Weather in May is moderate and variable. Daytime temperatures are around 17°C (63°F), while night temperatures can drop to 13°C (55°F). May has historically averaged around 63 mm (2.5”) of rain, though this has been changing in recent years. We recommend packing clothing you can layer to accommodate shifts in temperature, plus a hat and a rain jacket for the occasional showers.

Below is a link from Gamblin Oil Paint that is very informative. We will provide solvent in Portugal. You must check your oil paints in checked luggage, as they are not allowed in carry-on luggage. Jackie puts her paints in zip lock bags with the “Attention Airline Inspectors” paper inside. She also dedicates a separate suitcase for her art supplies. You can also Google how to pack light for airplane travel with oil paints. There is a lot of information out there.

https://gamblincolors.com/tips-for-traveling-with-artists-materials/

Portuguese cuisine is widely considered Europe’s best-kept secret. Superlative seafood, sun-ripened fruit, lamb raised on flower-specked meadows, free-range pigs gorging on acorns beneath oak forests … this unique cuisine is based on local ingredients and rarely travels well, so it’s best to come taste for yourself.

Seafood from Portugal’s Atlantic waters is famed as the world’s best, with a startling variety to enjoy. Ericeira is home to many excellent seafood restaurants, and we will provide you with a list of our favorites.

If you love bread and cheese, you can’t go wrong here. The next-door parish of Mafra is well-known for its bread, and for good reason. Crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, enjoy this delicacy with a plate of delicious Portuguese cheeses.

And we can’t forget one of Portugal’s main attractions – the wine. Summery vinho verdes from the green northwest. Full-bodied reds and fruity whites from Douro, Dao and Alentejo. We will be spending an afternoon sampling wine at a local vineyard.

In a country so associated with seafood, it would be wrong to neglect the meat. Portuguese pork, lamb and beef are justly famed.

The list can go on and on … Portugal’s pasteis (pastries), variety of bacalau (cod) and arroz (rice) dishes are deservedly renowned. You will enjoy some traditional Portuguese dishes when painting at the Quinta, and will have plenty of opportunity to indulge your palate at the area’s many excellent restaurants.

Bom appetite!

**Please be sure to use the registration form to tell us about any dietary restrictions or allergies. We want to be sure that you are well taken care of!

The major airport, Lisbon, is less than 45 minutes away by car. Transfers from the airport are included in your fee. We recommend against renting a car for the week, as parking is limited.

Portugal’s Silver Coast (Costa de Prata) is a stunning stretch of coastline in central-western Portugal, famous for its beautiful beaches, charming fishing villages and historical attractions. A short list of places worth a visit:

Walled city of Óbidos

Óbidos is a medieval town with a castle wall, considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. Whether you dare to walk along the uneven citadel walls or content yourself with a stroll through the central cobbled streets, the picturesque village of Óbidos will charm you.

Peniche fishing village and fortress

The fortress at Peniche was used as a political prison during the Salazar dictatorship and currently houses a museum with a collection of local boats. By visiting the museum, you also get the chance to visit the cells and visiting room of the prison. The marina and fishing harbor are hives of activity and the nearby beaches are popular with surfers and families.

Nazaré and Sitio

Nazaré is known for its huge waves and fearless surfers, as well as its colorful, ancient fishing traditions. Wander through the beachside town and take the funicular up to the suburb of Sitio, with spectacular views of the beach and town.

Caldas da Rainha – ceramics and markets

Once popular for its curative thermal waters, Caldas da Rainha is better known these days for its ceramic production. You can get a broad understanding and appreciation of local ceramics at the quirky Museu da Cerámica or visit the famous Bordallo Pinheiro museum and shop. Visit Caldas on a weekday morning and you’ll catch the colourful flower, fruit and vegetable market in Praça da República.

Once paid, your deposit is non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, our refund structure is as follows:

Cancel by March 5, 2024: Full refund (minus the deposit amount).

If you cancel your booking between March 5 and April 5, you will get 50% of the balance (minus deposit) refunded.

If cancellation occurs after April 5, no refund is offered. Any bank/PayPal charges will be deducted from the refunded amount.

Read our full Terms and Conditions.

If we have fewer than the minimum number of bookings 7 weeks before the event is due to start, we will cancel the event. Anyone who has booked will be notified immediately and a refund for 100% of the payment (including the deposit) will be issued. We do not refund any travel costs.

Of course! You are welcome to explore the village and environs, join the group and the Labradors at the Quinta, take part in the outings offered, take a yoga class at one of the village’s many yoga studios, and/or relax at the hotel pool.