Workshops > Botanical Drawing in Andalucia with Ann swan

Fancy some winter sunshine with some drawing, sight seeing and good food? Then join me in Spain next January on my visit to Andalucia.

Hotel Finca el Cerrillo is situated in peaceful countryside close to the traditional villages of Canillas de Albaida and Competa in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain. From it's terraces there are sweeping views of the valley below and the pretty Moorish village of Archez with its 13 th century tower. To the north are spectacular views of Mount Maroma (2080m) and of the nearby national park.

A 200 year old converted olive mill, the hotel is small and intimate offering a high standard of comfort. Owned and managed by Sue and Gordon Kind who like to ensure that their guests are well looked after and the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. The charm and character of old Andalucia has been carefully retained throughout.

En-suite bedrooms are spacious and individually styled with tea and coffee making facilities and air conditioning and central heating to ensure that you will remain comfortable whatever the time of year. There is a dining room, small library and ‘honesty bar', open all day and the large, comfortable lounge is kept cosy on winter nights with a blazing log fire and central heating. Outside are terraces, a swimming pool and fantastic views.

The hotel is well placed just one hour's drive from Malaga airport and 30 minutes from the coast and the attractive seaside town of Nerja, with its golden sandy beaches and amazing caves. Granada and the magnificent Alhambra Palace is a 2 hour drive away through impressive scenery.

The weather in January should be dry and bright and maybe warm enough for lunches outside but do bring a fleece. The light is good and the studio has central heating.

£620 per person for a shared room with ensuite (single room supplement £120) + airfare. (Non-painting partners £475)

The holiday in January 2008 is fully booked and Ann will be visiting Spain again in October from 11-18th. This is already booking up fast in fact there are only 2 rooms left. Dates for 2009 will be available shortly.

Flights are not included and should be booked independently. British Airways return flights from Heathrow or Gatwick cost approx £100.

Holiday includes: All tuition, full-board accommodation, transfers from airport (assuming that you arrive on the suggested flight – guests arriving at other times will have to transfer by taxi at their own expense) and an excursion to The Botanic Gardens in Malaga and the coast. There will also be a one-day excursion to Granada by minibus with a three course lunch at a top restaurant and a timed visit to the Alhambra Palace. The cost will be approximately £28 depending on numbers.

The Course: Most mornings will be spent with me in the spacious, airy studio focusing on local flora, fruits and vegetables and then afternoons can be spent working independently or exploring the local villages and countryside; you choose. There are wonderful walks all around the area and interesting Moorish villages to explore.

One morning will be spent at the Botanic Gardens in Malaga with a guided tour and we will be photographing plants and sketching them in situ with a view to doing a study later in the studio.

I hope this will be a productive but relaxing and enjoyable holiday in beautiful surroundings with good company and excellent food: a rare opportunity and only 10 spaces available.

To secure your place phone me on 0208 977 0634.