# The Anatomy of Watercolor Art Retreat with Artist Kristin Van Leuven in Ireland Join renowned artist Kristin Van Leuven for an inspiring watercolor retreat set within a heritage Irish manor estate! Each day, take part in engaging classes where Kristin offers personalized guidance, expert insights, and hands-on demonstrations to help you refine your technique. Her thoughtfully structured lessons simplify complex watercolor methods into approachable steps, making the learning process both enjoyable and accessible. The retreat is open to artists of all experience levels, as Kristin will adapt her teaching to your needs. Stay in a 17th-century Irish manor house set on a 400-acre estate, with the entire property rented solely for this retreat. Surrounded by ancient woodland and private lakes, enjoy nourishing meals prepared by the private chef and experience the beauty of County Monaghan with visits to the shores of Lough Muckno, the grounds of Castle Leslie, and the colorful Georgian streets of Glaslough Village. Along the way, you'll gather inspiration, sketch, and develop a meaningful watercolor collection to take home, along with a kaleidoscope of unforgettable memories! ## Details - **Dates:** May 11 - 18, 2027 - **Location:** Clones, Ireland - **Starting Price:** $4,600 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 18 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 Kristin Van Leuven 2. Fresh flowers for the workshop component 3. Studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, and glass jars 4. Exclusive use of the entire historic 400-acre manor estate, including the Manor House, Cottage, Gatelodge, 2,500 sq. ft. studio, private lake, lakeside sauna, gardens, and private grounds 5. 7 nights of accommodation at a historic Irish manor 6. 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 7. All diets catered for, including vegan and gluten-free diets 8. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner 9. Homemade snacks in the afternoon 10. Complimentary water, coffee, and tea available throughout the day 11. Half-day art trip to Lough Muckno with opportunities for sketching on location 12. Full-day art trip to Castle Leslie Estate and Glaslough Village with opportunities for sketching on location 13. Afternoon tea with a tiered display of savory bites and hand-crafted sweets 14. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities 15. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Dublin Airport (DUB) at prearranged times 16. All tourist taxes and fees 17. Fully-staffed venue, experienced UpTrek host on location 18. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Kristin Van Leuven and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - One lunch during the full-day trip to Castle Leslie and Glaslough Village - Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Kristin Van Leuven five months before the retreat - Tips for staff - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### The Anatomy of Watercolor Art Retreat Join artist Kristin Van Leuven for an enriching watercolor retreat in the heart of the Irish countryside. Throughout this weeklong experience, reconnect with watercolor painting through Kristin's warm and encouraging teaching style. She will guide you through essential techniques, breaking down complex methods into simple, approachable steps that help build confidence and creativity in your work. Along with exploring brushwork, water control, and layering, Kristin will walk you through painting expressive landscapes and loose florals from start to finish. This retreat is ideal for beginners looking to develop a strong foundation, while experienced artists will have the chance to refine their skills and explore fresh perspectives. Daily classes include in-depth demonstrations, individual feedback, and creative exercises designed to inspire and enhance your artistic journey. Beyond the studio, immerse yourself in Ireland's natural beauty, sketching and painting outdoors in picturesque locations. Capture the still waters and wooded islands of Lough Muckno, the grand lakeside grounds of Castle Leslie, and the colorful Georgian streets of Glaslough Village as you develop a deeper connection to your surroundings. By the end of the retreat, with Kristin's expert guidance and the support of a small group of fellow artists, you'll have created a meaningful collection of watercolor paintings, inspired by the landscapes and florals of this breathtaking setting. **Some topics covered in the classes include:** - Introduction to color theory - Mastering water control - Maintaining color value - Using white space to your advantage - Working with watercolor instead of forcing it - Achieving organic strokes - Breaking down landscape and botanical subjects into essential parts - The basics of plein-air - How to begin your artwork - The basics of sketching - ...and many more! Your venue for this art retreat is one of Ireland's rare continuously family-held manor estates, with roots reaching back to 1651 and the same family in residence since the 1730s. The entire property is rented solely for this retreat. Located in the peaceful countryside of County Monaghan, the estate spans hundreds of acres of heritage woodland and private lakes, with formal parterre gardens framing the house. Your classes will take place in a spacious art studio, and between painting sessions you can wander the walking trails or unwind in the sauna. Immerse yourself in Irish hospitality with chef-made meals and a traditional