Reviews of previous UpTrek retreats with Karen Rice:

"This retreat was the most amazing art experience I have ever had. I have followed Karen’s tutorial online and was so excited to actually do the workshop with her."

"Everything about this retreat was perfect. Karen’s teaching is amazing. I have followed her tutorials since Covid began and loved having face-to-face time with her. We all want Karen to do another retreat next year."

"Well planned and executed. Everyone helped/supported/encouraged everyone else."

"From the arrival to departure my needs were met and my learning was vast. I have to mention the fun had by me and the relationships we made. I would go to this retreat again in a heartbeat! Karen made our time there worth every moment. The painting and support was beyond expectations!"

"Perfect. Great food, fab hosts, great learning opportunities in an ideal location. Instructions by Karen were super as usual."

"Karen is an excellent instructor and incredibly personable. And the venue exceeded my expectations. From the quietude and beauty of the property to the wonderful meals, everything was wonderful. The hosts have my highest recommendation -- and Karen as a teacher! (And my thanks to *you*, Ana (Uptrek), for so seamlessly facilitating all the details. I felt very comfortable going into the trip because of all the prep beforehand.)"

"The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions added to the experience and of course, Karen is a wonderful & fun teacher! Kudos for organizing!"

"I loved the experience of an entire week of painting with Karen Rice. I learned so much - not only about painting, but of myself as an artist. Karen was very easy to talk to and she filled the week with instruction that focused on techniques as well as how to paint from our own photos. I also loved painting and sharing with other artists. I'm looking forward to the next retreat!"

"Karen is a wonderful teacher and made the experience better than I had anticipated. The side trips were well arranged and the tour guide was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."

Venue reviews from previous retreats:

"The venue was just what I was hoping for -- I love the rural area. It was very clean, hosts were professional and pleasant. Food by all three caterers was wholesome."

"Beautiful location. Our hosts were wonderful, lovely, and accommodating. I highly recommend Domain d'En Naudet!"

"UpTrek: all transfers, tours & venues were great. It was perfectly charming and Sophie & Nicolas (the hosts) were absolutely wonderful & really adapted to all of our requests beyond what I expected! The week was made fabulous by our great group of women, the snacks, wine & the bond we all formed. We learned from each other & have formed lasting friendships!"

"I had a perfect week in France. The venue was beautiful and Sophie and Nicolas (the hosts) did everything in their power to make our stay comfortable. The trips were perfectly timed and provided much inspiration for our paintings. I thoroughly enjoyed the company of my fellow painters and would definitely use your company for travel again."

"The venue was so beautiful and comfortable. I was happy with my room and the circumstances that allowed me a comfortable single room. EVERYTHING we asked for was provided by the following day or meal! I enjoyed the pool and the outdoor dining and painting. Such care was given to us by our lovely kind hosts."

"Stunning venue; delicious food and wine; wonderful hosts. Lots of painting time. Interesting day trips. I definitely want to do another retreat!"

"I had a wonderful time! I also loved getting to know the fun, encouraging women who were with me on this retreat. The setting was gorgeous - like a postcard!"

"The food, the hosts, the accommodations, and the views were wonderful. The field trips were enjoyable and educational. I would take another trip with UpTrek."

"The trip organization and warm, professional service from Uptrek, and the amazing service, delicious food, and high quality from the venue, Domaine d'En Naudet. And the other retreat participants were truly lovely! From the start, UpTrek provided prompt, careful service that was carried right through to our arrival at the retreat. Communication is key, especially when travel is just getting going again, and Andra (the retreat coordinator) was always ready with a response. I really appreciated the sensible, yet friendly approach, as well as the clear policies that were upfront from the start. Meeting Ted (CEO of UpTrek) and Andra put faces to the business - this human touch adds value and reassurance. Sophie and Nicolas (the venue hosts) were charming, attentive hosts who looked after many needs. They served us tasty treats throughout the day, they kept us shaded and they helped find solutions when required. I wish we had 48 hours in which to enjoy each day even more. The Domaine d'en Naudet was an excellent venue. The setting was magical. I was very comfortable and there was plenty of space for a group of this size. The rooms were very clean and the use of laundry facilities was much appreciated. It was lovely to feel at ease to use the pool, the hot tub, the fridge, the common areas, and the grounds - after being cooped up for over two years, this was a wonderful physical release. Having access to a well-lit space for us to enjoy Sketchbook Night Club each night was the icing on the cake: we were able to keep making art, have some laughs and get to know one another better. I would highly recommend each component and hope to have the opportunity to travel this way again. This retreat was truly like a dream come true. I loved it. I thank each of you from the heart."