Affordable yet luxurious accommodation in an outdoor paradise. Only 45 minutes from Whistler and 55 minutes from Vancouver, our lodge has very private guest rooms with spectacular views and include a private balcony, fireplace, soaker tubs built for two, bar fridge, and all the other amenities you would expect.. The natural wonders of our area are an inspiration to artists of all persuasions. From bird filled estuaries, to the towering mountains, to countless glacier fed rivers & waterfalls, to verdant temperate rain forests, the Squamish area offers endless natural vistas & recreational opportunities. The winter spectacle of salmon filled rivers and a great gathering of bald eagles is a sight to behold.

Located in an otherworldly location, on rolling meadowed acreage with ocean and big-skies view, Jupiter Ranch caters to those who seek high-end auberge comfort, sleek sophistication and restful ambiance. Accommodation consists of two sumptuously appointed, self-contained suites, complemented by host Sylvie Milman's extraordinary hospitality.

Sylvie had another vision: to customize an artists' retreat within natural environs. Jupiter Ranch now proudly presents artists' workshops in spacious, on-site studio space. These monthly two to ten days workshops, offering professional instruction and fully-equipped individual workstations, are limited to 12 participants.

Jupiter Ranch: a far-out place to stay. Canada Select - 4.5 stars. Tourism BC approved.

Accommodation at Moods and Motion Artist's Retreat. Workshops and heli-lift to mountain peaks and alpine meadows available from Folding Mountain Village, Jasper East. B and B includes three single rooms. Nearby locations include Wildhorse Lake, Lookout on the way up to Miette Hot Springs, Sand Dunes between Talbolt Lake and the Athabasca River. Information about artist's workshops with helicopter included contact Linda Wadley.

Artist/actress couple's colourful, unconventional, 1882 Victorian home full of fun and sun, art and heart, located on a historic avenue in Toronto's downtown, half a block from the city's artiest, most happening street--Queen Street West. Come and be energized by the independent art galleries, multicultural eateries, fashion designers and funky shops which line that strip, then take in the Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum and other attractions in this great, safe, city of 4 million, before coming home to Beaconsfield B & B.

Diamond Willow Artisan Retreat is a get-away destination just one hour south of Calgary in Alberta’s lovely foothills. You’ll be awed by the beauty of nearby Rockies in Kananaskis Park.

The retreat was designed and built with artisans in mind. Our love of the land and the region’s spectacular views were instrumental in the layout. Groups of up to 12 can be accommodated in the 4 double rooms on the walk out level, and in the 4 single beds in the upper 'Juniper’ room. The spacious studio is available 24 hour a day, with bright windows, plenty of lighting and electricity, and a kitchenette.

We provide comfortable accommodations, wholesome meals and versatile studio space situated on 11 peaceful acres.

Welcome to Diamond Willow.

SeaCliff Cottage Suites currently consists of two seasonal cottage suites, conveniently located in the Village of North Head on beautiful Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy. Accessible by a pleasurable ferry cruise from Blacks Harbor, you'll leave your world behind and enter the sirenic world of Grand Manan.

Your cottage suite belongs to you during your holiday and has its own private parking and entrance. It includes a fully equipped Kitchen, Linens, Blankets and towels, Cable TV, DVD player, High-Speed Internet, Queen Size Bed and a Futon Sofa-Bed. All you need to bring are clothes and your creative sojourn awaits!

Grand Manan offers a wide range of diverse activities that enable you to create your own personalized respite! Whether you’re inspired by the casual, comfortable surroundings of Grand Manan, its quiet and solitude, or its amazing natural majesty, the island magic is yours to make your own.

SeaGlass Suite sits on a cliff, right at the edge of the ocean, overlooking the Fisherman's Wharf with dramatic views out to sea as well as down the island shore. The Studio, overlooking the Sea, is washed with abundant natural daylight through the over-sized windows, and is furnished with an easel for artists and a desk for writers.

Relax and refresh, or work on your private deck while watching the fishing and sail boats, come and go…and sense the passage of time by the whistle of the regal Grand Manan Ferry as it signals its arrivals and departures throughout the day. The SeaGlass Suite is an easy walk or bike ride to numerous sights and services.

CreekSide Cottage is located on a private and secluded lane, tucked into the woods next to a small flowing creek. Also in North Head, It boasts open spaces that invite creativity, so an Artist's Easel and a Writer's Desk are provided. It is the perfect place to relax and renew, birdwatch, read, paint, sketch or meditate. This is the perfect base camp from which to explore the magical wonders of Grand Manan. CreekSide Cottage is only a few minutes walk to Pettes Cove to watch the seals frolic, to pick rocks, photograph or to collect sea glass; or to visit gift shops, restaurants, or the many sights and conveniences in the North Head area.
*A screen house studio for artists and writers will be constructed in the woods, up the trail from the cottage, this summer 2008.

