Gouache Painting Workshop in the French Alps
Instructor: Manon Sander
June 9-16, 2027
At a Glance
8-14 Participants
Sign up before 11/30/26 and save $150!
Use the code EARLYBIRD at checkout.
Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air.
Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines.
With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
Workshop Overview
Join Manon for an unforgettable immersive one-week plein air painting holiday, set in the stunning French Alps to deepen your skills while connecting with the beauty of nature alongside like-minded artists.
Under Manon’s experienced guidance, you will explore the captivating landscapes of the Alps, learning to translate what you see and feel into paintings that capture light, atmosphere, and a sense of time of day.
What you will learn
Throughout the week, you will work on sharpening your observation skills to help you break down complex scenes into their essential shapes, so important for a good composition. Together with Manon you will dive deeply into color mixing. Manon will demo her colorist technique and 4-step approach to replace trial-and-error with intentional choices to create an impressionistic painting that is filled with light, life, and feeling.
How it will work
There will be demonstrations (in gouache) in different beautiful locations as well as individual assistance at your easel, painting along with Manon to gain confidence, and friendly critiques after hours, maybe over a glass of wine. Manon likes to foster a supportive, upbeat, and fun environment that encourages artistic growth and camaraderie with your group members. In the past, participants went home not just with improved painting skills, but also with new friends.
Who it is for:
Whether you are looking to refine your technique, ignite that creative spark, or simply enjoy painting with other artists in an inspiring setting, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the French Alps and create memorable works of art under expert guidance.
Participants should have basic drawing skills and some familiarity with their chosen medium and plein air setup to fully benefit from the workshop. All demonstrations will be done in gouache but participants are welcome to paint in the medium of their choice: oil, acrylic or gouache.
Artist Manon Sander
Manon participates in nationwide juried and invitational plein air events like Plein Air Easton, Forgotten Coast En Plein Air, Laguna Beach Plein Air Festival, Maui Plein Air Festival, and exhibits frequently in juried shows. Her works are in private collections on three continents and have frequently been included in publications such as American Art Collector, Fine Art Connoisseur, and Plein Air Magazine. Her work was selected for the cover of Modern Impressionist Magazine. Recent awards included top honors at Laguna Beach Plein Air Invitational 2024, the coveted Jean Stern Legacy Award, 3rd place at Lighthouse Plein Air Festival in Tequesta, FL, in 2025, 1st place at the DA Ranch paint out at the Sedona Plein Air Festival 2025.
Manon holds signature status with National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society, American Society of Marine Artists, and Laguna Plein Air Painters’ Association.
She feels passionately about passing on her painting knowledge and is a sought-after instructor, teaching sold-out national and international painting workshops. Manon’s work is being represented by Lost Art Gallery in St. Augustine, Gallery On Park, Winter Park, FL, and High Tide Gallery in Naples, FL.
Ultimately, Manon aims to communicate her joie de vivre through paintings that reflect the color, light, and joy Manon feels surrounded by and is ever so grateful for.
The best vacation a painting soul can get!
“I took 6 painting tours with French Escapade and in 2026 I will take my 7th one. I keep choosing FE again and again because they are just the BEST for organization. Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) is planned to create a wonderful painting tour experience: wonderful top teachers, perfect locations, delicious local food experience, cozy beautiful hotels. I feel like a painting queen who doesn’t need to think about anything, just take a brush/pen/pencil and paint! This is so priceless for me when I am on vacation! Thank you, French Escapade, for the best vacation a painting soul can get !!”
Samples of Manon Sander’s Art
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome
We will pick you up at 2:30pm at the Geneva airport and drive you to our beautiful 4-star chalet hotel in the Alps.
Upon arrival, take time to settle in and unwind—whether by relaxing in the pool or the spa or sipping a drink on the terrace with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc—before joining us for a warm welcome reception, orientation meeting, and a delightful gourmet dinner.
Day 2: Painting Mont Blanc
After a copious breakfast taken on the terrace facing the mountains, you will be ready for a day of painting.
The hotel offers a breathtaking 360 degree view towards Mont-Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe.
Some painting sessions take place on the terrace, perfect location for capturing large sceneries or small vignettes such as wooden snow-peaked mountains, hills, green pastures and grazing cows.
Day 3: Megeve, the “Little Switzerland of the Alps”
You will find multiple painting spots in this charming village from cobbled streets lined with shops, restaurants and patisseries to wooden chalets and historic buildings.
After a day of painting, indulge yourself in shopping in the numerous boutiques and art galleries.
Day 4: Annecy, the “Little Venice of the Alps”
Annecy is the French show-piece of lakes-and-mountain beauty. The canal crossing Annecy brings Venice to mind as you stroll along its banks. We will paint by the canals of Lake Annecy, the cleanest lake in Europe.
