Autumn is a stunning time of year in the south of France. In this short weekend break indulge in a glorious getaway full of colour in the Minervois.

Whether you are already sketching or an absolute beginner, you’ll be guided step-by-step – from fear of the blank page to making bold and confident brushstrokes! You’ll complete your stay with a book full of great sketches and plenty of good memories too.

Our sketching itinerary starts the evening of 16 October. For the next 2 days we will be sketching and exploring this beautiful area, in all its vibrant shades of red and gold.

Where to stay?
Maison des Palmiers is a beautifully renovated townhouse situated in the charming riverside town of Bize Minervois offering a choice of 5 en-suite bedrooms. There is a lovely garden where you can sit in the shade of the trees or sunbathe by the swimming pool. Complimentary tea and coffee are available throughout your stay.
Please note that the pool will be open if the temperature is above 15°C.

Transport recommendations:
Fly to local airports Carcassonne, Beziers, Perpignan or Toulouse
We suggest you hire a car but airport pick-up can be arranged if necessary.

Closest railway station: Narbonne

What’s included:
2 house cocktails on arrival
3 nights bed and continental breakfast
1 3-course evening meal with local wine
2 sketching days

Prices:
Double room (sole occupancy) 370€
Double room (1 sketcher 1 non-sketching partner) 470€
Large twin room (2 sketchers) 340€ per person

A 100€ deposit is payable to confirm your booking.
Balance payment due by bank transfer 4 weeks before the holiday.

Non-residential prices:
2 days sketching 150€
Saturday workshop only (ideal for beginners) 85€

Optional extras:
Airport pick-up
Evening meals, bar service and daytime snacks
Wine-tasting tours

What to bring:
Sketchbook, Portable sketching stool, Basic watercolour travel set
Watercolour brush, HB/B/2B pencil, eraser, sharpener

A detailed materials list will be sent with booking confirmation or by request. Simply email annette@sketchingfrance.com for full details.

Additional notes:
There will be some walking up and down hills and steps, so please wear comfortable footwear and bring a waterproof in the event of inclement weather.

If you would like more information about the accommodation before booking, please email your hosts Richard & Sandy Munns maisondespalmiers@gmail.com