ever-changing source of inspiration. By the end of the retreat, you’ll have a collection of watercolor pieces that capture both the beauty of Portugal and your personal creative journey.

## Details

- **Dates:** March 28 - April 4, 2027
- **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,950
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 16 students
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

**What's included**

1. Daily art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Harriet de Winton
2. Watercolor paper (2 x Arches 12-sheet pads per participant and 1 x Arches 20-sheet block per participant) and fresh flower bouquets for reference material
3. 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
4. 7 nights of accommodation at a stunning Portuguese Quinta
5. 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
6. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
7. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free
8. Delicious local wine served during dinner service every day
9. Snacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the day
10. Half-day boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve on a traditional Portuguese sailing boat
11. Half-day art trip to the Lagos historic town, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location
12. Walking tour with time for shopping and a visit to the beach during the trip to Lagos
13. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities
14. Round-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times
15. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
16. Fully staffed venue, with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on-location
17. All local tourist taxes and fees
18. Access to a private Facebook group with Harriet de Winton 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 Harriet de Winton 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

### Spring Watercolor Botanicals Art Retreat
Join artist Harriet de Winton for an inspiring art retreat on the sun-drenched southern coast of Portugal. Throughout the week, work closely with her in daily watercolor workshops, receiving personalized feedback to refine and develop your painting skills. This retreat also includes two art-focused outings, drawing inspiration from Portugal’s stunning landscapes and diverse plant life. Open to artists of all levels, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore or deepen your creativity.

Under Harriet’s expert guidance, you’ll develop your watercolor technique, focusing on compositions inspired by local flowers, trees, and the surrounding scenery. Each day’s session will introduce approaches such as building harmonious color palettes, incorporating botanical elements into your work, and experimenting with new methods to evolve your personal style. Paint outdoors in the beautiful Italian gardens, where natural light and fresh air enhance the creative process. One-on-one support throughout the retreat will help you refine your skills and build confidence in your artistic journey.

**During your stay, you’ll cover:**

- The fundamentals of watercolor painting
- How to study a plant or flower and knowing where to begin painting it
- How to choose a color palette
- How to compose an arrangement on the page
- How to create beautiful pieces of art that you can hang on the wall and be proud of
- An appreciation for observing nature
- The therapeutic calm that watercolor painting can bring
- How to paint watercolor in different settings
- To enjoy the pure joy of creation
- ...and much more!

Every aspect of the retreat is thoughtfully designed to ignite your creativity. The vibrant colors of Portugal reflect its rich cultural heritage, and you'll immerse yourself in the beauty of the Algarve region with a visit to the charming town of Lagos. Here, you'll find inspiration in the golden sands, vivid architecture, and the endless blue of the ocean. Additionally, a sailing trip on a traditional boat will take you along the stunning coastline, revealing secluded beaches, hidden caves, and striking rock formations.

You'll stay at a lovely Portuguese villa, gather inspiration from its blooming Italian garden, enjoy regional, chef-made cuisine every day, and connect with a community of 15 other artists.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat with artist Harriet de Winton.

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

### Day 2: Art at the venue
Begin your morning with a nourishing breakfast and gather with the group over coffee for a relaxed check-in.

Start the day with a hands-on introduction to the foundations of botanical watercolor painting. Harriet will walk you through key techniques, demonstrating how to use watercolors to capture the fine details of flowers and foliage. You’ll practice washes, layering, and brushwork to bring out the delicate textures of petals and leaves. Take inspiration from the vibrant surroundings, painting outdoors in the warmth of the morning sun. The lush gardens around you, filled with fragrant citrus blossoms, silvery olive trees, and bold colors, will provide rich subjects to explore.

Following a satisfying lunch, the afternoon session focuses on unleashing your creativity. Bask in the warm weather and paint outdoors, using the vibrant gardens as your inspiration. Experiment with watercolors, trying different brushstrokes and color blending to bring botanical subjects to life. Harriet will be there to guide you, offering feedback and encouragement in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish. Stroll through the gardens, soaking in the golden light, or find a quiet place to reflect on your progress. If you’d rather keep painting, bring your sketchbook outside and capture the late afternoon glow on the leaves and flowers. As evening approaches, gather with the group for a delicious dinner prepared by the chef, accompanied by a glass of local wine.

### Day 3: Boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast, taking a moment to ease into the day over a relaxed coffee check-in. Prepare for an inspiring day that begins with time on Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coast.

