Wine Country

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Art

In such beautiful and memorable surroundings even the least artistically inclined want to take brush to paper. Villa Stella can organise courses for most levels (beginners to improvers) and offer the chance to paint some of the breathtaking natural landscapes that are around every corner. Here is an approximate course schedule:-

Duration of lessons are 4 hours, and within a weeks stay we suggest 3 lessons spread out on days 2, 4 and 6. Mornings or afternoons as preferred. Classes are conducted around the grounds of Villa Stella, the surrounding landscapes will be the art subject matter in either watercolours or pencils, although oils can be covered if specifically requested. The focus will be on how to select a vista, how to best prepare the paints, how to combine colours and tones, how to crop, use dominance and layer effects using lines, shapes and textures to add structure and interest. Also to become aware as you work, of the size relationships and perspective.

One of the lessons will focus on still life and will be held within our function room, otherwise outside in the covered portico. This will be a drawing of local produce - either in season fruits or local wild flowers.

We can supply art materials as needed, but we suggest you bring your own easel and any special seating.

Your art teacher is Marco Bregolato, born in Turin, he now lives in Arezzo. A fluent English speaker, Marco has an art degree from the European Institute of Design in Turin. When he's not taking art classes or working on his own paintings, Marco is an Illustrator, he has been integral to many major TV and movie projects throughout Italy having won several design awards for his artistic talents.

***All courses can be tailored to the particular group's requirements, costs are dependant on course numbers and duration. Our classes are designed to be informative and fun ways to complement your holiday experience, and as such are taught in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Sightseeing / history

Shopping - The Designer Outlets

As well as the superb sightseeing, if you feel clearly, the holiday has been far too cheap - Well... Just an hour away is enough shopping to keep anyone with credit card withdrawal symptoms in spend heaven...

Prada

Localita Levanella, Montevarchi Tel +39 (0)55 91 901 Mon-Sat 9.30-7, Sun 2-9.

Prada's outlet has far more stock in a greater range of sizes than any other factory store. This huge warehouse shop sells shoes, bags, sunglasses and lots of clothing by Miu Miu, Helmut Lang Jil Sander as well as Prada. Get there when it opens as they don't re-stock during the day and queues form at mid morning.

The Mall

Via Europa 8, Leccio Reggello Tel + 39 (0) 55 865 7775 Mon-Sat 10-7, Sun 3-7.

The Mall is just that -  a small strip of shops in an unlikely location (you would never ever stumble across) on the edge of a country road. Gucci, Armani, Serghio Rossi, and Yves Saint Laurent are next to one another to name but a few. There's also a stylish cafe in the neighbouring building if it all gets too much!

Getting There

Although it's possible to take public transport (train to Montevarchi for Prada or Incisa for The Mall and then a taxi), it's much easier to drive.

For Prada get onto the A1 motorway and exit at Valdarno. Turn right after the toll onto the SS69 and follow directions for Arezzo and Montevarchi. Drive through the centre of Montevarchi till you reach the suburb of Lavenella, past the AGIP petrol station on the right. Shortly after the petrol station, where an overhead sign indicates the end of Montevarchi, turn left at the traffic lights and drive round the back of a large, single storey grey warehouse with a jagged roof, and you're there.

For the Mall, again get onto the A1 as above, but exit at Incisa. After the toll, turn right and head towards Pontassieve. The Mall is signposted all the way.

From Villa Stella allow a good hour and a quarter journey time... Happy spending!..

Bike riding

There are bicycles at the Villa for guests' enjoyment, but for the more serious cyclist we have a deal with a local cycle shop who can provide a variety of bikes and back up support for day trips in and around the region. The rolling countryside is ideal for cycling and we can organise end of day pick up points for those of you who might like to get to a destination stop for a meal and a glass or two of wine and afterwards be collected by mini van and brought back to the villa at the end of the day.

Weekend Breaks & Special Occasions 

For very special occasions the entire property can be reserved, and our on site professional kitchen and reception building is ideal for functions from cookery classes to wedding parties.