Exclusive Art Trip Le Marche: Slow Down, Create & Breathe
A 5-day creative experience during the Italian late summer
Price: €945 per person
Set against the backdrop of our rolling hills, just a stone’s throw from the Adriatic Sea, we invite you on a unique journey. This is no ordinary vacation, but a rejuvenating experience where art, nature, and authentic Italian life come together.
Whether you’ve been painting for years or are picking up a brush for the first time, this journey invites you to slow down and let your creativity run free. Together, we’ll experiment with watercolor, sketching, drawing, and stamping at the most inspiring locations in Le Marche.
Learning from the Masters of Milan
During these days, you will receive intensive guidance from professional instructors at the renowned Scuola Superiore d’Arte Applicata del Castello Sforzesco in Milan.
A rich tradition dating back to 1882. Founded during a period of social enlightenment, this school opened its doors to make quality education accessible to everyone. Today, it is a close-knit community of people who share a passion for artistic craftsmanship. It is a practice-oriented school where classical and modern visual languages converge and contribute to personal growth and balance. An inspiring safe haven for experimentation.
Theme for 2026: “When Ascul was Ascul, Roma was pascul!”
(Translation: When Ascoli was already a city, Rome was still just a meadow!)
Rome is known worldwide as the Eternal City, but long before the Romans left their mark on the world, Ascoli Piceno was already thriving. The Piceni, a mysterious Italic people from the 8th to the 6th century B.C., made this region great. They were known as brave warriors, but they were also exceptional artisans, seafarers, and skilled farmers who transformed this region into the breadbasket of the Roman Empire.
Their traditions, their deep understanding of the seasons, and their love for the land still live on here today. The landscape of Le Marche—with its patchwork of farmland, quiet roads, and unspoiled nature—gently compels you to slow down. It’s the ideal setting to nourish the spirit, sketch on location, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 1 – Wednesday, September 23: Welcome to Le Marche
Starting at 4:00 p.m.: Arrival and check-in at our Agriturismo
Starting at 7:00 p.m.: Meet the other participants and enjoy a welcome cocktail in the historic center of Offida,
Day 2 – Thursday, September 24: Cupra Marittima & The Beach
We’ll start the day with a visit to the archaeological excavations in the Cupra Marittima Nature Park, beautifully situated with a view of the sea. Following the recent discovery of the Basilica of Vitruvius in Fano, archaeologists hope to confirm the existence of the temple dedicated to the goddess Cupra here. It’s an inspiring place to make your first sketches.
After the visit, we’ll head to the coast. There, we’ll enjoy lunch by the sea, where beach chairs and umbrellas will be waiting for us to relax, followed by a creative painting session in the afternoon.
Day 3 – Friday, September 25: From Offida to Cossignano (One Large Wine Region)
Offida lends its name to the local DOCG wines of the Piceno region, including the well-known Pecorino and Passerina. The straight lines of the vineyards form a beautiful contrast with the rolling hills and offer a breathtaking view that stretches from the Adriatic coast to the Sibillini Mountains and the striking silhouette of Monte Ascensione.
We’ll take a walking tour of Offida (about 1.5 hours) to find inspiring spots and subjects for our sketches. Afterward, we’ll travel to one of the most beautiful wineries in the area, where we’ll experiment with the unique “vinarelli” technique (painting with wine). (Did you know that both Offida and Cossignano were founded by the ancient Piceni?)
Day 4 – Saturday, September 26: Ascoli Piceno (The City of Travertine)
Ascoli Piceno’s rich history is evident throughout the historic center, which is built almost entirely of gleaming travertine. We explore the city and take a journey from antiquity to the present day.
Lunch will be served at an exceptional, green location: the Frida Art Academy. This green oasis offers a delightful respite from the summer afternoon heat. Lunch will be provided by an excellent local restaurant in Ascoli that uses high-quality seasonal ingredients. There’s plenty to choose from among the local delicacies. After the lunch break, once the temperature has cooled down a bit, the main painting session will begin.
Day 5 – Sunday, September 27: Closing Ceremony
Time for one last Italian espresso together to share memories and “see you next time” to say instead of goodbye. End of the program.
Practical Information
Investment: €945 per person
What is included in the package?
- 4 nights of your choice in a luxury glamping tent (4 people), the Oliva apartment (2 people), the Fico apartment (4 people), or the Ripa B&B room for two.
Guided tour of Ascoli Piceno.
Guided tour of the “Civita” archaeological park in Cupra Marittima.
A walking tour of Offida and admission to the attractions listed.
3 days of intensive art workshops led by professional instructors.
3 lunches, 1 welcome cocktail, and 1 dinner.
Travel medical insurance and on-site professional support (available in English and Dutch).
Includes a complete art kit (valued at €90): a watercolor set with 12 pigments, a starter set of 9 brushes, 4 loose sheets of watercolor paper (28×38 cm, 300g), a spiral-bound XL watercolor sketchbook (300g), and a set of high-quality colored pencils.
What is not included?
Transportation to and between the locations (unless otherwise agreed), personal expenses, and other meals.
Would you like to treat yourself to an unforgettable blend of art, culture, and relaxation this late summer?
YES, I'D LIKE TO JOIN AND FILL OUT THE FORM