Located close to Marblehead Harbor, airy second floor suite is an ideal retreat for someone seeking unique scenic beauty in this charming, walkable town. Combine a personalized stay in Marblehead with daytrips to Boston, Gloucester, Rockport, and Salem, taking in Peabody Essex Museun's exhibit 'Painting Summer in New England.' Daybed in the living room sleeps an additional person. Owner might also offer the use of her art studio on premises to compatible artist.

Stunning view of Abbot Hall and property's gardens, accessible for shared use. Private entrance and parking for one guest car. Simple kitchenette for light meals; easy walk to wide selection of local restaurants and gourmet take-outs. This apartment offers carefree living in gentle surroundings away from the rush of everyday life, yet close enough to explore interests in nature, sailing, gourmet dining, unique shopping and natural beauty.

Amenities include linens, terrycloth robes, hair dryer, hard-wired smoke detectors, new wall-to-wall carpeting and queen bed in bedroom, attractively and comfortably furnished and decorated with fine art by artist owner.

Dan & Vicki's Stunning Oceanview Studio Condo

Situated just a rolling lawn walk from the ocean, this completely refurbished studio condo with full kitchen is located in a small, low rise, eight condo building on Molokai's West Side. Molokai is Old Hawaii. No traffic lights, no traffic.

Kepuhi beach is just adjacent to the condo--just a short path stroll--and the three mile, undeveloped white sand beach of Papohaku is just a six minute walk from your door through an au naturale setting. It is common to find only one other person on this entire beach. Other small coves in the opposite direction along the coastline offer a different perspective and privacy. No driving necessary. The ocean can be exciting or serene, depending upon the time of year and swells. Craggy rocky points and formations offer stark contrasts for the artist eye.

Famous Kaluapapa Hansen's Disease Community can be visited for further inspiration, and local guides offer pristine hiking opportunities through Conservation lands.

Molokai is very undeveloped. Take a walk on the quiet side of life. Come stay in our condo, get inspired, do your work. Weekly, monthly, multi-month pricing now available. Value season is April-October as Dan and I don't come over to surf during these calmer months. This is our true second home. We are offering it to you to enjoy.

The sea inspires you. The beach beckons for daily strolls. A lovely and clean two-story home awaits with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths (sleeps up to 10 -- K, Q, 4 twins + sofa sleeper) and a gourmet kitchen with granite counters. Outside shower and the large built-in picnic table below gives shade with a surf view. Also, the home has two shaded decks. Built in 2003 and located in Sea Isle, which includes a marina on the bay side.

Galveston Island also offers the top birding location in the U.S., a historic Victorian downtown area, the famous Strand shopping area, Cruise port, Moody Gardens, the new Schlitterbahn Water Park, and the best seafood restaurant, Guido's.

Owned by a watercolor artist and native Texan. Travel easy by flying into Houston Hobby Airport. Then drive only 45 minutes on I-45 straight to Galveston Island.

The Circle C Ranch, Bill and Mary Cannon's two acres dead center of heaven on the Central Coast of California. Wine Country-50 miles north of Santa Barbara. Bill is a veteran screenwriter, voting member of the Academy Awards who works with and helps writers from everywhere over the web and at the ranch. Come for a week or a weekend to write, think, or paint. Bill is fairly open about the payment: The well-off pay the going rate. Those with less can negotiate. Guest cottage or the full living trailer in a grove of walnuts.

Inspiring 300 acre artist's mountaintop colony in historical Bath County, Virginia. Luxurious camping. Surrounded by mountain views and adjoining George Washington National Forest. There is an abundance of wildlife, clear streams, riding horses to also draw and paint. Farm life, White-tailed deer, wild turkey, orchards, emus, llamas, rare birds. Private living and working space. Ann Sams; A special place for artists of all mediums.

The perfect BEACH FRONT vacation home with incredible views of Flamingo, the Catalina Islands and awesome Pacific Sunsets. Let the gentle sound of the waves breaking on the beach relax and relieve all your tensions as you bask in the pacific sun at the pool. Then it's time for a leisurely lunch out on the deck overlooking the beautiful Pacific where you watch the boats come and go from the Flamingo Marina. In the evenings settle into the living room where the quiet and serenity puts you in a dreamy state, all of your thoughts washed away and you know you are experiencing a little piece of Paradise.

Relax, rejuvenate and explore your creative energy. The retreat rests in rural Mexico's back country, unspoiled by mass tourism; a two-hour scenic drive north of Puerta Vallarta along the Riviera Nayarit and only twenty minutes south of the historic port of San Blas.

