August 19-28, 2027 Perigord, France Workshop · Register Here
AWAKENING YOUR CREATIVE SENSES
August 19-28, 2027
Périgord, France
10 Day Sensory Journey Through France
Level: Beginner - Intermediate
Set in the quiet beauty of the French countryside, Awakening Your Creative Senses is a 10-day immersive painting retreat for artists and creatives who want to slow down and reconnect with their intuitive voice.
This retreat invites participants to paint what they experience rather than what they see. Through guided studio sessions, sensory exploration, and time spent absorbing the rhythms of village life, artists are encouraged to work from curiosity, trust, and emotional awareness.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Excursions
Daily trips to tailored locations chosen by the artist and their group. Opportunities to explore, shop, paint plein air or gather inspiration for studio work.
Instruction
Every day you will receive group and one-to-one instruction outside or in the studio in the form of demonstrations and individual feedback.
Beverages
All food & beverages available 24/7.
Food
Fresh baked goods, fresh fruit salads & continental style breakfasts every day. Delicious picnic lunches and locally produced, freshly cooked evening meals.
Transport
From Gourdon train station on the day of arrival and to Gourdon train station on the day of departure. Transport to all excursions.
Studio
Exclusive access to our studio 24/7.
Accommodation
9 Nights lodging on our property with use of the swimming pool and hot tub as well as access to gardens and surrounding property.
Not Included
2 Lunches, 2 Evening meals, airfares, travel insurance (strongly recommended).
WHAT TO EXPECT
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Your day begins with a peaceful breakfast of freshly baked French pastries, homemade yoghurt, and seasonal fruit—best enjoyed in the sunlit conservatory as the day gently unfolds.
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Around 9 am, we set off—early enough to enjoy our destinations while they’re still quiet, with the morning light casting everything in a perfect glow.
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Spend your morning soaking up the atmosphere of a new place: wander through charming side streets, discover hidden corners, or settle into a quiet spot to sketch and take it all in. When you’re ready for lunch, a beautiful spread awaits—think crisp salads, savoury quiches, homemade cookies, and a glass (or two) of wine, served picnic-style in the shade.
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Afternoons are for creativity and rest. Back at the studio, you’ll have dedicated time to paint, unwind by the pool, take a nap, read, sunbathe, or simply enjoy good conversation in a quiet corner.
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Evenings are a highlight: a delicious, three-course meal made with local ingredients, prepared by Katel—whose cooking alone is worth the trip. With wine flowing and good company around the table, it’s a chance to relax and connect.
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After dinner, the time is yours. Watch the sunset, return to the studio for more painting, take a dip in the hot tub, or explore the nearby paths under the stars.
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Our retreats are designed to be flexible, inspiring, and restorative—so you can get exactly what you need out of your time with us.
SOME EXCURSION LOCATIONS
Rocamadour
Part of the Camino Trail. Historical & religious significance. Breathtaking village perched on a cliff.
Sarlat
One of the most well preserved medieval towns in France. Amazing market with local produce.
Beynac Castle
Home of Richard the Lionheart, perfect for a picnic by the river and plein air painting in the shade.
Saint Cirq Lapopie
One of the most beautiful villages in France. Incredibly picturesque. Perfect for shopping & painting.
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DAILY ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in France
Guest arrivals and settling into accommodations
Time to explore the property and surroundings
Evening welcome gathering
Meet fellow participants
Introduction to the retreat philosophy and creative journey ahead
Day 2: Seeing Differently
Excursion to a local cultural or scenic destination
Observation and sketching exercises
Color collection and palette exploration
Painting inspired by place and atmosphere
Day 3: The Language of Texture
Touch-based explorations
Texture hunting and mark-making studies
Layering techniques and surface development
Creating expressive abstract compositions
Day 4: Sounds of France
Listening and observation exercises
Painting to music and environmental sounds
Exploring rhythm, movement, and gesture in painting
Sketchbook reflections
Day 5: Markets, Flavors & Aromas
Visit to a local market
Sensory exercises inspired by food, spices, flowers, and local culture
Taste and aroma-inspired color studies
Translating sensory experiences into paintings
Days 6-7: Excursion & Inspiration
Visit a nearby village, garden, or cultural site
Sketching and sensory observation
Gather inspiration through color, texture, and place
Reflect and journal about the day's experiences
Studio exploration based on discoveries from the day
Individual guidance and creative development
Day 8: Integration & Personal Expression
Excursion to a local cultural or scenic destination
Individual painting time with personalized instruction
Refining compositions and strengthening artistic voice
Day 9: Final Creations & Celebration
Final studio session
Completing artwork inspired by the retreat experience
Group sharing and reflection
Closing celebration dinner
Day 10: Departure Day
Farewell breakfast
Final goodbyes
Departure for home with new artwork, inspiration, and memories of France
While the spirit and objectives of the retreat will remain the same, the itinerary may be adjusted to take advantage of unique local experiences, seasonal opportunities, weather conditions, and the creative interests of the group.
Above and beyond is all I can say! From the lodging to the meals to the travel plans… it’s all been “above and beyond”. The experience exceeded my expectations by miles. Well done, guys…well done!
Charlene
I just returned from my first workshop at Perigord Retreats. I cannot express how absolutely wonderful we were treated. Wonderful experience, not to be missed!
Debra
I came away thrilled by a perfect vacation, filled with the peace of the country, the delight of great food shared on the porch where we could smell the scent of lavender and watch the rising or setting sun, and the excitement of daily trips to places of unparalleled beauty.
Laura
THIS RETREAT IS FOR YOU IF YOU ARE
• An artist or creative seeking deeper connection to your work
• Curious about intuitive, process-driven painting
• Ready to slow down and create without pressure
• Drawn to meaningful travel and immersive experiences
Join me in France for ten days of painting, presence, and rediscovering your creative senses.
Alicia has amazing classes that are both fun and educational. I always thought I was a terrible artist but Alicia step-by-step teaching makes it easy to create something beautiful. I loved every painting I’ve done and my favorite class was one using a trowel. Each of her classes is unique and inspiring.
Barbie C.
I love Alicia's teaching style. She was engaged and supportive, and very generous with her time. She gave me great critique, and helped me solve some problems with my painting. I felt very encouraged by her constructive critique.
Candace
I felt at ease almost immediately. Alicia was an incredible teacher in every way. The studio was amazing. I left much more curious and less intimidated.
Serena
I have participated in several of Alicia Blach’s art classes. As an instructor she gives very clear direction which is extremely helpful for a rookie artist wannabe like me! Her patience knowledge and creativity keeps the class fun and interesting. The end result always gets me excited for her next one.
Joni W.
I look forward to every painting class that Alicia does! Alicia is so bubbly and fun and always positive. The atmosphere is comfortable and it’s a great time, every time!
Leslie W.
Alicia conducted a painting class for a corporate group. She was a fantastic instructor and put everyone at ease. We allotted two hours for the class and finished a little earlier, but they were all eager to spend time with her afterwards. She’s a true professional and everyone left loving their painting!
Kris O.