# The Alchemy of Place - Transformation Through Nature Retreat with Artist Jo Horswill (Paper Cloth Studio) in Greece

Discover the art of botanical printmaking on an immersive retreat with artist Jo Horswill on the island of Zakynthos, Greece. Forage for local plant materials and transform them into richly layered prints through the alchemy of natural dyes and cyanotype chemistry, working across botanical contact printmaking, cyanoflora, mono printing, and handmade concertina book creation. Leave with a finished body of work capturing the flora of the Greek landscape on paper, along with a handmade artist book to take home.

Throughout the retreat, you will draw inspiration directly from life across Zakynthos. A half day in Zante Town places you among arcades, harbor views, and sunlit facades as you sketch and paint on location. You will board a boat for a half-day visit to Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, creating above bright turquoise water and steep white cliffs shaped by the sea. At an award-winning olive oil farm, spend your time sketching from groves and long agricultural lines.

Stay at a charming Greek villa, soak in the sun at the nearby beach, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine bursting with flavor, and make unforgettable memories with a like-minded group of artists. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.

## Details

- **Dates:** June 17 - 24, 2027
- **Location:** Planos, Zakynthos, Greece
- **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. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Jo Horswill
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, easels, artist stools, professional studio lights, two single induction cooktops, cooking pots suited to induction heating, buckets and/or large 10-liter plastic containers
3. 7 nights of accommodation at an elegant seaside villa
4. Exclusive use of the venue's living quarters and common areas, a Shala art studio, pool, jacuzzi, wooden gazebo, SPA area, and beautiful terraces
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free and lactose-free
7. Water, coffee, tea, juices, and snacks available throughout the day
8. Special welcome and farewell dinner
9. Delicious local wine during dinner service every day
10. Spacious sea-facing Shala art studio
11. Half-day art trip to Zante Town, with opportunities for art on-location
12. Half-day boat trip to the Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), with a boat ride included
13. Half-day art trip to an award-winning olive oil farm (est.1890), home to olive trees over 1500 years old, with an olive oil tasting experience
14. Greek dance show and band for the farewell dinner
15. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities
16. Round-trip transfers from/to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) at prearranged times
17. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
18. All local tourist taxes and fees
19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
20. Access to a private Facebook group with Jo Horswill 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 Jo Horswill will be provided five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Greece
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Transformation Through Nature Retreat
Explore the alchemy of natural printmaking on a retreat with botanical artist Jo Horswill at a clifftop villa on the island of Zakynthos, Greece. Jo will guide you through a series of hands-on techniques that use foraged plant materials and natural chemistry to create layered, textured prints on paper. Through one-on-one guidance and daily demonstrations, you will move from preparing and mordanting papers to building compositions with locally gathered foliage, working with dye pots and cyanotype solutions, and assembling your own handmade concertina artist book.

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, from absolute beginners to artists with an interest in botanical printmaking. Between sessions, recharge with fresh juices and lunches prepared by the private chef, or unwind by the pool with views of the Ionian Sea.

Create all through Zakynthos, letting each place dictate a different visual language and pace of looking. In Zante Town, a trip unfolds among arcades, balconies, harbor masts, and worn pastel walls shaped by Venetian and Byzantine history. Bells, footsteps, and moving shadows keep the page alive. Then, a boat ride carries you to Navagio Beach. From high above the electric blue cove, create large shapes or take reference photos for your later studio work. At an award-winning olive oil farm established in 1890, work among trees older than most buildings you have known, some over 1500 years old. The olive oil tasting that follows deepens your sense of place, linking flavor, scent, and memory to your artistic creations.

**The topics covered during your lessons with Jo include:**

- How to prepare watercolor papers for botanical contact printmaking (eco printing)
- How to set up a dye pot and ethically forage for local foliage
- Arranging foliage and composition alongside bundling techniques for botanical contact prints
- Creating dye blankets that deliver natural dyes to your prints for added depth and color
- Exploring cyanoflora, combining cyanotype solutions with organic ingredients for richly layered botanical prints
- Bleaching and toning cyanotypes using organic materials
- Learning botanical monoprinting techniques
- Creating a handmade concertina artist book from your prints
- ...and many more!

The venue, a stunning Greek villa perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the sea, will be your creative haven. The villa offers exclusive access to a sea-facing studio, welcoming common areas, and a refreshing infinity pool, providing plenty of space to work in and relax. Savor authentic Greek cuisine prepared by a private chef, and bond with an intimate group of fellow artists over a glass of local wine.

