           For a small group only!My French retreat for this year sold out very quickly. Now you have a chance to join me in 2026! |
Painting holiday, France - May 2026
Join me for an unforgettable painting holiday in France. Group sizes are small...Allowing me to have ample to time to help each person every day. And you'll be thoroughly looked after by our hosts. Non-painting partners are welcome too! There’s plenty to do beyond painting, from kayaking, hiking, and swimming to exploring local markets or simply unwinding in the shade with a book. Fully hosted...Our hosts, Harrison and Katel are exceptional. I can honestly say this is true! They are what makes this retreat so special. Harrison takes us to the most inspiring locations to sketch — places full of history, charm, and breathtaking scenery. Katel prepares the most incredible meals, crafted with care and local ingredients, making every dining experience a delight. This retreat is about more than just improving your painting skills. There’s a magic combination of shared meals, laughter, and unforgettable moments — whether we’re gathered around the table at the retreat or enjoying a picnic in a stunning location after a morning of sketching. There’s a special camaraderie that forms here, a sense of connection that makes it feel like the friendships we create will last a lifetime. The details...When… 27 May to 05 June 2026 Where… Hosted by Perigord Retreats (click on the link to find out more about the location, accommodation and booking information) Cost… 1. Private bedroom & shared bathroom - 3,600 euros pp 2. Private bedroom with ensuite - 4,300 euros pp 3. Couple bedroom & ensuite - 7,200 euros pp Cost includes - pretty much everything!
For watercolor enthusiasts of all levels!
Ready to join us?Bookings are open! Please drop me an email or a message on Facebook or Instagram.  Why travel sketching?Travel sketching has been a passion of mine for years. It started in 2007 when I packed a sketchbook alongside my climbing gear for a trip to Spain and France — and I haven’t stopped since! My sketchbooks are filled with priceless memories of landscapes, villages, flowers, food, and people, all with little notes that instantly transport me back to those moments. Now, I love sharing this experience with others. Since 2022, I’ve been guiding painting holidays at Perigord Retreats, and they’ve become some of the most rewarding experiences of my artistic journey. If you’d love to immerse yourself in painting, explore stunning locations, and create unforgettable sketchbook memories, I’d love to have you join me in May 2026! Ask me for more details...Please drop me an email What attendees said about our retreats..."Taking the plunge to join you and a bunch of strangers on the other side of the world for a residential painting retreat turned out to be one of the best holiday decisions I’ve ever made. Your choice of Perigord Retreats was inspired; their hospitality combined with your tutelage is a winning formula, resulting in an exceptional experience that I will long remember." "It was an experience I will remember forever. You helped me by teaching me how to let go of the “how to video “ sessions that I had become accustomed to and to try doing it on my own. This was my first experience doing Plen Air, and I think I absolutely loved it, nothing like it, I will try and incorporate this, when the weather permits." "I really appreciated your calm, enthusiastic and patient demeanor in your teaching. You nurtured this group from day one on the FB group and upon arrival so that we all already felt like friends. I can't talk you up enough to friends and family. I could not have imagined a more perfect trip other than in my dreams." I signed up for this experience after taking an online course with artist Renee. She shares extensive experience, and skill with the watercolour medium. She also has a passion for the power of sketching and painting to extend and preserve our experience of beauty and interest in the environment. I came away from this Retreat with increased confidence in my own ability as well as skills and techniques which will undoubtedly enrich my own work. The setting for our time in the Perigord and the Dordogne in France was perfect. We visited several delightful small medieval towns with old stone cottages and churches, markets, and lush vegetation. We picnicked by rivers and walked through ancient streets. Renee talked through her painting when we were doing plein air work and gave us several useful sessions in the large and well-equipped studio at the Perigord Retreats centre. Renee worked with all of us at our own level of skill and experience. The hospitality and French cuisine and the excellent facilities at the centre provided the perfect context in which to learn from Renee." "Renee Walden's Plein Air Workshop at Perigord Retreats in 2022 was an unforgettable experience my husband and I will always treasure. We made lifelong international friends, painted and photographed breathtaking landscapes and castles, and enjoyed remarkable cuisine. Renee gives 100% to her small group classes stretching your skills and taking you to the next level as an artist. And your Perigord hosts Katel and Harrison ensure you feel right at your home away from home at their retreat set amidst rolling hills and lavender fields. Don't hesitate to put a future retreat on your calendar. You won't regret it!" Join the French retreat! Here's a full demo of me painting the lovely lavender field at Perigord Retreats in July 2022... And a little intro video of Perigord Retreats and their surroundings... |