You will have some time to stroll in the medieval town along the cobblestone narrow streets and the famous old prison (one of the most photographed monuments in France!)
At the end of the day, we will take a boat ride on the splendid Annecy lake.
Day 5: Alpine Village
Let the melody of cowbells and the scent of pine guide your hand as you bring this picturesque haven to life on your canvas.
Day 6: Chamonix, the “Queen Resort of the Alps”
After a morning of painting, we will head towards Chamonix, the biggest ski resort in the world, surrounded by majestic high mountains such as Mont Blanc and glaciers.
You can take the highest gondola in the world to the top of “L’ Aiguille du Midi” at 12,000 ft. A breathtaking view of the Alps and Chamonix down below awaits you.
Or you could take a tram to see the “Sea of Ice” glacier. If you prefer shopping or, more painting, Chamonix has it all.
Day 7: Painting on Location and Farewell Dinner
You’ll have time to pack your suitcase before our “Show and Share” session, where we can all admire and celebrate the paintings created throughout the week. It’s a special opportunity to reflect on your artistic journey and share the joy of your work with others.
We will end with a farewell dinner and fabulous food!
Day 8: Departure
You will leave not only with vibrant creations but also with fresh inspiration, creative sparks, and new friendships that will color your artistic journey for years to come. Safe travels!
We’ll drive you back to the Geneva airport by 10am.
Accommodations
4-Star Hotel with Breathtaking View of Mont Blanc
This beautiful chalet, in the heart of Haute-Savoie, boasts stunning views of Mont-Blanc and the Aravis Massif.
The beauty of the panorama, the charm of the cozy wooden interior, the gourmet restaurant, the well-being of the spa, the comfort and amenities of the wainscoted rooms, all make this unique spot a haven of peace.
All bedrooms have a double bed or two twins with en-suite bathrooms. They all have a television, free WiFi and a desk.
Every night, we will enjoy the inventive and elegant local cuisine in the cozy dining room overlooking the panorama of the massifs. You can indulge in the salad bar, cheese buffet or more decadent, the dessert bar!!
The hotel offers 2 types of rooms: standard rooms overlooking the meadow and superior rooms overlooking Mont Blanc (see pic).
At the end of your painting day, take advantage of all the amenities the hotel offers: outdoor heated swimming pool, sauna and hot tub.
Reviews
French Escapade trips are the best in the business!
It’s hard to put into words how wonderful and awe inspiring the whole experience was. The way Valerie and Marie are somehow always present, always prepared, and always entertaining, is amazing! I think they must have been cloned, because no two people can be omnipresent for every need or question we had. My favorite quote of Marie’s – “keeping track of you all is like trying to put an octopus in a box” ;-)) I plan to do my final sketchbook page with that quote and image. The lodging, location and excursions were perfection for me. Mont Blanc gave us a show for the entire week, and then, to be on top, was a bucket list experience, for sure. The people (and dogs) of the Aux Ducs made us feel like family, and worked extremely hard, for long hours, so that we could feel like royalty – the chef – the food – the wine – the grounds -the ambiance – tres magnifique!
So, I could go on and on…but hopefully you got the message – French Escapade trips are the best in the business!!
I am so grateful and lucky to be able travel with you. Until next time… !!
The trip to the Alps was terrific!
The trip to the Alps was terrific! Natalia, our guide, was an energetic marvel and fantastic about keeping all of us straight, accounted for and on schedule. She is very good at what she does and she never gets flustered, ruffled or grumpy!! You have a wonderful tour guide in her. So, another French Escapade is in the books and all I can say is well done again! You and Val picked a perfect location, hotel and guide!
It did not disappoint and I will keep an eye on your 2024 offerings!
I cannot keep talking about how much I loved the trip!
Just got back from the Alps trip. I wanted to let you know the trip was perfect and well organized. Natalia, ou tour leader, was fun and took good care of us. The hotel was awesome!!!!! And the views!!!!! I cannot keep talking about how much I loved the trip. Thank you so much for your organizational skills. Love French Escapade!
FAQs
When and where are the pick up and drop off?
The pickup will be at 2:30pm at the Geneva airport. We will pick up the group and drive in a coach to our hotel located in the French Alps, about 1 hour away.
The drop off will be back at the same place around 10am. Book a flight anytime after 12:30pm.
When should I arrive?
What should I bring?
Can you accommodate vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
Food allergies and vegetarian diets are catered for if announced in advance. However if you have a very strict diet or severe allergies, please contact us before registering.
Will I get a supply list?
Is there a laundry facility at the hotel or in the village?
Do I need to bring some euros before arriving?
Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport (start with 200 euros). You will need cash for small purchases during the day trips and or tipping the tour leaders and hotel staff (tipping is customary). There will also be some ATM machines in some of the villages we visit.
Can I opt out of certain activities?
Is the retreat available to guests with low and limited mobility?
Unfortunately, the trip is not suited for people with low and limited mobility. Although there is an elevator at the hotel, the daily excursions involve walking on uneven, cobbled streets. The hotel is located at the top of the village so you will need to walk down (and back up) to center for the day we paint there.
I have never traveled outside the US. Do I need to speak the language?
Not at all. It is actually the perfect situation to travel with us. Our guides are bilingual and will be with you at all times, from your arrival at the airport till the last day.
Will I fit on the tour if I am traveling solo and don't know anyone?
Yes, we usually get many solo travelers on our tours. For the meals, the group eats together for most lunches and dinners. In addition, our 2 tour leaders are always with the group and will be happy to also go and eat with participants on the days the meals are not included.
How much painting do we do every day?
A typical day begins with a morning painting session from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, followed by lunch and some free time until 2:00 pm. In the afternoon, painting continues from 2:00 to 4-5:00 pm, sometimes in a different location.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace after lunch, there’s always the option to explore the village or simply rest while others continue painting.
Two afternoons are set aside for a visit to Chamonix and a boat ride in Annecy. However, participation is entirely optional—you are always welcome to skip the excursion and spend the time painting instead. After all, it’s your holiday, and you’re free to enjoy it as you wish.
Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?
Will I get my deposit back if I need to cancel?
Unfortunately the deposit is not refundable, no matter when you cancel. Therefore, we recommend that you insure your deposit right after registering for the trip. You do not need to insure the full trip at that time, just the deposit. Feel free to choose the insurance provider of your choice but this is the one we recommend (they only insure US customers): Travel Insurance Services* Tel. 1-800-937-1387.
Note that participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. Please review our cancellation policy.
Can you give me the reference of someone who has been on the tour before?
Absolutely. We would be happy to give you contact information of past participants who have agreed to be contacted.
Pricing and Booking
Pricing Details
Superior Rooms with Breathtaking View of Mt Blanc
Single Superior: US $4,990
Shared Superior: US $4,590
Standard Rooms
Single Standard: US $4,690
Shared Standard: US $4,290
All rooms include a private ensuite bathroom.
Non-painters are welcome at the same price.
How to Book
Payments
- A $600 nonrefundable deposit is due at booking ($300 transferable to a future workshop; see cancellation policy below).
We offer three payment methods through our secure system:
– By credit card (2.9% convenience fee applies)
– By ACH/ bank transfer (no fees)
– By wire transfer (flat fee) - After submitting your registration, you will receive a confirmation of your registration by email. Do not make any travel plans until you receive an email letting you know that we have reached the minimum of participants required for the trip.
- An additional payment of US$1,000 is due 6 months prior to departure and the remaining balance is due 4 months prior to departure.
We also provide flexible payment plans allowing you to make smaller payments more often if you wish. - Buy your travel insurance: See below to see the details and deadline for purchasing a travel insurance.
Insurance Required
Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.
- If you have a pre-existing medical condition or wish to be able to cancel your trip at any time for any reason, you need to get the insurance within 21 days of your registration with us.
- For standard health coverage, you may sign-up at any time.
Feel free to choose the insurance provider of your choice. Our preferred insurance companies are:
- For US citizens: Travel Insurance Services. Tel. 1-800-937-1387. This company has covered many of our clients and provides good customer service. They offer 3 tiers of coverage.
- For non-US residents: United Health Care Global
Price includes
- Geneva Airport pick-up at 2:30pm and drop-off at 10am
- A welcome reception
- All 7 nights at the hotel
- All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 6 dinners including wine
- All art classes
- Transportation in a comfortable van with A/C
- Access to the pool and spa
- The use of folding chairs
- 1 or 2 tour leaders throughout
Price excludes
- Flight to France
- 3 lunches and 1 dinner
- Painting supplies
- Required Travel Insurance
- Tour leader(s) tipping
Cancellation Policy
| If you cancel: | Cancellation Fee per Person |
|---|---|
| more than 180 days before departure | $300 is forfeited and $300 is transferrable to a future trip within 2 years |
| 121-180 days before departure | $1,000 is forfeited and $600 is transferrable to a future trip within 2 years |
| 61-120 days before departure | 50% of total cost forfeited |
| 31-60 days before departure | 75% of total cost forfeited |
| 0-30 days before departure | 100% of total cost forfeited |
| If French Escapade cancels | you get a full refund |
Sign up before 11/30/26 and save $150!
Use the code EARLYBIRD at checkout.