Please note: the retreat venue is located on terraced grounds, with access to the studio, common areas, and accommodations requiring the use of stairways. Getting to the nearby beach also requires descending a steep stairway of approximately 50 meters (164 feet), and there will be plenty of walking during the trips. Therefore, this retreat is not suitable for individuals with low or limited mobility.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Zakynthos Airport for your 3:30 PM transfer to a breathtaking seafront venue overlooking the Mediterranean.

Settle into your elegant room and take a moment to unwind before joining a guided tour of the venue grounds. Discover the inviting pool, the Shala art studio, and the inviting common areas. Meet your instructor for the retreat, Jo Horswill, as well as your fellow artists.

As the evening winds down, savor a delightful three-course welcome dinner in a warm and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a glass of wine with Jo and the group and make plans for the week ahead.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Enjoy a hearty breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then join Jo and the venue hosts for a morning check-in before heading into your first creative session of the retreat.

Jo will guide you through the botanical contact print techniques, starting with how to prepare watercolor papers for botanical contact printmaking, also known as eco printing. You will learn how to set up a dye pot and head out on a guided walk to ethically forage for local foliage, gathering the plant materials you will use to create your prints.

After a nourishing lunch prepared by the private chef, return to the studio to make your first bundles for the dye pot. Jo will walk you through composition and bundling techniques, showing you how the arrangement of each leaf and stem on the paper shapes the final print.

As the day comes to an end, enjoy some leisure time before dinner. Take a quick dip in the pool, wander the estate grounds, or socialize with your fellow creatives on one of the sea-facing terraces. Indulge in a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of fragrant, local wine.

### Day 3: Boat trip to Navagio Beach
Sit down to a wholesome breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then join Jo for a morning check-in before gathering your sketchbook and camera for a half-day boat trip to Shipwreck Beach, also known as Navagio Beach.

Climb aboard your boat and feel your heart race as you set off along one of the most spectacular coastlines imaginable. Sunlight dances on the waves, casting shimmering patterns that make the entire scene feel almost otherworldly. As you cruise along, you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera again and again, eager to capture the wild beauty of the landscape and the intricate details of the rocks and plants that cling to the cliffs. Gather textures and impressions as inspiration strikes, perhaps taking rubbings from weathered coastal surfaces when you anchor, capturing the energy and magic of this unforgettable journey.

Return to the venue for a refreshing lunch, then unbundle your prints from the dye pot and discover the natural colors the plants have left behind, revealing beautiful prints on paper. Spend the rest of the afternoon developing and refining your work under Jo's guidance.

As the class ends, take some time to recharge after a day filled with exploration and creativity. Relax by the pool, bathe in the sun, or go for a short walk on the nearby beach. Gather with Jo and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, accompanied by a glass of wine.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Over a delicious breakfast and a morning check-in with Jo, prepare for a day of new techniques in the studio. Jo will lead a session on how to create dye blankets to incorporate into your botanical contact printing. These dye blankets deliver natural dyes to the prints, adding depth and color that transform the layers of your work.

After a filling lunch prepared by the private chef, dive back into bundling with dye blankets using only natural dyes. While you wait for your prints to process, Jo will demonstrate mono printing techniques, offering an expressive and effective way to capture the form of a leaf on paper.

Spend the rest of the evening as you wish. Wander the venue grounds, take a swim in the pool, catch the sunset on the nearby beach, or take a moment to reflect on your experience on the retreat so far. Enjoy a flavorful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, complemented by aromatic wine.

### Day 5: Art trip to an olive oil farm with olive oil tasting
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast and a hot cup of coffee before embarking on another adventure: a half-day trip to an olive oil farm.

Indulge in an on-location art session at a renowned olive oil farm that has been running since 1890. Old olive trees, some of which are more than 150 years old, dot the property. Take time to gather textures and impressions from everything you observe during the Silver Medal Global Elite Olive Oils tasting, including the enormous trunks, the girls in traditional attire, the farmer leading the way through the groves, or the animals frolicking about. Feel free to take rubbings from the ancient, weathered tree trunks, photograph what inspires you for any future work, and enjoy the relaxing moments alongside your fellow artists!

Return to the venue for a satisfying lunch, then head into the studio for an afternoon session. Jo will introduce cyanoflora, one of her favorite techniques, combining cyanotype solutions with organic ingredients to produce richly layered and colorful botanical prints. Prepare your first cyanotype exposures and discover how this blend of chemistry and nature opens up an entirely new approach to printmaking.

