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4 Night Botanical Painting and Yoga Holiday

Highlights

  • Expert painting tuition from accomplished artist Rita Alfonso
  • Enjoy 4 Nights in an amazing Algarve riverside property
  • Delight in delicious food cooked on property by your hosts
  • Daily yoga classes with experienced instructor
From £873 pp*
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4 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

Your botanical water colour painting week-end holiday break offers an opportunity to improve your artistic skills and enjoy the positive healing effects of nature. Budding artists can enjoy painting workshops led by an experienced and qualified art tutor. The painting break is suitable for the beginner and advanced artist and there will be daily yoga classes to relax and unwind.

2026 Dates:
5th - 9th June
25th - 29th September

2027 Dates:
5th - 9th June
2nd - 6th October

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Your botanical water colour painting week-end holiday break offers an opportunity to improve your artistic skills and enjoy the positive healing effects of nature. Budding artists can enjoy painting workshops led by an experienced and qualified art tutor. The painting break is suitable for the beginner and advanced artist and there will be daily yoga classes to relax and unwind.

2026 Dates:
5th - 9th June
25th - 29th September

2027 Dates:
5th - 9th June
2nd - 6th October

This riverside Retreat is the Winner of the LuxLife Hospitality Award: Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2024 – Algarve.

Stay in an exceptional villa tucked into the bend of a river in Portugal’s Algarve countryside, just 15 minutes from the town of Silves. With terraces overlooking surrounding countryside, limitless walking trails and a starry night sky, there isn’t a more idyllic place to explore on foot.

Your painting instructor will be on hand throughout the weekend with not only demonstrations but also to provide 1 to 1 guidance and tuition; all from the scenic riverside deck. The breath-taking views of the river, countryside, and hills, helps artists to take time out and feel more relaxed. Not only do our creative guests come away having improved their artistic skills, but they also enjoy being close to nature that is known to generate emotions such as calmness, creativity, and joy.

Your tutor will be Rita Afonso, who,  from her early years, has been deeply passionate about the wonders of nature, wildlife depiction, and the enchantment of colours. Born and raised in Silves, Algarve, she pursued a degree in Arts & Multimedia and then a course in  scientific illustration, ultimately guiding her towards her true calling: teaching.

Her artistic endeavours are firmly rooted in the representation of nature, an unwavering devotion to detail, a commitment to realism, and an unending curiosity about the natural world. Over the years, she has cultivated many illustration workshops and scientific illustration classes in collaboration with wildlife and environmental organizations and art schools.

*From price based on two people sharing a Glamping tent with a shared bathroom

Arrival

Settle into the river house and your room before enjoying a group welcome dinner.

Accommodation:

Nestled in a nature reserve in the hills of Messines, the river house is the perfect place for those looking to relax and enjoy their holiday. There are large decks and terraces for outdoor dining, an infinity pool, and spectacular views of the countryside and river dam.

The villa boasts spectacular sunsets, sunrises and walking trails all around, and the town of Messines is a 15 minute drive and Silves is a 30 minute drive away.

The villa features 5 spacious and fully air-conditioned double/twin bedrooms; 2 bedrooms downstairs with ensuite bathrooms and 3 bedrooms upstairs with a large communal bathroom. The comfortable rooms are stylishly decorated, maintaining many traditional features such as wooden beams. The upstairs rooms are flooded with natural light thanks to the skylights, and the downstairs rooms have double doors leading out onto the garden.

The villa also boasts light and airy social spaces; a high-ceiling lounge and kitchen with a center island and a cherry wood dining table. The lovely outdoor terrace is perfect for alfresco dining by the water.

Located on the property there are also 3 eco-friendly glamping tents each with twin or double beds, electricity, decking with chairs outside the entrance. For any guests staying within the tents there is a shared bathroom with power plus a large shower and a separate toilet.

