Experience the Timeless Beauty of Tuscany...
Art Retreat in the Heart of Tuscany
Immerse yourself in the beauty, culture and countryside of Tuscany on this exclusive art retreat hosted by renowned wildlife artist Sarah Stokes.
Your home for the week will be the beautiful Ebbio, a lovingly restored 13th-century Tuscan farmhouse reserved exclusively for our guests. Nestled within an ancient evergreen forest on the slopes of an extinct volcano overlooking the medieval walled village of Monteriggioni, Ebbio offers a truly peaceful setting where nature, creativity and authentic Tuscan hospitality come together.
Surrounded by olive groves, herb gardens and rolling countryside, Ebbio is a place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Lovingly restored with traditional stone walls, terracotta floors and rustic charm, the farmhouse blends historic character with simple comfort. The family who own Ebbio continue to farm the surrounding land organically, producing many of the ingredients used in the delicious home-made vegetarian meals served during your stay. On several days throughout the retreat we'll also dine in carefully selected local restaurants, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Tuscan meat, fish or vegetarian dishes, allowing you to experience the wonderful variety of the region's cuisine. For one wonderful week, this tranquil corner of Tuscany will be exclusively ours.
Whether you're travelling on your own or with a friend or partner, you'll soon feel part of a welcoming group brought together by a shared love of wildlife and art.
Throughout the week, Sarah and the supporting team will guide you through a series of wildlife painting projects inspired by Tuscany itself. Full details of the programme will be announced soon, but subjects are expected to include the striking European bee-eater and one of the region's beautiful deer species. With three experienced artists on hand throughout the retreat, there will be plenty of individual guidance, encouragement and support, whatever your level of experience.
Alongside the painting sessions, you'll also discover some of Tuscany's most iconic places. Enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent city of Siena, just a short drive away, visit the famous hilltop town of San Gimignano with its medieval towers and artisan shops, and spend an evening exploring the beautifully preserved walled village of Monteriggioni before enjoying dinner together within its ancient walls.
Designed to balance creativity with relaxation, there will also be plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Ebbio. Relax beside the swimming pool if the weather allows, wander through the gardens, enjoy a glass of local wine beneath the shaded pergola or simply find a quiet corner to sketch while soaking up the sights, sounds and scents of the Tuscan countryside.
Ebbio is located just a short walk from Monteriggioni, around 15 minutes from Siena and approximately 45 minutes from Florence Airport. A return group transfer from Florence Airport is included, making your arrival and departure as straightforward as possible. This retreat is subject to minimum participant numbers, but with lots of people already on the waiting list, we are confident it will be very popular.
With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, wonderful food and warm Italian hospitality, Tuscany has inspired artists for centuries. We hope you'll join Sarah and the team for a memorable week of wildlife art, creativity and friendship in one of Italy's most beautiful regions.
Tuscany Art Retreat Itinerary
Take a look at what awaits you during this wonderful week in Tuscany. From inspiring wildlife art tuition and time to develop your skills, to exploring medieval towns, enjoying delicious Italian food and soaking up the beauty of the countryside, every day has been carefully designed to offer the perfect balance of creativity, culture and relaxation.
Whether you're an experienced artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, Sarah Stokes and the supporting team will be on hand throughout the week, providing plenty of individual guidance, encouragement and inspiration in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Please note that the itinerary may be subject to minor changes due to local conditions or operational requirements.
Day One
Guests will be met at Florence Airport and Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station (fixed timings) and transferred to Ebbio. Transfer Time Approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival, guests can settle into their rooms, explore the beautiful grounds and enjoy their first taste of Tuscan hospitality. Evening Welcome drinks Introduction to the week with Sarah Stokes and the Olive & Plum team Overview of workshops and excursions Dinner at Ebbio.
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Day three
Painting & Siena
Morning Wildlife Art Workshop
Continue your wildlife painting with Sarah.
Morning refreshments.
Vegetarian Lunch At Ebbio.
Afternoon Painting Session
Continue painting before heading out later in the day.
Afternoon & Evening – Siena
Depart after lunch for Siena.
Enjoy a guided walking tour of this magnificent medieval city before having free time to explore, browse the shops or simply soak up the atmosphere.
Your choice of dining experience is free for you to select whilst in Siena and so is not included.
Day five
Painting & San Gimignano
Morning Wildlife Art Workshop
Morning refreshments.
Vegetarian lunch at Ebbio.
Afternoon Wildlife Art Workshop
Continue painting before heading out.
Late Afternoon & Evening – San Gimignano
Depart at approximately 4.00pm.
Spend the evening discovering the famous medieval towers, artisan shops and beautiful piazzas before enjoying dinner together in this UNESCO World Heritage town.
