Brushstrokes on Lake Garda’s Edge
Elaine Allen
September 19 - September 26
$3895A Transformative Painting Experience in a Breathtaking Alpine Setting
Experience the magic of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, not just as a breathtaking destination, but as the heart of a truly exceptional painting retreat. Our workshop is unique because it offers an immersive blend of natural wonders and artistic community: from the crystalline blue water and dramatic mountains to enchanting castles and ancient architecture, every moment is framed for creativity.
Our boutique hotel sits directly on the lake’s edge, granting you uninterrupted views and instant access to vistas that have captivated artists for centuries.
Imagine yourself sitting at the water’s edge, brush in hand, capturing the shimmering reflections as gentle breezes stir the lake. This is your chance to create art in an unforgettable setting. We will find inspiration in the ever-changing light on the water, the sailboats drifting by, the lapping waves, and the peaceful ambience of this gorgeous alpine lake.
What sets our retreat apart is the thoughtfully crafted instruction in watercolor and gouache, two versatile and travel-friendly mediums that are perfect for both outdoor and studio sessions. Classes will begin with a group demonstration, followed by guided practice and one-on-one feedback tailored to your artistic goals. Whether you’re an experienced painter or just starting, you’ll benefit from personalized attention to explore new techniques for portraying water’s transparency and the play of light and wind. Evenings invite you to relax and share your work with fellow artists, savoring delicious local cuisine and lively conversation.
You’ll be welcomed into a close-knit group, where Il Chiostro’s welcoming atmosphere encourages connection and creative growth. Our small group setting means you’ll form meaningful friendships, sharing inspiration and support throughout the week. The camaraderie of painting together in this extraordinary location is what makes our retreat truly unique.
Join us, and let Lake Garda and Il Chiostro’s renowned hospitality transform your artistic journey. Reserve your spot and discover what makes this retreat a remarkable, unforgettable experience.
The Location
We will meet the group at the main train station in Verona on the first day and then proceed to Lake Garda together (approximately 1 hour drive).
In the charming village of Villa di Gargnano, we’ll check into our home for the next 7 days – Hotel Gardenia al Lago.
Nestled at the foothills of the Alps and stretching into the Veneto area. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, colorful towns, and olive and lemon groves. It offers ever-changing light, shimmering waters, and charming lakeside villages, a true artist’s paradise. Whether inspired by the reflections on the water, the vibrant hues of Italian gardens, or the timeless beauty of historic architecture, you will find endless scenes waiting to be captured in your art.
General Activities: In addition to the activities of the workshop, we will also see and explore this area of Lake Garda with various excursions selected from:
- A breathtaking ferry across the lake to the town of Malcesine
- Painting in multiple locations along the lake in cities, gardens, and hilltops
- Exploring the owner’s private vineyard and lemon grove
- Optional trip to the grand estate Vittoriale degli Italiani
We’ll return each evening to relax in the comfort of our lakeside hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner with wine, and share about our day.
Price: $3,895 p/p; non-painters $3,595
Optional supplement: $595 for a single room (limited availability).
$500 deposit due upon registration. Balance due by July 16th, 2026.
What is Included:
- Daily traditional breakfast
- Transfers to Lake Garda
- 7 nights’ accommodations in a shared double room in a lakeside hotel (single rooms available for supplement)
- 7 dinners in Garda (including wine)
- Boat ride to the nearby lake town, Malcesine
- Walk to the owner’s private vineyard and lemon grove
- Daily classes with Elaine
- Return transfer to Verona airport or the central train station on the last day.
Does Not Include:
- Airfare
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Independent meals and sightseeing
To Register: Just click on the Sign Up Now button. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to secure your spot in the workshop. Payment can be made online with a credit card, or you can follow the instructions to send in your registration and payment by mail. Once we receive your deposit, we will send you a formal Registration Confirmation with further information about the program. You will receive 2-3 other correspondences by email before the workshop with information about Italy, a supplies list, and an electronic invoice for the balance. Final Balance is due by July 16th, 2026. Any time before your arrival, if you have questions about anything regarding the trip or the program, you can contact us by email or phone, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Cancellation policy:
$500 deposit is non-refundable. For cancellation:
- 60 days prior to workshop, full refund due less non-refundable deposit.
- 30-60 days prior to workshop, 50% refund of balance paid allowed, less non-refundable deposit.
Less than 30 days before the workshop, no refund due.
Il Chiostro recommends personal travel insurance to cover the possibility of unexpected or last-minute cancellation.
Contact us for more information: info@ilchiostro.com or speak to us live at 800-990-3506.
Boutique comfort. Lakeside dining. Timeless charm.
