# Unleash Your Creative Joy Art Retreat with Artist Kelly Rae Roberts in Spain Join a nurturing creative mindfulness retreat with artist Kelly Rae Roberts in the breathtaking Cabo de Gata Natural Park, southern Spain. Bring forth your sense of wonder and curiosity, learn to trust your artistic voice, and unleash the full force of your creative energies onto soulful mantras, and a meditative artistic exploration journal. Throughout the week, set out on exciting adventures to the vibrant town of Almería, with its renowned landmark, the impressive Alcazaba Fortress, and to the mesmerizing coast of Cabo de Gata. During your trips, enjoy delightful lunches at a local restaurant in San José and a local Andalusian establishment in Almería. Relax in your private room surrounded by cacti, tiled paths, and sweeping views of the horizon. Share chef-prepared meals each day and unwind with dinner and conversation after studio hours. Create alongside a group of supportive and encouraging like-minded souls in a gentle environment! ## Details - **Dates:** October 19 - 26, 2026 - **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain - **Starting Price:** $5,950 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 16 students - **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting) ## Overview **What's included** 1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Kelly Rae Roberts 2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars and kraft paper 3. 7 nights of accommodation at a charming countryside Spanish estate 4. Exclusive use of the entire country estate with three indoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, outdoor spaces (that can be used for workshops), a swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spaces 5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 6. All diets catered for, including pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 7. Fragrant local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives during dinner service 8. Snack bar with coffee, tea, water, and snacks available throughout the day 9. Half-day art trip to Almería and the Alcazaba Fortress, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location 10. Lunch and drinks at a well-known special establishment during the trip to Almería 11. Entrance ticket to the Alcazaba of Almería 12. Half-day art trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-location 13. Lunch at a local restaurant in San José during the trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park 14. English-speaking guide for all planned trips and activities 15. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities 16. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) at prearranged times 17. Fully staffed venue with an experienced UpTrek host on location 18. All local tourist taxes and fees 19. Access to a private Facebook group with Kelly Rae Roberts and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Art materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Kelly Rae Roberts will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Spain - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Unleash Your Creative Joy Join artist Kelly Rae Roberts on a soul-searching art retreat in the heart of southern Spain. During this creative and spiritual adventure, you'll discover your innermost creative self, let your childlike curiosity and joy shine through, and tap into your heart's wisdom. You'll learn to silence the noise that blocks your inspiration, unleash your creative joy, and trust your voice and instinct. Express what your heart most needs to hear by creating artful loose mantras, and celebrate your growth through a creative exploration art journal. Experiment with mixed media, layering, collage, acrylic paint, mark-making, and many, many more techniques prepared by Kelly Rae, which will help you access your innate creative energy. Any and all levels of experience are welcome, even if you don't consider yourself an artist - if you're drawn to paintings and feel the need to unleash your self-expression, this is the retreat for you. Kelly Rae's style of nurturing, gentle, no-mistakes teaching will help you explore the artistic possibilities within you. Moreover, you'll get to bond and connect with a group of kindred creative spirits on this intimate retreat, who will encourage, support and celebrate with you. Enjoy daily classes with Kelly Rae, personalized feedback, engaging demonstrations, and the serene backdrop of a beautiful Spanish countryside estate. Beyond the studio, set out on exciting trips to the vibrant city of Almería with its historic Alcazaba fortress and the Cabo de Gata coastline, where turquoise waters and frothy waves will inspire your next creations. During your trips, enjoy delicious meals at a seaside restaurant in San José and a local Andalusian establishment in Almería. **Some of the topics covered in your classes with Kelly Rae include:** - Creative mindfulness - Silencing the noise and tuning into what calls you - Embracing imperfection - Cultivating wonder and curiosity - Trusting your urges - Mark language - Stone painting - Art journalling - Mantra exploration - Experimenting with mixed media and collage - Stamping, stenciling, layering - ...and many more! Nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata Natural Park, your retreat venue is a peaceful oasis surrounded by the region's dramatic natural beauty. With its rustic charm, gardens brimming with native plants, and panoramic views of the rugged terrain, the estate offers endless sources of inspiration. Whether exploring its tranquil pathways or relaxing in the welcoming common areas, you’ll find the perfect setting to immerse yourself in your art and connect with your surroundings. