Art Retreat Liguria
What makes this journey special
A creative journey on the Ligurian coast, where Mediterranean light, sea and landscapes become sources of inspiration. Guided by artist Carmen Haugeneder, explore acrylic, watercolour, oil painting and mixed media in workshops shaped by the colours and textures of the Riviera. Encounters with local artisans, ceramic art, tastings of regional specialities and visits to picturesque villages complement the creative programme, while time by the sea invites a slower rhythm and il dolce far niente.
Next dates
Days
Journey character
CULTURE
FOOD
NATURE
RELAXATION
ACTIVITY
The journey at a glance
Regions
Liguria
Group size
6 to 16 travelers
Travel style
small-group, creative escape, cultural immersion, Mediterranean living
Language
German
Accommodation type
hotel
Transport
public
Starting point
Finalborgo
End point
Finalborgo
The Hidden Moments
- An Art & Wine workshop combining acrylic and mixed media with a tasting of Ligurian wines
- A creative walk through the medieval village of Finalborgo, meeting local artisans
- Plein-air painting among the olive groves and Mediterranean landscapes of the Riviera
- A visit to a ceramic atelier in the coastal town of Noli
- A watercolour painting session over an aperitivo by the sea
THE ITINERARY
The journey, day by day
Day overview
Arrive individually in Finalborgo, in the Province of Savona. In the afternoon, meet artist Carmen Haugeneder and your fellow Art Retreat participants at a welcome get-together before beginning the first creative session, “Art & Wine”, combining acrylic and mixed media with a tasting of Ligurian wines. The day ends with dinner together.
Day overview
After breakfast, start the day with a plein-air painting workshop in oil, taking inspiration from the landscapes and atmosphere of Liguria. After lunch, discover the creative side of Finalborgo on a walk introducing you to local artists and artisans. The day ends with a shared dinner in the charming historic centre of Finalborgo.
Day overview
Today takes you along the Ligurian coast to Noli and Varigotti, two beautiful seaside villages with their own distinctive character. During a watercolour session, capture the colours and atmosphere of the Mediterranean before enjoying some free time. Later, visit a ceramic atelier in Noli and discover the work of a local artist before dinner.
Day overview
Explore more of the Ligurian landscape with an excursion to Borgio Verezzi and Finale Ligure, including a visit to the remarkable caves of Borgio Verezzi. After lunch and some free time in Finale Ligure, continue the day with a “Watercolour Aperitivo”, combining watercolour painting with a relaxed aperitivo by the sea. The day ends with dinner together.
Day overview
After breakfast, gather for a final farewell before bringing your artistic journey in Liguria to a close. Individual departure from Finalborgo. You leave with more than beautiful memories of a creative escape, Liguria’s Mediterranean landscapes and its artistic traditions – your own artworks will travel home with you, keeping a little piece of Liguria alive.
What’s included
in this journey
In a carefully selected hotel
14 meals
5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 aperitivo, 5 dinners
2 excursions
To Varigotti, Noli, the Borgio Verezzi Caves and Finale Ligure
Personal travel guidance
Small-group support throughout the journey
8 creative workshops
Including all necessary materials, and visits to local artisans
1 creative Goodie Bag
To take home
Transport
Public transport throughout the journey
What is not included
- Travel arrangements to/from Italy
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Meals and services not specified
Download all the information about the journey here
Your Art Retreat in Liguria starts here!
Art Retreat Liguria
EUR 1.890,00*
*Price per person in double room.
Single room possible at extra charge of a total of EUR 200,00.
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What our travellers say
”Every journey leaves a story behind. We’re still collecting some of those shared by our travellers — stories of people met, places discovered and flavours remembered. Perhaps yours will be among them.
Good to know, frequently asked
Where does the journey start and end?
The Art Retreat begins and ends in Finalborgo (province of Savona), where the group stays throughout the retreat. The location provides a wonderful base for exploring the Ligurian coast, its villages and Mediterranean landscapes.
What interests does this journey focus on?
This Art Retreat combines painting, traditional craftsmanship and Mediterranean culture. Guided by artist Carmen Haugeneder, you will explore Liguria through acrylic, watercolour, oil painting and mixed media, drawing inspiration from the region’s light, colours, landscapes and textures.
Do I need to have previous artistic experience?
Not at all. The workshops are suitable for different levels of experience, from beginners to more experienced artists. Curiosity, openness and a willingness to experiment are much more important than technical expertise.
What art techniques will we explore?
The programme explores acrylic, watercolour, oil painting and mixed media, with workshops inspired by the landscapes and atmosphere of the Ligurian coast. From plein-air painting among olive groves to watercolour by the sea, each setting becomes part of the creative process.
What language is the art retreat held in?
The workshops with the artist are primarily held in German. English is also spoken throughout the Art Retreat and can be used for communication with the group, local partners and during excursions.
How much time will I spend painting?
The retreat includes eight creative workshops and visits to local artisans, complemented by excursions, culinary experiences and free time. The programme is designed to give you plenty of time to create while also leaving space to explore the coast and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
How physically demanding is the art retreat?
This is an easy-paced retreat, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable walking through historic villages and along coastal paths, including on cobbled streets, steps and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
How much free time will I have?
The programme combines creative workshops and organised excursions with time to enjoy Finalborgo and the coast at your own pace. There is room to explore the surrounding villages, spend time by the sea, enjoy an aperitivo or simply embrace some dolce far niente.
How will we get around during the retreat?
The Art Retreat uses public transport, allowing us to experience Liguria in a more local way. Depending on the destination and itinerary, private transfers may also be used where they offer a more practical or comfortable connection.
Can I join the art retreat as a solo traveller?
Absolutely. Solo travellers are very welcome. You can either share a double room or, subject to availability, book a room for single use at the applicable supplement.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
We stay in a carefully selected hotel in Finalborgo, chosen for its character, comfort and location. It provides a welcoming base for the creative programme and excursions along the Ligurian coast.
Can I join the art retreat if I’m accompanying someone but don’t want to take part in the art workshops?
Absolutely. You are very welcome to join an Art Retreat as an accompanying guest, even if you don’t take part in the art workshops. We offer a special option including accommodation, meals, excursions and everything else included in the programme – except the art workshops. While your partner or friend is getting creative, you can enjoy some dolce far niente or explore the surroundings at your own pace.
SEEN ALONG THE WAY
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STORIES AND PEOPLE
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