afternoon tea event, complete with a tiered display of savory bites and hand-crafted sweets. ### Day 1: Arrival Land at Dublin Airport Airport (DUB) and hop on the 2:00 PM transfer to the venue. Once there, unpack and unwind in your cozy room. Settle in, then meet artist Kristin Van Leuven, as well as your art group. Join a delightful tour of the historic manor, ancient woodlands, and elegant common spaces. As dusk settles, gather with your fellow participants for a delectable welcome dinner, each bite enhanced by a glass of wine. ### Day 2: Art classes at the venue Start your second day at the retreat with a nourishing breakfast, then gather with your group over coffee for a check-in. During the morning class, you'll get more familiar with the medium of watercolor. Kristin will walk you through all the necessary basics: expressive brushstrokes, loose mark-making, color theory, and adapting to limited palettes. You'll learn more about water control: how much to add, how to avoid overdoing it, and how to maintain consistency in your values. Put these new techniques to the test with a simple watercolor project, where you'll experiment with playful patterns and blending. Refuel with a delicious lunch before joining the afternoon class. You'll spend this workshop diving deeper into understanding values. Using a photo as reference, you'll first paint it in grayscale to practice maintaining consistency in your values. Later on, you'll redo the painting using color. This exercise will sharpen your sense of light and shadow. Spend the afternoon connecting with your fellow artists, exploring the vast grounds of the estate, or relaxing in the sauna. Conclude the day with a sumptuous chef-made dinner and reflect on your progress so far. ### Day 3: Art trip to Lough Muckno Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast, then gather around for a coffee and a check-in, preparing for the first exciting art trip of your retreat. You'll visit the stunning Lough Muckno, the largest (and most scenic) lake in Monaghan County. The lake sits within the old Hope Castle estate grounds. You'll find plenty of inspiration within the acres of mature woodland opening onto dark, still water dotted with small islands. The views here shift constantly: soft drumlin hills rolling away into the distance, reflections breaking onto the water's surface, or elusive herons scouring the reeds. Spend the morning exploring this natural haven, taking reference photos or quick sketches of scenes that catch your eye. Return to the venue for lunch, then reconvene in the studio. With Kristin's help, you'll go over your sketches and photos from the trip, selecting your favorites for the upcoming exercise. Using the value techniques you learned the previous day, practice your sense of light and shadow by first painting in greyscale, then moving on to color. You may also develop the paintings you started during your first workshops. Enjoy your free time in the late afternoon, then wind down with a chef-made dinner and a glass of wine, reflecting on your exploration of one of Ireland's most beautiful lakes. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Start the day with some delicious breakfast with your group. Over a cup of coffee, check in with each other's progress and learn more about the plans for the day. Today will introduce you to the wonderful world of florals. Start by studying the anatomy of a flower in watercolor, learning how petals, stems, and leaves break down into simple shapes. Kristin will guide you through the basics of floral arrangement and flower color theory, helping you select color palettes that feel harmonious and natural. You'll explore how color values create depth and dimension, using a cone-shaped guide to build each bloom from light to dark. Moving forward, layer washes and use negative painting to carve out highlights and shadow. Kristin will also show you how to use implied lines to suggest form in a loose, abstract style, helping you capture the energy of a flower without overworking the detail. By the end of the day, you'll have a method you can apply to any flower. Take a break with a light lunch, then return to your classes in the afternoon. It's time for another hands-on practice session as you continue developing your sketches from the morning. As always, Kristin will be there in case you need extra help. In the late afternoon, spend your free time as you wish. Wander the gardens, sketch on your own, or exchange stories with fellow participants. Dinner comes with another feast, prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of wine. ### Day 5: Trip to Castle Leslie and Glaslough Village Begin the day with a refreshing breakfast before a coffee check-in to chat about the day ahead. Gear up for an unforgettable full-day trip: to Castle Leslie and the nearby Glaslough Village. The morning begins at Castle Leslie, a luxury estate set on 1,000 acres of ancient woodland, rolling lakeside landscapes, and historic gardens, famously the venue for Paul McCartney and Heather Mills' 2002 wedding. Spend the morning taking reference photos or crafting loose sketches of the estate grounds. Make sure to check out Glaslough Lake and the Victorian Walled Garden, where seasonal flowers, heritage plants, and charming architectural details offer no shortage of subjects to work from. You'll enjoy lunch on your own at the Castle's restaurant. In the afternoon, explore Glaslough Village, deemed one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, known for its