Return to Ebbio.
Day seven
Final Painting Day & Gallery Evening
Morning Wildlife Art Workshop
A final opportunity to complete your paintings and receive individual feedback from Sarah.
Morning refreshments.
Lunch at Ebbio.
Afternoon
Time to add the finishing touches and prepare artwork for the evening.
Gallery Evening & Celebration Dinner
Our final evening celebrates everything achieved during the week.
Guests will display a selection of their favourite artwork before enjoying a farewell dinner together, reflecting on a wonderful week of creativity, friendship and discovering Tuscany.
Day Two
Following breakfast, we'll begin our first full day by discovering the beautiful surroundings of Ebbio. Nestled within an ancient evergreen forest and overlooking the medieval village of Monteriggioni, the property is surrounded by olive groves, herb gardens and rolling Tuscan countryside. Enjoy a gentle walk through the grounds and nearby landscape, taking time to appreciate the local wildlife, birds, butterflies and native flora that make this such an inspiring setting for artists.
Returning to the studio, Sarah will introduce the first wildlife subject of the week, with demonstrations, expert tuition and plenty of individual guidance. Sharon Gibson will also be on hand throughout the day, offering encouragement and one-to-one support to help you develop your painting, whatever your level of experience.
Lunch at Ebbio
Enjoy a delicious home-cooked vegetarian lunch prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients, many of which are grown on the farm.
Afternoon Wildlife Art Workshop
Continue developing your first painting while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Ebbio and its beautiful surroundings.
Evening – Vegetarian Dinner at Ebbio.
Day four
A Day to Create
A full day dedicated entirely to wildlife art.
Morning and afternoon painting sessions with Sarah, supported throughout by Sharon Gibson.
Morning refreshments.
Vegetarian lunch at Ebbio
Evening – Monteriggioni
In the early evening, there will be the opportunity to enjoy an optional leisurely walk into the enchanting walled village of Monteriggioni, one of Tuscany's best-preserved medieval towns. For those who prefer, transport will also be available. Spend time exploring the charming cobbled streets, browsing artisan shops or relaxing with an aperitivo before enjoying dinner together within the ancient walls. Afterwards, we'll return to Ebbio for a relaxing evening.
Day six
A Day to Paint
A full day devoted entirely to wildlife art.
With uninterrupted time at the easel, Sarah will guide guests through the next stage of their wildlife paintings while Sharon provides plenty of individual support and feedback.
Morning refreshments.
Lunch at Ebbio.
Evening – Meal at Ebbio.
Day eight
Breakfast A final breakfast at Ebbio before departure. Transfers Transfers will be provided to: Florence Airport (approximately 1 hour) Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station (approximately 1 hour)
The art experience of a lifetime
Throughout the week, renowned wildlife artist Sarah Stokes will lead a series of inspiring wildlife painting sessions, sharing her techniques through demonstrations, step-by-step tuition and plenty of practical advice. Sarah will be supported throughout the retreat by artist Sharon Gibson, who will be on hand to offer individual guidance, encouragement and assistance, ensuring everyone receives plenty of personal attention as they develop their skills.
Painting sessions will take place in a spacious room withinEbbio or, weather permitting, beautiful outdoors where you'll paint beneath the Tuscan sky surrounded by centuries-old stone buildings. With only a handful of carefully planned excursions during the week, there will be plenty of dedicated time to relax, paint and fully immerse yourself in the creative experience.
Inspired by the wildlife of Tuscany, Sarah has designed a programme centred around a carefully selected collection of subjects, expected to include the vibrant European bee-eater and one of the region's graceful deer species. Working primarily in watercolour and charcoal, with other media introduced where appropriate, Sarah will guide you through each project, helping you develop confidence while improving your understanding of colour, tone, texture and the distinctive characteristics of wildlife.
Whether you're joining us as a complete beginner or already have experience, you'll be encouraged to work at your own pace in a friendly and supportive environment. By the end of the week, you'll head home with a collection of artwork, new techniques and lasting memories of a wonderful week spent painting in the heart of Tuscany.
On our final evening, we'll celebrate the week's achievements with a relaxed gallery evening, where everyone will have the opportunity to display their artwork, reflect on their progress and enjoy seeing the wonderful variety of work created throughout the retreat.
During this inspiring wildlife art retreat, Sarah will guide you through a range of techniques designed to help build both your confidence and artistic skills. While the final programme is still being developed, you can expect to explore topics such as:
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Developing accurate drawing and observation skills.
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Understanding shape, tone, colour and composition.
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Learning Sarah's approach to painting wildlife in watercolour, charcoal and other selected media.
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Creating convincing textures, from feathers and fur to natural landscapes.
