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Rainbow over the forest at an art retreat in Ireland

Connect with Nature and Nurture Your Creativity

in the hidden forest, Donegal, Ireland

Be restored and inspired...

Our immersive five-night catered art and nature retreats will restore and inspire you through guided en plein air and studio drawing and painting. Set in 300 acres of ancient native forest on the Wild Atlantic Way.

​Whether staying with us in historic Glenalla House or joining us for the day, our intention is to nourish and develop your skills, your creativity and yourself, with a thoughtfully curated schedule, whatever your experience level and preferred medium.

5-Day Art & Nature Residential Retreats

Join one of our fully catered five-night art and nature retreats, with guided en plein air and studio sessions designed to support your growth as an artist –whatever your level or medium.

Retreats coming up:

Thu 25 - Tue 30 September 2025

Thu 16 - Tue 21 October 2025

Thu 23 - Tue 28 April 2026

2026 Summer and Autumn dates will be available later this year.

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Art & Nature Experience Days

Join the retreat as a day guest and enjoy a full day of guided art sessions, connection with nature, and nourishing hospitality – all within the same inspiring setting. A welcoming option for local artists who prefer to return home each evening.

Experience Days coming up:

Fri 26, Sat 27, Sun 28, Mon 29 Sept 2025

Fri 17, Sat 18, Sun 19 & Mon 20 Oct 2025

Fri 24, Sat 25, Sun 26 & Mon 27 April 2026

2026 Summer and Autumn dates will be available later this year.

Group Visits

Hire Glenalla House and grounds exclusively for your club, studio or collective. We offer a unique setting that offers the perfect base for your own schedule – whether you're golfing, hiking, cycling or simply enjoying the location and hospitality on offer.

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About us

Michele Franklin, art retreat host

Michele Franklin

Your host and forest guide.

Carol O'Callaghan, Donegal-based portrait artist and illustrator

Carol O'Callaghan

Donegal based portrait artist and illustrator.

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Nollaig Crombie

Visual artist, designer and educator.

About us

Michele Franklin, art retreat host

Michele Franklin

Your host and forest guide.

We were featured in the Tirconaill Tribune, August 2025

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Words from the guest book...

“The choice of the en plein air sites was wonderful; I found the 5 days went so quickly, the house, the woods, the garden, so special – an ideal location for art retreats. The forest bathing a wonderful addition.”

Geraldine

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