Step aboard a traditional Portuguese boat at Lagos Marina and glide across the gentle waves. The morning is spent soaking in the ever-changing scenery: towering cliffs, quiet coves, and rugged rock formations shaped by the sea. Feel the warmth of the sun and the salty breeze as you take in the colors and textures of the coastline. Take your sketchbook in hand to capture the way the wind moves through the coastal plants and the light shifts on the water. The contrast between the golden cliffs and the deep blue ocean makes for a striking scene to observe. If the weather is favorable, dive into the refreshing sea for an invigorating swim!

Back at the venue, enjoy a laid-back lunch before an afternoon of painting. Harriet will guide you through a close study of flowers and plants found in the estate’s gardens. Settle into a shaded spot outdoors, where you can work directly from life, observing how sunlight filters through the leaves and petals. Focus on brushwork, color blending, and understanding the natural shapes of botanical subjects, helping you develop confidence in bringing plants to life with watercolors.

As the afternoon fades, take time to unwind. Wander through the gardens, enjoy a quiet moment by the pool, or continue sketching in the soft light of early evening. The day ends with a freshly prepared dinner, where you can share thoughts and experiences with fellow artists, reflecting on the day’s inspiration and the creative journey ahead.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
After a nourishing breakfast, join Harriet and your fellow artists for a relaxed morning check-in.

The morning is dedicated to creative exploration with watercolors. Draw inspiration from the natural elements gathered during your sailing trip along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, as well as the vibrant plant life surrounding the estate. Experiment with color blending, capturing the delicate textures of petals, and studying the distinct shapes of coastal flora. Harriet will guide you through techniques to bring these botanical subjects to life, helping you refine your brushwork and deepen your understanding of watercolor painting.

After a satisfying lunch, shift your focus to simple landscapes inspired by the gardens and trees on the estate. Make the most of the warm weather by painting outdoors, where you can observe firsthand how sunlight filters through the leaves and changes the colors of the plants. Harriet will demonstrate how to capture the balance of light, color, and form in your compositions. Experiment freely, working with different techniques to develop confidence in your landscape painting.

As the day winds down, take some time for yourself to unwind. Stroll through the gardens for fresh inspiration, find a shaded spot to sketch, or relax by the pool while reflecting on the day's work. The evening wraps up with a freshly prepared dinner, where you can gather with fellow artists to share thoughts, exchange ideas, and appreciate the creative journey you’ve embarked on together.

### Day 5: Art trip to Lagos
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, easing into the rhythm of the retreat as you prepare for a visit to the historic coastal town of Lagos.

A short drive brings you to Lagos, a town shaped by the influences of the Greeks, Romans, Phoenicians, and Moors. Wander along its cobbled streets, where colorful “azulejo” tiles decorate the buildings, fishing boats dot the marina, and the deep blue of the Atlantic stretches into the horizon. Let the textures and details around you spark inspiration as you pause to sketch or capture reference photos. Notice how the bougainvillea spills over whitewashed walls, the potted lemon trees brighten quiet courtyards, and wildflowers peek through stone pathways.

After returning to the venue for a satisfying lunch, spend the afternoon immersed in a watercolor session with Harriet. Drawing from the colors, shapes, and patterns that stood out to you in the morning, begin developing pieces inspired by Lagos’ sunlit gardens, tree-lined streets, or vine-covered facades. Settle into the warm afternoon air, painting outside where the plants and trees around you add to the experience.

As the day winds down, take time to unwind. Stroll through the gardens, find a shady spot to sketch, or relax by the pool while reflecting on the day's creative discoveries. In the evening, gather with fellow artists for a freshly prepared dinner, sharing inspiration and conversation as the sun sets over the peaceful surroundings.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
On the sixth day of your retreat in Portugal, start with a hearty breakfast and a relaxed coffee check-in with your fellow artists.

Spend the morning revisiting the pieces you’ve worked on throughout the retreat, refining color palettes, and incorporating the plants and flowers you’ve observed into a seasonal botanical study. Under Harriet’s guidance, explore ways to mix and layer colors that reflect the richness of the local flora. Arrange elements from your sketches into a balanced composition, perhaps forming a loose bouquet or a collection of detailed studies in watercolor. Take advantage of the warm weather by working outside, letting the natural light enhance your painting process.

After a laid-back lunch, continue refining your work in a relaxed afternoon session. This is a time to step back, assess your progress, and make thoughtful adjustments. Focus on adding depth, fine-tuning details, or exploring different approaches to bring your pieces together. Harriet will be available to answer questions and offer guidance, helping you develop confidence in your final touches.

