Artists Retreat

                           3-7 October 2025 Art Retreat with Ed Sumner 

A rare opportunity to learn, paint, and unwind beneath the endless skies and golden light of Portugal’s Alentejo coast —where wide horizons, deep landscapes, and luminous silence encourage creative focus and freedom.
5 days | Full board | 3-7 October 2025 

Renowned London-based artist Ed Sumner will be the guest instructor at this painting retreat – an opportunity which promises to be as inspiring as it is exclusive. Ed’s wide and expressive, light-filled landscapes — particularly his “Big Skies Over London” series — have earned him a loyal following and widespread acclaim. His work has been featured in leading art fairs in London and New York, appears in numerous private and corporate collections, and has passed through respected institutions including Christie’s.

Ed also created the much-loved Cheese & Wine Painting Club, which has tens of thousands of followers. His down-to-earth, joyful approach to teaching — which many people enjoyed during 72 consecutive weeks of free live sessions during lockdown — has built a global creative community where everyone feels welcome, regardless of experience.

A painting retreat with Ed is not just a class, but an invitation to reconnect with your creative side in good company. Set against the backdrop of the Alentejo hills at Vale das Estrelas, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from a celebrated artist in an intimate, relaxed setting — with great food, great wine, and wide open skies.

Daily Itinerary (subject to minor changes if needs be to deliver the best experience)

Day 1: Arrival & Settling In

• Arrival and welcome drinks
• Check-in and explore the property
• Welcome dinner with Ed, Ana & Alastair
• Informal introduction to the week ahead

 

Day 2: Big Skies & First Strokes

• Breakfast in the Clubhouse
• Morning painting session with Ed (subject tbd)
• Lunch on the terrace or picnic-style
• Afternoon free time or rest
• Optional group critique
• Family-style dinner including a local wine

 

Day 3: Exploring Colour at the Coast

• Breakfast
• Beach painting session with Ed (subject tbd)
• Coastal picnic lunch
• Free time to swim, sketch, or relax
• Dinner at the lodge including a local wine

 

Day 4: Movement & Reflection

• Breakfast
• Morning yoga or guided hike
• Lunch with seasonal ingredients
• Afternoon painting session (open theme)
• Free time or journaling
• Farewell dinner & guest art show with wine pairing

 

Day 5: Reflections & Departure

• Light breakfast
• Goodbyes
• Depart by late morning

Your Stay At Vale das Estrelas

Nestled in the rolling hills of Portugal’s wild Alentejo coast, Vale das Estrelas is an off-the-grid eco-luxe retreat, surrounded by nature, birdsong, and magnificent skies. Once a eucalyptus plantation, the land has been lovingly restored by former BBC foreign correspondent Alastair Leithead and his wife Ana Leithead Spross — a Portuguese/Swedish former diplomat with deep family roots in Alentejo.

All our accommodation units have been have beautifully designed with deeply comfortable beds and a private terrace with unforgettable views. The three en suite rooms can have either a king sized bed or two singles. Our four apartments each have a kitchen, lounge and bathroom., Artisanal touches abound, with wood, clay, and cork reflecting the region’s natural elegance.

The lodge runs entirely on solar power, with systems for rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, and a plastic-free commitment. It’s not just comfortable — it’s quietly, deeply sustainable.

Sleep comes with birdsong — owls at night, gentle morning birds, and the occasional eagle overhead.

Take a dip in our stunning infinity pool, perched at the edge of the valley and surrounded by silence, wildflowers, and panoramic views. Whether you're cooling off after a painting session or gazing at the stars from the water, it's an unforgettable part of the experience.

 

The Meals

At Vale das Estrelas, every meal is part of the experience — designed to nourish, inspire, and celebrate the region’s bounty.

Our meals are:

• Fresh and seasonal: Locally sourced ingredients
• Rooted in Alentejo: Simple, soulful dishes with a regional touch
• Relaxed and thoughtful: Served under the sun or stars or in the Clubhouse depending on the weather and group energy
• Adaptable for all diets: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available upon request

You’ll enjoy lovely breakfasts, light lunches, and hearty dinners under the stars — often paired with a glass of local wine and a story from Alastair that brings the landscape to life. For those who’d like more wine with their meal (or a quiet glass later on), we keep a well-curated selection available — and there’s always the honesty bar if we’re not around. No need to worry, you won’t go thirsty.