Our spacious hacienda with ocean view and beautiful tropical gardens, located near colorful authentic Mexican villages, magnificent unspoiled beaches and tropical jungles, offers a variety of fun and informative retreats with incredible art Instructors. We also offer art studio rental space with spacious private rooms, full kitchen and internet access.

Experience a unique, affordable and creative vacation by the Pacific Ocean. Art Retreats include three gourmet meals a day, comfortable accommodations in private rooms, excursions to the Jungle, historical and sacred places in the area and local Markets. Learn something, create something, have a good time, and take your experiences home with you, in both artworks and in memories. Private room/studio rental available from Dec 15, 2013 to May 15, 2014. Please contact us for information on availability.

Bob Masla and Monica Levine have created Casa de los Artistas with love and joy--we are committed to the growth of the individual on a creative and spiritual level, and have crafted a stress-free environment of acceptance for our guests. A sense of family often develops among the participants in the workshops at Casa de los Artistas. With its spectacular natural beauty, it's a painter and photographer's heaven.

Casa de los Artistas is a gracious hacienda with internet access and generous meeting spaces overlooking the ocean and across the river from Boca de Tomatlan, an authentic rural Mexican fishing village just 10 miles south of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico's gorgeous Pacific Coast. Located on the same latitude as Hawaii, typical weather from November thru May is 84F, dry and sunny. Gourmet meals are cooked on site by the Casa chef Ruby and her assistants. Workshops are facilitated by artist Robert Masla and other guest facilitators - see our website for schedule.

Each 1 week all inclusive workshop vacations include,
- 7 nights accommodation in room with private bath and private balcony with ocean view--single or double occupancy. No extra charge for a single.
- 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners at ocean-side restaurants – with all drinks included.
- 6 Workshop days - after breakfast to lunch, approx. 3 hrs. in the Casa's 1,000 + square foot studio, with sweeping panoramas of the ocean, Boca village and river, or painting on locations in plein aire, then after lunch and siesta, 3 more hours of painting, and some evenings - Sunday thru Friday. More than 36 hours of workshop time - schedule is flexible to accommodate excursions.
- A journey to the un-touristed mountain town of El Tuito for sketching, photography and exploration and then on to a hacienda resort for a gourmet meal and tequila-tasting and painting in plein air.
- Puerto Vallarta excursion for gallery walking tour, shopping & city life.
- Boat Trip to explore the gorgeous coastline with opportunity to see whales, dolphins, giant mantas - optional snorkeling at Los Arcos National Coral Reef Park, then on to a fabulous picnic at an exotic secluded beach--bring your camera and sketch book.

Enjoy the unique Casa Experience – read what others have to say, look us up on TripAdvisor.com, also read the blog posted about us by The Painter's Keys Premium Artist, Iskra Johnson. Go to her website: Iskra Fine Art. then scroll down to Artist Retreat in Mexico.

Leave the hectic day behind, come and enjoy the tropical lifestyle on Mexican time. Jump-start your intuition as you recharge your creative batteries in this inspirational village, where time seems to stand still. Painting, drawing, swimming, sea kayaking, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach or patio, diving into conversation as you develop camaraderie while enjoying a delicious meal with new friends or hiking along the jungle paths and waterfalls.

Your all inclusive week long Art Workshop/Vacation is just that - a workshop with expert instruction that is structured so you don't have to worry about details, but not too rigid - loose enough to enjoy yourself, relax and experience a vacation from the typical.

Come and paint the fabulous Baja. Artist owned 2 bed / 2 bath, 1000 sq ft. poolside fully appointed condo for artists use. $100.00 us per night max. Sleeps four. Lots of painting room. Ten minutes to beach, colonial town of San Jose del Cabo and the bus to take you anywhere along the 25 miles of the romantic magical coast between SJ and CSL. Leave your good paintings and we will sell them at our Golden Cactus Gallery owned by artist Chris MacClure, situated in the tourist district of Cabo San Lucas.

A 2BR/2BA vacation villa, perched on a hilltop, overlooks the village of La Manzanilla, the Pacific ocean, the Bay of Tenacatita, Laguna Manzanilla, and spectacular sunsets 320 days a year. The villa was built with local labor and building materials form the surrounding villages. Seclusion, privacy, 3 minutes from the beach. The village offers all the natural attributes of the area; fishing, kayaking, hiking, beachcombing, snorkeling, birdwatching, star-gazing, contemplation. Dan Clarke

Tjasa Iris is an European painter. She is holding her painting workshops since 11 years and had participants from all 6 continents and from about 23 countries. Many participants returned for the second, third and even for the fourth time.