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Building confidence with colour mixing, brushwork and mark-making.
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Simplifying complex subjects into manageable, enjoyable stages.
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Capturing the character, movement and personality of wildlife.
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Adding depth, atmosphere and natural backgrounds to your paintings.
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Working from high-quality reference photographs to create finished wildlife artwork.
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Receiving individual feedback and guidance to help you develop your own artistic style.
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The final painting programme and wildlife subjects will be announced nearer the retreat.
Exclusive Use of a Beautiful 13th-Century Tuscan Farmhouse
Lovingly restored from a 13th-century Tuscan farmhouse, Ebbio is nestled amongst olive groves, herb gardens and ancient woodland overlooking the medieval walled village of Monteriggioni. Surrounded by the rolling hills of Tuscany, it offers a peaceful and inspiring setting where nature, creativity and authentic Italian hospitality come together.
Built from traditional local stone, the farmhouse retains all of its original character, with thick stone walls and terracotta floors keeping the house naturally cool during warm autumn days and cosy in the evenings. Every room reflects the family's passion for beauty, art and thoughtful design, while each window frames wonderful views across the Tuscan countryside.
As a sustainable organic farm, Ebbio grows many of the ingredients used in the delicious home-cooked vegetarian meals served throughout the week. Meals are enjoyed together beneath the shaded pergola, creating the perfect opportunity to relax, chat with fellow artists and embrace the slower pace of Tuscan life. During several of our excursions we'll also dine in carefully selected local restaurants, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy traditional Tuscan meat, fish or vegetarian cuisine.
The spacious activity room on the ground floor will become our dedicated art studio for the week, while outside you'll find peaceful gardens, sunny terraces, comfortable lounges and a south facing patio.
With exclusive use of the entire property, you'll be free to truly make yourself at home. Relax beside the swimming pool, wander through the gardens, enjoy a glass of local wine beneath the pergola, find a quiet spot to sketch or simply soak up the peace and beauty of this very special corner of Tuscany.
Accommodation
Ebbio offers just eight individually designed bedrooms, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for our group. Each room has its own unique character, combining rustic Tuscan charm with comfortable modern facilities and beautiful views across the surrounding countryside, gardens or olive groves.
As Ebbio is a beautifully restored 13th-century farmhouse, guests should expect original architectural features throughout the property, including stone staircases, uneven floors, varying ceiling heights and traditional layouts that reflect the building's historic character. While this is very much part of Ebbio's charm, it may not be suitable for guests with mobility difficulties.
All bedrooms include:
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Private or shared bathroom (depending on room type)
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Comfortable beds with quality linens
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Traditional Tuscan furnishings
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
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Air conditioning available during the night when required
Private Double Rooms
Here you will find 4 private double rooms for sole occupancy, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of painting and exploring Tuscany. These rooms are ideal for couples, with non-participating partners welcome to join the retreat.
Rooms enjoy views over the olive groves, flower gardens, patios or rolling Tuscan hills, with several featuring spacious layouts and large windows that fill the rooms with natural light.
Twin Shared Rooms
Pepe and Timo are offered exclusively as twin rooms for guests travelling together. These welcoming rooms overlook the flower gardens and surrounding countryside and share a bathroom between them.
Triple Room
Rosmarino offers flexible accommodation with two beds on the main level and a third bed on a mezzanine floor. Please note that access to the mezzanine is via a staircase and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Non-Residential Package
For guests who would prefer their own private accommodation, we are delighted to offer three non-residential places on the retreat. Stay in accommodation of your choice in the nearby medieval town of Monteriggioni or the surrounding area, then simply make your own way to Ebbio each day. This option offers greater flexibility while allowing you to enjoy the full retreat experience alongside the rest of the group.
The non residential package includes everything featured in the retreat except accommodation, airport transfers and breakfast. You'll join us each morning for the art workshops, enjoy all lunches at Ebbio, evening meals and excursions, tuition from Sarah and the team and all activities included within the itinerary.
This option is ideal for guests travelling with family or friends who are not taking part in the retreat, or for those who simply prefer the comfort and privacy of their own accommodation.
Please note: Only three non-residential places are available.
Private Double Room
£5,300 per person
Beautifully furnished in a traditional Tuscan style, these comfortable private double rooms are perfect for solo travellers or guests travelling with a non-participating partner. Each room provides a peaceful place to relax after a day of painting and exploring
Tuscany.
Shared Triple Room
£3895 per person
Beautifully furnished in a traditional Tuscan style, this comfortable triple room is ideal for solo travellers who are happy to be thoughtfully paired with other like-minded guests. With two beds on the main level and a third on the mezzanine, it provides a welcoming place to relax after a day of painting and exploring Tuscany.
