Art Retreat in Portugal

Art & Light: Creative Journey Around Madeira

6 days, 7 unique locations, endless inspiration. The Atlantic breeze, mountains in clouds, the scent of wild flowers — and you, painting in the middle of it all

10–15 March 2026
📍 Madeira Island, Portugal
Group size: up to 4 participants
Language: English
Level: Beginners & experienced artists welcome

Included:
• Accommodation (5 nights)• All art materials• Daily creative sessions• Breakfasts• All local transport around the island• Group transfer from and to Madeira Airport

Not Included:

Flights to&from Madeira• Travel insurance• Lunches and dinner• Entrance fee to the Gardens

WhatsApp TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

🌿 About the Retreat

Experience the timeless beauty of Madeira — the island of eternal spring — through art, travel, and mindful exploration.
Each day brings a new landscape, a new light, and a new inspiration to paint.
Together, we’ll journey across the island — from lush forests to dramatic cliffs and serene coastal villages — discovering both Madeira and our own creative flow.

This retreat blends the joy of painting with the comfort of boutique travel — elegant accommodation, thoughtful details, and meaningful connection.

What is waiting for you?

Curated Island Tour

Daily Creative Sessions

Unforgettable Views

Iconic Local Cuisine

Retreat Program

Day 1 • Arrival & Welcome Dinner

Arrival in Funchal, group transfer to the hotel at 15.00.

Day 2 • Funchal & Monte Gardens

A ride on the cable car to Monte, sketching in the lush Monte Palace Gardens.
Afternoon is to explore Funchal’s old.

Day 3 • Cabo Girão – Fanal – Porto Moniz – Seixal – Ribeira da Janela
We’ll stop to paint and capture the essence of each place, moving slowly through the island’s wild west.

Day 4 • Ponta de São Lourenço

Walking and painting among volcanic landscapes, ocean wind, and endless horizons.

Day 5 • Palheiro Gardens & Cristo Rei Viewpoint

Morning in the blooming Palheiro Gardens, afternoon visit to the Cristo Rei viewpoint, where the island meets the ocean.

Day 6 • Closing Circle & Departure

A gentle morning together. Group transfer to the Madeira airport at 12.00

WhatsApp FOR MORE INFORMATION

Accommodation

We’ll stay in a luxury hotel in the south coast of Madeira Island, located between Funchal and Caniço, and surrounded by unforgettable views.

Our retreat offers authentic, cozy single room accomodation.

If you’re coming with a friend or partner and would like to share a double room, you’re very welcome — both of you will receive 10% off the retreat price.

Prices and booking

How to make a booking

To book your spot on the Art Holiday Tour, please secure your reservation with a deposit.

If you have any pre-booking questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Early Bird Price (booked before 31.12.2025)

1 190€

After 1.01.2026

1 320 €

*Price includes single-room accommodation.

Shared double rooms are available for friends or couples — 10% discount per person.

3 SPOTS LEFT

Deposit fee is 250 €.

Reviews

About

Catarina Olefir

Founder of Art do Sol Painting Studio and Art Retreats

Contemporary artist working with watercolor and mixed media, with exhibitions worldwide and artworks held in private collections across the globe.

Organizing art retreats throughout Europe, where more than 100 students have already discovered the joy of painting under her guidance.

Explore creativity, learn watercolor with ease, and experience how art can transform your journey.

ABOUT ArtDoSol

FAQs

The benefits of the retreat

This retreat combines creativity with discovery.

You’ll enjoy a curated island tour, tasting Madeira’s unique cuisine, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and experiencing daily inspiration.

With an intimate group of only 4 participants, the atmosphere is personal, relaxed, and deeply supportive.

What is included in the price of retreat

• Accommodation (5 nights)• All art materials• Daily creative sessions• Breakfasts• All local transport around the island• Group transfer from and to Madeira Airport

Do I need to know how to paint?

No experience is required.

I’ll guide you gently from the first brushstroke to your final artwork.

This retreat is designed for beginners and for anyone wanting to reconnect with creativity.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Most participants join solo, and the small group format makes it easy to connect, feel supported, and enjoy the experience fully.

Can I come with a friend or partner?

Friends and partners are welcome:)

What language is spoken during workshop?

Workshops are led in English.

What is the weather like in Madeira in March?

Madeira is known as the “island of eternal spring.”

In March, temperatures are usually between 18–23°C, with soft sunlight, fresh ocean breeze, and occasional light rain.

It’s a perfect time for painting outdoors and exploring the island.

What should I bring with me?

Bring comfortable clothes, good walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, swimwear, and a small backpack for our day trips.

All art materials are provided — you only need your curiosity and a sense of adventure.

Are meals included?

Daily breakfasts are included. Lunches and dinners are available at the hotel and restaurants.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Madeira has many vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options, especially in Funchal.

Restaurants are warm and accommodating, and we can always help you find dishes that suit your needs.

Is travel insurance required?

We recommend having it for peace of mind, especially if you’re flying from abroad.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

We’ll stay in a luxury hotel in the south coast of Madeira Island, located between Funchal and Caniço, and surrounded by unforgettable views.

Both single and shared rooms are available.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, you can arrive earlier or stay longer. Just let us know — we’ll help with arrangements.

How do I get to the retreat location?

The group transfer is organised. From the Madeira airport on the March, 10 at 15.00 and to the Madeira aiport on the March, 15 at 12.00

How do I secure my spot?

Your place is confirmed with a deposit. The remaining balance can be paid closer to the retreat date.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellations up to 2 weeks before the retreat receive a refund minus the deposit.

What will I take home?

Your own artworks, new friendships, and — most importantly — restored energy and inspiration.

How many participants will there be?

The group is small and intimate — maximum 4 people — for a cozy and personal atmosphere.

Is Madeira’s airport really dangerous?

Despite the myths, Madeira Airport is absolutely safe.

It has been modernized, expanded, and approved to the highest safety standards.

Pilots flying to Madeira receive special training — which makes landings smooth and secure.

Millions of people travel here every year with complete confidence.

How active is the retreat? Do I need to be very fit?

You should be comfortable walking for 1–2 hours at a relaxed pace.

We move gently and mindfully — this is not a hiking retreat, but Madeira has some hills.