The Cove Art Retreat
Westport, ON
Winter 2026 Retreat • Thursday, January 8th to Sunday, January 11th (2 studio days, 3 x breakfast/lunch/dinner)
Summer 2026 Retreat • Sunday, August 16 to Saturday, August 22 (5 studio days, 6 x breakfast/lunch/dinner)
The Cove Inn has a reputation for supporting local businesses, artists, live music entertainment, and has proven to be an exceptional host for a one of a kind art retreat experience.
My focus is on your unique creative journey. You'll receive personalized, one-on-one guidance tailored to your needs, whether you're starting a new piece or pushing an existing one further. This isn't a classroom; it's a supportive space where you can create at your own pace, with expert help always on hand. Open Studio is a time for personal projects and requests with demos and instruction on demand. There will be unfettered guidance, critiques, drawing, painting in your chosen medium, mixed media expertise, and delight in the process of creation with wings to fly!
As you dive into your work, you’ll be surrounded by amazing music, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. The atmosphere is relaxed and inspiring, inviting you to share ideas, laugh with fellow artists, nurture and build connections that go beyond the canvas.
Come as you are, bring your vision, and let's create something beautiful together at The Cove.
Winter Art Retreat
Thank you all for your open hearts and generous spirits. I truly cherished the time we spent together. Your unique contributions and unwavering support in bringing my vision to life were invaluable. I was deeply impressed by the energy and momentum in the room, and I am incredibly pleased with the diverse and inspiring work produced. Whether you followed the provided variations or forged your own path, your creativity was truly inspiring.
SUMMER ART RETREAT
The Historic Cove Inn
The Cove Inn is known as one of the grand old houses in Westport. Family owned, this gorgeous 150-year-old vintage hotel is a special place for local residents & visitors alike to enjoy great food, comfortable accommodations, the best in live entertainment … and we are taking it over for the most amazing week of creating!
Accomodations
There are 10 rooms with one queen bed. There is a shared room with two doubles. All rooms have a fridge and air-conditioning. Please contact The Cove Inn to book your room: https://coveinn.com/hotel-rooms/
Studio View
The Meeting Room aka ‘The Cove Studio’ overlooks Westport Pond. North-facing windows bring in natural light to the air-conditioned room, set up with a table and chair per person, plenty of room, and daily service of Food/Snacks + Drinks for breaks.
MEALS
We start our days together with a European family style breakfast in the restaurant (coffee, juice, oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, bread, meat, cheese, fruit and yoghurt).
A full sit-down lunch and dinner in the restaurant including main, soup or salad and dessert for dinner are included daily at a reserved table on the patio. Striploin orders are $20 extra.
You can view the current menu here https://coveinn.com/dining/ note the menu changes each season.
Amenities
Free Parking & Wifi
Air Conditioning
Outdoor waterside property spaces to enjoy and create en plein air
Full-Service Restaurant and Bar with Patio
BYOB to stash in your room’s mini fridge. Note: alcohol consumed while dining at lunch and dinner must be purchased at the restaurant.
Live Music Every Night
Group spaces to read, play games, socialize
Westport Location
The Village of Westport is a beautiful artsy, rural town, steeped in heritage. With wonderful shops, access to the Upper Rideau Lake waterfront, and Foley Mountain Conservation area, all just outside The Cove Inn’s doorstep!
Easy to get to from Ottawa, Brockville, Belleville, Kingston. Less than 4 hours from Toronto West end.
Summer SCHEDULE
Arrive on the Sunday in the afternoon by 3pm to check-in.
Reserved Parking: Fredenburgh property, 23 Main Street
Open Studio Workshop, Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm
Mornings begin with an inspiring featured artist, exercise and/or demonstration.
Leave on the Saturday after lunch (check out of rooms by 11am) note, we are in the studio for that final morning, for a group meeting, final touches, and packing up.
Summer 2025 Art Retreat Registration
Fees & responsibilities
$800 per person for daily instruction and studio rental.
Payable to Sharlena via e-transfer sharlenawood@gmail.com, 50% to reserve your registration, balance due August 1, 2025
This is the first step to securing your spot in the retreat!Accommodations and meals are $300 x 6 nights (+ HST) per person, payable to and booked with The Cove Inn directly. A credit card on file is required to hold your reservation and room choice. Total payment will be charged during the week before check-in.
Gratuity for hospitality room service and meals can be added electronically or you can bring cash just like staying at a resort.
MAX 12 artists
You are responsible for your own travel, art materials/easel, studio goals, communication and respectful conduct at all times.
note: 2026 rates may be adjusted by the new year.
Winter SCHEDULE
Arrive on Thursday in the afternoon by 3pm to check-in.
Reserved Parking: Fredenburgh property, 23 Main Street
Guided Workshop, Friday and Saturday, 9am-4pm
Theme: Shadows, Colourful tints, tones and shades
Leave on the Sunday after lunch (check out of rooms by 11am) note, we are in the studio for that final morning, for a group meeting, final touches, and packing up.
Winter 2026 Art Retreat Registration
Fees & responsibilities
$350 per person for daily instruction and studio rental.
Payable to Sharlena via e-transfer sharlenawood@gmail.com, 50% to reserve your registration, balance due December 1, 2025
This is the first step to securing your spot in the retreat!Accommodations and meals are $300 x 3 nights (+ HST) per person, payable to and booked with The Cove Inn directly. A credit card on file is required to hold your reservation and room choice. Total payment will be charged during the week before check-in.
Gratuity for hospitality room service and meals can be added electronically or you can bring cash just like staying at a resort.
MAX 12 artists
You are responsible for your own travel, art materials/easel, studio goals, communication and respectful conduct at all times.
To receive a refund of your deposit (minus an $80 administrative fee, which is 20% of the deposit), please cancel at least two months before the retreat begins. Cancellations made after this deadline will not be eligible for refunds or credits. We are unable to make exceptions to this policy. If you are unable to attend after the cancellation deadline, we suggest trying to find someone to take your place.
Contact to add your name to the waiting list for Summer 2025 retreat
or to register for:
Winter 2026 Art Retreat • Jan 8-11
Summer 2026 Art Retreat • Aug 16-22