# The Art of Aliveness Retreat with Artist Flora Bowley in Portugal

This heart-expanding retreat with Flora Bowley, set in the radiant Portuguese countryside, offers so much more than a painting experience. It’s a soulful return to your inner wildness, a reconnection with intuitive wisdom, and an invitation to express your creative truth with openness and joy.Across eight nourishing days, you’ll be gently guided through freedom-based art practices, flow writing, breathwork, and mindful movement. These experiences, woven together with meaningful community connection, will help clear space for inspiration and spark a renewed sense of vitality in your life.Spend time exploring the Ribatejo region, soaking in the magic of Óbidos with its fairytale castle and wandering through the lush surroundings of Almourol Castle above the Tagus River. These moments are paired with lovingly prepared meals, local wines, and sweet tastings shared in good company. The private countryside haven, reserved just for this gathering, offers peaceful gardens, a light-filled art studio, a refreshing pool, and inviting living spaces that support both creativity and rest.In this nurturing, judgment-free environment, you are encouraged to follow your intuition, release expectations, and let your creative process unfold naturally. This experience welcomes all levels of artistic background. Come with an open heart and leave feeling inspired, reconnected, and joyfully alive.

## Details

- **Dates:** May 2 - 9, 2026
- **Location:** Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,800
- **Category:** Painting

## Program

### The Art of Aliveness Retreat
Set in the soulful Ribatejo region of Portugal, this transformative retreat with Flora Bowley invites creative spirits into a journey of renewal, presence, and deep connection. Through an inspired blend of intuitive painting, free-form writing, gentle movement, guided visualizations, breathwork, and shared community practices, this experience offers a space to return to the body’s wisdom and awaken the creative spark within.Those feeling called to reconnect with what feels most alive inside will find a nurturing environment filled with beauty, playfulness, and soulful presence. This retreat is a reminder that creativity is a natural way of being, and that through authentic expression, it becomes possible to return to a more vibrant and connected life. Settle into the calm of a traditional countryside estate, share stories and laughter over a glass of wine, and take part in two enriching art-centered visits: one to the medieval town of Óbidos and its centuries-old castle, the other to the timeless Almourol Castle, nestled above the green valley of the Tagus River.Flora Bowley is an internationally celebrated painter and author of four books, known for her embodied and visionary approach to intuitive art-making. Her teachings weave together creative practices and everyday life, encouraging a more connected, expressive, and heart-led way of moving through the world.Note: To deepen the experience, reading "The Art of Aliveness" by Flora Bowley is recommended before the retreat begins. Topics covered in your classes include:Access creative courage and new levels of freedomRekindle creative inspiration, both in art and lifeInvite honesty, raw expression, and emotional release into your life and artCreate freedom-focused art in innovative new waysConnect to your intuition and unearth inner wisdomLet go of perfectionism and overthinkingFind unique inspiration in your inner and outer worldCreate depth and surprise through layeringFind the joy and release in allowing change and following your intuitionUse vocalization to move energy and energize your art-makingExperience true presence and aweNurture self-acceptance with kindnessLearn how contrast invigorates both art and lifeConnect with your body through gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness Create meaningful connections with kindred creative spiritsExperience a trip of a lifetimeRemember that YOU are the artist of your life In addition to daily classes with Flora, you'll have free time in the afternoons to connect with your art group over a glass of wine or to explore the exclusive retreat venue. You'll stay at a tranquil Portuguese Quinta (traditional countryside estate), featuring lush gardens, gorgeous natural surroundings, a refreshing pool, a spacious art studio, orchards, and stately accommodation spaces.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at the venue around 4:00 PM after a transfer from Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) around 3:00 PM. Settle into your cozy room and take some time to unwind. Once you're refreshed, gather with your art group for a welcoming orientation tour. Explore the beautiful accommodations, the spacious art studio within the barn, the inviting pool, and the surrounding gardens. To kick off the retreat, enjoy a delightful dinner crafted by the in-house chef, and share a toast with local wine as you discuss the week ahead with your fellow artists.

