(This workshop is now sold out)
This retreat promises to be memorable. The retreat will be co-hosted by Natasha Seidel and Sarah Haycock and is set in Alentejo, one of the most beautiful and undeveloped regions of Portugal. We will be staying at the beautiful cottages at Casa Caiadas surrounded by centennial cork and olive groves, meadows of wild flowers and a gurgling stream.
Whilst it may be blissfully remote, the accomodation is still within easy reach of many beautiful towns, and only an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. We will enjoy day excursions to Lisbon and surrounding villages, allowing us the opportunity to absorb the culture and history of Portugal. We will explore these areas with our cameras or phones in hand to capture the atmosphere and practice our creative storytelling.
(Photos by Rosa Pomar)
Meals will be taken in local restaurants or be freshly prepared at our accommodation using locally grown and sourced ingredients.
This is a region that has managed to retain its traditional crafts and slow paced way of life. Craftsmen and women and artisan makers tell a rich story about the country's culture and heritage, and their materials and techniques reflect the idiosyncratic climates and landscapes.
( Photos by Rosa Pomar )
We are delighted and privilaged to have Rosa Pomar, an inspiring Portuguese crafts historian, guide us on a special tour exploring Portuguese crafts more intimately. Rosa will introduce us to some of her favourite local artisan makers near Castro Verde, including a spinner, a weaver and a basket maker, within their workshops. She will also take us to local antique dealers where we will have the opportunity to discover and purchase Portuguese antiques and artefacts.
Rosa has been researching and recording the sheep breeds and textile traditions of Portugal. She is the author of 'Malhas Portuguesas' , a book that documents the history of Portuguese knitwear. Rosa also owns a beautiful textile and yarn shop, Retrosaria Rosa Pomar, in Lisbon which we will be visiting. The shop produces and commissions its own small batches of distinctive, regional hand spun yarn. These are scoured, teased, carded and spun by hand in small villages.
(Photos by Rosa Pomar )
Guests will also participate in two workshops during the retreat.
Sarah will invite you to explore your own creativity and artistry. She will guide you, step by step at a relaxed pace through her beautifully curated kit for creating your own whimsical mobile. Once completed , you will be left with a tactile reminder of your time away.
The second workshop will be hosted by Marie Jones. Marie is an accomplished crocheter and the co-founder of Crochet Artisan, a new contemporary crochet design magazine. Marie will introduce you to basic crochet stitches and teach you how to make your own crochet accessories.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?
This retreat is designed especially for those inspired by immersing themselves in the culture and heritage of another country through the food , crafts and landscapes. There will be an emphasis on exploring and developing your own creativity through crafting and photography. The planned activities and excursions coupled with the luxurious accommodation will ensure that you leave feeling recharged and inspired.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST AND WHATS INCLUDED?
The price for the 5 night retreat is £1800 per person sharing a double room with ensuite bathroom. ( you do not need to be travelling in pairs, you will be allocated a shared room and paired with other like minded guests).
A private room with ensuite facilities is £2200.
This includes airport transfers to and from Lisbon airport, accommodation, and all meals. Workshops and materials are included in the price as well as excursions and tours. Guests also receive a selection of carefully sourced gifts.
Flights are not included and guests are required to bring their own photography equipment. Space is limited to 8 guests only.
(This workshop is now sold out)