stunning stone-cut Georgian architecture and colorful streets. A leisurely walk winds through the village with stops at Glaslough Chocolate Co. for handmade Belgian chocolates and coffee, the Ambledown Cottage (a highly photogenic pizzeria set in a converted stone cottage), and Pocono, a family-run shop known for its award-winning gelato. Keep adding to your collection of loose sketches and reference photos as you trek through the quaint village. Returning to the venue just in time for another chef-made dinner with wine, the perfect end to an adventurous day. ### Day 6: Art at the venue Refuel with some tasty breakfast, then find out more about the plans for the day over a relaxed coffee check-in. The morning is all about landscapes. Kristin will walk you through the anatomy of a landscape painting, covering perspective, vanishing points, and how atmospheric perspective affects your color values as elements recede into the distance. You'll learn how to depict trees and clouds, using specific brushstrokes and textures to bring each element to life. Kristin will demo the process using a reference photo from one of your trips (Lough Muckno, Castle Leslie, or Glaslough Village), then guide you through one of her signature exercises: splitting your paper into smaller squares and filling each one with a tiny landscape, letting you experiment with composition and mood in quick, low-pressure studies. Take a break during lunch, then head outside to paint the landscape around you during this hands-on workshop. This is your chance to apply everything from the morning session to a real scene, working en plein air at your own pace. If you'd prefer, you can also continue adding to the landscape you started earlier in the day, refining details and layering in depth with Kristin's guidance. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing in the sauna or chatting with your fellow creatives, then treat yourself to a delicious dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine. ### Day 7: Art class at the venue Your final day of the retreat starts with another delightful breakfast. Spend your last classes with Kristin adding finishing touches, adjusting details, and looking back on everything you’ve created during the retreat. Kristin will move around the space offering guidance, answering questions, and sharing final tips for anything you want to revisit. Whether you’re adjusting a composition or talking through ways to keep painting at home, this is time to tie everything together at your own pace. After a relaxed lunch, the group will gather for an informal exhibition to celebrate the week’s work. Lay out your paintings, walk through each collection, and take in the variety of styles, stories, and discoveries. Conversations unfold naturally as you share what surprised you, what challenged you, and what you’re taking with you. Kristin will be there too, offering encouragement and celebrating each creative path. As the sun dips, come together one last time for a special farewell dinner featuring delicious wine. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy breakfast together, exchange any last contacts, and catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Dublin Airport (DUB), arriving at the airport at around 11:45 AM. ## Instructors - [Kristin Van Leuven](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/kristin-van-leuven) — Artist and author ## Accommodation ### Historic Irish Manor Estate Set against the emerald backdrop of County Monaghan's rolling drumlins, your venue is one of Ireland's rare continuously family-held manor estates, dating back to the mid-17th century. Established in 1651 and in the same family's hands since the 1730s, this historic Irish manor estate offers an exclusive glimpse into authentic Irish heritage. The entire 400-acre property will be exclusively rented for you and your art group, and is located within a sanctuary of ancient woodlands and sweeping meadows, with towering oaks scattered throughout. The Manor House serves as the heart of the estate, containing eight beautiful bedrooms and an elegant dining room where group meals are shared. Additional accommodation includes The Cottage, a four-bedroom home a short seven-minute walk from the Manor, and the Gatelodge, a two-bedroom residence ten minutes away on foot. For ease of travel across the 400 acres, a staff-driven golf cart is on hand to transport guests between the Gatelodge and the Manor. Outdoors, there are walks across the grounds and wild swimming in the freshwater lake. A wood-fired sauna sits on a private pebble beach at the water's edge. Wander through the organic walled gardens or rest beneath the canopy of veteran trees. Classes will take place in a spectacular 2,500 sq ft (230 m²) indoor studio found within the Manor. On the first floor, common areas include the study and the billiard room. The second floor houses most of the other shared spaces, including the dining room, the living room, and the drawing rooms. The manor retains its historic layout to maximize estate views. The studio is accessed via stairs (located in the central atrium of the Manor, on the first floor). The bedrooms of the Manor are found on the third floor. Navigating the venue will involve climbing stairs, so it may not suit participants with limited mobility. Officially accredited as a Wildlife Estate, this 17th-century Irish manor house anchors a 400-acre property where sustainable preservation is a way of life. The farm-to-fork dining ethos draws on produce