Botanical Watercolour Painting & Yoga Holiday Retreat June 2025

Furthermore, our daily yoga sessions in the midst of nature will deepen your connection with the environment, fostering inner peace and mindfulness. Amidst the tranquil beauty of Figs on the Funcho, you’ll find the perfect space to relax, improve your well-being, and quiet your mind.

Apart from our villa, Figs on the Funcho also presents the choice of residing in our two glamping safari tents. These tents have access to the garden bathroom, complete with a rain shower and a basin equipped with a mirror and a hairdryer for your convenience. With both tents offering breath-taking river views, each can host up to 2 guests, delivering a distinct and immersive encounter with nature. Whether you opt for the villa or one of our safari tents, an unforgettable and rejuvenating escape is guaranteed.

At Figs on the Funcho, we’re dedicated to embracing nature and responsible travel. We’re proud recipients of the Lux Life Hospitality Award for “Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023 – Algarve,” a testament to our commitment to excellence. The painting holidays run at Algarve’s Figs on the Funcho are one of the creative activities as seen on the popular TV series “A New Life in the Sun” (seventh series). Additionally, we are proudly listed in Simon Heptinstall’s “10 Best Art Escapes in 2019” for the Mail Online.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to improve your artistic skills and enjoy the positive healing effects of nature.

Book your spot now!

About your Art Tutor Rita Afonso

From Rita Afonso’s early years, she has been deeply passionate about the wonders of nature, wildlife depiction, and the enchantment of colours. Born and raised in Silves, Algarve, she pursued a degree in Arts & Multimedia.

To quench her thirst for knowledge in the realm of drawing, she embarked on a scientific illustration course, ultimately guiding her towards her true calling: teaching. Her artistic endeavors are firmly rooted in the representation of nature, an unwavering devotion to detail, a commitment to realism, and an unending curiosity about the myriad forms and beings in the natural world.

Over the years, she has cultivated a rich history of conducting illustration workshops and scientific illustration classes in collaboration with wildlife and environmental organizations, as well as art schools and libraries.

Your painting holiday with yoga

Rita’s artistic approach, deeply rooted in nature, guides our three-day workshop.

On the first day, we focus on classical plant illustrations using graphite pencils and watercolours.

Day two explores the fusion of watercolours and fine-line pens, experimenting with line thickness and a monochromatic palette.

Day three embraces spontaneity, relying solely on watercolours to capture botanical beauty.

We end the day with a serene yoga session on the deck under the carob trees.

Refer to the itinerary section for detailed daily activities.

A typical Day

09h00 – 10h00 Outdoor breakfast with views of the rolling hills

10h00 – 13h00 Botanical watercolour painting class

13h00 – 14h00 Lunch

14h00 – 16h30 Free Time

16h30 – 17h30 Yoga, Mindfulness, and Serenity

Evening

19h30 – 20h00 Sunset drinks and an opportunity to enjoy our gorgeous sunsets

20h00 – 21h00 Al fresco dinner under the Algarve starry sky

21h00 – 22h00 Cheese and port or dessert on the waterfront deck

Culinary delights with Cheryl and Graham

Figs on the Funcho founders, Cheryl and Graham, whose inspiring journey and adventures in the Algarve are chronicled in Alyson Sheldrake’s book, “A New Life in the Algarve Portugal.”

Featured on ‘A New Life in the Sun’ and ‘Where Are They Now,’ this dynamic duo brings over 25 years of expertise in unveiling the Algarve’s top beaches, eateries, and villages for unforgettable experiences. Their story, intricately woven into the fabric of the Algarve, adds an extra layer of authenticity to your journey.

Enthusiastic about Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary cuisine, Cheryl and Graham derive inspiration not only from their favourite chefs like Ottolenghi, Belfrage, and Tamimi but also from the vibrant tapestry of the Mediterranean Diet and lifestyle. Their cooking style reflects bold flavours, a variety of spices, the use of fresh herbs, and a dedication to highlighting the inherent qualities of ingredients.