Emphasis will be put on perception and observation, as the bases to painting. I will help you develop your personal outlook, as well as inspire your imagination in all this magical places and to help you appreciate art to the full. We will paint 4 hours every morning. You may work on sketches for the first few days, and than proceed to more accomplished works derived from these last. Or you may simply paint two or three works a day. If for some reason, you want to wonder and explore the territory during these days, you are pleased to do so. We will meet again in the evening, discuss the work done during the day and see numerous slides of contemporary and modern art. We will go on painting and art history excursions that you will be able to join. You will not get to know only a lot about painting. My workshops are designed that besides painting, you also go on many cultural tours, explore the country, get to know the history, art, architecture, wine and cuisine...

Tjasa is holding up to 15 intensive one week workshops in:

France, Provence. The title of the workshop is The Path of Van Gogh and you will be painting in the places where Van Gogh was painting in Provence. The workshop consist of 3 nights in a hotel in Arles and 4 nights at an ancient Chateau de Roussan at Saint Remy. The dates are: 12 May – 19 May 2008 and 14 - 21 July 2008.

Italy, Tuscany, San Donato village. You will be staying at san Donato farmhouse, that is producing olive oil and wine (Chianti & Vernaccia). And you will go on many excursions to: Sienna, Volterra, Monteriggioni, San Gimignano, Montauto, Castelvecchio di San Gimignano. The dates are: 22- 29 May 2008, 16 - 23 June 2008, 23 - 30 July 2008, 7 - 14 October 2008.

Italy, Puglia, Masseria Salamina. You will be staying at an ancient castle Masseria Salamina and you will go on many excursions as the area of 'trulli' houses in Alberobello, to archeological site Egnazia on the coast, where you will also visit the archeological museum with splendid Greek and Roman art, and the nearby 'white city' of Ostuni, on your third excursion you will visit Lecce, the most beautiful baroque city in the world. The dates are 19 - 26 March 2008, 7 – 14 April 2008 and 23 - 30 Sept. 2008.

Slovenia, Branik, Villa Flora. Villa Flora is a Bed & Breakfast – Artist Retreat owned by Tjasa Iris in the Wine Country of Slovenia, 19 km from the sea (Riviera di Trieste, Italy), and hour from the Alps and about an hour drive from Venice. It is as well Tjasa’s summer residency and studio. Include daily painting trips to Slovenian Alps (Soca Valley), Ljubljana with visit to art museum, Italian Coast with painting of gardens of Castello di Miramare (Austrian Empero’s Castle) or Castello di Duino and the beach of the Gulf of Trieste, Italy. 2- 9 May 2008, 3 - 10 June 2008, 3 - 10 July 2008, 2 - 9 August 2008, 15 - 22 Sept. 2008.

The workshops are opened to participants of all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced. Non painter companions welcome!

Founded by artist/lecturer, Ed Herring, and art historian/lecturer, Sally Gaucheron, this small centre has been providing a supportive environment for creative people since 1992.

There is one studio. It is next to the guest wing consisting of two double-bedded rooms, a sitting room with a small fridge and Wifi, a bathroom and toilet. Artists can stay on a full-board or half-board basis and enjoy Sally's home cooking based on the best French tradition of fresh local produce. You can also make a simple bed and breakfast booking. Artist's and writer's companions are always welcome.

Sally also provides visits to historic sites and walking holidays.

Atelier de la Rose is situated in the heart of a small bastide village in the Lot, near the Dordogne and the region of Aquitaine. The Lot has a long tradition of attracting artists and writers for excellent reasons. Here is where paintings that are some 24,000 years old can be found. The founder of the Surrealist movement, André Breton, chose to live in the area. Henry Miller writes about it in The Colossus of Maroussi: 'To me this river, this country is ... the country of enchantment which poets have staked out and which they alone may lay claim to. It is the nearest thing to Paradise this side of Greece.'

Located opposite and within a 15 minute walk from the beautiful hilltop village of Mougins, and the Mas Notre Dame de Vie, where Picasso spent his final 13 years, Mulberry Cottage is the perfect artist's bolthole.

Newly renovated accommodation is in a charming Provençal stonewall structure, comprised of two bedrooms, bathroom, fully equipped kitchen with dining area and large living room, in which a sofabed could sleep two additional children. Amenities include towels & linens, hair dryer, washing machine, microwave, dishwasher, TV, comfortable furnishings and fine art by the artist owner. A terraced garden provides space for al fresco meals and plein air painting. Boules patch and 13m swimming pool. Private entrance and ample parking – no passing traffic.

