Lotta’s Åland Workshop & Nature Retreats 2026
I am so delighted to be able to invite you to my yearly Workshop and Nature retreat located where I was born – on the Åland Islands in Scandinavia. Join me for this very special opportunity to experience my paradise; immerse yourself in nature, make with your hands and enjoy the calm and natural beauty.
REGISTRATION OPENS 10 AM. EST. NOV. 16 2025.
Week 1: June 27 - July 1, 2026
Week 2: July 6 - July 11, 2026
We have our own private island all to ourselves in the Åland archipelago. You have time to create, explore, swim in the brackish ocean, take saunas under the midnight sun, hike, kayak, make lovely things with your hands and meet new interesting and creative friends from all over the world and simply ‘be’ in this rather special and gorgeous part of the world.
We will spend time in the barn exploring different techniques using watercolors, pens and inks. We will create marks and motifs, stamp on paper and stencil on fabric. I will share my approach and my simple printing techniques and demos, but most importantly I will support you to explore and play.
A good part of our days will be spent in nature gathering colors, thoughts and inspiration. I will take you on a journey that will connect you to the land and to the moment, encouraging you to be present in all the calm here in the beautiful Åland Archipelago, on the rocks, by the ocean.
This retreat celebrates the process rather than perfect results and absolute beginners and seasoned artists are all welcome…no prior skills are necessary.
“I had a fantastic time, the environment was so peaceful and awe-inspiring. The food was delicious and prepared with such care.”
— Sarah
“I wanted to stay forever, this was the best experience I have treated myself to; a very complete, once in a lifetime adventure.”
— Megan
“I had a wonderful time. I met some wonderful people and learned some lifelong lessons.”
— Charlotte
The Magic of Åland
Åland is my very special place, a secret little gem In Scandinavia. This is where I find calm, peace of mind and so much inspiration for my organic designs, patterns and motifs.I am so happy that I can share my “island” with you. Join me to experience this magical place and this unique retreat. We will create a memory for life—I promise!
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
The archipelago of Åland lies in between Sweden and Finland and is made up of over 6000 islands and ‘skerries’. The islands are officially demilitarized, with no military or naval bases, they are also neutralized, meaning they must remain outside of military conflicts - the islands of peace ! We will be staying on our own private island, called Silverskär, a completely private 40-acre island in the Åland archipelago. Silverskär used to be a working farm with cows and pigs, and has been fully converted to a unique and comfortable homestay, with the old barn and the main house, and some charming cottages.
THE FLAVORS OF SILVERSKÄR
We will enjoy meals that are prepared exclusively for us by the most talented and passionate chefs who only use fresh and local, and mostly organic ingredients, often grown on the little farm on Silverskär. Fish is caught by hand in the ocean that surrounds us, berries and mushrooms harvested by locals and neighbors. and yes, of course they are happy to accommodate any special diets, in the most delicious way—You will not be disappointed. Their food is truly amazing and a very big part of this experience.
“This experience was beyond all my expectations in so many ways. This is such a beautiful and unique place for exploring creativity. The food food was outstanding and Lotta is the most entertaining host and such an adorable, authentic and relatable teacher.”
— Penelope
“This workshop celebrates the process rather than perfect results and absolute beginners and seasoned artists are all welcome.”
— Lotta
“This experience was so beautiful, refreshing, rejuvenating and emotional.”
— Janeth
“I found such a supportive and collaborative community, everyone was so supportive and generous.”
— Alice
TWO ITINERARIES
Summer 2026 retreats feels really exciting for me. I am adding fresh perspectives, activities and projects to my workshops which feels so good. We will work with watercolors and inks and explore mark making. We will spend more time in nature to collect shapes, colors and ideas and I will also share prompts and we will do some writing as well. Of course, we are still going to block print on paper and stencil on fabric! I invited two of my favorite creative people to share their techniques and inspiration for one day. They are the nicest and sparkly people and I am certain you will really like them too.