harvested daily from the 4-acre kitchen garden, and a long-standing commitment to biodiversity shapes how the land is cared for. The entire estate is rented solely for the artist and their guests, offering the genuine, unhurried warmth of traditional Irish hospitality in a setting that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. ### Shared ensuite room (Lodge) One shared standard room with an ensuite bathroom in The Gatelodge is available for double occupancy, shared between two same-gender participants. Found on the second floor of The Gatelodge (stairs access), this twin room comes with two comfortable single beds. The room benefits from access to a private ensuite bathroom, featuring a spacious shower. Initially built in 1825, this uniquely designed lodge was restored and renovated for modern comfort. Situated atop a small hill (stairs access), it overlooks one of the entrances of the estate, the surrounding countryside, and the nearby forest. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan kitchen, a cozy living room with a wood-burning stove, and a private wild garden. ### Shared standard room - adjacent bathroom (Cottage) You will share this room and its adjacent bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. Found on the first floor, the room contains two comfortable twin beds. You'll have access to a adjacent bathroom (located across the hallway), featuring a tub and an overhead shower. The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table. ### Shared standard ensuite room (Cottage) (female only) You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. There are two shared standard rooms located on the first floor of the Cottage. Each room will be outfitted with twin beds and has access to a private, ensuite shower bathroom. The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table. ### Shared superior room - adjacent bathroom (Manor) You will share this room and its adjacent bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The room is located on the third floor of the Manor (stairway access) and will be outfitted with twin beds. All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The adjacent bathroom (located on the hallway, right next to the room) features a free-standing tub and a shower. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room). ### Single ensuite room (Lodge) One single ensuite room located in the Gatelodge is available for single occupancy. Found on the second floor (stairs access), the room contains a comfortable double bed. You'll have access to a private ensuite bathroom, featuring a spacious shower. Initially built in 1825, this uniquely designed lodge was restored and renovated for modern comfort. Situated atop a small hill (stairs access), it overlooks one of the entrances of the estate, the surrounding countryside, and the nearby forest. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan kitchen, a cozy living room with a wood-burning stove, and a private garden. ### Single standard ensuite room (Cottage) One single standard ensuite room is available for single occupancy. The room is located on the first floor of the Cottage and contains a small double bed. You will have access to a private, ensuite shower bathroom. The Cottage is tucked away within its own peaceful corner of the estate, right next to the natural lake, the sauna, and ancient woodland. The main building (alongside the workshop spaces) are a 5-minute stroll away. Guests staying here benefit from access to several shared spaces: a large patio area, an open-plan living room featuring a wood-burning stove and a TV, a kitchen, and a dining table. ### Shared bathroom - single standard room (Manor) (female only) You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. This single-occupancy room shares a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. Equipped with a comfortable double bed, the room is located on the third floor of the Manor (stairway access). There is a separate sink within the room as well. All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room). ### Shared bathroom - single superior room (Manor) You will share the bathroom with one other retreat participant, but you will have this room to yourself. This single-occupancy rooms share a bathroom with another single-occupancy room nearby; two participants will share a spacious bathroom on site. The superior single room is larger than the standard and features an antique half-tester bed. Located on the third floor of the Manor, the room has gorgeous views over the surrounding estate. The room also contains several separate seating areas. All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room). ### Single superior ensuite room (Manor) Two single superior rooms located within the Manor are available for single occupancy. Found on the third floor, the rooms include a comfortable double bed. You'll have access to a private, ensuite bathroom (tub). All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room). ### Deluxe ensuite room (Manor) Two single deluxe rooms located within the Manor are available for single occupancy. Found on the third floor, the rooms are equipped with king beds (one half-tester, one four-poster). You'll have access to a private, ensuite bathroom (tub with shower attachment). More spacious than the single superior ensuites, the deluxe rooms also include a separate seating area, as well as an antique chaise longue. All rooms in the Manor retain their original décor, replete with antique furniture, ornate