Beautiful in all seasons, artistic inspiration abounds in the immediate vicinity and further afield, in an area that has seduced artists since the last century. Many local museums bear witness: Picasso Museum in Antibes (15km), Matisse and Chagall Museums both in Nice (20 km), Fernand Leger in Biot (10 km) and a number of other museums with works by artists such as Bonnard, Kandinsky and Miro, Giacometti amongst others. The owner, who has intimate knowledge of the area, would be available to tailor an itinerary and chauffeur drive at an hourly rate by prior arrangement.

Mougins is home to many fine restaurants including the world-famous, Moulin de Mougins. It also boasts a renowned luxury spa at the Mas de Candille, exceptional golfing facilities at the Royal Mougins Golf Course and half a dozen others nearby, shopping and beaches in Cannes (10 km) and skiing in winter is only 100 km away.

Monte Carlo and the Italian day markets are an hour to the East and Saint Tropez 90 minutes to the west. The perfume factories at Grasse are 15 minutes away.

Accommodates: 6 (4 adults 2 children); Children: Welcome; Pets: Owner's discretion;
Smoking: Outdoors only

20 minute drive from Nice international airport or 15 minutes from Cannes station.

Rates per Week 2006/2007: € 800 Nov-Feb; € 1,000 Mar/Apr/Oct; € 1,200 May-Sep
Price includes all linen, cleaning once a week, electricity and gas for cooking.

Imagine a 12th century castle, and just below, a small church where the local villagers play boules in the cool shade of its linden trees, and further down, nestled under a large chestnut tree, a cluster of three stone houses, the address simply Sous l'Eglise, below the church. This is the Art Centre where, since 1980, workshops have been offered as part of the Capilano College Continuing Education Program (Canada). Two 19 day workshops are offered in 2003. July: Painting /Drawing and French Language, optional stay in Paris (US$1,900 plus travel). September: Art History and Painting (US$3,250 travel included). Participants of all ages and levels keep coming year after year. Houses forming the Art Centre can also be rented to groups or individuals.

Helioscope is a combination art gallery and 5 quality duplex apartments. It's located in the village of Roquefort-en-terre, in Brittany, France. Outstanding painting and photography all around, chateau, half-timbered houses, fine dining, charming environment. Reasonably priced. Yvon and Lucienne Le Bihan, hosts. Rue Candre 56 220 Rochefort-en-terre, For an appreciation of the town please go to the twice-weekly letter Presence.

Camac is a creative centre offering international residency programmes for artists, The 'artist in residence' programme aims to bring together artists in mid or advanced career stages from all countries and all disciplines (writing, painting, sculpture, architecture, design, multimedia and video art, new technologies, installation art, music, danse, etc.) for a concentrated period of one to six months.

This programme aims to support residents in their creative explorations, investigations and professional growth within an environment of communication and exchange. The international art centre camac is located in the attractive village of Marnay-sur-Seine within the scenic Champagne/Ardenne region of France, ideally situated on the banks of the river Seine within three recently renovated buildings : a 17th century priory, its barn, as well as a spacious house built in the 50's, all enclosed within its garden walls. camac is composed of 8 live/work studio of varying size and character, a resource art library, a darkroom, a video/film viewing room with editing facilities, conference and exhibitions spaces.

Camac is 1 hour by train from Paris. Rates per Week : €500.00(euro) Nov-Feb; €600.00 (euro) Mar/Apr/Oct; €700.00(euro) May-Sep. Rates per Month : from €1,600.00 to €2,500.00 Euro. Price includes all linen, cleaning once a week, electricity, full board, unlimited internet access. Private room with bathroom. Private studio for visual artist.

Les Aunaies, a 350 year old converted farmhouse, is totally secluded having woods behind with mile after mile of marked footpaths, rolling hills to the west and an open vista in front and to the east which stretches over 30 miles to the coast. Fantastic views. On the edge of a village called Mittois. The nearest town St. Pierre sur Dives, 3 miles. St. Pierre has the largest weekly market in Calvados as well as tennis, swimming, lots of shops etc. Ann and Rodger Watts.

Mas Peychonnier is a commodious converted Catalan farmhouse with three self-contained suites. Located in an unspoiled grape region of the Roussillon. Nearest large town is Perpignan. Nearby country town: Estagel. Rolling countryside, walks, Cathar castles, Mediaeval towns, prehistoric sites, caves, etc., Pyranees mountains nearby. 2 - 6 persons per suite.

Calm and relaxation are assured in the picturesque medieval town of Monségur. This house, while fully restored and beautifully furnished, has retained its old-fashion charm creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interior of the house is well appointed and tastefully decorated with period pieces in keeping with the style of the property.

Outside you will find a sunny and secluded courtyard for dining al fresco. Your stay can be as restful as you like, restaurants and shops are located in the village, with Bordeaux a 45 minute car ride away. It is an ideal base for those who enjoy wine tasting as the historic hilltop towns of Duras and St. Emilion are but a short drive away.