Week One: renowned book artist Rachel Hazell will teach us to bind our own special art book, that will be filled with our visual memories and inspiration. Rachel visited my first ever retreat at Silverskär 10 years ago and I am so, so thrilled that she is coming back. I cannot wait for all of you to meet her and for us to make our own special books together. www.thetravellingbookbinder.com
Week Two: Dietlind Vander Schaaf is not only an accomplished artist, she is a lovely yoga teacher. During this week she will share her passion for abstract art making with us for a day of exploration with drawing oils and pencils. She is also going to lead her wonderful yoga sessions on the dock every morning (weather permitting ). This is the third time Dietlind will join me at Silverskär and I am so tickled that she keeps coming back; lucky, lucky us! www.dietlindvanderschaaf.com
Note: in week 2 we will also have a half day field trip, we will visit my sweet, scrappy summer atelje and shop. I will also take you to some of my special spots in my village Vårdö where I live.
ITINERARIES
WEEK 1
-
You will board the ferry in Stockholm, Sweden early in the morning and after a gorgeous 5 hour journey through the archipelago you will arrive in Mariehamn, Åland ( part of Finland ) We will be there to pick you up in our bus and we will head back to Silverskär (about a 45 minute bus ride followed by another little boat ride )
After you have settled into your room there will be a welcome toast and dinner and of course, the will be sauna is on if you are ready for an after dinner bath.
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
Today we are going to gather inspiration & collect collect thoughts and materials from nature .We are also spending time in the barn making marks , exploring and play
10am we will start with the Workshop in the barn with Lotta.
Lunch is served at 1pm daily, buffet style. At 2 pm we will continue Lotta’s workshop in the barn.
After our buffet dinner at 7pm, you will enjoy free time (sauna or jacuzzi, if you want!) or spend some studio time in the barn or take an evening stroll around the island.
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
10am. We will start with the Workshop in the barn with Lotta. We are going to carve and stamp with blocks.
Lunch is served at 1pm daily, buffet style.
At 2 pm and we will stencil on fabric in the barn
After our buffet dinner at 7pm, you will enjoy free time (sauna or jacuzzi, if you want!) or spend some studio time in the barn or take an evening stroll around the island.
-
At 10am, after breakfast, we will meet in the barn for a morning workshop with Rachel. Together we are going to make our own special art book
After lunch at 2 pm, Rachel and Lotta will be back in the barn to continue workshopping with you, problem solve, share inspiration ideas, and maybe do a skip or two.
7 pm, our 3 course dinner starts .
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Breakfast between 7:30am–9am, after which you can enjoy a few more hours of free, precious time on the island before our bus leaves around 10:30am. On the way to the ferry that departs at 14:25pm in Mariehamn we will make a quick stop at my dear friend Judy ‘s studio and shop, she is a keramik artist and make many lovely things. We will also visit a few more shops in Mariehamn.
WEEK 2
-
You will board the ferry in Stockholm, Sweden early in the morning and after a gorgeous 5 hour journey through the archipelago you will arrive in Mariehamn, Åland ( part of Finland ) We will be there to pick you up in our bus and we will head back to Silverskär (about a 45 minute bus ride followed by another little boat ride )
After you have settled into your room there will be a welcome toast and a three course sit down dinner and of course, the will be sauna is on if you are ready for an after dinner bath.
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
8am Dietlind will lead a yoga session on the dock
Today we are going to gather inspiration & collect collect thoughts and materials from nature .We are also spending time in the barn making marks , exploring and play
10am we will start with the Workshop in the barn with Lotta.
Lunch is served at 1pm daily, buffet style. At 2 pm we will continue Lotta’s workshop in the barn.
After buffet style dinner at 7pm, you will enjoy free time (sauna or jacuzzi, if you want!) or spend some studio time in the barn making
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
8am Dietlind will lead a yoga session on the dock
After breakfast, at 10 am Lotta will host a morning session in the barn .
Buffet style dinner is at 7pm
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
8am Dietlind will lead a yoga session on the dock
After breakfast and yoga we will take off for our field trip. We will visit Mia, a ceramic artist and spot the medieval castle. We will go to my village where I live , visit a very special, small flea market and we will spend some time in my scrappy studio. We will have a small packed lunch with us and we plan to be back at Silverskär in time for dinner.
-
Breakfast is served everyday in between 7:30am - 9:30am
8am Dietlind will lead a yoga session on the dock
At 10am we will meet in the barn for a morning workshop with Dietlind
Lunch is at 1pm.
At 2 pm Dietlind and Lotta will be back in the barn to continue workshopping with you, problem solve, share inspiration ideas, and maybe do a skip or two.
