Lake Orta, Italy
This watercolour painting holiday will take place near one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Orta, home to an enchanting island in the middle of the lake. Our venue is a charming old fashioned venue located 6 km from the lake.
This structure is a charming and huge venue into a big park, built in 1971 as the The Maria Candida Center , originally a retreat house for the Sisters of Charity of Saint Jeanne-Antide Thouret and now open to the general public for holidays and retreats.
Our artist for this painting week retreat is Luisa Diaz, a professional artist. Painting from an early age Luisa has attended art schools across Europe and then later opened her own studio in Usseaux, Italy. She specializes in watercolour, soft pastels and oil techniques.
The 7-day retreat features five days of lessons, guidance and includes 2 excursions to Orta San Giulio and the Island, one of which will be a guided tour. Classes will take place both inside and outside in the picturesque surroundings.
Whether refining skills or simply embracing creativity, this retreat offers the perfect balance of structured learning and relaxation in a stunning Italian atmosphere.
Watch video of this area by Luisa here.
The Maria Candida Centre
The 3* Maria Candida Center, nestled above the serene shores of Lake Orta (6 Km drive) and offers the perfect setting for our painting retreat. Surrounded by breathtaking lakeside views and lush greenery, this peaceful haven provides 71 comfortable simple guest rooms each with a private bathroom. The on-site restaurant serves delicious, locally inspired meals, while the expansive park and garden areas invite guests to unwind, read, or simply enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lake. Whether you prefer quiet reflection, leisurely walks through nature, or meaningful conversations with fellow travellers, the Maria Candida Center combines comfort, calm, and inspiration—an ideal environment for relaxation and painting exploration.
Your Room
The Maria Candida Centre offers 71 bright and comfortable rooms, available as singles or doubles, each featuring a private bathroom with shower. Simple yet welcoming, the rooms provide a peaceful atmosphere enjoying the retreat’s serene lakeside setting. Our allocated rooms are south facing, single rooms with a balcony/terrace.
Hotel Facts
- Restaurant
- Free WiFi
- Bar
- Outdoor park
- Single room with private bathroom
- Balcony or terrace
Itinerary
Arrival Day
Arrive into Milan airport and transfer to the hotel to relax. A welcome gathering before dinner for everyone to meet followed by dinner.
Wednesday
After breakfast, we will start the watercolour painting course in our meeting room with garden views – Introducing watercolour with small card exercises. In the afternoon will be free time to continue painting or to walk into the park or the village to paint outdoors or simply relax.
Thursday
Today we will have a half day guided tour to visit Orta Lake and San Giulio Island and if time permits, we will paint outdoors in the afternoon.
Friday
After breakfast, we will start our watercolour painting class in the meeting room or in the park outside, where we will put into practice the first day’s learnings to create new paintings in a bigger format. We will learn about tonal value studies, and composition applied to watercolour. In the afternoon free time to paint plein air or relax.
Saturday
Half day visit to Orta San Giulio but this time we will take the sightseeing train to visit the Sacred Mountain and Legro – the painted village on the lake. Today our painting will be done outdoors on the lake.
Sunday
After breakfast, we will start our Watercolour painting class in the meeting room or outside in the park and we will put into practice the learnings from the previous days.
Monday
Last day painting with a final gathering for critique.
Departure Day
After breakfast, guests will check out and transfer to the airport, with departure schedules arranged according to individual flight times.
Location
Nestled in the heart of Northern Italy, Orta San Giulio is a picturesque gem that captivates all who visit. This charming lakeside town, perched on the western shore of Lake Orta, is often overlooked by tourists in favor of its more famous neighbors, yet it offers an enchanting experience steeped in history and natural beauty.
The narrow cobbled streets of Orta San Giulio wind their way up to the breathtaking Piazza Motta, where vibrant cafes and artisan shops line the waterfront. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet scent of local pastries. As you stroll along the promenade, your eyes are drawn to the serene waters of the lake, shimmering under the golden sun, reflecting the colorful facades of the buildings that frame the shore.
At the center of the lake lies the Island of San Giulio, a mystical spot that enchants visitors with its tranquil atmosphere. A short boat ride takes you there, where you can explore the historic Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 12th century. The silence that envelops the island is profound, inviting you to reflect and connect with the peaceful surroundings.
Just a short distance from Orta San Giulio stands the Sacred Mountain of Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers not only spiritual significance but also stunning views of the lake and its idyllic landscape. This hillside sanctuary, dedicated to Saint Francis, features a series of chapels adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures that narrate the life of the saint. As you ascend the winding path lined with ancient trees, you’ll find each chapel more captivating than the last, showcasing artistic masterpieces within serene natural settings.
The journey to the top rewards you with panoramic vistas that seem to stretch endlessly across the Italian countryside. The juxtaposition of the natural beauty of Lake Orta with the architectural wonder of the Sacred Mountain creates a sense of harmony that lingers long after you leave.
Legro. If you’re a true art lover or love discovering new places, this is the place for you, a true open-air museum. We’re talking about Legro d’Orta, a small village overlooking Lake Orta.
Also known as the “painted village,” Legro d’Orta is a place full of charm, yet to be discovered, filled with color, art, and history.
Orta San Giulio and the Sacred Mountain of Orta and Legro are more than just destinations; they are experiences that touch the soul.
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