Affordable open and spacious, light-filled 19th century Stone Barn, in the heart of the Dordogne, near Sarlat. 2 Bedrooms, 21/2 baths, cook's kitchen, huge open fireplace, plenty of indoor (1600 square feet) and outdoor spaces (13 acres) in which to be creative. Five minute walk to the scenic Dordogne River. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, golf, markets, antiquing and gardens. Marked walking trails right outside the door. A favorite unspoiled area- the French love it and its known for its gastronomy and history (more chateaus and castles than the Loire Valley)

Imagine the gently sloping rim of a shallow tea cup saucer. This 1830's renovated stone barn, a five minute walk to the Dordogne River, sits on the edge of that rim, oriented south/southwest. A large entry courtyard, overlooks a hidden meditation garden. The breathtaking silent valley awaits...

A simple but spacious, elegant, vacation retreat.

Along the south side of the entire length of the building (72 feet), French doors and large windows flood the rooms with light throughout the day. The intimate valley, over 13 rolling acres, looks across to an abandoned farm, where sheep still graze daily. Silence, sunlight, and incredible starry nights are pretty much your only neighbors.

Not a typical renovation (which often chops up the rhythm of a space to maximize the number of bedrooms), this property was designed with great care and planning to preserve it's architectural authenticity, integrity and flow. The high ceiling (25+ ft) timber framed spaces naturally dictate how the room arrangements flow. There are exposed beams in every room of the house. With careful re-use, many of the original materials were incorporated in this recent modern renovation by a designer and architect.

A small but honoured painting school in a spectacularly paintable region on the River Tarn, near Albi. Hillside villages, river views, Toulouse-Lautrec museum nearby. Francis likes artists who want to make the most of the learning opportunity on offer (no matter what their current level of achievement or what kind of painting they aspire to). Guest instructors.

Mas Pinet is a new artist retreat in a 300-year-old Provencal stone home on 24 acres in the South of France. Located on the edge of the National Park of the Cervennes, the retreat is situated on a river and is walking distance to lake Camboux. Come, relax, or meander along endless hiking paths, or add some excitement and discover the thrill of high wire walking. Mas Pinet is an ideal location for hosting an artist workshop.

Former Cirque du Soleil performers, Jade 'high wire act', and Karine 'stunt specialist', and family will be your hosts. You will delight in succulent fresh food from their organic garden, and fresh eggs from their country raised chickens.

Guests will occupy comfortable, cozy Mongolian yurts and tipis. Come for a tour of Mas Pinet.

Le Tramizal is a small stone cottage overlooking Rignac, a working village, in southwest France. The Lot is a particularly beautiful part of France with rolling hills, lovely rivers, fortified towns (bastides), castles, and 20,000 year old cave paintings.

The Kazi house is an affordable retreat on the tiny, remote and secluded island of Megisti, more commonly know as Kastellorizo. The island was the eastern-most point in Europe till Cyprus joined the EU, and boasts a resident population of 250 souls. 70 nautical miles away from Rhodes and only 3 miles from Turkey, it is probably one of the most remote location of the Greek Aegean. A small airplane and a ferry maintains the link with Rhodes a few times a week, weather permitting On Fridays, half of the population boards fishing boats to shop at the produce market just across the water in Turkey. There is only one village, a few cars, a couple of shops and a few water front cafes and restaurant- without forgetting the small kiosk run by a blind man. Hundreds of ruined houses act as reminder of the island former glory, as a once major maritime trading center. Clear waters, great fishing and fantastic views are the main attraction here, as well as the peaceful, remote, rural setting, Kastellorizo was the film set for a successful Italian movie, 'Mediterraneo', which probably best describes the slow and idle pace of life here.

Our traditional village home is a stone house, that we entirely rebuilt ourselves, using local, reclaimed and natural materials. It sleeps a maximum of 4 in two double beds and on a large sofa. It is a simple house, full of traditional features, and with a lot of charm. The views on the archipelago from the huge upstairs room are stunning and the house is ideal for those seeking tranquility and inspiration in a pure Mediterranean setting.

The house is available on a self catering basis, by the week or by the month.

Perched half on a mountain, half deep in the valley below, Anversa degli Abruzzi is an Italian village that also straddles time. Visitors to this medieval town enter a simpler world, a place where grapes and fragrant saffron are grown, where stone abbeys and castles dot the mountainside and crystal lakes offer a cool afternoon swim. Only 75 miles (120km) east of Rome in the less-traveled Abruzzi region of central Italy, Anversa is a town of light and color and intense natural beauty. It has inspired artists from the Roman poet Ovid to M.C. Escher and Edward Lear, all of whom worked in the village and surrounding hills. Bordering Anversa is the Gole del Sagittario, a designated WWF nature preserve. And mountain trails wind 4000 feet above the valley floor, offering hikers a majestic view of the south-central Apennines, including Grand Sasso, one of Italy's tallest peaks. The mountains also contain huge reserves of clay, which once made the village a chief producer of Italian tile work. Most of the tile in Hadrian's Villa was created in Anversa.