### Day 2: Art at the venue
The day begins with a nourishing breakfast, offering a gentle and grounded start before stepping into a space of creativity and connection. The first gathering opens with Flora Bowley’s soulful welcome ceremony—an invitation to set intentions, build meaningful connections, and attune to the rhythm of the week. Through guided movement and an “awe walk” that invites presence and wonder, the morning unfolds with a sense of arrival and rootedness. A collaborative art experience follows, sparking joy and connection through playful creation.After a mid-day meal shared in community, the afternoon opens into a time of artistic exploration. With Flora’s guidance and thoughtful prompts, participants engage with color, texture, and expressive mark-making in a way that feels both freeing and intuitive. The atmosphere is warm and supportive, where the emphasis is on showing up with curiosity rather than achieving a particular result. There is space to let go, explore, and express freely.The remainder of the day invites rest and reflection. Whether through time spent beside the pool, wandering the quiet paths of the meditation garden, or sharing insights with fellow artists, this spaciousness allows each person to integrate the day in their own way. As evening arrives, a thoughtfully prepared dinner and local wine bring the group together once more, rounding out the day with presence and ease.

### Day 3: Trip to Almourol Castle
After breakfast, the day begins with a journey to the storied Almourol Castle, nestled on a small islet in the Tagus River. A gentle drive through the countryside leads to this 12th-century landmark, steeped in legend and the quiet mystery of the Templar Knights. Wander through the ancient grounds, absorbing the textures of time, the patterns of stone and shadow, and the sweeping views that invite reflection. A nearby river beach offers a serene pause—an invitation to sketch, breathe deeply, and let the stillness of the water settle into the senses.A tasting of traditional Portuguese liqueurs, breads, cheeses, and sausages offers a moment of sensory connection, a way to experience the land through flavor and memory. Upon returning to the retreat venue for lunch, the afternoon opens into a gentle creative session. Sketches and photographs become doorways into intuitive artwork, guided not just by what was seen but by what was felt. Through color and form, give shape to the impressions that linger, perhaps a sense of stillness, awe, nostalgia, or quiet joy. Let the energy of the morning move through the hands and onto the page without needing to be explained or understood.As the sun begins to lower, the late afternoon offers space to rest and integrate. Whether through a walk among the trees, quiet reflection with a sketchbook, or simply sitting in silence, the atmosphere supports ease and openness. The day draws to a close with a lovingly prepared meal and a glass of local wine, offering a final moment of presence and connection beneath the evening sky.

### Day 4: Art at the venue
After a calm morning practice and nourishing breakfast, the day opens with a heartfelt session led by Flora, weaving together gentle movement, transformational breathwork, personal sharing, and integrative drawing practices. This gathering offers space to tune inward, awaken the body, and align creative energy with presence.A midday meal offers a chance to pause and replenish before moving into an expressive afternoon session of eyes-closed painting, music, and embodied movement. This part of the day invites emotions to flow through color, gesture, and rhythm, bringing more honesty and vitality into the creative process.As evening approaches, a restful guided visualization offers a moment of stillness and reflection. The late afternoon invites spaciousness to unwind—whether by wandering the peaceful grounds, dipping into the pool, or journaling thoughts and impressions in a sketchbook.The day gently comes to a close with a shared meal prepared with care and accompanied by local wine, grounding the experience in community and gratitude. Creativity, nature, and heartfelt expression weave together in a rhythm that honors both inspiration and rest.

