Recently, we packed up for an unforgettable retreat deep in the heart of Algonquin Provincial Park for our Painters Retreat! We traveled about 7.5 hours across the border, heading for our 5 day home base: Bartlett Lodge.

Algonquin is more than just Canada’s oldest provincial park, it’s a place where art and nature have danced together for over a century. The park’s dramatic forests, shimmering lakes, and rugged landscapes inspired the iconic Group of Seven, a legendary group of Canadian landscape painters who helped define Canada’s artistic identity in the early 20th century. To paint in their footsteps was an incredible experience.

After the long drive, we boarded a water taxi that took us across Cache Lake. There’s something magical about arriving at your cabin by boat! Our boat driver Jordan pulled us right up to the dock in front of our cozy cabins.

That evening, we gathered for our first dinner together at the lodge which a decadent four-course, five-star meal that felt like the perfect reward for our journey. Our wonderful server, Kate (who turned out to be an artist herself!), made us feel so welcome and reminded us that in Algonquin, art is everywhere.

The next morning, we met our guide, Malcolm, who took us on an excursion around Cache Lake. His stories about the park’s history, wildlife, and the artists who once paddled these same waters brought the landscape to life in a whole new way. Because it was the "surf and turf" guided tour we got to experience the Trail and Tower hike which led us to an incredible lookout point with panoramic views of Algonquin’s vast wilderness. The peek we hiked to is said to be one of the subjects Tom Thomson painted as well! 

Back at the lodge that evening, Kate led an inspiring art demo to get us ready for our days of plein air painting ahead. She walked us through what a well-packed “go-bag” should include, shared her favorite supplies and materials, and demonstrated how to set up an easel efficiently in the field. She painted to demonstrate how to get started, offering tips and insights as she worked. It was the perfect bridge, shifting us from seeing Algonquin through the eyes of the Group of Seven to experiencing it through our own unique perspectives.

Over the next two days, we fully embraced the rhythm of plein air painting, with both morning and late-afternoon sessions so we could work with the best natural light. We avoided the harsh midday sun, usually between 12 PM and 3 PM since the intense light can flatten shapes, wash out colors, and make it challenging to judge values accurately. Plus, it can get hot enough to dry out your palette faster than you’d like!

Of course, this comes with its challenges too: shifting light, curious bugs, and the occasional gust of wind that tests your patience. But these little obstacles are part of the magic. They remind us to stay flexible, and embrace the unexpected.

One highlight was visiting the Algonquin Art Centre, a beautifully curated gallery showcasing works inspired by the park and Canada's landscapes and wildlife. The owners happened to be there and welcomed us warmly, adding a personal touch to our visit. Exploring the centre and soaking in breathtaking views at nearby lookouts gave us fresh inspiration for our own paintings.

Another treat was having the chance to chat with Kim, one of the co-owners of Bartlett Lodge. He and his wife, Marilyn, not only run the lodge but also operate Camp Tanamakoon across the lake. Kim’s deep knowledge of the region’s rich artistic heritage, and his passion as an art collector himself, made our conversations even more inspiring. It was clear how much they both value and support the arts, and we felt so welcomed because of it.

Of course, no retreat is complete without great food! We were spoiled! It also happened to be Canada Day while we were there, so we got to join in the local celebrations and see everyone enjoying the holiday spirit.

As we packed up our paints and said our goodbyes, it was clear this was more than just a retreat. It was about shared stories, laughter, connection, adventure, and the quiet moments of creation that we’ll hold close for years to come. 

Interested in joining us on our next retreat? Join the waitlist! Click here!