SPECIAL OFFER MAY 25 - JUNE 25, 700 EURO! This is the most beautiful time of the year in central Italy! My home offers you the possibility for an extended stay in the countryside on the Tuscan/Umbrian border at a very reasonable cost; the longer the stay, the more economical the stay.

For a painter, light is the most important factor. The everchanging light on the Pierle valley spreading out below my home will hold your gaze for hours. The light changes with the season, most interesting, I would say, from early May through mid June and September to October. But there is more: the area immediately surrounding the house offers so much for the painter's eye -- everywhere you turn, there is inspiration.

This is a serene and comfortable environment for a single person or couple. My home has one bedroom with a queen size bed, kitchen, dining room, living room, and bath. There is a stone enclosed patio and nature-inspired garden which blends into the surrounding fields and woods. Here you will have the company of one very very special kitty by the name of Missy. It breaks my heart to leave her, as she is such wonderful and loving company. Missy requires love, and not much more. If you want to give her treats and "fresh food" each day, she will reward you with even more love. Missy resides here full time -- she is the "real owner" of the house. If you are not a "cat person" then I am afraid this apartment will not do. However, adjacent to mine is another apartment. This colonica is part of the Sorbello Estate, a bit more simple but still a nice place, in the authentic old Tuscan style of a farmhouse. Each apartment has an exclusive outdoor area and each part of the house remains quite private. It is a large, somewhat imposing old "grainery." Rarely, if ever, are there people staying in the other part of the colonica.

My home reflects my varied travels: the walls are adorned with my own work (etching), other artists' work, interesting objects and Turkish rugs. My home is not the sterile environment of a rental; it is a home with uniqueness, quirks... and character. I would call it, "rustic comfort." The right kind of person will feel very at home here, and many people have fallen in love with it -- and Missy.

You are no more than 10 minutes away from all your shopping needs; a very nice organic restaurant is within walking distance and a number of nice trattorias are within a 10-15 minute drive. The hill town of Preggio is minutes away. There are two bicycles: the 1k of dirt road to the main road is more of a mountain bike road, but I do ride most of it, walk some. It takes about 45 minutes to ride bicycles to town. Umbertide has a very interesting "centro" with the old world charm, like most Italian villages. The surrounding area is more modern and not as appealing. Many hilltowns are within an hour's drive, in the direction of Siena to the west, and Gubbio to the east. The famous paintings of Piero della Francesca are nearby in Sansepolcro Cortona, Citta di Castello and Perugia are all less than 35 minutes away.

Which ever direction you go, even just down the road, you will find inspiration. This is a beautiful place in the undulating countryside on the southern border of Tuscany with Umbria. Come and stay for 2 weeks, 2 months... or all summer. I am generally away from May through October. I am happy to discuss the terms of your stay, the longer the better, nothing is set in stone.

Please inquire about the price of a stay: generally speaking, a week will cost 350 euro; two weeks 600 euro, one month 950 euro. MORE PHOTOS

Gozo is a quiet, picturesque island - part of the Malta chain in the central Mediterranean--loaded with sea vistas, antiquities (the oldest free-standing structures in the world), beautiful, unspoiled countryside, predictably fine weather. There are actually three places for rent here--accommodating from 6 to 8 persons. These are stone dwellings, modernized, with pools and other amenities. Ta' Maria Town House in the village of Xewkija. Ta' Caqsi Farmhouse in Santa Lucia. Ta' Borg Farmhouse, also in Santa Lucia. They are self-catering, 3 or 4 bedroom, kitchens, dining, living rooms, patios, etc. George Grech, (Eng, Ital, Maltese)

Visit the large Scandinavian forest Finnskogen. Artists are welcome to rent a studio in the village of Austmarka near the border between Norway and Sweden in Kongsvinger municipality. Hall with adjoining facilities will be completed and ready for use by July 2014. Longer rentals to artists will be available from August 2014. The goal is that prices will remain affordable and allow a longer stay. You will get the use of a small private alcove, a communal kitchen, dining room, lounge and bathroom. There are 5 or 6 working spaces in the hall. Hirers will receive a code to the entry door. It is intended that the hirer should be self-motivated and not directed or controlled by a host. Best offer... if you book a rental for more than 10 days, the price is 15€ per night. This must be paid before the reservation can be completed. One night, the price is 42€ per night. Norwegian site

It is owned by the painter Tjasa Iris. Villa Flora is a family residency from year 1820. Situated in the old part of Branik village, with magnificent Rihemberk castle on the mountain right above Villa Flora. It has a prime location in Branik valley. Mere minutes walk from vineyards, peach orchards, wineries and celebrated scenery.