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Almería Airport (LEI) and catch your 3:30 PM transfer to the retreat venue, a short 30-minute journey. Settle into your comfortable room, take some time to relax, and get ready to meet Kelly Rae, your instructor for the week, as well as your fellow artists. Join an orientation tour to explore the bright studio, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and refreshing pool. Over a delightful welcome dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week that’s ahead while savoring local Spanish flavors and a glass of fragrant wine. ### Day 2: Art classes at the venue Start the day with a nourishing breakfast, then join Kelly Rae and your kindred creative souls for a morning circle, where you'll check in with each other and focus your intentions for the day. Use this opportunity to ground yourself and open your heart to today's possibilities. You may also do some creative journaling, an exercise to tune you into your artistic spirit. The morning class starts with exercises designed to silence the noise and open your creative channels. You'll be invited via writing exercises to explore what it is your heart most wants to hear, an excavation of treasured mantras. Trust your voice, and unearth what your soul truly longs for. Kelly Rae will be there to encourage your creative ease to emerge. Enjoy a delicious lunch, then join your group for the afternoon class - unleash your creative joy through a free-flow exercise on watercolor paper. Rummage through the wide selection of mixed media at your disposal and play with the materials, leaving room for curiosity and experimentation. Create marks, add collages and doodle; at the end, you'll have created the first couple of pages for your art journal. This inspiring first day of art ends with a delicious three-course dinner and the chance for you to connect more deeply with your fellow creatives over a glass of Spanish wine. ### Day 3: Art trip to the Cabo de Gata Natural Park Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Prepare for today’s adventure: an exploration of the striking wilds of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This protected UNESCO Geopark unfolds in soft, earthy tones, where rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and flowering shrubs create an ever-changing palette of color and light. Stroll around the sandy paths bordered by wind-shaped stone and clusters of coastal blooms, taking in the gentle shifts in colors, shapes, and textures. Search for the elements that spark your creative wonder and snap a photo of your favorite findings. The day’s route continues with a visit to San José, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Andalusian spot, nestled by the vivid coastline framed by turquoise waters and wild vegetation. After lunch, return to the venue and settle back into the studio to continue your creative exploration. Pick up where you left off on a piece already in progress, or channel the morning's coastal inspiration into something entirely new. Kelly Rae will move through the room offering one-on-one guidance, helping you push past safe choices and find bolder directions in your work. As the day comes to a close, take some time to unwind before dinner. Join Kelly Rae and the group for a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic Spanish wine. Share reflections of the day’s adventure and connect with your fellow artists. ### Day 4: Art classes at the venue Delight your senses with a delicious breakfast, and join Kelly Rae and your group outdoors for another inspiring art workshop. You'll start with the usual morning journaling, which will help you tune into your heart, body, and spirit. Meditate upon your intentions for the day, then move on to the class with Kelly Rae. You'll continue your mixed-media experiments you started, with more doodling and mark-making. After lunch, you'll have your second class of the day. In this hands-on (literally!) workshop, you'll put your brush aside, and learn to use acrylic paint in all kinds of unique ways: painting with your hands, smudgies, drippies, stamping, collage, spray paint, or stencils... the world is your oyster! The focus of this class will be layering your journal pages with all sorts of media. Reflect on your experience so far during the afternoon leisure time, by taking a meditative stroll through the gardens or lounging by the pool. End the day with a scrumptious three-course dinner, and enjoy meaningful conversations with your like-minded fellow artists over a glass of wine. ### Day 5: Art trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast before setting off for an exciting trip to the city of Almería. In Almería, visit the city’s most renowned landmark: the impressive La Alcazaba de Almería. This fortified citadel is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Europe, housing gorgeous gardens, imposing towers (such as the Tower of Mirrors), and intricate gates, as well as showcasing impressive Moorish architecture. From its stone walls, which hold centuries of history, you can enjoy sweeping views of Almería and its port. You'll take part in a creative wonder scavenger hunt, an excellent chance for you to uncover