The Fairytale Comes True at Last! (part 2)

This is a continuation of my report on our plein air adventure with a home base at this castle in France. Read part 1 here.

On the evening of Day 4 the castle chef had the night off, so we had dinner at a beautiful riverside restaurant in Creyssac. On the way home I noticed a stunning view across the field, so we painted there the next morning, on Day 5. It was one of my favorite locations.

Morning Fields in Creyssac, 10 x 14 original watercolor, painted en plein air in France. SOLD

There were also some non-painters in the group who chose to go to Riberac Market that morning. Here are some photos from that location:

On Day 6 we started the morning painting a simple countryside scene at the foot of the drive heading up to the castle. It was an absolutely beautiful morning to be painting outdoors. I showed participants some tips and tricks for loosening up and painting fresh and free in watercolor. Everyone loved the simplicity of painting just countryside (see my notes on painting in Switzerland next summer!).

(I love the French countryside so much! Jeff and I also set up our easels along the roadside one morning before the workshop began. This is my little painting overlooking the walnut groves near Montgrier.)

Walnut Grove and Village outside Montgrier, 10 x 14 original watercolor, painted en plein air in France.

We spent the afternoon traipsing around Perigeux, the largest city in the region. It was pouring rain, so we took refuge in a beautiful cathedral and didn't get to paint. But the city was inspiring and I will definitely be back.

Then it was back to the castle for a final critique of each day's work, one last meal in the big dining room, and one more royal sleep in our posh rooms.

Only a handful of those who joined me on this adventure were already my students and good friends, while the majority I was meeting here at the castle for the first time. But here's the castle's (and the group's) real magic: We may have started out as strangers, but we left as treasured friends.

What people are saying:

Being with you and the group in France was a highlight for me. Thank you so much for organizing that adventure. -- Nancy S.

Miss it all! [My husband] asked, "When are we going again?!" -- Laurlyn B.

My girls had the BEST time in France with you! Thanks for such a great experience!!
​-- Tiffany R.

​What a wonderful group! Thanks to Miles...for sharing this spectacular home. And Jana and Jeff...we felt privileged to share this week. -- Tani B.

​I can't say thank you enough for creating a dream come true for us! -- Julie S.

...This adventure was beyond all expectations...I learned so much, on so many levels (much thanks to you) and it is all living in my heart and hopefully will be in practice.
​-- Phyllis B.