Painting Holidays in Puglia

Nicknamed the heel of Italy, Puglia, in Italy’s warm south, offers a charming laid-back atmosphere. The sun-baked land is dotted with fortified castles and whitewashed trulli, Puglia’s distinctive conical-shaped dwellings, and carpeted with a silvery sea of ancient olive groves. It also has an incredibly rich natural larder. The area produces most of the country’s extra virgin olive oil, excellent full-bodied wines and is famous for intensely flavoured olives, almonds and figs. Other specialities include orecchiette pasta, seafood risotto, fava beans and burrata, the supremely creamy cheese similar to mozzarella. You won’t go hungry between your painting holiday sessions here in Puglia.

Sights to savour with your artistic eye include the turquoise sea and long sandy beaches, as well as 13th-century Swabian castle, the city of Lecce’s Baroque churches, the hillside views from Specchia and Otranto cathedral’s amazing mosaic floor, the work of a 12th-century monk. There’s plenty of inspiration for sketching and painting, with help and advice from our resident tutor.

Villa Ortelle is an stunning masseria situated in the heart of Ortelle, surrounded by tradition and history. Originally a 19th century farmhouse, that has been lovingly restored in the last few years and now is a stunning mix of traditional and modern – a perfect oasis to relax. The garden has been decorated with Mediterranean plants and flowers and the stone of Lecce is as always the main feature.

* Please note the itinerary is subject to change depending on the weather.