Andalusia, Spain
Enjoy the perfect blend of artistic inspiration and coastal relaxation on our 7-night painting holiday in Andalusia. Stay at the elegant, Arabic-styled Iberostar Waves Málaga Playa in Torrox Costa, with half-board included, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Take part in relaxed plein-air sketching and watercolour sessions, capturing the beautiful Mediterranean light from the hotel’s gardens and nearby Ferrara Beach. Wander along the scenic promenade to Torrox Lighthouse, where Roman ruins, dramatic coastline and sparkling sea provide endless inspiration for your artwork.
Our artist for this painting week retreat is Luisa Diaz, a professional artist from the Malaga area. 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 includes 5 half day guided outdoor sketching & watercolor workshops in Torrox and 2 excursions –
- The Magic of Nerja: Stand on the spectacular Balcón de Europa, a stunning clifftop viewpoint where you will feel suspended over the endless blue Mediterranean Sea. Explore its vibrant, sun-drenched old streets and discover why it is the jewel of the Costa del Sol.
- The Charm of Frigiliana: Wander through one of Spain’s most breathtaking pueblos blancos (white villages). Get lost in a labyrinth of pristine Moorish-Mudéjar streets, decorated with bright flower pots and striking blue doors, offering sweeping panoramic views down to the coast.
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 Spanish atmosphere.
Iberostar waves Malaga Playa
Iberostar Waves Málaga Playa is a stylish 4-star hotel in Torrox Costa, set directly beside Ferrara Beach on Spain’s Costa del Sol. Facilities include outdoor swimming pools, gardens, a sun terrace, restaurants, bars, fitness facilities and comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, making it an ideal coastal base.
Your Room
The standard double Room provides all the space and comfort you need for unwinding during your holiday. Its balcony offers a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air and the hotel surroundings.
Hotel Facts
- Restaurant
- 2 outdoor pools
- WiFi
- 4 bars
- Spa (charge payable locallay)
- Fitness Centre
- Double or twin room with balcony
- Walk in shower
- Air-conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Safe
- Minibar (chargeable)
Itinerary
Arrival Day
Arrive into Malaga Airport and transfer to the hotel to relax. A welcome gathering before dinner for everyone to meet followed by dinner at the hotel.
Day 2
After breakfast, we’ll begin our watercolour painting course at the hotel, enjoying a relaxed and creative morning together. The afternoon is free for you to spend as you wish – explore the local area, take a refreshing dip in the pool or simply unwind on the beach.
Dinner at the hotel in the evening.
Day 3
After breakfast, we’ll head out on an excursion to Nerja, where we’ll visit the wonderful Balcony of Europe and enjoy some time to explore this charming coastal town. Return to the hotel in the afternoon for some time to relax before gathering together for dinner in the evening.
Day 4
After breakfast, we’ll continue with our watercolour painting course, building on the skills and techniques explored so far. In the afternoon, enjoy some well-deserved free time to spend as you wish. Why not make the most of the facilities at the Iberostar Waves Hotel, relax by the pool or simply unwind and enjoy the surroundings?
Dinner at the hotel in the evening.
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll head out on an excursion to the beautiful whitewashed village of Frigiliana. Take time to explore its charming streets, discover local shops and enjoy the stunning views. We’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon, with the opportunity to sketch outdoors and capture some of the scenery. In the evening, we’ll come together to enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 6
After breakfast, we’ll take our watercolours outdoors, choosing a scenic spot either on the hotel beach or in the nearby village of Torrox Costa. Enjoy a relaxed morning painting in the fresh air, taking inspiration from the beautiful coastline and local surroundings while putting your skills into practice.
Dinner at the hotel in the evening.
Day 7
After breakfast, we’ll continue with our watercolour painting course, building on the skills and techniques explored throughout the week. Enjoy a relaxed final afternoon to spend as you wish before coming together for our last evening and dinner at the hotel, sharing our experiences and celebrating the week together.
Day 8 – Departure Day
After breakfast, guests will check out and transfer to the airport, with departure schedules arranged according to individual flight times.
Location
Andalusia offers an inspiring setting for a painting and sketching holiday, combining bright Mediterranean light, dramatic landscapes, historic architecture, and traditional Spanish charm. Málaga provides a lively artistic base, with colourful streets, galleries, cafés, and coastal views. Nearby Nerja provides beautiful beaches, cliffs, and panoramic sea views, while the picturesque whitewashed village of Frigiliana offers winding streets, traditional houses, and stunning mountain scenery. Together, these destinations provide endless opportunities to capture Andalusia’s distinctive colours, landscapes, architecture, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere through painting and sketching.
Our base, Iberostar Waves Málaga Playa, offers a relaxing seaside setting, perfect for unwinding between creative sessions.
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