7 pm, our 3 course dinner starts .
-
Breakfast between 7:30am–9am, after which you can enjoy a few more hours of free, precious time on the island before our bus leaves around 10:30am. On the way to the ferry that departs at 14:25pm in Mariehamn we will make a quick stop at my dear friend Judy ‘s studio and shop, she is a keramik artist and make many lovely things. We will also visit a few more shops in Mariehamn before we baord the ferry
Retreat Pricing
Week 1
June 27 -July 1, 2026 / $4390 USD
Week 2
July 6 - 11, 2026 / $5190 USD
Workshop Pricing
PRICES INCLUDE
Prices are based on double occupancy and shared bathrooms. A limited number of private rooms with private bathrooms available for $500.
Participation in the print workshop, meals, lodging, and transportation beginning and ending in Stockholm, Sweden. Airfare is not included. No children under 16 years for safety reasons.
BRINGING A FRIEND?
Significant sweeties, family members and other special people are so very much welcome to join us on Silverskär, even if they do not want to participate in the Print Workshop. Tours, golf and fishing trips can be arranged for an additional fee. You can add your friend on your registration form.
Additional Guest Fee:
Week 1: June 27 - July 1, 2026 / $3,650 USD
Week 2: July 6 - July 11, 2026 / $4,250 USD
Policies
We are really looking forward to Lotta’s Åland Print Workshop Retreat (AWR) and having you be a part of this unique opportunity to visit Lotta’s homeland with us.
Please note: Because the AWR involves advanced preparation of materials, catering, and instruction, and because there are expenses associated with planning for each guest, this workshop is non-refundable. Please plan thoughtfully to avoid any confusion or scheduling conflicts before you register.
TERMS AND PAYMENTS
A non-refundable deposit for each person of USD$1700 is due upon registration
This payment secures your place in the workshop. Invoices will be sent via PayPal, and all credit card fees will be waived for the deposit.
Final payment of USD$2,690 for Week One ( 27 June - 1 July ) and USD$3,490 for Week Two ( 6-11 July ) is due by February 1. 2026.
Final payment for guests:USD$1,950 for Week One ( 27 June - 1 July ) and USD$2,550 for Week Two ( 6-11 July ) is also due by February 1.2026
Invoices will be sent via PayPal, and all credit card fee of US$110 will be added for each person.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Any cancellations must be made in writing and are effective upon receipt. Lotta Jansdotter will do everything we can to find a replacement if dire circumstances prevent you from attended AWR. If this is possible, we will be happy to refund your fee, less US$650 and any fees associated with the refund, OR roll over your full registration to the next available workshop. Please note that if a replacement cannot be secured, the workshop is fully non-refundable. Lotta Jansdotter does not guarantee that a replacement will be found.
CANCELLATION BY LOTTA JANSDOTTER
Lotta Jansdotter reserves the right to cancel AWR at any time for any reason, including if there are too few participants, or if the quality of the trip or the safety of travelers is assessed by Lotta Jansdotter, in our sole discretion, to be compromised. In such cases, a refund of payments received by Lotta Jansdotter shall constitute full and final settlement. Lotta Jansdotter is not responsible for any loss incurred on account of non-refundable or non-transferable air tickets. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Please make sure you can make it and have read the workshop description throughly before you register. If you have any questions before registration feel free to contact us: workshop@jansdotter.com
THE FINE PRINT
The terms “LJ” “we” and “our” refer to Lotta Jansdotter, a USA corporation, which offers and will operate the Aland Workshop Retreat “AWR” listed herein. This trip is offered subject to LJ’s terms and conditions. Please read the terms and conditions carefully prior to completing your registration. Some of these terms and conditions are set out below to draw your attention to the fact that our obligations to you are limited.
Once the trip begins, we will do everything possible to ensure your enjoyment, and we rely on you to tell us if something is not working. We look forward to a successful workshop retreat together, and we hope that you sit back, relax and get ready for a lovely experience.
TRAVELER RESPONSIBILITY
All travelers assume the responsibility to ensure the workshop is appropriate to their physical abilities and interests. Travelers are responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake their trip; for obtaining the appropriate medical and cancellation insurance; for studying all pre-departure information; and for acting in a manner considerate of fellow travelers and the countries visited. Travelers assume full responsibility for all risks, including (but not limited to) any loss, injury, death or damage to them, their family or their dependents arising in connection with their participation, or the participation of their family, in the trips, and for ensuring that they have adequate insurance coverage to cover any loss.