 

Typical Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast: Seasonal fruit, fresh pastries, bread, locally made fresh cheese, homemade jams or marmalade, yogurt, herbal teas, and coffee

Lunch: Light dishes such as grain salads, grilled sardines or other fish, roasted vegetables, quiches, and greens

Dinner: Alentejo-inspired favourites (e.g., pork with clams, chickpea stews, baked cod), served with local wine and dessert. Every dinner includes one glass of wine…but no worries, there’s plenty of great choice around so just ask if you want to purchase some more….

• Evening Wine Presentation: Each night, Alastair introduces a different Alentejo wine.

 

Accommodation & Pricing

We are offering a total of seven beautifully designed units at Vale das Estrelas — a mix of elegant suites, cozy apartments, and spacious villas, each with artisan interiors, private terraces, and sunrise views.

Some units are ideal for two people sharing, while others are designed for groups of up to four. You can reserve a full villa or apartment for your group at a set rate (see below) and divide the cost however you'd like; you can opt to share a two-person unit and select your room type based on availability and price; or you can sign up solo and be thoughtfully matched with another guest in a shared suite or apartment.

Each space is unique in layout and style, but all are quiet, comfortable, and full of charm. We’ll help you find the best fit based on your preferences, travel companions, and budget.

 

Sirius, Altair & Vega – Private Sunrise Suites (30 m² each)

Elegant, quiet, and calming, these three standalone suites offer a peaceful hideaway for rest and reflection. Perfect for those who prefer a hotel-style setup, each suite opens onto a private terrace facing the sunrise — a tranquil spot to sip morning tea or simply watch the valley awaken.

Inside, you’ll find a generous king-size bed (which can be set up as twin beds for sharing), artisan-made woven headboards, a pottery sink and warm, handcrafted touches throughout. Though the suites do not include a kitchen, each has a generous fridge and coffee/tea amenities.

Sharing one of these suites is both our most accessible retreat option and a lovely way to connect more deeply. Come with a friend, or let us pair you thoughtfully — from experience, many people discover that sharing leads to a richer experience of the retreat.

€1,100 pp (shared) · €1,500 pp (private)

Aquila – One-Bedroom Sunrise Apartment (60 m²)

With views that stretch across the valley, Aquila is a tranquil one-bedroom apartment designed for quiet mornings, and rest that runs deep. This space is perfect for two friends or a couple looking to retreat into nature without giving up comfort or elegance.

Inside, soft earth tones meet handcrafted finishes, including artisan lighting, regional pottery, and sustainably sourced furnishings. There’s a generous king-size bed (or twin configuration), a cozy lounge, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen for morning coffee or midnight snacks. Step outside to your private terrace, where the sunrise spills across the hills and the only sound is birdsong.

This apartment is perfect for those who prefer a little extra space but still want to share the experience. Priced for two, it offers exceptional value and privacy.

€1,250 pp (2 guests) 

Lynx – Two-Bedroom Apartment with Shaded Terrace (80 m²)

Spacious, flexible, and full of light, Lynx is made for sharing — a place where friends or fellow creatives can spread out and settle in. With two serene bedrooms, each with artisan-crafted beds and natural textiles, Lynx comfortably hosts up to four guests without feeling crowded.

The open-plan living and kitchen area is ideal for preparing snacks, brewing coffee, or chatting late into the evening. Outside, a shaded terrace offers a quiet, breezy space to gather — whether for morning journaling, long lunches, or a glass of wine under the stars.

Lynx is our best-value apartment when shared — and many guests say it’s where some of their best retreat memories are made. Whether you come as a group or let us pair you thoughtfully, it’s a space that invites connection and creativity to flow.