what elements of your surroundings speak to you. Tune into the here and now to look for combinations of colors that you love, patterns that resonate with you, or specific elements (like finding a heart-shaped cloud). After the scavenger hunt, enjoy a refreshing lunch and drinks at a local Andalusian spot, then continue your day exploring the town of Almería. As evening approaches, make your way back to the venue and take some leisure time to rest and unwind before dinner. Gather with Kelly Rae and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and accompanied by a glass of wine. ### Day 6: Art classes at the venue Replenish your energy with a delightful breakfast and begin the day with another journaling exercise to unblock your creative channels. Today's classes will help you find the messengers of your mantras. Kelly Rae will demonstrate how to add some personal imagery into your work - it could be a butterfly, a flower, or a dragonfly, or you can opt for something more abstract. Take your time, and remember that no choice is the wrong one. Take a well-deserved lunch break, then continue adding personal imagery in the afternoon. Nurture your artwork with kindness and care, and listen to your inner voice. Kelly Rae will be there to offer you guidance and individual help if you need a little nudge. Experiment with collages and paint markers, and open your heart to the possibilities within you. After the class, recharge by the pool, have a walk around the venue or simply take the time to reconnect with your fellow artists. Nourish your body and soul with a three-course dinner paired with wine, shared with Kelly Rae and the group. ### Day 7: Art classes at the venue The last day of your soul-searching adventure begins with a lovely breakfast, followed by the morning journaling session, adding the last entry. Join Kelly Rae and your art group for your last class, where you'll add the finishing touches to your mantras. Let this artwork be a reflection of the wisdom and joy your heart needs right now. Treat it with gentleness, and you'll have finished a piece to be proud of for years to come. After lunch, in the afternoon, you'll also bring your journal together and complete it. This creative exploration art journal will serve as a reminder of your time in Spain, and of the growth you have accomplished here, both artistic and spiritual. Join your art group and Kelly Rae for a closing circle where you may share your work and impressions with one another, in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Get inspired by the pieces your fellow creatives made, and celebrate your own progress. As the celebration comes to an end, take some spare time to freshen up and unwind before dinner. Gather with Kelly Rae and the group one more time for a delicious three-course farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with fragrant local wine. Let the bonds you have created during this retreat and the joyful air warm you and recharge you for your future artistic journeys! ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy a light breakfast, bid farewell to Kelly Rae and your fellow artists, and board the 10:00 AM transfer to Almería Airport (LEI). You'll reach your destination at around 10:30 AM. ## Instructors - [Kelly Rae Roberts](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/kelly-rae-roberts) — Artist, author, mentor ## Accommodation ### Spanish countryside estate Your venue for the retreat with artist Kelly Rae Roberts is an astonishing countryside estate, located in the south of Spain, in a unique nature reserve named Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This elegantly restored property, a harmonious blend of traditional elements and modern comfort, sits amidst an otherworldly landscape. The natural beauty of the Andalusian panoramas is the estate's most breathtaking feature, with vistas that stretch out from the spacious terraces. You'll be treated to a visual symphony of fiery sunsets descending over rugged cliffs and the untamed wilderness of valleys. The accommodation itself is a seamless fusion of regional charm and modern elegance, with rooms that blend Andalusian artistry and Balinese tranquility. All the rooms at this venue are designed for single occupancy, each outfitted with orthopedic mattresses, soft cotton linens, 100% cotton American Curl towels, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The single rooms themselves are located in clusters of casitas (small typical Spanish houses), and all feature ensuite bathrooms. Other amenities of the venue include the swimming pool, vast gardens, airy terraces, and well-appointed common spaces. Your classes with Kelly Rae will take place across three dedicated workshop spaces: one spacious 4000 sq. ft. (375 sq. m.) charming tent reconverted into a studio, one intimate 430 sq. ft. (40 sq. m.) indoor workshop space adjacent to the main studio, and another small circular studio indoors. In your spare time, you can relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy leisurely strolls through the estate’s gardens while socializing with your fellow artists. Please note that a short 3- to 5-minute walk connects the accommodation areas, the studios, and the main building for meals. The terrain across the property is gently hilly, which may present challenges for those with low and limited mobility. Furthermore, since the venue is located in the middle of a natural park, you may encounter some insects during your stay. The Finca embraces