TRAVEL RISK
Any form of travel contains inherent risks and medical facilities and services may not be easily accessible. There are other risks associated with the trip, such as theft or loss of or damage to property. Some of the services provided in connection with AWR, including lodging, transportation, food service, and activities, are obtained from independent suppliers over whom LJ has no control.
Although LJ endeavors to choose appropriate independent suppliers to provide its services, LJ has no right to control their operations and therefore makes travel arrangements for the trips on the condition that LJ will not be liable for any act or omission of any independent supplier or any unrelated third party. The services provided by independent suppliers are subject to the laws of the place where the services are provided, and any conditions imposed by those suppliers. The liability of the independent suppliers may be limited by their tariffs, conditions of carriage, tickets and vouchers, and international conventions and agreements.
Travelers further agree that they will indemnify and hold LJ harmless in respect of any claims arising in connection with the trip made by: i) third parties, which arise from the misconduct of the travelers; ii) the traveler’s family members, dependents or heirs, iii) third parties, which the traveler, their estate, their family members, dependents or heirs have sued, if damages are recovered from such third parties, to the extent the third party obtains any indemnification from LJ; except where the loss, injury, death or damage is caused by the reckless or fraudulent conduct on the part of LJ, or their employees, guides, shareholders, officers or directors.
LJ reserves the right to decline accepting or retaining any traveler whose health or actions in LJ’s sole judgment impede the operation of a trip or the welfare or enjoyment of fellow travelers.
Please contact us here with any questions! workshop@jansdotter.com
Helpful Information
WHAT TO BRING
an open heart, a curious mind, a friendly smile, willing hands and a twinkle in your eye. And, åh, come hungry!
WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND
umbrellas, shampoo, hairdryer
FERRY
The ferry to Åland leaves from Stockholm, Sweden. Your ferry ticket to and from Åland is included in the fee. We will send you detailed information regarding where, and what time the ferry departs with your registration packet that you will receive in an email after you have paid the final payment on Feb 1. 2025. The ferry is quite large and onboard you can enjoy shopping, spa treatments, eating, meet up with fellow Workshop peeps or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views
MEALS
Once you arrive at Silverskär, all meals will be provided. Meals at Silverskär consist of a breakfast buffet, lunch and 3-course dinners of fresh and local cuisine. you are going to love this food. Special diets can be accommodated, so please let us know.
Alcohol is not included with meals, however wine with dinner and other alcohol can be purchased at Silverskär. You will settle your drink bill at the end of your stay with a credit card. Coffee for fika is included however, and can be enjoyed at any time (actually you will find that fika is incredibly important)
CLASS NOTES
Lotta’s Print workshop will be taught in English and is an introduction to three different simple basic, yet effective print techniques. The emphasis is put on the process, learning by doing, playing & experimenting with materials, shapes and colors. We will mainly be working on smaller projects, and are not able to delve into advanced printing methods and more more complex pattern repeats at this time.
WEATHER
The weather in Åland in July is usually quite mild, with highs around 62-70f/17-21c and lows around 54f/12c and an average of 18 hours of sun! It doesn’t tend to rain too often, but it can. We recommend bringing comfortable clothing – we’ll be conducting our workshops in the old barn, but will also be spending time outside! Please note that there are no air conditioners in the rooms.
ADDITIONAL GUESTS
Significant others, aunts, best friends and other special ones are welcome to join us on the retreat, however no children under 16 at this time for safety reasons. There are several activities to do on the island if they do not want to partake in the Print Workshop (fishing tours for an example).
WIFI
Wifi is available in the main house.
MATERIALS
All materials and supplies in the Print workshop are included, except for printing blocks detailed information will be included in your registration packet that will be emailed to you shortly after you register and paid your deposit.
RETREAT CANCELLATIONS
Each of these retreats involves advanced planning and preparation of many people, staff, supplies, and several means of transportation. In order to proceed with each workshop 20 participants are needed. In the unlikely event that we do not have enough participants we reserve the right to consolidate the workshops / and or cancel. We will notify you of any changes or cancellations by February 15, 2026.
