If you’re interested in a painting holiday or workshop, a cooking holiday, retreat space or villa rental at a stunning riverside location in central Algarve region of Portugal, complete the form at the end of this page and I’ll connect you with the hosts, Cheryl and Graham, to get the full details.
The riverside villa
This beautifully converted and appointed house sits at an idyllic location in the beautiful countryside of Portugal’s Algarve region. It offers direct views over the Funcho reservoir and the river and is surrounded by fig and carob trees, with pathways leading down to the water’s edge.
There are plenty of comfortable social areas including large decks and terraces for outdoor dining and gorgeous views of the countryside and Funcho Dam.
If you’re looking for complete privacy surrounded by nature with plenty of comfort and style, this is a perfect place for a family holiday, milestone birthday, retreat venue or intimate wedding party.
There’s space for up to 14 guests to sleep and up to 60 visitors for special celebrations.
Cooking holidays in the Algarve
An example of the different culinary experiences that are available is a gourmet vegetarian holiday retreat, celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter with Ottolenghi-inspired feasts. This holiday combines hands-on cooking workshops with indulgent vegetarian meals. Perfect for food lovers looking to explore fresh, seasonal cuisine.
You can read about my experience of this cooking holiday.
Painting holidays in the Algarve countryside
For the art retreats, Cheryl and Graham invite artists with different specialities, from watercolour to mixed media, to lead the painting workshops.
As well as being inspired by the surroundings at the villa, there are excursions to nearby beaches and other locations to help broaden the subject matter and practice a variety of techniques. Having seen the paintings that Cheryl has done on these retreats, I would love to go on one. This way, you get to eat the delicious food without having to prepare it!
Upcoming Creative Retreats and Workshops at Figs on the Funcho
Are you ready to unwind, get creative, and reconnect with nature? Figs on the Funcho is excited to announce a series of inspiring holidays that blend art, food, relaxation, and the beauty of the Algarve. Join us for our upcoming holidays designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
GET A €50 DISCOUNT ON ANY OF THESE RETREATS USING THIS CODE: JULIE50
CULINARY RETREATS
Vegetarian Delights: Embracing the Mediterranean Lifestyle
- Dates: 21 – 25 March, 2025 / 9 – 13 May, 2025 / 12 – 16 September, 2025
- Description: Immerse yourself in the Mediterranean lifestyle with our Vegetarian Delights retreat. This event focuses on the wholesome and flavourful vegetarian dishes that are central to Mediterranean cuisine. Through interactive cooking sessions and tastings, you’ll learn to embrace the simplicity and richness of this diet, known for its health benefits and delicious flavours.
Portugal’s Spice Route & Beyond: Gastronomic Adventure
- Dates: 4 -8 April, 2025 / 23 – 27 May, 2025 / 10 – 14 October, 2025
- Description: Discover the culinary treasures of Portugal’s spice route in our April retreat. Delve into the exotic spices and ingredients that have shaped Portuguese cuisine over centuries. This gastronomic adventure includes cooking workshops, tastings, and cultural experiences that highlight the unique fusion of flavours along Portugal’s historic spice route. Includes fish dishes as well as vegetarian.
Seasonal Celebrations: Gourmet Vegetarian Holiday Meals With Ottolenghi Flavours
- Dates: 14-18 November, 2025
- Description: Immerse yourself in an extraordinary vegetarian holiday, celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter with vibrant Ottolenghi-inspired feasts amidst the serene beauty of the Algarve. This experience brings together bold Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours, reflecting a creative fusion of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
PAINTING HOLIDAYS
Portugal Painting with Yoga – Mixed Media and Yoga
- Dates: 31 May – 6 June, 2025 or 19 – 26 June, 2025
- Description: A creative retreat combining mixed media painting with yoga sessions amidst the tranquil Algarve setting. Daily art classes take place on the waterfront deck, offering a range of media to explore and opportunities to capture the surrounding landscapes. Yoga sessions foster mindfulness and serenity, complementing the artistic experience. Enjoy time for relaxation, scenic walks, and local exploration during your stay.
Botanical Watercolour Painting & Yoga Retreat
- Dates: 6 – 10 June, 2025 or 26 – 30 June, 2025
- Description: Focus on watercolour techniques inspired by botanical themes, with sessions exploring pen and wash, monochromatic palettes, and expressive painting. This retreat also includes yoga to deepen the connection to nature, complemented by time to relax and explore the riverside setting. The experience concludes with al fresco dining and beautiful sunsets.
Plein Air Watercolour Retreat
- Dates: November 14 – 18, 2025
- Description: The November Plein Air Watercolour Retreat at Figs on the Funcho is scheduled for November 2025. During this retreat, participants will immerse themselves in the serene Algarve countryside to explore the expressive nature of watercolour painting. The program includes mastering techniques for capturing light, shadows, and atmospheric effects, all while painting outdoors in various stunning locations. Alongside the art sessions, there are opportunities for yoga, mindfulness, and enjoying wholesome vegetarian meals prepared by the hosts, Cheryl and Graham.
- Participants are guided by skilled instructors and will receive personalized attention, making it suitable for artists of all levels. The retreat offers a relaxing yet creative escape, blending art, nature, and wellness in a picturesque riverside setting
Tailor-made holidays
With a wide network among the local community, the hosts are able to design a customised holiday that could include activities such as horse riding, winery visits, boat trips, guided hikes, art and wellbeing workshops, cooking experiences and many more. Simply let them know what you’re interested in using the form below.
Enquiry about Figs on the Funcho
Enquire about accommodation, tailor-made holidays or retreats in this idyllic riverside space in the Algarve. Disclosure: I may receive a commision from your booking. If you decide to book a painting or cooking holiday directly on the Figs on the Funcho website, don’t forget to apply this code: JULIE50 to receive a €50 discount.