€1,400 pp (2 guests) · €1,300 pp (3 guests) · €1,200 pp (4 guests)

 

Andromeda – Light-Filled Villa with Mezzanine (90 m²)

Andromeda is a beautifully designed villa with room to settle in and spread out. With high ceilings, large windows, and wide valley views, it offers a light-filled setting for relaxed living. Designed for up to four guests, there’s plenty of space to share without ever feeling crowded — making it an ideal choice for pairs or small groups looking for comfort, ease, and just the right amount of togetherness.

The main sleeping area features a king-size bed (or twins), while the mezzanine loft offers a relaxed second sleeping area with two twin beds — perfect for reading, resting, or stargazing through the high windows. A well-equipped kitchen with marble countertops connects seamlessly to the lounge and opens onto a private terrace with a large picnic table as well as a sitting area with chairs and a coffee table — a lovely spot for sketching or sunset chats.

Andromeda is especially popular with small groups, offering the right mix of togetherness and personal space. And at the shared rate, it’s one of our most generous retreats — both in size and value.

€1,500 pp (2 guests) · €1,400 pp (3 guests) · €1,300 pp (4 guests)

 

Cassiopeia – Our Most Spacious Option (120 m²)

Cassiopeia is our most spacious and refined villa — designed for comfort, connection, and the pleasure of having room to relax. With a generous layout, beautiful natural light, and thoughtful design throughout, it’s a welcoming space for anyone who enjoys generous design and plenty of room to settle in.

The villa includes a king-size bed (or twins) in the main bedroom and an oversized mezzanine with two queen beds — offering flexibility for small groups or those who simply enjoy the luxury of extra space. A full kitchen with marble countertops, open-plan living area, and an expansive terrace with separate dining and lounging areas make this a perfect place to share — whether for a morning coffee or a slow sunset.

Whether you're sharing with close friends, creative companions, or simply want to enjoy the space with others, Cassiopeia offers one of the finest settings — and the best value when shared.

€1,500 pp (2–3 guests) · €1,400 pp (4 guests)

Group Size: 10–16 guests

Booking & Payment

To reserve your spot, a 50% nonrefundable deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due by August 31, 2025. To make your booking, please write to us here

As a small, family-run retreat, we host only a limited number of guests — and each booking represents a meaningful commitment. Your reservation also secures the time and travel of guest artist Ed Sumner, who joins us specifically for this experience. For that reason, all payments are nonrefundable, and we are unable to offer exceptions.

That said, if you’re unable to attend, we would be willing to offer a credit toward a future retreat, valid for 12 months, subject to availability. You're also welcome to transfer your booking to a friend — just let us know in advance so we can update the guest list.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment in the event of illness, cancellations, or unexpected changes to your plans.

 

Optional Add-Ons

Want to go deeper? We offer optional creative and cultural add-ons during your stay:

• Wine Story Tasting – €25–35 per person (min. 4 guests)
  A 1–2 hour guided journey through the wines, culture, and history of Alentejo, led by Alastair Leithead
• Cooking Demo – €25 per person
  A hands-on 2–3 hour class exploring Alentejo flavours min/max 4 pp
• Pottery Class with Sandra Veyrier – €14–20/hour per person (min 4 guests), depending on how many participants and what kind of clay
  Work with clay with a view with a renowned local ceramicist (see separate flyer for more info)
• Yoga or Pilates Class – €25 per person (min. 5 guests)
  Outdoor movement sessions for grounding and flexibility
• Hike + Medronho Tasting – €15 per person
  A short walk to meet our neighbours and taste traditional wild spirit distilled from local medronho fruit

 

Transport Options

We can help you arrange transfers from:

• Faro Airport: €160–220 per trip (shared price €40–€55 pp if 4 guests), prebooking
• Lisbon or Seville: Available for larger groups
• Sabóia Train Station: Taxi pickup €30–40 per trip, prebooking

Prices vary slightly depending on week day/time. We can either book transfers on your behalf or provide contacts.

Timing

This retreat is planned for the 3-7 October 2025 — a time of warm days, golden light, and fewer tourists.

Want to stay longer?

If you’d like to stay on and soak up a little more magic, we’d be delighted to host you for a longer stay — subject to availability. Just let us know your plans, and we’ll happily make it work.