Cyanotype, Art and Birdwatching Holiday
Dates for next years art holiday are
4th - 11th May 2024
As well as local workshops I run a very special Art workshop holiday in Portugal where you learn all about Cyanotype an old photographic process using the UV rays of the sun to create designs on papers, fabric for lampshades and clothing. We will also have several drawing sessions in the lush gardens at the Quinta, the setting is an idyllic location in a relaxed holiday atmosphere with a bit of nature and wild swimming thrown in. It's a truly beautiful and unique setting which I hope some of the pictures below and comments from previous guests will show you.
" I was blown away by the birdwatching, sitting in a hide in a vast cork valley watching dozens of european bee eaters feeding is an experience I will never forget, thank you. Frank is a wealth of bird and wildlife knowledge."
Situated in the Southern foothills of Portugal, the Quinta Do Barranco Da Estrada is a small, intimate holiday retreat for peace and relaxation, it boasts a mix of traditional hospitality, international home-cooked cuisine and a friendly atmosphere with excellent service.
Owners Daniela and Frank McClintock (Frank is an expert in photography and Birding) have created this beautiful venue over the last 30 years, it is now 90% solar powered with as low a carbon footprint as is possible. The carefully planted terraced gardens attract a huge number of birds, butterflies and insects. (but no Mosquitoes!)
The Quinta has 8 en-suite rooms, a family suite and a honeymoon suite. Each room has a stunning view of the gardens and the reservoir, Europe's cleanest fresh water swimming lake. With plenty of space around you and a total absence of man-made noise, and artificial lights so perfect for star gazing- it's no wonder they call it Paradise in Portugal.
"The holiday was absolutely wonderful and I would highly recommend it....not just for artists and wildlife lovers but for anyone simply seeking some quiet time to themselves"
"I would like to congratulate and thank you for organising such a successful trip to Portugal last week. It was both relaxing and an industrious week seeing and learning new art techniques. Everyone was made to feel very welcome whatever their skill level in both activities and I really enjoyed myself. Thank you for all of your hard work!"
"Excellent and I really enjoyed the provision of delicious home-cooked Gluten Free food"
"it was very peaceful and took me time to unwind. The food and rooms were lovely and Daniela (host) could not have been sweeter. It was very restful and I often think about it!"
"........batik and kayaking in an idyllic spot"
I am very excited to be running this holiday again in the Spring, May 4th -11th May - 2024
To book your place on this bespoke holiday please contact me for more information.
Per person £1650 with an en suite room Couples/friends sharing a room - £2625
Partners not doing the art course £1190
Places limited to max 8 guests. Price includes Faro airport transfers *(1 transfers provided- so book your flights with this in mind), full board including freshly prepared meals, all tuition and materials including fans, bags, lampshade fabrics and a cotton garment to cyanotype. Flights and extra birding activities not included.
Also there will be a surcharge for a transfer if you are travelling outside the transfer times (between 11-2pm)
Cheaper transfers by train to Santa Clara, however the trains are few and far between. Please contact me before booking any flights. 07843 685028.
"Brilliant holiday full of colour and sunshine; good humour and support. The birds behaved and appeared on cue; Frank was amazing with his knowledge of birds, expeditions, photography and quiet enthusiasm. We even made 'friends' with his very own parrot. Marie-Therese was well prepared and full of initiative and support for our art sessions making possible whatever we were trying to achieve. I love my finished pieces and feel inspired to do more. Holiday gave good value for money. I'd go again!" Diana
Further Reading / Viewing
The following sites are available for more detailed information about the Quinta http://www.paradise-in-portugal.com and http://www.birdinginportugal.com. A selection of videos are also available below.