### Day 5: Trip to Óbidos
*Each day, Flora will encourage you to carve out at least 15 minutes for a personal morning practice of drawing and writing… a powerful practice you can take home with you!Start your day with a refreshing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a scenic journey through the Silver Coast to the enchanting town of Óbidos. Rolling hills and ocean air accompany the drive, setting a peaceful tone for a day of creative inspiration.Stepping into the charm of Óbidos, with its cobbled streets, vibrant blooms, and medieval architecture, offers a moment to slow down and fully take in the beauty of the present. Within this evocative setting, Flora Bowley shares her process of layering mixed media materials into larger, intuitive watercolor compositions. Her soulful demonstrations and gentle guidance invite a deeper sense of freedom and trust in the creative process.A visit to the 12th-century castle provides a quiet opportunity to reflect on history, with expansive views that speak to the spirit of place. Afterward, enjoy time to wander or find a small eatery to savor a relaxed lunch among the town’s many hidden corners.The day continues with a visit to the coast near Peniche, where the shoreline offers a calm and open space for sketchbook play. With the breeze and rhythm of the waves as companions, this beachside session invites a loosening of expectations. You will be encouraged to make lighthearted, imperfect sketches, perhaps using the non-dominant hand, allowing unusual shapes and textures to surface as inspiration for future artwork.Evening brings a return to the countryside retreat, where a thoughtfully prepared meal and local wine await. As the day comes to a close, there is time to rest, connect, and let the creative energy of the experience settle gently into the heart.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
The sixth day unfolds with morning writing and drawing practices, accompanied by a nourishing breakfast to gently welcome the day. The studio then opens once again as a space of discovery and intuitive flow.Through new demonstrations and gentle guidance, Flora offers fresh techniques, mindful movement, and individual support as participants dive into rich layers of collage, pen work, and oil pastel. The atmosphere is alive with creative energy, and the day holds a few unexpected delights to keep curiosity sparked.Following a shared midday meal, the afternoon continues with a focus on expressive mark-making, color mixing, and exploring contrast through translucent layering. This is a time to stretch into unfamiliar territory and follow instinct over outcome. Shifts in direction are embraced as part of the process, often leading to surprising and soulful results. By this point in the retreat, the studio hums with momentum and joy, and many will find themselves fully immersed in the rhythm of creating.As the afternoon gives way to evening, spaciousness returns. There is time to walk the land, reconnect with the sketchbook, or rest quietly among the trees. The day concludes with a thoughtfully prepared dinner and a glass of local wine, inviting reflection and grounding after a day rich with movement, color, and personal exploration.

### Day 7: Art at the venue
Begin the final day by settling into the energy of the morning with a personal practice, followed by a nourishing breakfast that grounds and centers the spirit. The studio then opens for one last full day of creative expression guided by Flora.The morning unfolds with playful group exercises designed to loosen constraints, dissolve any lingering inner critic, and encourage full creative freedom. With multiple pieces already in progress, this is a chance to follow the threads that speak loudest and explore untapped possibilities. Participants will also be invited to create a personal Art of Aliveness affirmation deck—a meaningful keepsake filled with insights, reflections, and visual reminders of the journey taken.After lunch, the afternoon holds space for connection and gentle closure. This retreat invites a deep remembering of what is possible through art and presence, and this final session focuses on honoring that. Flora will offer practices for integration and inspiration, sharing ways to sustain the creative fire in everyday life. A guided visualization invites participants to imagine what a creatively alive life could feel and look like moving forward. There is time to witness the artwork created, offer gratitude, and celebrate the courage and heart poured into each moment of the week.As the sun sets on this transformative experience, a thoughtfully prepared three-course dinner is shared with local wine and heartfelt connection. The evening becomes a space to reflect, toast to new friendships, honor the creative growth, and hold the memories of a powerful week in Portugal close to heart.

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

## Instructors

- **Flora Bowley** - Artist, mentor and pioneer

## Accommodation

### Portuguese Quinta

### Shared standard ensuite room

### Shared superior ensuite room - private veranda (female only)

### Shared bathroom - single room (female only)

### Single standard ensuite room

### Single superior ensuite room - private veranda

### Single deluxe ensuite room

## Book This Retreat

Visit [https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-art-of-aliveness-retreat-artist-flora-bowley-portugal](https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-art-of-aliveness-retreat-artist-flora-bowley-portugal) to make a reservation.

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