a design philosophy that harmonizes with its surroundings, and as such, the rooms are not equipped with window screens in order to preserve unobstructed, panoramic views of the landscape. It is recommended to keep doors and windows closed throughout the day and night to avoid insects entering your room. Rest assured, there are no dangerous insects in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve. ### Hilltop single standard ensuite room Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated along the peaceful edge of the estate grounds, each room includes a private bathroom and essential amenities, such as a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, toiletries, a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, a smart TV, and an outdoor terrace. The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Unwind after a day filled with creativity and connection by stepping out onto your charming private terrace. Take a moment to relax and reflect while enjoying the stunning scenery of Gabo de Gata Natural Park. ### Single standard ensuite room Two standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated closer to the main venue spaces (such as the studios, dining areas, and common lounges), each room features a private bathroom and necessary amenities. The rooms are equipped with toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace. Enjoy the tranquil scenery outside your quaint private terrace, or take a moment to rest on the comfortable double bed, outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and smooth cotton linens. ### Single superior ensuite room - open terrace Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated near the parking and outside reception, each room features access to a quaint open terrace, perfect for soaking in the tranquil nature of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. The rooms include necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, Wi-Fi, and a double bed outfitted with smooth cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. The bathroom is equipped with toiletries, bath and hand towels, and a hairdryer. Recharge between workshops and other activities in a space of comfort and peace, with a stunning private terrace in the front. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take some time to reflect and relax. ### Single superior ensuite room - enclosed terrace Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in close proximity to the studios, each room features access to a secluded, enclosed terrace. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities, such as a private bathroom, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water. The bathroom comes with a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, and toiletries. Enjoy the privacy of your charming private terrace, situated in the rear, thus creating a peaceful space to relax and reflect. Unwind in-between sessions on the comfortable bed in your room, complete with an orthopedic mattress and delicate cotton linens. ### Single standard suite - open terrace Two standard suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated in the heart of the estate, each room features a private bathroom and essential amenities, including a kitchenette (complete with a microwave, sink, and kitchen counter equipped with drawers, mugs, cutlery, and small plates), toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a smart TV, a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water, and an idyllic open terrace. The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Relax in a comfortable and independent space after a full day of creativity and connection. Step outside onto the inviting private terrace, located in the rear, and take a moment to reflect in a peaceful spot or enjoy the gentle breeze and surrounding landscape. ### Single superior suite - enclosed terrace Two superior suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in the center of the estate grounds, each suite features a stunning enclosed terrace and necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom (providing toiletries, hand and bath towels, and a hairdryer), a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, heating controlled via thermostat, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a double bed complete with delicate cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. All rooms also include a kitchenette fully equipped with a microwave, sink, kitchen counter, mugs, cutlery, and small plates. Unwind after your creative sessions in a calm and inviting environment that blends comfort with independence. Step outside onto the private, secluded terrace, situated at the rear, breathe in the fresh air, and take some time to reflect, or soak in the serene views of the estate and its natural surroundings. ## Food Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey during Kelly Rae’s art retreat, right in the heart of Andalusia. Each meal, prepared by a private chef, highlights the rich flavors of the region. Discover the flavor of Iberian meats, delicious seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local orchards and gardens. Traditional Mediterranean spices bring depth and warmth to every dish, reflecting the vibrant, healthy flavors that make this cuisine so celebrated. Iberian tradition is defined by a dance of spices: saffron's exotic fragrance, parsley's fresh, green zing, and paprika's smoky warmth. Breakfasts are served buffet-style