Built on what was once a lemon and olive garden, Hotel Gardenia al Lago is a family-run lakeside retreat brimming with history and charm. Housed in an original villa from 1925, lovingly refurbished into a boutique hotel, each room is unique in style and character—some still featuring original furnishings from the family home. Guests can choose between doubles or singles (with a supplement), all offering a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Nestled in lush gardens with panoramic views of Lake Garda, the hotel invites you to relax on serene terraces, savor refined regional cuisine at Ristorante al Miralago, and soak in sunsets over the water. Combining timeless Italian elegance with genuine hospitality, Hotel Gardenia al Lago offers an authentic and unforgettable stay.
Just steps from the hotel lies the charming hamlet of Villa, a picturesque lakeside village with a tiny harbor, shaded piazza, and inviting cafés where you can sip an espresso as the boats glide by. A leisurely ten-minute walk along the lakefront brings you to Gargnano, a lively town rich with history and atmosphere. Here, you’ll discover elegant villas, historic churches, boutiques, and family-run trattorias serving authentic local flavors. The town’s bustling harbor is perfect for watching fishermen return with their catch, and no visit is complete without a stop for a scoop of artisanal gelato made on site.
For those who wish to explore further, the surrounding region offers countless gems. Bogliaco, just beyond Gargnano, is known for its sailing club and long pebble beaches. Toscolano-Maderno, a short drive away, boasts Roman ruins, charming shops, and the ferry port that links the western and eastern shores of Lake Garda. Heading north, you’ll encounter Limone sul Garda, with its dramatic lemon houses clinging to the cliffs, while to the south lies the elegant Salò, famous for its lakeside promenade and weekly market.
Whether you’re strolling through sleepy hamlets or lively lake towns, every step around Villa and Gargnano immerses you deeper into the timeless beauty and culture of Lake Garda.
We will meet the group at the main train station in Verona on the first day and then proceed to Lake Garda together (approximately 1 hour drive).
Unless you will be traveling around before the workshop, we recommend you fly to Verona's Villafranca airport. There are no direct flights from the US, but you can change in the European city associated with your airline. Then it is a quick taxi ride to the main train station in Verona. Other options include flying into Venice, Brescia, Florence, Bologna, or Milan’s Malpensa airport and traveling around on your own prior to our first meeting in Verona.
On the final day of the program, a coach will take participants back to Verona to catch their flight home - or to continue their travel. If you are flying out that day, please try to book a flight for noon or later.
Travel Agents & Insurance: Over the last few years, the way we travel has undergone significant changes. For that reason, we now encourage everyone to use a professional travel agent when arranging their trips. Travel agents save you time and stress by handling all the details and tailoring your itinerary to your needs. One of the most important services they offer today is helping you choose and enroll in the right travel insurance program. With COVID and the continued possibility of schedule changes or postponements, travel insurance has become essential, and selecting the right plan on your own can be overwhelming.
If you encounter any issues during your travels, your agent can provide quick support and solutions, taking the pressure off your shoulders. While booking through online sites like Expedia or Hotels.com may seem more convenient or less expensive, they offer little help if you need to modify your plans. A travel professional, on the other hand, is there to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and worry-free travel experience.
If you choose to Go It Alone, we highly recommend taking out travel insurance for the trip in the event of any unforeseen obstacles to your travel. We recommend Travelex (800) 504-7883 or Travel Guard International (877) 901-7599.
"Those who are sensitive to all that is sublime. You are invited to look at the map of Lake Garda. The shores of this lake with its beautiful forests and calm waters constitute perhaps the most beautiful landscape in the world." - Stendhal
The Province of Lombardy: Both Milan and Lake Garda are located in Lombardy, a northern Italian region bordered by Switzerland to the north and Veneto to the east. Lombardy is the most populous region of Italy and has a rich, layered history. Over the centuries, it was ruled by Germanic tribes, the Spanish, the French, and the Austrians, before finally becoming part of unified Italy in 1861. As a result, Lombardy’s distinctive character—reflected in its art, cuisine, wine, and architecture—bears the influence of these past inhabitants.
Geologically, the Alpine rivers in the north have spread into a chain of stunning lakes, creating the famous Italian Lakes District. Nestled among the gentle slopes of the pre-Alpine hills, these sparkling waters and lush landscapes have earned this part of Lombardy the nickname “The Garden of Italy.”
Lake Garda: Also known as Lake Benaco, Lake Garda is not only the largest of the pre-Alpine lakes but also the biggest lake in all of Italy. Carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age, it stretches across three regions—Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige—and offers an astonishing variety of landscapes. Thanks to its mild, Mediterranean-style climate, the lake supports lush vegetation unusual for northern Italy: vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards thrive here, giving the shores a distinctly southern feel.
Lake Garda has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. From Bronze Age settlements and Gallic tribes to the Romans—who built villas, roads, and thermal baths along its shores—the area’s long history is still visible in ruins, castles, and charming medieval towns. The lake’s name is thought to come from the mighty castle of Torri del Benaco, which once “guarded” the waters against pestilence and invasion.
