Capturing Light in Watercolor in Spain
The Landscape of Costa Brava: May 14-21, 2027
Instructor: Russell Jewell
At a Glance
8-12 Participants
Watercolor
Pick up and drop off in Barcelona
Sign up before 11/30/26 and save $150!
Use the code EARLYBIRD at checkout.
Imagine yourself sketching along the sun-drenched coves of the Costa Brava, where the salty breeze of the Mediterranean mingles with the scent of pine and grilled seafood, and the rhythmic lull of the waves harmonizes with the distant laughter of seaside cafés.
Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet tapas and sip sangria.
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 me for an unforgettable week on the Costa Brava, surrounded by breathtaking views.
The effort of this watercolor workshop is to identify and capture sunlight within a plein air painting.
I cannot imagine a more dynamic sun-filled opportunity than the landscape of Costa Brava, Spain.
My workshop will address the gamut of artistic production from thumbnail sketch to final touch. Daily demonstrations and instruction will accompany my presentations.
Utilizing my patented plein air viewfinder, we will capture our images and transform them into plein air paintings. Finally, I have techniques allowing me to push your skills to the next level without ever touching your painting. You will be amazed at my “Before and After” approach that allows you to see into the future of your own painting.
My workshop is geared towards independent personal painting development; this workshop is open to all levels of artists. Participants will learn how to approach and solve their own concerns in watercolor, regardless of their artistic ability.
Artist Russell Jewell
Jewell has been honored to participate as a member of the Plein Air Convention Expo Faculty. Jewell has a US patent on a his own plein air viewfinder and has won Best Watercolor twice in Maryland’s Plein Air Easton.
He is a signature member of American Watercolor, National Watercolor, and the Transparent Watercolor Society of America.
In 2025 Jewell won Best of Show in Edisto Plein Air and Best Light in Mountain Maryland Plein Air.
I have just signed up for my 10th trip with French Escapade!
Having traveled for business and pleasure all my life, and usually being the one to make all the arrangements, I decided to try French Escapade. From beginning to end it is by far the most organized, fun, creative experience ever. All the details are taken care of so you can just enjoy the instructors, the group, wonderful hotels and dining experiences. I am picky about all of that, but I have just signed up for my 10th trip with them. I think that says everything!!
Jackie and her team really know how to create an inspiring and memorable experience. It is great to be in locations that spark creativity and are perfect for painting. Their dedication and organization allows the artists to fully immerse themselves in the beauty around them. I highly recommend joining one of their adventures.
Samples of Russell Jewell’s Art
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome
We will pick you up at a specific hotel downtown Barcelona and drive you to our hotel located in Calella de Palafrugell, in one of the most exclusive beaches on the Costa Brava.
Upon your arrival at our hotel, take time to settle in, enjoy the view, the beach or explore the village.
Before dinner, we will take an easy walk along the pristine seashore that offers breathtaking vistas along the way, followed by a welcome reception and a delicious dinner.
Day 2: Painting by the Coast
This little fishing village is a gem along the Northern Costa Brava. It is made up of endless rocks, cliffs and extremely beautiful beaches.
Some painting sessions take place on the terrace overlooking the beach, just in front of the hotel. Its location is perfect for painting large sceneries or small vignettes such as cliffs and boats, white-washed houses or a magnificent fortress built on the beach.
Day 3: Flowers, Coves and Sea Views at the Botanical Garden
The Jardi Botanic de Cap Roig is considered one of the most important botanical gardens in the Mediterranean.
High above the bay, the garden offers stunning views towards the sea.The garden runs down in terraces from the castle to the sea. These ornamental and extremely beautiful gardens contain over 1000 species of plants and flowers from all over the world.
A perfect setting for our day of painting only interrupted by a wonderful picnic brought to you by your tour leaders.
Day 4: Pals: Unique Preserved Medieval Village
As you walk through the narrow village streets, next to the city walls, towers and churches, you will feel as though you have walked into a new time altogether.
The stone archways, cobblestone streets and wrought balconies adorned with flowers create a welcoming feel in this Romanesque village.
You will have the opportunity to end this painting day with some time to shop in the many cutes little stores. The specialty is their pottery, locally made.
Day 5: Boats, Cliffs and Beaches
Some bold students like to paint directly on the numerous sandy beaches and coves around the hotel, but public vaulted terraces offer shaded areas that makes painting a refreshing activity.
We provide folding chairs during the week, so that your plein air painting sessions are enjoyable and comfortable.
Day 6: The Surrealistic World of Salvador Dali
After a morning of painting in our village, we visit the largest surrealistic object in the world created by Dalí, the “Dalí Theatre-Museu” in the town of Figueres.
We will step inside the surreal world of Salvador Dalí and find a museum like none other where Dalí refused to have his works placed in chronological or subject order.
Inside is a world of fantasy mixed with architecture, paintings and sculptures, you will have a complete surrealistic experience during our guided tour.
