        For a small group only!My French retreat for this year sold out very quickly. Now you have a chance to join me in Italy in 2026! |
Painting holiday, Italy - September 2026
Join me for an unforgettable sketching holiday in Italy. The location...Our home for the retreat is Hotel Leone. This medieval hill town is full of charm, with narrow streets, worn stone steps, shady courtyards, and open piazzas that offer stunning views. At Hotel Leone, guests can experience the real day-to-day life of Le Marche, where the changing seasons still guide local traditions and work. The hotel has been fully restored with care, keeping its historic character while adding modern comforts. The owners have made it as environmentally friendly as possible and are known for making guests feel welcome and well looked after. Group sizes are small...With small group sizes, I’m able to give each person plenty of one-on-one guidance 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. Fully hosted...Hotel Leone is all about comfort and relaxation. There are plenty of inviting spaces to unwind—whether it’s the cosy sitting room, the bar, the poolside lounge, or the terrace and courtyard, perfect for long breakfasts or relaxed evening meals. The on-site restaurant, set under a vaulted ceiling, adds to the charm. Bedrooms are spacious and thoughtfully equipped, some with balconies and internet radio. All rooms include air-conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, TVs with a wide choice of free films, soft towels, and crisp high-quality linen. Each floor also has an honesty mini-bar if you’d rather enjoy a quiet drink than join fellow painters for a cocktail in the Empire bar. It’s the ideal base for a creative week—somewhere you can truly switch off, recharge, and focus on your sketchbook. The details...When… 18 to 25 September 2026 Where… Hosted by Hotel Leone (click on the link to find out more about the location, accommodation and booking information) Price… From €3,499 per person (7 nights) Price includes - pretty much everything!
For watercolour 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 in Europe, 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 September 2026! Ask me for more details...Please drop me an email What attendees say about my 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." "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." Join the Italy retreat! |