Welcome to a journey of discovery and flavour!

How to get here

We’ll pick you up at Faro airport at 3pm; if you’ve opted for a different route, we’ll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa from 3pm.

For those arriving by train, disembark at Messines-Alte train station and choose a quick 5-minute taxi ride to reach the villa. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer to avoid an internal flight and instead savour a scenic journey through the countryside.

If you’re flying into Faro airport, you have two options: either take the train to Messines-Alte and select a 5-minute taxi ride to the villa or opt for a 45-minute airport taxi transfer directly to the villa.

Follow the Google map directions for those travelling by car.

Non-participating partners welcome

There are several quiet areas on the property to enjoy and take advantage of the peaceful, tranquil, scenic surroundings. Enjoy bird watching, book a relaxing aromatherapy massage, enjoy stand up paddle boarding or kayaking or simply chill out by the infinity pool and soak up some much needed vitamin D.

The clearly signed walking route is ideal for exploring the countryside on your own.

There is so much to discover and enjoy in the Algarve that is within easy reach if you have a car.

“I went along to Figs on the Funcho as a non-painter with my painting partner. My time there was incredibly relaxing with stunning views across the river and countryside, with interesting walks and sunsets to die for.” – Clive

Email me if your partner would like to join.

What to bring

• Sun hat and suitable footwear (trainers) for walking to explore different paths and also if you plan to visit the historical town nearby, during free time, as the cobbled roads can be slippery.
• Your swimming costume to enjoy the pool and watersports on the dam. The water levels may differ depending on the time of the year and drought conditions.
• Clothing to keep you cosy while unwinding outside in the evening.
• Insect repellent.
• Plastic or cardboard postal tubes to take your rolled artwork home. Paper sizes provided will be no larger than an A3 size.
• Paints, brushes and paper if you plan to paint during your free-time.
• Apron.
• Appropriate attire for yoga is recommended. Yoga practitioners are welcome to utilise the provided mats and yoga equipment during the classes.

Check-in check-out

Check-in from 16h00. Guests are requested to arrive before 21h00; otherwise, arrival should be scheduled for the following morning.

Check-out will be after the 09h00 breakfast.

Weather in the Algarve

Arrival day

We’ll pick you up from the agreed-upon location or, if you’ve opted for a different route, we’ll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa. Take your time settling into your accommodation, surrounded by peace and tranquillity.

Join us for welcome drinks at 18h30 on the waterfront deck, offering a chance to meet your group and relish the sunset. Weather permitting, dinner will be served outdoors, featuring a wholesome meal thoughtfully prepared by your hosts, Graham and Cheryl. After dinner, savour a cheese platter with port beneath the carob trees.

Later, retreat to your beautiful rooms to unwind before the first full day of your Algarve experience holiday.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation is permissible up to 30 days before your scheduled arrival, entitling you to a refund of the total amount paid, minus a cancellation charge equivalent to the deposit. However, if you cancel within the 30 days preceding your arrival or fail to show up, the full reservation cost will be charged. Please refer to the Retreat Terms and Conditions – Figs On The Funcho for a detailed explanation of the terms, including the cancellation policy. Once the deposit is paid, it signifies the guest’s acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

What you can expect to see and do

Unspoiled Serenity: Experience a tranquil and peaceful setting away from crowded tourist areas.

Infinity Pool Bliss: Enjoy a riverside location with an infinity swimming pool, offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the countryside and river.

Bird Watching Delight: Spot a variety of local birds from the comfort of a shaded seating area at Figs on the Funcho.

Starry Nights and Breathtaking Sunsets: Marvel at the beauty of starlit skies and create lasting memories with unforgettable sunsets.

Year-Round Enjoyment: Embrace our location all year round, featuring pleasant sunshine and warm temperatures, even during the winter months.

Relaxing Massages on Demand: Indulge in ultimate relaxation with the option to order on-demand, soothing massages during your stay.