Later, unwind in the peaceful gardens and find inspiration among the trees and flowers, or take a quiet walk to the nearby beach to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. As the evening settles in, gather with your group for a freshly prepared dinner.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Kick off your final day with a delicious breakfast, taking a quiet moment to enjoy the morning light and the peaceful surroundings before stepping into a day of creativity and reflection.

The morning is dedicated to short one-on-one sessions with Harriet, allowing you to focus on your individual artistic growth. Refine your unique style, ask any remaining questions, and add the final touches to your watercolor pieces with Harriet’s guidance.

After a satisfying lunch, the day’s highlight awaits: the mini-exhibition. Display your finished paintings, exchange feedback with fellow artists, and celebrate the progress made throughout the retreat. This gathering offers a moment to admire the different interpretations of Portugal’s landscape and plant life, share insights, and gather inspiration for continuing your watercolor practice beyond the retreat.

As the retreat comes to a close, come together for a farewell dinner, a thoughtfully prepared meal shared with new friends. Raise a glass as you reflect on the creative journey of the past days, the connections you’ve made, and the artistic discoveries that will stay with you. With the evening breeze carrying the scent of the gardens, look ahead to the new ideas and projects waiting for you beyond this inspiring week in Portugal.

### Day 8: Departure
Join Harriet and your fellow artists for breakfast to share any last contact details, say your goodbyes, and get ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Harriet de Winton](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/harriet-de-winton) — Artist and watercolor teacher

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta
Nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, your venue is a chic Portuguese Quinta, perfect for an unforgettable art retreat with Harriet de Winton. 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 (female only)
One superior room with garden view is available for shared occupancy.

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

### Shared superior room - sea view
Four 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 four shared superior rooms with sea views 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.

### 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, 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 Harriet de Winton 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: March 28, 2027 — 3:00 PM** (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)

**Departure Transfer: April 4, 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 previous UpTrek retreats with artist Harriet de Winton:**

- "Harriet de Winton was an absolute joy as she guided our group through the are of creating beautiful watercolor paintings. Her passion and teaching style made the entire experience unforgettable. By the end of our time together, we had formed meaningful friendships that made saying goodbye truly difficult. This was more than just a retreat-- it was the experience of a lifetime!"

- "Learning from Harriet was an amazing opportunity. She is so warm, welcoming and encouraging. She is an excellent teacher and I would highly recommend going to a retreat with her!"

- "I can’t say enough wonderful things! Harriet is the most positive and wonderful teacher! The best retreat I have ever been on! Thank you!!"

- "Harriet was a patient, skilled teacher. She let us work at our own pace and encouraged us to try new things. She took us through the different ways to use watercolor in a logical order. She was prepared with the direct lessons and supportive of our work. As a group we were able to create a sense of community. All in all, it was a lovely experience and one in which I learned a lot but also felt that I made some new friends."

- "Harriet is an outstanding teacher! Her demonstrations are thorough, and she provide excellent guidance. She's always positive even for those of us less experienced in watercolors. She was always 'one of us' outside the class. I plan to enroll in her class next year."

- "Harriet is the best. A warm, generous and talented teacher. Her art is so wonderful. All of the women present were warm, kind and supportive. We laughed a lot. Friendships were formed. It was a gift of an experience in all ways."

- "What an amazing experience from start to finish! Truly one of the best things I have done. Harriet is an inspiring and patient teacher who paced our classes perfectly for all levels to feel like they had really made progress and made great strides at the end of the week. We have made lifelong friendships with like minded people, an experience I will never forget. Thank you!!!"

**Retreat venue reviews:**

- "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."

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The art retreat with Harriet de Winton is open to all levels of experience.

**When is the art retreat available?**

The art retreat with artist Harriet de Winton in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between March 28 - April 4, 2027.

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

Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on March 28, 2027, and check-out is after breakfast on April 4, 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. WiFi is available in all areas at no additional cost.

**I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art 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/spring-watercolor-botanicals-art-retreat-artist-harriet-de-winton-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, in late March?**

The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, in late March is generally sunny and mild. You can expect average highs of 20°C (68°F) during the day that drop to around 11°C (52°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 art supplies do I need for the workshop?**

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Harriet de Winton will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. Watercolor paper (2 x Arches 12-sheet pads per participant and 1 x Arches 20-sheet block per participant), fresh flower bouquets for reference material, 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 art 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 art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.

**Is the art 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 art 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](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 artist 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/spring-watercolor-botanicals-art-retreat-artist-harriet-de-winton-portugal#book)** — no deposit required.

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

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**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/spring-watercolor-botanicals-art-retreat-artist-harriet-de-winton-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-07-30