A Creative Way in The France Deposit Week 2 - August 20-26, 2026

Join us Thursday, August 20 - Wednesday, August 26 2026 for an immersive watercolor retreat in the Loire Valley in France.  We will go beyond the basics and delve deeper into our craft together while we soak up the beauty and serene countryside of the Loire Valley.  Sarah will lead the group with new project prompts, deepening all of our skills and spending quality time learning the art of travel sketching, fully immersing ourselves in the French countryside, all while developing our artistic styles and practices.  Designed for those wishing to ignite their artistic journey and seasoned artists seeking to elevate their skills, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the art of watercolor and mixed media play with a group of like-minded creatives.

This retreat will take place in the Loire Valley, a countryside region 1.5 hrs by train south of Paris. Widely known for its picturesque beauty. We will stay together in a beautiful chateau reserved for our group alone for 6 nights to paint and create together.

It will be the ultimate summer escape and our sketchbook excursions will take us to several local adventures that celebrate the local scenery, shopping and cultural flavor. And of course, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the chateau grounds and gardens and spend concentrated time on watercolor. 

Important Trip Details Included 

• Six nights of lodging in a beautiful manor or cottage 
• All meals at the chateau and in local area
• Guided art excursions
• Top of the line art supplies
• Transportation to and from the local train station 
• Retreat registration does not cover travel expenses to and from France 

Spending this dedicated time with other artists is invaluable and that is a large part of this experience as well.  The opportunity to share knowledge, exchange insights, witness varying styles and offer/receive encouragement is one important way to improve. We are so excited for these few days and hope you join us! 

Your $1,000 deposit will secure your spot to ACW 2026 in France and is non-refundable.

The remaining balance can be split into 3 payments that will be due December 1, January 1 and February 1, 2026. 

The beautiful property has 6 spots for a single room for $8,500 and 6 spots for a twin bed in a very spacious shared room with another participant for $7,500. All rooms have their own bathroom.  Let us know if you are signing up with someone so we can put you in the shared together. If you are coming solo but choose the shared room option, we will match you with another attendee as a roommate. 

Once we receive your deposit, you will receive a confirmation email from us and additional retreat information and details reserved for confirmed attendees. 

Media Consent:

I consent, with my purchase of registration, that any photograph, videotape, or otherwise digital recorded images and/or sound recordings of myself is permissible to use in any public media, including radio, television, internet, social media, print or in any of the organization’s or its partners’ publications, productions, or posts.