Sketch & Stroll
A week of looking, sketching and creating a visual travel diary
Under the guidance of contemporary figurative painter and teacher Philine van der Vegte, you start the creative journey indoors, where you learn how to build a sketch, how to work with composition, color, light-dark and perspective - all at your own level. Then we move into the city, into the medina of Fez, with its narrow streets, lively markets and hidden squares. There you will learn how to approach drawing and painting outdoors: quickly, loosely, and yet thoughtfully.
When:
Check in: 05 April 2026
Check out: 12 April 2026
Price:
€ 890 - shared room (max 2)
€ 250 - single room surcharge
Under the guidance of contemporary figurative painter and teacher Philine van der Vegte, you start the creative journey indoors, where you learn how to build a sketch, how to work with composition, color, light-dark and perspective - all at your own level. Then we move into the city, into the medina of Fez, with its narrow streets, lively markets and hidden squares. There you will learn how to approach drawing and painting outdoors: quickly, loosely, and yet thoughtfully.
When:
Check in: 05 April 2026
Check out: 12 April 2026
Price:
€ 890 - shared room (max 2)
€ 250 - single room surcharge
Meet Philine van der Vegte
Retreat Leader - Sketch & Stroll
philinevandervegte.com
Workshops conducted in Dutch & English
philinevandervegte.com
Workshops conducted in Dutch & English
Philine van der Vegte is a contemporary figurative painter who lives and works on a former dairy farm in the vast Waterland in North Holland. In her work she explores the relationship between humans and animals, often in large paintings of animals, portraits and landscapes.
Although she works primarily with oil paint, outdoor sketching is an essential part of her practice. Wherever she travels, her sketchbook and watercolor box are always at hand. She seeks the freshness and spontaneity of a quick observation – and later transfers this to her larger works in the studio.
Although she works primarily with oil paint, outdoor sketching is an essential part of her practice. Wherever she travels, her sketchbook and watercolor box are always at hand. She seeks the freshness and spontaneity of a quick observation – and later transfers this to her larger works in the studio.
Retreat Overview
What the Week Looks Like
Every day we fill our sketchbooks with small impressions: a door, a market stall, a vista, an encounter. We capture the atmosphere of the city with pen and watercolor. At the end of the week you will have a bound journal full of memories - a personal report in images and color of your adventure in Fez.
A typical day might include:
Every day we fill our sketchbooks with small impressions: a door, a market stall, a vista, an encounter. We capture the atmosphere of the city with pen and watercolor. At the end of the week you will have a bound journal full of memories - a personal report in images and color of your adventure in Fez.
A typical day might include:
- A morning wandering through the old city and sketching on location
- Shared lunch in the courtyard or roof terrace
- Free time to paint, write, nap or wander
- Relaxing dinner with the group or a quiet evening for yourself
What Makes this Week so Special
This retreat is designed to nourish both your creativity and your spirit. From hands-on art sessions to moments of quiet reflection and cultural discovery, here are some of the things that make this week at Dar Drouj so unique.
Creative Inspiration
Enjoy daily creative sessions in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere where you can paint, sketch, and experiment using a variety of materials. There's no pressure to finish anything - it’s about process over product.
Be Inspired by Fez
From intricate tiles to vibrant market colours, Fez offers endless visual inspiration. Outside the studio, you'll wander the medina, soak up its textures and energy, and find space to breathe, rest, and reconnect with your creative flow.
A Place to Call Home
Stay in Dar Drouj, a lovingly restored 14th-century home in the heart of the medina. With peaceful corners, a light-filled atrium, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, the house offers comfort, calm, and space to create. Meals are shared, conversations flow easily, and inspiration is always close by.
What You’ll Be Part Of
Each of our retreats includes your stay at Dar Drouj, daily workshops, materials, Moroccan meals, and cultural excursions - all designed to support your creative flow.
- Stay in Our Unique 14th-Century HouseEverything is taken care of so you can focus completely on your creative process. Enjoy a restful and inspiring stay in a beautifully restored home, filled with traditional Moroccan details.
- Group EnergyCreating together enhances both your work and your experience. Share ideas, get inspired by others, and enjoy the unique connection that comes from making art side by side.
- Intensive Creative WorkshopsOn five of the seven days, you'll take part in 2-4 hour workshops led by Rogier Oversteegen. You'll explore a variety of techniques and styles, from painting to mixed media - with plenty of space for experimentation and play.
- Cultural ExperiencesAlongside your creative sessions, you'll have the opportunity to experience Moroccan culture through curated local excursions and special activities. Jennifer will guide you to some of her favourite hidden spots in and around Fez.
- LocationDar Drouj is located in the historic city of Fez, surrounded by vibrant energy and colourful souks. The house is filled with handcrafted details - from mosaics to carved woodwork - and offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere that invites reflection and creativity from the moment you walk in.
- Personal GuidanceRogier offers individual support and thoughtful feedback, creating a space where you can explore freely, refine your skills, and deepen your personal connection to your work. His gentle guidance helps you grow with confidence, wherever you are in your artistic journey.
Moments from Past Retreats
From shared meals and quiet moments to workshops, walks, and spontaneous laughter — these photos capture the heart of what makes our retreats unforgettable. Every guest brings their own spark, and every week tells a new story.
Reserve your spot today
Join us in the heart of Fez, where the magic of storytelling meets the enchantment of Morocco. Embrace the transformative power of writing, discover new depths of your creativity, and create unforgettable memories. We look forward to welcoming you to Dar Drouj.
Dar Drouj, Derb Drouj
10 Gzira Fes-el Bali
Fez Morocco
Jennifer (host) +31652335901
Dar Drouj, Derb Drouj
10 Gzira Fes-el Bali
Fez Morocco
Jennifer (host) +31652335901
