4Reasons Hotel - Painting week

Our new art retreat venue for 2026 is the picture-postcard port of Yalikavak on the Bodrum peninsula. The new marina development reflects the resort’s upmarket style, but the old windmills, white-washed houses and beach are unchanged, as are the friendly waterside bars. An hour by bus, Bodrum is a must for sightseeing as is a Turkish bath and massage.

The 4 Reasons Hotel is considered one of the most stylish boutique hotels in Bodrum so we are so excited that it is back on our programme!

Our painting instructor for the trip in June will be Graham Thew – Graham, a committed sketcher, is never happier than when out and about, sketchbook in hand. He founded “Wirral Urban Sketchers” (see the FaceBook site) and recently appeared on B.B.C.’s “Home is Where the Art is” as a winning contestant. He enjoys teaching watercolour on cruise ships with the opportunities it brings to meet new people. Graham is inclusive and understanding in the way he dedicates his time to those in his classes, ensuring everybody enjoys not only a fun experience, but also feel that they have benefited from the time they have committed to the class.

Our painting instructor for the trip in October will be Julie Ford – Julie loves to help others develop their inner artist by exploring different ways of approaching subjects. The week will focus on experimenting with pen and watercolour. You will learn how to instantly mix the colours you need, the importance of value and composition and how you can have fun with urban sketching to capture your holiday experiences in more detail than photos can. Julie is a competent teacher in a variety of mediums including oils, watercolour and soft pastels. Julie is passionate about teaching and runs regular courses, workshops and classes online. If you’re totally new to painting, we’ll connect you with Julie before the holiday so you can chat about a few things ahead of time.

Also included this week with Julie is a 2 hour pottery class in the 4 Reasons own pottery workshop.

Spaces are limited and early booking is advised.

Named ‘because there are 4 reasons to stay here’, this 20 room hotel has 5-star online reviews which mention many more reasons. At the 4Reasons Hotel there are sweeping views from the roof terrace bar to the resort and beach 15 minutes’ walk away. The restaurant serves a buffet breakfast, plus dinner (with wine) on 5 nights and there’s a blissful pool and gardens.

At the heart of the hotel is the lovely pool with its terraces and sun-beds complemented by the carefully tended gardens. If you are looking for a luxury hotel with excellent food, service and views, this hotel is for you!

Prices are based on a standard double room (called a Casual Room on the hotel website) with terrace or balcony, queen size bed, air-con, satellite TV, hair dryer, safe and bathrobe are all provided: the mini-bar can be stocked at extra charge. A quirky but elegant styling with a clever use of space and original artwork characterize the hotel’s personal approach.

A Junior suite is available and will cost an extra £35 per night. These suites are larger in size and space, have a comfortable seating area, large balcony or terrace and extra facilities.