and include a variety of sweet and savory items. Light lunches consist of a starter (such as seasonal soup) alongside a main course, and dinners include a starter, a hearty main course, and a dessert. Your retreat includes all meals, and refreshing beverages like water, coffee, and tea are readily available throughout the day. During your trips, lunches are served at some of the best local restaurants in the area, which are renowned for their warm hospitality, delicious local dishes, and pleasant atmosphere. Indulge in exquisitely cooked meals that showcase Spanish regional cuisine, accompanied by fragrant wines. The exact menu served varies based on the availability of regional ingredients. ## Getting There The venue for your art retreat with Kelly Rae Roberts is a sprawling countryside estate, nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in the South of Spain. Just a 30-minute trip brings you to the area’s most iconic beaches, such as Genoveses and Mónsul, both known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and cinematic history. The park is renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, famous for its appearances in movies and TV series such as “Black Mirror”, "Game of Thrones" and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”. The uniqueness of the nature reserve also comes from the region’s rich history shaped by numerous cultures, including the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moors. The Cabo de Gata Natural Park stretches over 38,000 hectares and is celebrated as one of Spain’s most pristine coastal reserves. Its rugged cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, framing stretches of unspoiled beaches, wild coves, and charming fishing villages where time seems to have slowed. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, nurtures an abundance of desert-adapted plants, including wild palms, agave, aloe, and hemp. In the spring, wildflowers bloom all over the land, adding color to the dry ground. The park is also a haven for wildlife. While kestrels and owls patrol the skies, turtles and lizards bask on warm rocks. In the summer, you can spot flocks of flamingos wading in the salt flats of Las Salinas, where migratory birds find refuge. This diversity of flora and fauna, paired with the park’s striking geology, creates an atmosphere that feels both raw and magical. **Please arrive at Almería Airport (LEI).** We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. **How to get from Almería Airpor**t **to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to *Almería*, we recommend you fly to Madrid or Barcelona and fly domestically to Almería (local round trips starting from US$89, 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 October 19, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on October 26, 2026, by 10:00 AM. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Arrival transfer:** **October 19, 2026 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from Almería Airport, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure transfer:** **October 26, 2026 — 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at *Almería Airport* a little after 10:30 AM) **If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:** - Spend extra days in *Almería* before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to *Almería Airport*. - Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: La Boca de Los Frailes, 04118 Níjar, Almería, Spain, 80 euros - approximately US$93 per way; please note that taxi fares may vary). ## Reviews **Reviews of the previous UpTrek retreats with Kelly Rae Roberts:** - "I have attended the Kelly Rae Roberts ~ Unleash Your Creative Joy Retreat in Tuscany! Of course, there are few places in the world with the history and charm of the Tuscan hills, vineyards and centuries old villages. However, the most precious gift for me was creating alongside Kelly Rae. This week was abundant with color, texture, imagery, music, and poetry. There was writing, singing, dancing, laughter and a depth of sharing that still feels full in my heart. Kelly Rae brought to this group not only her artistic talents, but a brilliance and a sensitivity that is unparalleled in my experience. I felt creative inspiration, childlike joy and a sence of belonging with my group mates! There were times of personal reflection and healing, as well as a sweet sharing of heartfelt emotion. I loved every beautiful moment. It was enchanting. Thank you abundantly, Kelly Rae. You sparkle!" - "Kelly Rae: your workshop has been amazing for lack of better words. You have open doors to our creativity but most importantly to our heart. You are gentle and passionate about art, and you generously gave all of you to us. We worked hard to bring to light what was hidden, we learned about technics, colours, rediscovering the child in us and had hours of fun creating and being together. At the end of our stage we were elated, we were artists nostalgic to let go of moments of pure joy. Thank you, Kelly Rae, you are unique." - "Attending the Unleash Your Creative Joy retreat in Tuscany has been an inspiring highlight on my Joy journey. Kelly Rae has the rare gift of creating sacred space where women gather, explore, play, express, and share themselves in a safe and inclusive atmosphere. Her authenticity, thoughtfulness, along with her generous spirit, cultivated a space for fun artistic learning, meaningful connections, and personal expansion. Our art-making