ART TOSCANA IN SICILY

Our 2012 holidays are located in the North West part of Sicily, an area which features the Island's most breathtaking beaches and countryside. Here in the vast grape growing region of Sicily protected by three mountain ranges sits the little town of Buseto Piazzolo where our guests will stay in the luxurious villa ‘La Costa’.

Buseto Piazzolo is perfectly situated for visiting the beautiful Tonnara at Scopello, the fascinating salt marshes and windmills of Trapani and the historic hilltop town of Erice. Let me tell you more about the painting venues you will visit:

The beach at Scopello with the grandeur of the Tonnara is one of the most important historic estates in Sicily. The ancient fishermans’ lodgings enclosed by perimeter walls are located around a small bay beneath the town of Scopello. Painting in this environment is a magical experience. The clarity of light, colours of the sea, and historic architecture are paintings waiting to be celebrated. We are adding the Tonnara Scopello to ‘The Seven Wonders of the World’.

Trapani is as beautiful situated on a strip of land that goes into the sea bounded by Mount Erice. It boast the oldest salt marshes in Europe and prides itself in retaining many of the windmills which once were used to drain the water from the basins.

The historic hilltop town of Erice is perched on the top of Mount Eryx about 750 metres above sea level. It has retained much of its medieval character including part of the original city wall, a Norman Castle, and stone paved streets.

Non-painters are most welcome. There are many activities available from walking, cycling, water sports, fishing and of course visiting archeological sites. Just let us know what you would like to do and we will try to arrange it for you.

On your free day you may wish to take a boat trip along the Zingaro Nature Reserve, or visit the Greek temple at Segesta, or even venture to Palermo.

Christopher Bell and Tony Philips will be tutoring these courses.