Watercolour Retreat in Maleny
Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Queensland
A three-night retreat to slow down, connect with nature, and explore the expressive medium of watercolour.
Held at Ferntree Hollow, this retreat blends guided watercolour sessions with time for rest, nature, and creative exploration.
No prior experience is needed — this retreat welcomes complete beginners through to experienced painters.
A Gentle Creative Rhythm
Time here is unhurried and guided with care, allowing space to settle into the process of painting.
Sessions are shaped around your individual experience, whether you are new to watercolour or returning to it with more experience. Guidance is adapted to support where you are at, so you can develop skills, confidence, and creative flow at your own pace.
There is no expectation or pressure — only support, presence, and space to explore.
This Retreat Supports You To:
slow down and step away from everyday demands
develop confidence in watercolour at your own pace
reconnect with creativity in a relaxed, supportive environment
explore colour, form, and expression without pressure
build foundational or developing watercolour skills
experience creative flow in a calm, unhurried setting
enjoy time for rest, reflection, and nature connection
How the Retreat Works
Each retreat includes 6 hours of guided watercolour sessions across the three days, with generous time for rest, creative practice, and personal space in between.
You will be supported through demonstrations, individual guidance, and time to practice at your own pace. Sessions are flexible, allowing space for both learning and creative exploration without pressure.
There is also time between sessions for rest, reflection, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Ferntree Hollow and Maleny.
Hello, I’m Jo
I am a watercolour artist and retreat facilitator based in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
My work is centred around creating calm, supportive spaces where people can slow down, connect with nature, and explore watercolour in a way that feels relaxed and accessible.
I guide each retreat in an intuitive and responsive way, meeting you where you are at — whether you are new to watercolour or have been painting for many years.
“The processes and techniques I discovered really helped me look more closely at nature leading to the creative mindset.”
Mel - watercolour retreat
Retreat Options & Investment
Retreat for One
A private retreat experience designed entirely around your creative pace and interests.
Enjoy three nights at Ferntree Hollow with guided watercolour sessions and individual support throughout your stay.
Includes:
Three nights private accommodation at Ferntree Hollow
Guided watercolour sessions tailored to your experience and interests
All watercolour materials provided
Individual guidance throughout sessions
Time for rest, creative practice, and exploration
Investment: $1,699
Retreat for Two
Share the retreat experience with a friend or family member while still enjoying space for your own creative journey.
Each participant receives individual guidance within shared sessions.
Includes:
Three nights accommodation at Ferntree Hollow
Guided watercolour sessions with individual support
All watercolour materials provided
Shared retreat experience with personal guidance
Time for rest and creative exploration
Investment: $1,299 per person
Additional Guest Information
Ferntree Hollow has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to four guests.
If you have a partner, family member, friend, or support person who is not participating in sessions but would like to stay, they are welcome.
Additional guests: $50 per night per person
“I don’t think I realised how much I needed this time to myself and that I need to prioritise art in my life, it is my happy place. Jo, you are a wonderful, calm and creative person, it is a joy to be around you and watch you create.”
Natasha - watercolour retreat
Current Availability (2026)
Retreat availability is limited and changes throughout the year depending on existing bookings and scheduled retreat times.
May - Fully booked
June - 1 Midweek | 1 Weekend available
July - 1 Midweek | 0 Weekend available
August - Open for bookings
Availability is confirmed during your enquiry conversation.
Enquire About This Watercolour Retreat
If you feel drawn to this experience, you are welcome to get in touch.
This is a complimentary, obligation-free conversation by phone or Zoom to explore whether the Watercolour Retreat is the right fit for you.
We will talk through what you are looking for, current availability, and how this retreat may support your creative interests and timing.
Testimonials
Natasha - watercolour retreat
“I was gifted this experience from Mike Arena on behalf of Carers Queensland. I don’t think I realised how much I needed this time to myself and that I need to prioritise art in my life, it is my happy place. Jo, you are a wonderful, calm and creative person, it is a joy to be around you and watch you create. Thank you so much for hosting me.”
Mel - watercolour retreat
“Firstly, I loved and will have fond memories of my experience (plus some good belly laughs). The processes and techniques I discovered really helped me look more closely at nature leading to the creative mindset.
So many times in everyday life we overlook our surroundings and to look closely at the beauty of nature. I will certainly be looking much closer from here on in.
The positive for me is it has reinvigorated my passion of the creative process and to be free to create, again (it’ been too long). Freedom to me is taking away all we know, the rules, the expectations and the outcome. Jo allows self expression and releasing that inner child to play and learn has been invigorating!”