wallpapers, and family artifacts. The Manor is the main building of the estate; it includes the main dining room where meals will be served, the studio space, as well as other shared spaces (the drawing rooms, the study, and the billiard room). ## Food During your art retreat, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The curated menu combines traditional Irish dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks. Start each day with a choice of hot dishes or a continental breakfast, featuring buttery pastries, fresh fruit, toast, yogurt, and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like savory tarts served with garden greens, hearty seasonal salads with crusty bread, or homemade soup accompanied by traditional soda bread. In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, with selections such as locally sourced fish with seasonal veggies, roasted vegetable dishes served with steaming grains, or flavorful meat dishes with flatbreads. Conclude on a sweet note with desserts like citrus pots with homemade shortbread, warm chocolate treats with vanilla ice cream, garden fruit crumble with fresh custard, or a selection of homemade sorbets. Experience authentic Irish hospitality with three-course welcome and farewell dinners, paired with flavorful wine. Throughout the retreat, enjoy fresh power juices during morning art classes. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water will be readily available all day. Treat yourself to a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up. All meals are included except for one lunch during the full-day trip. The exact menu served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients. For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot. ## Getting There The venue for your retreat with Kristin Van Leuven is a majestic 17th-century heritage Irish manor estate, hidden away in the rolling drumlins of County Monaghan, Ireland. This "undiscovered" region is a landscape of ancient secrets and artistic legacy, just minutes from the historic town of Clones, famous for its intricate lace-making tradition and monastic ruins, including a well-preserved 10th-century Round Tower. The area is steeped in a rich literary history, serving as the muse for the poet Patrick Kavanagh, whose verses immortalized these very stony grey soils and mist-covered hills. The manor estate itself is a fully enclosed, 400-acre sanctuary, celebrated as one of Ireland’s most romantic and secluded domains. Its grounds are a living tapestry of heritage woodlands, sweeping meadows, and grounds that have been cultivated by the same family for three centuries. Majestic oaks and towering beech trees form cathedral-like canopies over the walking paths, while the estate’s two private freshwater lakes offer a mirror-like stillness perfect for wild swimming or relaxation. As you sketch by the water’s edge, you might spot kingfishers flashing blue across the surface or red squirrels darting through the canopy. **To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Dublin Airport (DUB).** We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel. It is best to arrive in Ireland a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation. **How to get from Dublin to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Dublin Airport (DUB) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on May 11, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on May 18, 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.** **Arrival transfer:** **May 11, 2027** — 2:00 PM (leaving from Dublin Airport DUB, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 3:45 PM) **Departure transfer:** **May 18, 2027** — 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Dublin Airport DUB at approximately 11:45 AM) **If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:** - Spend extra days at a hotel in Dublin before or after the retreat and catch the transfer shuttles to/from Dublin Airport (DUB). - Land in Dublin and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Hilton Park, Clones, Co. Monaghan, Ireland; approximate cost: €200 EUR). Taxi fares may vary. ## Reviews **Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Kristin Van Leuven:** - "My experience with the Anatomy of Watercolor with Kristin Van Leuven was truly amazing! I learned some great watercolor techniques. Kristin's teaching was clear, easy to follow, and she was approachable with any questions. The group of women artist were so fun to share this experience, we had lots of laughs!" - "Kristin's water color painting sessions were really fun and easy to understand while still being challenging. Our art gallery on the last night was such a cute idea." - "Kristin is the most amazing, supportive teacher! She really encouraged us all to grow so much that week. One of the most relaxing weeks and most productive weeks at the same time!" - "This retreat was absolutely incredible in all areas. Kristin was an amazing instructor, she explains things well and was more than willing to answer any questions each of us had. She is so incredibly kind and friendly." - "This trip was truly one of the most incredible I have ever been on! I felt so taken care of by our hosts and they made every day feel like we were being pampered! Kristen was an incredible teacher and went above and beyond in how she engaged with our group! I can't say enough things about how lovely this whole retreat was!" - "Kristin is as excellent an instructor as she is charming human being. Her ability to tailor her lessons to all skill levels was impressive and she is just so much fun! And what a delightful bonus to have Kelly assisting. Sharing this week with so many talented, thoughtful, supportive women, who quickly became friends, was an unexpected gift. A big shout out to Alex, our Retreat Coordinator for his attention to every detail, his availability and prompt replies to all questions. This was my first experience with UpTrek and with it’s excellent staff and this unforgettable retreat, I can’t wait for my next." - "I loved everything about this retreat! Kristin is an amazing teacher who meets each individual at their level, she is patient, knowledgeable, and accepting. She is extremely open and welcoming, making you feel like you belong no matter what level you are on. She is simply amazing!" ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is the art retreat available to all levels?** The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with watercolor, as well as with Kristin Van Leuven's work and style of teaching. **When is the art retreat available?** The art retreat with artist Kristin Van Leuven in Clones, Ireland, takes place between May 11 - 18, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on May 11, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the art retreat, May 18, 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?** Free Wi-Fi is available in the main reception space, dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art retreat?** Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are catered for. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Please note, however, that we cannot accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Dublin Airport (DUB) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Ireland 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 and you have been charged for your participation. For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-anatomy-of-watercolor-art-retreat-artist-kristin-van-leuven-ireland#location). **What’s the weather like in Clones, Ireland, in May?** The weather in Clones, Ireland, in May is generally mild and pleasant, though often changeable. You can expect average highs of 14°C / 57°F during the day that drop to around 6°C / 43°F at night. Clones enjoys long daylight hours (approx. 16 hours) and lush green landscapes during this season. May is an excellent time to stay in Clones, as the temperatures are comfortable for exploring the estate without being too hot or too cold. **What should I pack?** Please pack clothing suitable for layering (t-shirts, sweaters, and a rain jacket), as the weather can change quickly. We recommend sturdy walking shoes or boots for exploring the estate grounds, a swimsuit, sunscreen and sunglasses, insect repellent, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **Can I do laundry while on the retreat?** Yes, laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue. Washing machines, dryers, and laundry detergent are provided in all properties. Irons and ironing boards are also available for guest use. **What art supplies do I need for the art classes?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Kristin Van Leuven will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Glass jars, easels, paper towels, appropriate disposal bins, tables, chairs, and plastic covers are available at the retreat venue. **How many people are to be expected on the art retreat?** There is a maximum number of 18 participants. **Is the sauna free to use?** Yes. The sauna is available daily from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The sauna takes approximately 45 minutes to heat up, so please plan accordingly within these times (though times can be flexible upon request). It can accommodate up to 8 guests at once. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the EU may enter Ireland for tourist purposes without a visa. If your flight connects through the UK (e.g., London Heathrow), you generally do not need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if your layover is under 24 hours and you do not pass through border control. However, we strongly recommend confirming your specific transit requirements [here](https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control/layovers-and-transiting). **Please contact us for further guidance.** **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** The currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted throughout Ireland, including in local towns like Clones, and for most services at the venue. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in Ireland. However, we recommend carrying some cash for smaller local pubs, taxis, or small purchases in rural shops. ATMs are available in Clones town and at the airport. Tipping is customary in Ireland. **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. **Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven streets. Getting around the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the relaxation areas requires a short walk and climbing stairs. **What language is used during the art workshop and other activities?** The art 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 artists 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/the-anatomy-of-watercolor-art-retreat-artist-kristin-van-leuven-ireland#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/the-anatomy-of-watercolor-art-retreat-artist-kristin-van-leuven-ireland **Last updated:** 2026-05-25