BOUTIQUE SMALL GROUP PACKAGE
Nicknamed the heel of Italy, Puglia in the warm south offers a laid-back charm with its sun-soaked landscape. This region is scattered with fortified castles, iconic whitewashed trulli—Puglia’s signature cone-shaped dwellings—and is blanketed by ancient olive groves shimmering like silver. Puglia boasts an incredibly rich bounty of natural produce, being the primary source of Italy’s extra virgin olive oil and renowned for its robust wines, flavorful olives, almonds, and figs. Local delicacies include orecchiette pasta, seafood risotto, fava beans, and the rich, creamy burrata cheese. You’ll be well-fed during your painting holiday sessions here in Puglia.
Inspiring sights for your artistic eye include the turquoise waters and long sandy beaches, the 13th-century Swabian castle, Lecce’s Baroque churches, the panoramic hillside views from Specchia, and the awe-inspiring mosaic floor at Otranto Cathedral, created by a 12th-century monk. There’s endless inspiration for sketching and painting, with guidance from our resident tutor.
The accomodation, Villa Ortelle, is a stunning masseria nestled in the heart of Ortelle and steeped in tradition and history. Once a 19th-century farmhouse, it has been beautifully restored in recent years, blending traditional and modern elements into a perfect retreat. The garden is adorned with Mediterranean plants and flowers, with the characteristic Lecce stone as its central feature, creating an oasis for relaxation.
Benvenuti! Welcome to Puglia! Upon arrival at the villa, you’ll settle in and meet your teacher, chef, and host. The afternoon is free to explore or relax before enjoying welcome drinks. Dinner will be prepared at the villa by your chef.
This morning, you’ll dive into your first sketching and painting session with your instructor. You’ll discuss the course outline, goals, and practice exercises to help you “see” like an artist. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to continue sketching or relax by the pool. Dinner will be served at the villa.
After breakfast, you’ll visit Specchia, a hilltop town with noble palaces, historic churches, and narrow streets. After a delicious lunch back at the villa, the afternoon will be spent honing your technique with your tutor. Dinner is prepared by your chef at the villa.
Begin the day with another painting lesson before lunch at the villa. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Castro for some sketching and exploration, ending with an aperitivo as you take in the local atmosphere. Dinner will be served back at the villa.
Following breakfast, you’ll continue developing your watercolour and drawing skills in a morning painting session. The afternoon is free to either paint or relax by the pool. Dinner will once again be prepared at the villa.
After breakfast, relax by the pool or work on your artwork before lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll head to Lecce for a walking tour of this Baroque gem, often called the “Florence of the South.” Enjoy some sightseeing and shopping before a delightful dinner at a local trattoria.
Spend your last full day finishing your artwork or relaxing at the villa. In the evening, there will be a special exhibition of your work for the group, followed by a farewell dinner prepared by your chef.
After breakfast, your transfer will take you to Brindisi Airport. Arrivederci!
| Starts | Ends | Price | Status | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/01/2025 | 31/12/2025 | On Request | On Request | Book Now |
Airfare and luggage charges
Meals other than those indicated, beverages in addition to the reasonable amount provided during meals
Travel insurance
Passport and other documentation fees
Items of a personal nature i.e. laundry, phone calls, mini bar etc, tipping and shopping
Single supplement (if required and if available)
Optional excursions/sightseeing
City Tax: some City Councils may introduce a tourist tax that has to be paid directly at the hotel
* Please note, price is subject to fluctuation and availability is subject to change until booked and confirmed. *