The Painting Adventure Begins

You daily schedule on Saturday, Sunday and Monday will be as follows:

9-10am: Enjoy a delicious outdoor breakfast with views of the rolling hills

10am-1pm: Begin your first botanical watercolour painting class

1:00-2:00pm: Have lunch on the sunny terrace, soaking up some sunshine before your second class of the day begins!

2:00- 4:30pm: Free time

4:30-5:30pm:  Take the yoga and mindfulness class led by our experienced instructor or enjoy some free time at the property

7:30 – 8pm: Drinks and an opportunity to enjoy our gorgeous sunsets

7:30-8:30pm: Al fresco dinner under the Algarve starry sky

8:30-10pm: Cheese and port or dessert on the waterfront deck

Continue Perfecting your Painting Skills!

Today will follow the same itinerary as Sunday.

Breakfast will begin at 9am, and your botanical painting workshop will run 10am-1pm.

Yoga will be at 4:30 -5:30 for all those who want to join.

Drinks will begin at 7pm, and dinner will be served at  7:30pm.

Continue to enjoy painting and yoga

Today will follow the same schedule as Sunday and Monday .

Breakfast will begin at 9am, and your botanical painting workshop will run from 10am to 1pm

Yoga will be at 4:30 -5:30 for all those who want to join.

During your free time you may like to take a walk, visit the local town, go paddle boarding on the river or relax by the pool.

Drinks will begin at 7pm, and dinner will start at 7:30pm.

 

Departure day

After our final wholesome Mediterranean breakfast, we will pack up and say our goodbyes before returning home, taking much more than memories with you.

What's included

Included

  • 4 nights accommodation
  • Airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (at a specified time)
  • Welcome drinks
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and wine with evening meals
  • Morning art workshops on Saturday, Sunday and Monday -9 hours in total
  • All art materials: watercolour paints, paper, tracing paper, paint brushes
  • Use of Plein air easels and tabletop art easels, if required
  • Yoga classes on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday

Accommodation

Glamping tent with shared bathroom Purple Room Shared Bathroom Zebra Room Shared Bathroom Green Room Shared Bathroom Teal Room Ensuite Main Room Ensuite
Glamping tent with shared bathroom
Glamping tent with shared bathroom
Glamping tent with shared bathroom

Glamping tent with shared bathroom

These Glamping tents can be set up as a double or twin beds, included within the tent is, electricity, duvet, linens, towels, anti-allergy fibre pillows, mosquito net doors.

There is shared outside (covered) bathroom with a walk-in large shower, mirror and hairdryer plus a separate toilet.

Each tent has an outside seating area.

Facilities

Shared bathroom Double or twin beds Balcony or terrace
Purple Room Shared Bathroom
Purple Room Shared Bathroom
Purple Room Shared Bathroom

Purple Room Shared Bathroom

This room is located on the first floor (upstairs).

Spacious and characterful room with double skylights, perfect to take in the intense skies and star show at night.

It shares the large family bathroom, with walk-in power shower, double washbasin and complimentary toiletries.

Facilities

Shared bathroom Air conditioning and heating Double or twin beds
Zebra Room Shared Bathroom
Zebra Room Shared Bathroom
Zebra Room Shared Bathroom

Zebra Room Shared Bathroom

This room is located on the first floor (upstairs).

This bedroom with river views has a twin bed set-up, which can be made into a double on request.

Black out curtains allow for a longer lie-in.

A Juliet Balcony overlooks the Funcho Dam and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

It shares a large family bathroom, with a walk-in power shower and double washbasins.

Facilities

Shared bathroom River View Air conditioning and heating Double or twin beds
Green Room Shared Bathroom
Green Room Shared Bathroom
Green Room Shared Bathroom

Green Room Shared Bathroom

This room is located on the first floor (upstairs).

This twin/double bedroom is full of character with rustic, wooden beams and a Juliet Balcony that overlooks the Pool and Funcho Dam below.

The most beautiful sunsets can be seen from this level and you can sleep in longer with the black out curtain.

