American Impressionist Society Art Retreat, Plein Air in Provence

 June 9 – 17, 2026 Chateau-based Artists Retreat in the South of France

Join us for an unforgettable art retreat at a historic château estate just half an hour from Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and artistic legacy. This immersive experience combines painting, culture, and inspiration in the heart of Provence.

The chateau estate is surrounded by many historical landmarks with an artistic connection. We will visit Saint Rémy de Provence and Van Gogh’s home where he lived for just over a year. We will walk in his footsteps, paint what he painted, and see what he saw. We also visit the medieval city of Les Baux and the spectacular audiovisual tribute to artists at Les Carrières des Lumières. We have arranged a special visit to Aix-en-Provence. You’ll explore the “City of a Thousand Fountains”, Cezanne’s studio, and much more. Your itinerary includes painting in fabulous locations, markets, vineyards, and visits to breathtaking hilltop villages. We’ve chosen locations where we have access to our vehicles, materials and cafés. Bring your camera because you will want to snap references to paint later as you will be truly inspired by your surroundings.

Non-painting partners/companions are welcome.

The cost includes all accommodations, food on the estate (breakfast, lunch and dinner), grab-and-go lunch ingredients if painting off the estate, entrances to shows and exhibits, and ground transportation. Two meals out are paid at guests’ own expense but are optional. Our pick-up point is either of the Avignon train stations. Marseille airport can be arranged as well (we’ll arrange shared taxis for you).