You can fly to Trieste Airport in Italy or Venice Airport is just about an hour and a half dirve away. You can go on a day trip to Venice as well as see most of Slovenia on a day trip from Villa Flora. (caves, the Alps, Ljubljana as well as Slovenian Coast)

You will be able to rent as well a painting studio at Villa Flora.

And Tjasa Iris is also holding INTENSIVE ONE WEEK PAINTING WORKSHOPS there. With daily excursions to the Alps, Ljubljana, neighbour villages and Italian Coast. The 2008 dates are: 2 May - 9 May 2008, 3 June - 10 June 2008, 3 July - 10 July 2008, 2 August - 9 August 2008, 15 September - 22 September 2008.

Workshop fees are from 1195 Euros per week. ( including 7 days at Villa Flora, 3 meals per day (with wine for dinner), 6 days of lessons with art materials, transportation during the week – numerous one day excursions, museum visits.)

If you want to rent a painting studio. Double room with breakfast and use of painting studio is from 490 Euros per week. (for four persons it is from 800 Euros per week).

Heurta de Santa Maria near Galaroza in the Sierra de Aracena, Andalusia. Seville:100km. Large traditional 17cent. ecclesiastical retreat located in remote picturesque region near whitewashed mountain villages. Horses, sheep, mushrooms, wildlife, hiking trails, off the standard path. Cool in winter. Suitable for large family or several artists at one time. Javier Lopez. (Sp., Fr.), Huerta Santa Maria, Ctra. Sevilla-Lisbon, Km.99, 85 Izquierda,Spain.

In a peaceful Andalucian valley surrounded by olive groves, El Molino, is a charmingly restored mill and the centre for Arts Workshops providing creative adventures in watercolour, acrylic, oils, mixed media and collage in Spring and Autumn each year. Originally a flour mill and bakery, the three acre estate encompassed by a meandering stream, has been beautifully restored and renovated, keeping all of its quintessential Spanish antique elements along with modern comforts. Lush patios and gardens, a cool vine covered courtyard, a tennis court and swimming pool add to its idyllic qualities.

With escorted excursions to the Alhambra in Granada, or the Mezquita in Cordoba, outings to Ronda or Priego de Cordoba, and with pueblos blancos/ white hillside villages nearby ‘the quality of subject matter for painting is wonderful and endless’ says Dorothy Johnson, a participant in a recent course.

Another important element is chef Mike’s passion for the locally grown ingredients used to prepare a healthy Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy leisurely lunches in the courtyard, tapas by candlelight and long convivial dinners with new friends. There will be lots of time for arts classes in either the poolside or courtside studios. Painters of all levels are invited to share in a small group atmosphere with emphasis on individual attention and instruction.

Upcoming courses include:

‘Courting the Muse’ Painting in Spain - Painting, writing, dreaming, a little yoga...what wakens the muse in you? with Suzanne Northcott, watercolour, acrylics and mixed media 4-15 October, 2011 includes excursions to a local annual agricultural fair, a pueblo blanco/white hilltop village, Ronda and Cordoba

Painting in Spain with Nancy O'Toole – acrylics - 26 April-6 May, 2012, includes excursions to Ronda, Priego de Cordoba and Flamenco show in Cordoba

Painting in Spain with Gaye Adams – acrylics and watercolour - 26 April-6 May, 2012, includes excursions to Ronda, Priego de Cordoba and Flamenco show in Cordoba

Kindrie Grove – Art retreat in Spain, oils and acrylics 7-17 May, 2012 includes excursions to Ronda, an Andalucian stables and a Flamenco show in Cordoba

Plein air Painting in Southern Spain with Alfonso Tejada – 7-17 May, 2012 includes excursions to Ronda and Cordoba and a Flamenco show

Nick Bantock – Wearing his best Trickster's hat, author of the famous and Sabine books, Nick Bantock utilizes images, words and mischief to teach the art of making creativity more personal. 26 September-3 October, 2012 with excursions to Ronda and the Alhambra, Granada.

Painting in Spain! with Richard McDiarmid – acrylics, watercolour and oils 4-14 October, 2012 with excursions to Ronda, Zuheros and Cordoba

Painting in Spain! with Leslie Redhead - watercolours 4-14 October, 2012 with excursions to Ronda, Zuheros and Cordoba