sessions, day trips, soulful conversations, and beautiful elaborate meals together made for incredible lifetime memories! I am so grateful that I clicked the *Book this Retreat* button because this event enriched my life beyond my imagination. My heartfelt gratitude, Kelly Rae, for shining your beautiful light in the world and for a wonderful women’s retreat!" - "Incredible women are drawn to Kelly Rae's art and depth and authenticity. For me, in addition to an infusion of joy and creativity, this retreat was a well of nourishment in an incredible sisterhood." - "Pure magic." **Reviews from past UpTrek retreats at this venue:** - "It was wonderful! I loved the venue and location. It was beautiful and peaceful. Staff were friendly and helpful. The weather was wonderful. Not too hot and there was usually a cool breeze." - "Wonderful resort, excellent staff, great place to do art!!!! Met 15 new friends and a lovely cat. Food very good!" - "The venue was perfect, the accommodations very comfortable, the food delicious, and the staff friendly and helpful. Overall, the experience was perfect in every way." - "The retreat was fantastic. The venue was perfect. The meals were excellent and I appreciated the care that went into making sure that I was able to have really good vegan meals. The side trips were well arranged and Emilio, the tour guide, was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements." - "It was great to have flexibility in the schedule from the venue. The staff were very attentive and responded to all requests. The venue and surrounding areas provided inspiration for creativity. Visiting San Jose was really enjoyable especially the lunch and having the opportunity to go in the sea and do some local shopping." - "Beautiful spot, wonderful staff, good food, good space for working on our art. I loved my room with its patio overlooking the valley and the sunrises in the morning. Our guide, Emilio, was very knowledgeable and funny with a lot of energy." - "The venue is very well-chosen. The staff all very helpful and friendly. I loved everything. Thank you so much everyone, also UpTrek for informing us friendly and constantly." - "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions really added to the experience." - "My room was beautiful. The pool was fabulous. The food was amazing. Thank you Manuel, Juan, Jorge, and the rest of the team. You made it such a special time for me and the perfect way to celebrate my birthday." - "This was not my first UpTrek workshop, and the one in Almería, Spain, proved to be just as exceptional as the previous ones. The overall program was, once again, nothing short of fantastic. Thank you, UpTrek, for consistently delivering wonderful experiences." - "I cannot say enough good things! The staff at the venue were AMAZING-thoughtful and caring. The tour guide, Emilio was so knowledgeable and kind. Our Uptrek advisor, Andra, was on top of things and also so kind. Honestly, it was one of the best trips I've ever taken." ## 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 Kelly Rae Roberts in Almería, Spain, takes place between October 19 - 26, 2026. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive at the retreat venue after 4:00 PM on October 19, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on October 26, 2026. **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 all areas. **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?** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. For more information, see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/unleash-your-creative-joy-art-retreat-artist-kelly-rae-roberts-spain#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. **What’s the weather like in Almería, Spain, in October?** The weather in Almería, Spain, in October is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 25°C / 77°F during the day that drop to around 14°C / 57°F at night. The Almería region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year. **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Kelly Rae Roberts will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, field easels, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, professional studio lights, glass jars and kraft paper are included and will be available at the venue. **Students will bring their own art supplies based on the instructor’s list of recommended materials.** **How many people are to be expected on the retreat?** There is a maximum number of 16 participants. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Spain for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance. **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport, in Almería, or in Níjar (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros cash. **Can a non-participating guest join me?** We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Are there any age restrictions?** No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. **Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven terrain across the nature reserve. You will also need to walk between the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the main building where meals are served. **What language is used during the workshops and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/unleash-your-creative-joy-art-retreat-artist-kelly-rae-roberts-spain#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/unleash-your-creative-joy-art-retreat-artist-kelly-rae-roberts-spain **Last updated:** 2026-05-25