Day 7: Painting in the Studio and Farewell Dinner
On your last day, you will have the opportunity to spend your morning working on your unfinished painting to get ready for the afternoon show.
In the afternoon, you will have time to pack your suitcase and for a last minute shopping before our “show and share” where students will be able to see all the paintings done during the week. It is a wonderful moment to share the week’s work.
In the evening, we will celebrate the end of the workshop 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.
After our last breakfast together, we’ll drive you to Barcelona around 11am so make sure your flight is not before 1pm.
Accommodations
3-Star Hotel with Breathtaking Sea View
We have chosen a completely renovated hotel with a breathtaking sea view, overlooking the coves of a hidden and preserved beach.
You can choose either a standard room with balcony or a superior room with sea view and balcony. All rooms have either two single beds or one double bed, have an en-suite bathroom, TV, satellite, air conditioning, heating, hairdryer and safety deposit box.
Reviews
The best vacation a painting soul can get!
My name is Anna and I took 5 painting tours with French Escapade and this year I will take my 6th 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!!
Can’t think of what I would change!
I’ve been thinking of letting you know how fantastic the Costa Brava trip was – thanks for the nudge. I loved the Dalí museum – what a surprise! I knew very little about him and was not that interested in surrealism but so glad I got to see it! I would keep it, especially for art groups. Natalia was an excellent guide in every way. I really enjoyed her personality and knowledge. She’s definitely a “10”! I also enjoyed Vicky – very positive and supportive and responsive to everyone. She also told the best joke I’ve heard in years! Anyhow, can’t think of what I would change!
My most relaxing trip to Europe ever!
Thanks again for such a wonderful trip. It was my most relaxing trip to Europe ever. I came home happy, and rested. I have tried to share the trip with several other people, but it is hard to really convey just how special it is. The food was fantastic. The warm hospitality will long be remembered as one of the highlights of my travel. I will come back again!
FAQs
When and where are the pick up and drop off?
The pickup will be at 1:30pm downtown Barcelona on day 1. We will pick up the group and drive in a coach to our hotel located 90 min North of Barcelona (on the coast).
The drop off will be back at the same location around 11am on day 8 OR (your choice) at the Barcelona airport around 11am. Book a flight anytime after 1pm.
When should I arrive in Spain?
We recommend that you arrive in Spain at least the day before the start of the trip. Not only will this help you to overcome jet lag but it will give you plenty of time to be at the pick up location. There is a lot to do in Barcelona so why not spend a few days before the trip. We will send you some hotel and visit recommendations.
What should I bring?
Once the trip has a guaranteed departure, we will send you a trip information package listing what to bring, how to book your flight, recommended travel insurance and hotel recommendations in Barcelona for an extended trip.
Can you accommodate vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
Will I get a supply list?
Yes we will send you the teacher’s recommended supply list ahead of time. Folding chairs and paper towels will be provided.
Is there a laundry facility at the hotel or in the village?
No there is no laundry facility.
Do I need to bring some euros before arriving?
Best is to take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport (suggetion: 200 euros). You will need cash for small purchases during the day trips and or tipping the tour leaders and the 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?
Of course. It is your vacation. You can opt out from any painting sessions or any excursion. Please let your tour leaders know that you will not be showing up to specific activities beforehand.
Is the retreat available to guests with low and limited mobility?
Unfortunately, the trip is not well suited for people with low and limited mobility. Although there is an elevator at the hotel, there are still some steps to access the breakfast room. The daily excursions involve walking on uneven, cobbled streets and the access to the botanical garden is downhill trail.
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 train station till the last day.
Will I fit on the tour if I am traveling solo and don't know anyone?
How much painting do we do every day?
A typical day is: painting from 9am till 12:30pm, lunch and free time till 2pm and more painting, maybe in a different location from 2 to 4pm. if some, painters get tired after lunch, they can visit the village or take a nap while the others are painting.
There will be one afternoon without painting because we visit the Dali museum in Figueres. However, you can always opt-out from the activity and paint. It is your vacation so you do what pleases you!
Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?
Yes of course, if French Escapade needs to cancel the trip, you will get a full refund.
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 Sea View and Balcony
Single Superior:US $4,990
Shared Superior: US $4,590
Standard Rooms with Balcony
Single Standard:US $4,590
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
- Pick-up at 1:30pm at the Franca train station in Barcelona to go to the Costa Brava
- Drop-off back at the train station around 10:30am
- A welcome reception
- All nights at the hotel on the Costa Brava
- All breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 4 dinners (including wine)
- All art classes
- Entrance fees to all sites on the tour
- Transportation every day in a comfortable van
- The use of folding chairs
- One or two tour leaders throughout
Price excludes
- Flight to Spain
- 3 lunches and 3 dinners
- Painting supplies
- Required Travel Insurance
- Tour leader(s) tipping
Sign up before 11/30/26 and save $150!
Use the code EARLYBIRD at checkout.
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 |