Where is Villa Palagione?
Villa Palagione is
situated near the town of Volterra in Tuscany, Italy. 65km from Pisa and 50 km from Siena. The 400 year old villa is now a centre for cultural study offering courses in Italian language,
cooking and cultural tours. The villa was built in 1598, at the height of the Florentine dynasty of the Medici family and
has numerous large rooms and halls decorated with beautiful murals and frescoes. At the turn of the 20th century the estate was abandoned and the villa stood empty for many years. In 1986 a
group of Italian and German friends began a 10 year restoration, bringing the villa back to life. Three of the friends still own the property and Antonella & Moby live there.
They continue to run the villa as a ‘not for profit’ cultural centre: offering a range of courses which celebrate culture and creativity.
Please remember that Villa Palagione is not a luxury corporate hotel, it is actually someone’s home. It is a charming place full of character, with a warm heart, welcoming and friendly staff and it is truly unique. It is set in the most stunning location with far reaching views. It’s just over an hours drive from Pisa airport and the last 3km of road is unmade, so it is a bit bumpy - but absolutely worth it!
N.B There are a couple of cats around who spend most of their time sleeping on the sofa.
What is the food like?
The breakfast buffet consists of fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, cheeses, cold meats, pastries, juices, eggs and cake. The lunch will be a light lunch of salad, quiche or rice dish & dessert. Dinner is simple authentic Tuscan food with local specialities and served over four courses - a starter, pasta course, meat/fish & vegetables and then dessert.
Drinks are not included in the cost of the holiday - there is a bar where you can purchase reasonably priced hot and cold drinks and there is a selection of beers, soft drinks & wines available ( your bottle can be labelled and saved for the next meal). The hotel kindly ask that you do not bring your own alcohol.
There are no tea and coffee making facilities in rooms but you can buy great Italian coffee for about €2 and there will be 2 Coffee/tea breaks included on days at the venue . All dietary requirements are catered for including vegetarian and vegan. Please indicate your requirements when booking.
On one evening we will be having a Pizza night in a local pizzeria!
Do I need to be able to paint and draw?
Beginners are very welcome. The art holiday is a careful balance between learning new skills, socialising with like-minded people, relaxing in beautiful surroundings and
enjoying good food! Whether you are painting and sketching for the first time or are more experienced, the tutor (that's me) will be there to guide and support you in a range of activities.
Pam is a professional artist and tutor with over 25 years of experience who will offer techniques and tips to help you capture the essence of Tuscany. She is able to provide tutoring in
a variety of mediums including watercolour, acrylics and all drawing mediums.
What equipment will I need?
You will be sent a materials and equipment list, so you know exactly what to bring. However you don't need loads of stuff to be able to enjoy sketching and painting in this inspiring location. Some people may just want to work in a sketchbook, others may want to paint on canvasses. There are lots of locations at the villa, so you won't need to carry a load of equipment round with you. Suggested items could include a small sketchbook, a couple of drawing pens/pencils, a watercolour paints set and some brushes. Watercolour paper glued blocks are ideal as you don't need to stretch your paper. If you're working in acrylics you may like to bring some canvas boards, a selection of paints and some brushes. A lightweight board and clip on water pot would be ideal.
What is the accommodation like?
The rooms are
individually styled with traditional Tuscan furnishings. The rooms in the main (pink) villa are more elaborate with frescoed ceilings annd/or walls and the rooms in the Arcate
(cream) villa are simpler and have vaulted ceilings and wonderful views across the countryside. Please note there is no air conditioning but with shutters the rooms can be
kept quite cool. All rooms have a private bathroom: most are en-suite * 2 rooms have a private external bathroom. The atmosphere is friendly and informal. Guests travelling on their
own will still have a double room to themselves. If you're travelling with a friend and sharing a room this will be cheaper for you both. More information about rooms here.
Where will we be working?
The weather in
June is perfect for sketching and painting outside: days should be warm and sunny. The studio (in the cream villa) is a beautiful room, bright and spacious with a vaulted ceiling, big windows and views over the garden and
countryside. In front of the studio is a terrace should you choose to work outside. There is not much in the way of equipment as the couple of regular tutors have purchased and left their own
equipment there. Most people can manage without an easel but bringing your own small drawing board would be useful. A materials list will be sent nearer the time. There are many inspiring locations, including panoramic views, traditional rustic buildings, pretty courtyards and formal gardens - something for everyone! We
will also take two excursions: one to Volterra and one to an other town to be confirmed.
What's the weather like?
The weather in
June is perfect for sketching and painting outside: days should be warm and sunny. Temperatures are usually in the mid 20’s but can sometimes be higher and the pool should be a
very pleasant temperature. If it's warm enough we will be eating outside, but it's useful to bring a jumper or shawl if the evenings are cooler.
Where is the nearest village?
The villa
itself is quite isolated. There is a 3km bumpy gravel road which leads up to the villa. The nearest town is Volterra, a medieval walled town with piazza and Palazzo. There are also Etruscan
and Roman ruins here. Step back in time and stroll down the narrow streets of the historical centre; taste typical products and visit the craft shops to see hand-made alabaster
souvenirs, which Volterra is famous for.
Is there WiFi?
Yes there is WiFi at the Villa but it is a historic building and this is rural Tuscany! Most guests haven't found a problem with the
wifi.
Will I have any free time?
Yes, Painting and sketching activities will be planned for the mornings and early afternoons leaving you with
a few hours for relaxation. You can choose to continue with your work or take time out to relax, walk, swim or rest! There will be 2 excursions, with some sketching in the
morning and some free time to explore.
Can I use the swimming pool?
Yes the swimming pool has stunning views and is a pleasant place to swim or somewhere to relax on a comfy lounger with a glass of wine
or a good book. The swimming pool is accessed via two sets of steps. There is a small charge for a pool towel.