Today, the only “invaders” are happy travelers. Lake Garda is a favorite holiday spot for German and Austrian visitors and a popular weekend escape for Milanese city-dwellers. The lake offers something for everyone: sailing and windsurfing in the breezy north, cycling and hiking trails along the hills, and relaxing spa towns and gardens on the southern and western shores.
One of the most celebrated stretches is the Brescian Riviera, between Salò and Gargnano. This area is renowned for its elegant villas, lush parks, lemon houses, and historic health resorts. Beyond that, visitors can explore Limone sul Garda with its cliffside lemon groves, Sirmione with its fairytale Scaliger Castle and Roman ruins, or Riva del Garda, where Alpine peaks tumble dramatically into the water.
From medieval castles and pastel-colored harbors to award-winning gelaterie and lakeside promenades, Lake Garda is a place where history, culture, and leisure come together in one unforgettable setting.
Gargnano: Midway up Lake Garda’s western shore, Gargnano is a picture-perfect town with a small harbor where yachts and sailboats drift against a promenade shaded by orange trees and dotted with lakeside cafés. Despite its laid-back charm, the town has a rich past—most famously as Mussolini’s wartime headquarters at Villa Feltrinelli, now a luxury hotel.
Stroll through its medieval churches, explore the cloisters of San Francesco, or wander the narrow streets lined with citrus-scented gardens and traditional limonaie. Surrounded by the Alto Garda Bresciano Park, Gargnano is also a gateway to hiking, cycling, and sailing. It’s a place where history, nature, and lakeside leisure flow effortlessly together.
Elaine Allen has had over 50 years of experience in art-related fields. Her love for creative self-expression began as a child, when she used chalk from a broken wall to draw on the slate sidewalk in front of her home. Her long career has included illustrating an international children’s magazine and creating work for public and private spaces across the US, including Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, The Brentwood Library, and Joy Gardens. She continues her work in both watercolor and oil for shows in the US.
With her passion for teaching, Elaine has created Bright Mind Arts, an art curriculum for active senior centers; Start in Art, art lessons online; and The Creative Well, a membership that offers a weekly dip into the creative pool. She instructs local community programs for adults and runs a summer art program for kids.
She holds membership in the National Watercolor Society, the American Watercolor Society, the Chestnut Group, Plein Air Painters, and Sanctuary Artists.
I love to teach art and have been teaching classes, camps, and workshops for many years. I believe that everyone is creative, and each of us longs to find ways to express our unique form of creativity.
It’s astounding to see some of the life changes that come about because of creative activity. Studies prove what I see firsthand – that fulfilling the basic human drive to create actually changes the brain. I’ve seen students become more confident, have better communication skills, and have enhanced problem-solving skills. Making art is therapeutic, so it’s a calming, centering activity.
A lot of the folks who show up for my classes are looking at what’s next for their lives. I believe that creative work is one of the best things they can do on that journey of discovery. The experience is what is important, not the result of the work.
–Elaine Allen
Elaine Allen is the teacher I have been searching for for years. I have taken several classes over the years, but with Elaine I feel a real sense of accomplishment and growth in my art. I would usually throw away the pieces I made in classes. But with Elaine’s classes, I have finished work I am proud of. She has a knack for really inspiring her students to create. I would recommend any class you can take with Elaine. She has impressed me in a variety of media. She has even helped me impress myself! Thank you, Ms. Allen. Please keep doing what you do. - Vickie Frazier
I went with this lovely lady to Venice, and the experience was AMAZING! I'm not an artist by any stretch of the imagination, and I have to say, I had SO MUCH FUN just PLAYING with sketching and throwing paint around. It got my "crafting juices" flowing again. Elaine is a FABULOUS teacher and makes it easy and gentle to bring back a sense of creativity in life. If you're feeling stuck in your creativity, if you're feeling like you need a soft getaway to feed your soul, JOIN THIS CLASS! The combination of Elaine and Il Chiostro will soothe the savage beast that is your mind into a serene, creative, well-fed partner in life. - Amelia McHenry
Elaine was able to take me from a person sitting before a blank canvas to a woman who saw herself as an artist! I created a beautiful seascape that gives me such a feeling of pride. Thank you, Elaine, for bringing out such talent in me–yes, me! I still can’t believe it! - Jane Meade
Your inherent creativity is humming and stirring quietly in its deep reserve . . . if you’re alive, you’re a creative person. You and I and everyone you know are descended from tens of thousands of years of makers. Decorators, tinkerers, storytellers, dancers, explorers, fiddlers, drummers, builders, growers, problem-solvers, and embellishers – these are our common ancestors. - From Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Website: https://www.startinart.com/