It shares a large family bathroom, which has a walk-in power shower and double wash basins.

Facilities

Shared bathroom Air conditioning and heating River View Double or twin beds
Teal Room Ensuite
Teal Room Ensuite
Teal Room Ensuite

Teal Room Ensuite

This room is located on the ground floor with a large en-suite bathroom.

Shades of blue and teal give the room a calming and luxurious feel.

Double doors open out onto the lawn area and infinity pool with wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The bathroom has a walk-in power shower fitted with grab handles.

Facilities

En suite bathroom Balcony or terrace Air conditioning and heating Hairdryer Double or twin beds
Main Room Ensuite
Main Room Ensuite
Main Room Ensuite

Main Room Ensuite

This room is located on the ground floor.

The largest bedroom in the house with its own beautiful en-suite bathroom.

This room has double doors leading onto the Sunset Terrace, lawn area and infinity pool beyond.

The bathroom has a walk-in power shower with grab handles and ‘his & hers’ washbasins.

Facilities

En suite bathroom Balcony or terrace Air conditioning and heating Hairdryer Double or twin beds
Your local host

Cheryl and Graham

Having always returned to the Algarve region in Portugal for many years, Cheryl and her husband Graham decided that this was where they wanted to set up home. With over 300 sunny days per year, fabulous beaches, good food and award-winning wine, combined with the friendly approach and relaxed style of the Portuguese, it’s not hard to imagine why.

Their inspiring journey and adventures in the Algarve are chronicled in Alyson Sheldrake’s book, “A New Life in the Algarve Portugal.” 
Featured on ‘A New Life in the Sun’ and ‘Where Are They Now,’ this dynamic duo brings over 25 years of expertise in unveiling the Algarve’s top beaches, eateries, and villages f... Read All

Having always returned to the Algarve region in Portugal for many years, Cheryl and her husband Graham decided that this was where they wanted to set up home. With over 300 sunny days per year, fabulous beaches, good food and award-winning wine, combined with the friendly approach and relaxed style of the Portuguese, it’s not hard to imagine why.

Their inspiring journey and adventures in the Algarve are chronicled in Alyson Sheldrake’s book, “A New Life in the Algarve Portugal.” 
Featured on ‘A New Life in the Sun’ and ‘Where Are They Now,’ this dynamic duo brings over 25 years of expertise in unveiling the Algarve’s top beaches, eateries, and villages for unforgettable experiences. Their story, intricately woven into the fabric of the Algarve, adds an extra layer of authenticity to your journey.

Enthusiastic about Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary cuisine, Cheryl and Graham derive inspiration not only from their favourite chefs like Ottolenghi, Belfrage, and Tamimi but also from the vibrant tapestry of the Mediterranean Diet and lifestyle. Their cooking style reflects bold flavours, a variety of spices, the use of fresh herbs, and a dedication to highlighting the inherent qualities of ingredients.

Welcome to a journey of discovery and flavour!

 

 

Cheryl and Graham image

Location

Stay in an exceptional villa tucked into the bend of a river in Portugal’s Algarve countryside, just 15 minutes from the town of Messines and Silves a 30 minute drive away. Lovingly known as ‘The River House’, it will leave you feeling relaxed, inspired and very much at home. With terraces overlooking surrounding countryside, limitless walking trails and a starry night sky, there isn’t a more idyllic place to perfect your artistic skills.

Getting there:

Nearest airport:
Faro – 35 minutes away by car

Pre-booked transfers:
There are complimentary transfers on the arrival and departure days from Faro Airport.

On the arrival day the airport pick-up will be at 3pm for the group, if you wish to take this transfer please choose flights with this pick up time in mind.

On the departure day the transfer to Faro Airport will be after breakfast around 10am. Please ensure your flight departure time is not before 1pm, if you wish to take this transfer.

If you choose flights which will not work with these times alternative airport transfers can be arranged, for an extra charge.

