Day 2: Sketchbooks & Stallions

Our first painting session with Paul in the Schonbrun palace gardens was the perfect way to start the day in glorious sunshine. We were then driven into central Vienna, where we had some free time to explore and grab a bite to eat in one of the many famous coffee shops. This was followed by a fascinating behind-the-scenes visit to the iconic Spanish Riding School. We returned to the hotel just in time for dinner, before rounding off the evening in true Viennese style with a classical concert at Schönbrunn Palace Orangerie, a truly magical night to remember!

Day 3: On to Dürnstein

After a delicious breakfast, we set off for the Dürnstein region of the Wachau Valley and checked into the charming Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel. Wasting no time, Paul and Margot led a relaxed afternoon art session indoors to get our brushes moving again, while the non-painters amongst us went to explore the town, a lovely ten-minute walk along the Danube. The day ended with a fabulous 4-course dinner followed by a warm Austrian welcome — a schnapps tasting.

Day 4: Painting, Cruising & Exploring Krems

The morning began with a peaceful art session at the hotel. Afterwards, there was time to relax, some guests chilled by the pool, while others wandered the quaint streets of Dürnstein. In the afternoon, we enjoyed a scenic boat ride along the Danube to Krems, where we had time to sketch, explore, and soak in the atmosphere before heading back for dinner.

Day 6: Lakeside Charm & Alpine Hospitality

We began the day with a scenic coach journey through Austria’s breathtaking lake district. A highlight was the picturesque town of Mondsee, famous for being the location of much of the filming for the” Sound of Music”. Guests sketched by the water, wandered through the town or simply enjoyed the serene lakeside atmosphere among the wildlife. In the afternoon, we continued to Schladming and checked into the welcoming Sporthotel Royer. With time to unwind and enjoy the hotel’s amenities, we ended the day with a relaxed group dinner and reflections on the journey so far.

Day 7: Mountain Views & Creative Heights

After a hearty breakfast, we boarded the coach and headed for the famous Schafberg Cog Mountain railway, and what a ride it was! Sweeping alpine views unfolded before us, which quite literally took our breath away and offered endless inspiration for sketching and painting. With paints in hand and scenery like this, creativity came naturally. We had time for lunch and refreshments before the journey back down the mountain. We returned to the hotel in the late afternoon, with time to rest before dinner and share stories from the day.

Day 8: Painting & Salzburg’s Cultural Treasures

The morning began with a final peaceful painting session at the hotel,  a chance to gather our impressions from the week and bring them to life on paper. Later, some guests headed to the historic city of Salzburg for a fascinating guided tour. Wandering its charming streets and exploring its rich cultural heritage made for the perfect final outing. Others joined Margot for a scenic cable car ride and a relaxed painting session on the balcony, where many beautiful hares were painted!