Indulge in a 6-night/7-day painting retreat, complete with accommodation, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking, uninterrupted countryside vistas. 

Our painting tuition caters to all levels, from beginners seeking to explore their creativity to advanced artists looking to refine their skills. The experience promises a perfect blend of relaxation, confidence-building, and artistic inspiration.

Painting partners are warmly welcomed to join the creative experience.

1. Sunday Natural Inspiration (Half Day)

A relaxed introduction morning at Figs on the Funcho learning how to use different shapes, textures and form from the nature. Using various drawing techniques and materials including graphite, charcoal and pen where you can ease into your art holiday learning new tips and tricks or a good refresher for the more experienced. Also, a great way to get to know each other and discuss our art interests.

2. Monday When colour runs riot (Half Day)

A day letting vibrant colours and bold imagery inspired from many different sources comes together to create powerful abstract art. This will be a creative day exploring different colour and how it makes us feel. Chance to try out different art materials like watercolour, acrylics or chalk. All that is required is an open mind willing to explore.

3. Tuesday En Plein Air Painting Landscape (Full Day)

En plein air painting is the French expression for “in the open air” and we will be outdoors using the stunning location of Figs on the Funcho as inspiration for creating some plein air landscape painting. Firstly, the morning will be used to work together and discuss how to select your landscape, then compose a painting or drawing while on location.The morning session will be followed by lunch when we will feast on a lovingly prepared wholesome vegetarian meal under the shade of the mature carob trees.After lunch, we will continue with the landscapes back at base where we can tune the fine details with guidance to create some impressive works of art. The hardest part of this day will be which view to choose, so maybe bring a camera. Material choice is totally up to you, but maybe try something loose and see where the inspiration leads you.

4. Wednesday Ink and Mixed Media (Half Day)

A session on the joys of using ink in various ways to create interesting art works. A morning of play and experimentation where we will show you how versatile this medium can be, not to mention the possibilities when other mediums are used. For instance, the application of ink from a pen for sketching, to brush work and the introduction of bleach and other unusual things to create unusual effects.

5. Thursday Animals in Pastels (Half Day)

Have you ever tried to draw an animal but felt it wasn’t quite right? For example, have you attempted to draw furry coat but it ended up looking flat? Well this tips and tricks session on all things animal will help you master simple shapes into various species followed by the techniques needed to make fur and feather come alive. From the smallest mouse, to the biggest elephant, anything goes in this session.

Check-in from 16h00. Guests are requested to arrive before 21h00; otherwise, arrival should be scheduled for the following morning.

Check-out will be after the 09h00 breakfast.

Our fabulous art tutor is full of enthusiasm and will teach you new skills to maximise your art creativity in a range of different media.

During your stay, you will enjoy daily art lessons on the waterfront deck under the mature carob trees with accompanying bird song. The surrounding countryside and views of the river will make you feel as though you have discovered a secret oasis and you won’t be at a loss when choosing your landscape art scenes.

When you are not capturing the beautiful landscapes in paint or pencil enjoy riverside walks, lounging by the infinity pool, kayaking, SUP, admiring the sunsets and night skies, or visiting the nearby Moorish castle.

We offer three yoga sessions during the week, where in the midst of nature you will deepen your connection with the environment, fostering inner peace and mindfulness. Amidst the tranquil beauty of Figs on the Funcho, you'll find the perfect space to relax, improve your well-being, and quiet your mind. 

You will feel relaxed, confident and inspired to take on new artistic challenges. 

Figs on the Funcho, crowned by LuxLife's Hospitality Award as "Algarve's Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023", offers breathtaking country views that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings, let the stunning landscapes inspire you, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our home-from-home, The River House, is the perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking modern comfort, privacy, and peace. This renovated 100-year-old farmhouse riverside property boasts an infinity swimming pool, 5 large bedrooms, and can accommodate up to 10 people with the option of single or double beds. 

In addition to the villa, The River House also offers the option of staying in our two luxurious safari tents in the garden with stunning river views. Each tent can accommodate up to 2 guests, providing a unique and immersive nature experience. So, whether you choose to stay in the villa or one of our safari tents, you're sure to have an unforgettable and restorative getaway

• Art apron is essential, especially on the day when experimenting with Brusho, a vivid and highly pigmented water-based paint medium.
• Your swimming costume to enjoy the pool and watersports on the dam. The water levels may differ depending on the time of the year and drought conditions.
• Something warm to relax in at night.  Yoga mats available for use.
• Sun hat and suitable footwear for walking to explore different paths and also if you plan to visit the historical town nearby, 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
• Appropriate attire for yoga is recommended. Yoga practitioners are welcome to utilize the provided mats and yoga equipment during the classes.
• Paints, brushes and paper if you plan to paint during your free-time.

“Tracy taught me so much about painting and really inspired me. I pay so much more attention to colours and shapes and lines in all the nature I see. ”  – Ramla

“Tracy, our art teacher, was extremely knowledgeable in a variety of techniques, gave you confidence and always made you feel at ease.” – Sally

“We were able to understand all the different painting techniques that were incorporated into this workshop.” – Jenny

“Tracy was relaxed, fun, informative and talented” – Liza

“Tracy is a very talented artist and a great teacher I hope to return again” – Jenny

“Cheryl is an excellent host and her culinary skills have literally changed our view of food; vegetarian food in particular, with flavours, textures and combinations that were an assault on the senses.” – Clive

“The River House, I can’t recommend this place highly enough….you wont be disappointed with its location and beautiful views overlooking the river. ” – Charlie

“The hospitality couldn’t have been more attentive by the owner, Cheryl.” – Liza

“The owner Cheryl was very welcoming and cooked amazing meals.” – Ramla

“The villa and grounds are beautiful and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking. At night I saw the sky filled with stars.” – Ramla

“I went along to Figs on the Funcho as a non-painter with my painting partner. My time there was incredibly relaxing with stunning views across the river and countryside, with interesting walks and sunsets to die for.” – Clive

Email me if your partner would like to join.

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, enjoy stand up paddle boarding or kayaking or simply chill out by the infinity pool and soak up some much needed vitamin D.

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 if you have a car.

Expect warm and reliably dry sunny weather. Daytime temperatures reach an average of 23°C (73°F) and the occasional soaring of 30°C (86°F). Comfortable night temperatures can be about 17°C (62°F) during an average night.

We'll pick you up at Faro airport at 3pm; if you've opted for a different route, we'll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa from 3pm.

For those arriving by train, disembark at Messines-Alte train station and choose a quick 5-minute taxi ride to reach the villa. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer to avoid an internal flight and instead savour a scenic journey through the countryside.

If you're flying into Faro airport, you have two options: either take the train to Messines-Alte and select a 5-minute taxi ride to the villa or opt for a 45-minute airport taxi transfer directly to the villa.

Follow the Google map directions for those travelling by car.

The terms and conditions including the cancellation policy can be found here  Retreat Terms and Conditions - Figs On The Funcho

Once a guest has paid the deposit for the holiday or event then it is deemed that they have accepted these Terms and Conditions