 

What our travellers are saying...

"Absolutely beautiful place. The hosts were so lovely, really accommodating and nothing was too much trouble. The scenery is stunning, very quiet and peaceful. The food was out of this world, so tasty and imaginative. There was also plenty of choice and I loved that we had little treats like Cheryl's cakes and cheese boards. Our rooms were beautiful, everything we needed and very clean. I would love to stay here again and would really recommend i

Stephanie E

"I had an amazing painting holiday with great hosts. Graham and Cheryl were welcoming and provided a perfect environment in which to nurture the soul. It is a beautiful location, the rooms were spotless and the whole vibe was so relaxing. Graham worked so hard providing a wide range of delicious dishes. Cheryl provided refreshment throughout the day whilst I learned new painting skills and produced work I am proud to show-off courtesy of the amaz

Heather G

"Just spent another fabulous week with the lovely hosts Cheryl and Graham. A week of art with our delightful teacher who was so thorough, helpful and an absolute joy. Learnt lots of techniques and enjoyed a great day out at the beach with super meal in beach cafe/restaurant. Super location, wonderful meals and presentation to die for, every dish a work of art. Thoroughly recommend and so lucky to have great company too!"

Ann P

"I attended an art workshop here with my mom. It was amazing! The hosts, Cheryl and Graham, were so generous and kind. The lunches they prepared were delicious. The art teacher, Tracey, made us feel like any skill level was welcome, and encouraged us to play with the art materials. We got to try many different mediums and techniques. Our group was fun and the size was nice and intimate."

Bryanna G

"Another wonderful Art Course in the Algarve. I have attended several courses at this very special venue and each time it’s simply perfect; the owners are very warm & cook the most delicious food, they welcome you in & warm your heart with kindness & care. The venue is very beautiful & whilst I attend on a day basis the rooms are all lovely especially the new Safari Tents. I 100% recommend"

Rochelle M
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FAQs

What is the food like during the holiday?

Your hosts will be lovingly preparing a variety of wholesome vegetarian dishes, that may include a couple of fish options, in their riverside farmhouse kitchen using fresh produce from the local village market.

Your hosts enjoy cooking and testing new recipes in our kitchen and guest reviews happily report their joy in discovery new healthy vegetarian meals. They have a passion for cooking and for sourcing local ingredients to produce good, healthy, wholesome vegetarian foods. Graham (one of your hosts) is an avid follower of Ottolenghi, Jamie Oliver, Bosh Brothers and the Happy Pear and many dishes stem from his chef heroes.

What should I bring?

- Your swimming costume to enjoy the pool
- Water swimming shoes if you planning on wild water swimming
- Something warm to relax in at night
- Sun hat and suitable footwear for outdoor walking - if you plan to visit the historical town, during free time, as the cobbled roads can be slippery
- Plastic or cardboard postal tubes to take your rolled artwork home. Paper sizes provided will be no larger than an A3
- Paper brushes and paint if you wish to paint during your free time.
- Insect repellent
- Appropriate yoga attire - mats are provided.

**Towels for showers and the pool are provided. Shower toiletries are also provided

Can I bring a non-painting partner?

Yes! There are several quiet areas on the property to enjoy and take advantage of the peaceful, tranquil, scenic surroundings. Enjoy bird watching, book a relaxing aromatherapy massage, a stand up paddle boarding lesson, fishermen can find a spot to fish anywhere around the villa or simply chill out by the infinity pool and soak up some much needed vitamin D.

The River House is also great for relaxing and is stocked with a small collection of reading books, board games and a DVD library.

The clearly signed walking route is ideal for exploring the countryside on your own and you are welcome to join the art group when they go out walking and exploring the countryside.

There is so much to discover and enjoy in the Algarve that is within easy reach. I (Cheryl) love finding places to shop, dine and explore that add a touch of authentic flavour and variety to your Algarve visit, and I am always excited to share them so that you can also experience these wonderful discoveries.

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