Shared Twin Room
£4,500 per person
Beautifully furnished in a traditional Tuscan style, these comfortable twin rooms are ideal for friends travelling together or for solo travellers happy to be thoughtfully paired with another like-minded guest. The rooms share a bathroom and provide a welcoming place to relax after a day of painting and exploring Tuscany.
Non-residential Package
£2,495 per person
Ideal for guests who prefer their own private accommodation, our non-residential package allows you to stay nearby and make your own way to Ebbio each day. The package includes the full retreat programme, all art tuition, lunches, dinners and excursions, with accommodation and breakfast arranged independently.
The price of your Tuscany Wildlife Art Retreat includes seven nights' accommodation at the beautiful Ebbio, with exclusive use of this charming 13th-century Tuscan farmhouse throughout your stay.
Whether you're travelling on your own, with a friend, as a couple or choosing our non-residential package, you'll enjoy a wonderfully relaxed week combining expert wildlife art tuition, authentic Tuscan hospitality and visits to some of the region's most beautiful medieval towns.
Your Retreat Includes
Wildlife Art Tuition
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Daily wildlife art workshops, demonstrations and tuition with renowned wildlife artist Sarah Stokes.
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Personal support throughout the week from artist Sharon Gibson.
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Plenty of dedicated painting time in the beautiful surroundings of Ebbio.
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Access to a private WhatsApp group approximately two weeks before departure.
Accommodation
Residential Guests
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Seven nights' accommodation at Ebbio with exclusive use of the property.
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Choice of Private Double, Twin Shared or Triple Shared accommodation (subject to availability).
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Access to Ebbio's gardens, swimming pool, art studio and communal areas throughout your stay.
Non-Residential Guests
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Full participation in the retreat programme while staying in your own accommodation nearby.
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Access to Ebbio throughout each day for workshops, lunches and evening meals.
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Please note that accommodation and breakfast are not included and guests are responsible for making their own way to and from Ebbio each day as well as to and from the airport.
Food & Drink
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Daily breakfast (residential guests only).
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Light lunches on painting days (vegetarian).
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Tea and coffee during painting sessions.
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Welcome drinks on arrival.
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Dinner each evening, including:
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Dinner at Ebbio
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Group dinner in Monteriggioni.
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Group dinner in San Gimignano.
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Water, soft drinks and a selection of local wines served with evening meals.
Excursions
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Guided walking tour of Siena with an experienced local guide.
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Visit to the medieval hill town of San Gimignano.
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Evening visit to the beautifully preserved walled village of Monteriggioni.
Transfers
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Return group transfers between Florence Airport and Ebbio at the designated transfer times.
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Return group transfers between Florence Santa Maria Novella railway station and Ebbio at the designated transfer times.
Workshop Facilities
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Tables, chairs and basic workshop equipment.
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Use of water pots and paper towels during painting sessions.
Additional Information
If you have any dietary requirements, food allergies or intolerances, please let us know when booking so we can share this information with our Italian hosts well in advance of your arrival. As many meals are freshly prepared specifically for our group, we may not be able to accommodate dietary requests that are made or changed after you arrive.
While staying at Ebbio, meals are lovingly prepared using fresh, seasonal organic produce, much of it grown on the farm. The cuisine is entirely vegetarian, reflecting the ethos of the venue and providing healthy, nourishing meals throughout your stay. On selected days, as outlined in the itinerary, we'll dine in carefully chosen local restaurants where guests will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Tuscan meat, fish or vegetarian dishes.
Non-participating partners are very welcome to join the retreat and will enjoy everything included in the package except the wildlife art workshops and tuition.
Not Included
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Flights.
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Transfers outside the designated group transfer times.
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Travel insurance (mandatory).
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Meal in Siena- to enable guests to choose their own food and dining experience we are not including the meal in Siena.
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Art materials (a recommended materials list will be provided before the retreat).
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Alcoholic drinks and refreshments purchased outside those included within the programme.
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Personal expenses and souvenirs.
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Optional activities not listed within the itinerary.
Got any questions?
Location & Travel
Getting to Tuscany
The nearest airport is Florence Airport (FLR), approximately one hour from Borgo Gallinaio. We also offer collection from Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station for guests arriving by train.
For those travelling from elsewhere in Europe, Pisa International Airport (PSA) is approximately 90 minutes from the borgo and provides an excellent alternative. Guests arriving into Pisa will need to make their own way to Ebbio or to Florence to join the group transfer.
Included Transfers
A complimentary return group transfer is included from both Florence Airport and Florence Santa Maria Novella Railway Station at the designated transfer times on arrival and departure days.
Full transfer details, including recommended flight and train arrival times, will be provided once your booking is confirmed.
