Botanical Watercolour
Capturing Nature with Gentle Hands
- 21-23 May 2027
- max. 14
- English
Botanical Watercolour – The Experience
Botany, colour and paper: this weekend invites you to observe the flora and translate it into delicate watercolours. Each brushstroke is an exercise in presence; each blend of colour, an invitation to calm and contemplation.
More than the final painting, what matters is the process: noticing textures, nuances and forms, honouring the rhythm of nature and one’s own rhythm. One delicate gesture after another, where learning to see becomes just as essential as learning to create.
Upon returning, you will take with you the calm and positive energy that drawing in nature provides, along with a new hobby.
Facilitator
Ana Gil
Her work focuses on portraying her everyday life. A lover of poetry, an enthusiast of gastronomy and a passionate traveller, she especially enjoys exploring the world on foot; walking trails and discovering new routes are among her favourite pastimes.
Ana creates illustrations for brands, magazines, newspapers and books. Her portfolio includes collaborations with prestigious names such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Zara and Samsung, yet she is always eager to take part in new and different projects.
Program
(Indicative schedules may vary slightly depending on the season and retreat)
FRIDAY
- 15:00
Arrival & check-in. Welcome drink.
- 19:30
Welcome dinner featuring local, seasonal ingredients.
SATURDAY
- 8:30 - 10:30
Free time: rest, walk the land, swim or discover the region.
Free Lunch.
- Afternoon
Guided by Ana Gil, participants are invited on a peaceful walk through the landscape, sketching outdoors while learning the fundamentals of botanical watercolour.
Natural pauses, tea, and moments of silence are all part of the process.
SUNDAY
- 8:00 - 10:00
Breakfast
- 11:00
Depart
What's Included
- Three days / two nights of accommodation
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Friday welcome dinner (non-alcoholic beverages included)
- A curated Saturday afternoon programme (all materials included)
- Afternoon tea – tea, herbal infusions and a homemade cake or light refreshment
- Time and space to rest, walk, read and simply be
- Full access to shared spaces: natural swimming pool, sauna and rooftop
- Freedom to walk peacefully around the farm and surrounding land
- Sunday is left open, with no scheduled activities, as an invitation to rest, explore the region or enjoy a gentle departure by 11:00
- Check-in: from 15:00
- Check-out: by 11:00
Not Included
- Flight tickets
- Trip insurance (please see our FAQs)
- Massage treatments
- Horse riding (available by appointment)
- Alcoholic drinks (available to order on-site)
Practical notes
- Intimate group
- Materials included
- No previous experience required
FAQs
How do I get there?
For guests arriving from abroad, we can organise a group transfer from Lisbon, which is included in the prior private transportation. Closer to the date, we will share the meeting point and timing. If you live in Portugal and drive, we will send you detailed directions in advance; if you come by bus please send an email to reservations@asociedaderural.com and we can send all the information. Private transfers can also be arranged upon request (at an additional cost). Please note: flights are not included in the program price.
Are the program suitable for beginners?
Yes. The program is designed for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
Are practices indoors or outdoors?
We have beautiful indoor and outdoor practice spaces. Whenever weather conditions allow, we enjoy practising outdoors, always adapting to the season and conditions.
How many people attend each retreat?
This is an intimate and exclusive experience, with a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 10 participants.
Is there a packing list?
In addition to your usual travel essentials, we recommend bringing:
• Comfortable clothes
• Walking or hiking shoes
• Bathing suit & flip flops
• Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
• Layers for cooler mornings and evenings
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in: from 3:00 pm
Check-out: by 11:00 am
What should I do during free time?
Free time is an invitation to rest and reconnect. You might choose to:
• Walk or sit quietly in nature
• Writing, drawing, play games
• Enjoy mindful conversations over tea
• Swim or use the sauna
• Book a massage or a local activity (not included)
Doing nothing is also very welcome.
What is the food like? Is alcohol included?
Expect seasonal, nourishing, local food, prepared with care. Alcoholic drinks are not included, but are available to order on-site.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing personal travel insurance, especially if you are coming from abroad. In the rare event that the retreat needs to be cancelled or rescheduled due to force majeure, we can only refund the retreat cost itself and cannot cover additional expenses such as flights. We recommend a policy that includes:
• “Cancel for any reason” option
• (Some credit cards also offer travel insurance benefits.)
What is your cancellation & transfer policy?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for full details here. Tickets may be transferred to another person up to 3 days before the retreat start date, by contacting us via email. After this period, our standard cancellation policy applies. Purchasing travel insurance is strongly advised.
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