Unwind with some spare time in the afternoon, then gather for a freshly made dinner, enjoying the lovely company of Jo and your fellow artists.

### Day 6: Art trip to Zante Town
Settle in with a generous breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then join Jo for a morning check-in before gathering your sketchbook for a half-day art trip to Zante Town.

Wander the streets lined with Venetian arches, sunlit balconies, and shifting shadows. Collect reference photos of the architecture and natural details that catch your eye, gathering textures and impressions that could find their way into your studio work. Capture the tranquil turquoise sea, the colorful traditional Greek houses, and the sun-drenched beaches. Take rubbings from intriguing surfaces to inspire your work, gather color inspiration, or simply shop for a souvenir as you explore Zante.

Return to the venue for a delicious lunch, then head into the studio to continue your cyanoflora work. Jo will guide you through bleaching and toning your cyanotypes using organic materials like tea and coffee, a process that elevates the prints with new warmth and depth.

The evening will offer some time to rest, swim, or simply just be. As the day ends, gather with Jo and the group for a nourishing dinner and a pleasant atmosphere, paired with a glass of fragrant wine.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Savor a nourishing breakfast and a morning cup of coffee, then join Jo for a final check-in before heading into your last day of printmaking.

Jo will introduce botanical monoprinting, a quick and effective way to print a leaf, and demonstrate how to finish your prints. Bring the body of work you have built throughout the retreat toward its final state, with Jo's guidance on refining and completing each piece.

Following lunch, settle in to create your own concertina artist book using the prints you have produced. You will have time to embellish and personalize your book, making it a lasting reflection of your time on the island. In the final hour, gather with your fellow artists for a celebratory display of your finished work and a closing circle.

As the evening approaches, enjoy some spare time to reset before dinner. Come together one more time for a generous farewell dinner, accompanied by a Greek dance show and band. Soak in the pleasant atmosphere, surrounded by delicious food, Greek music, and lively conversations. Raise a glass to the art you have brought to life, the friendships you have forged, and the unforgettable memories you have made!

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy one last breakfast with Jo and your art group, and exchange any last contact details before getting ready for your transfer to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH).

Check-out is at 10:00 AM, and you'll arrive at the airport at around 10:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Jo Horswill](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/jo-horswill) — Nature-inspired natural dyer, printmaker, and educator

## Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## Food

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

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

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

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

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

All meals are included. Between meals, you will have access to a snack bar with water, tea, juices, coffee, and homemade snacks.

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

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

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

We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Greece a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.

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

Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly domestically to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on June 17, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on June 24, 2027, by 10:00 AM.

**Arrival Transfer:**

**June 17, 2027 - 3:30 PM** (leaving from Zakynthos International Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM)

**Departure Transfer:**

**June 24, 2027 - 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Zakynthos International Airport around 10:30 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.**

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

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

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

## Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Jo Horswill in Planos, Zakynthos, Greece takes place between June 17 - 24, 2027.

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

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on June 17, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on the last day, June 24, 2027, after breakfast. **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.

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

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

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

Please arrive at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Greece a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) are included.

If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Zakynthos, we recommend you fly to Athens and fly locally to Zakynthos (local round trips starting from US$150, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. For more details, please see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-alchemy-of-place-retreat-artist-jo-horswill-greece#location).

**What should I pack?**

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

**Can I do laundry while on the retreat?**

Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue and you are welcome to use them during your stay for an additional fee payable on-site.

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

UpTrek provides tables, chairs, glass jars, paper towels, easels, artist stools, professional studio lights, two single induction cooktops, 2 x 25cm to 30cm diameter cooking pots suited to induction heating, buckets and/or large 10-liter plastic containers. **Students will bring their own art supplies based on the instructor’s list of recommended materials. A detailed list of materials recommended by artist Jo Horswill will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.**

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

The weather in June in Zakynthos is usually sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 29°C / 84°F during the day that drop to around 18°C / 64°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before your departure to the retreat and to pack accordingly.

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

Maximum 16 participants.

**Do I need a visa?**

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

**Are there any age restrictions?**

The retreat is open to anyone aged over 18.

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

The retreat is available in English.

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

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

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

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

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

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

**Do I need travel insurance?**

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the artist'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/the-alchemy-of-place-retreat-artist-jo-horswill-greece#book)** — no deposit required.

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

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**Last updated:** 2026-07-06