Join internationally renowned artist Lisa Audit for an intimate watercolor retreat set in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Designed for artists seeking both creative growth and deep inspiration, this retreat blends focused studio time with the beauty, culture, and rhythm of Italy.
A week of watercolor in the Tuscan countryside, set in a historic villa where mornings begin with coffee on the terrace. Days are built around a sequence of guided sessions — from the foundations of color and light to a finished composition of your own. The subjects are whatever the season opens that week.
Designed for painters with some watercolor in their hand already, the class meets you where you are and takes you further. By the closing gallery on the last evening, you’ll have a small body of finished pieces — ready to frame, ready to share.
The week begins with an overview of the projects and themes you’ll explore. Lisa introduces essential watercolor concepts—values, shadows, highlights, and color harmony—using inspiration drawn from Tuscan light and surroundings. You’ll warm up with loose sketches of olive branches, garden florals, terracotta pots, and soft hillside forms. This session also covers brush selection, palette setup, and color mixing to ensure a strong and confident start.
Using seasonal Tuscan foods or florals—such as figs, lemons, pears, fresh herbs, bread, or market flowers—you’ll paint a still life that reflects local life. The focus is on rendering form and volume, understanding light, and building layers of color gradually. Lisa will guide you step by step so each element develops clearly and cohesively.
You’ll gather natural elements from the villa grounds—wildflowers, leaves, olive sprigs, grasses, or seed pods—and create your own still life. This session emphasizes observation, simplification, and capturing the essence of organic forms. You’ll learn how to translate what you see into fresh, expressive watercolor marks.
This session introduces simple techniques for transferring images onto watercolor paper when working from printed references. You’ll explore more involved compositions, such as pairing a bird with florals inspired by Tuscan gardens and countryside. Lisa will demonstrate how to approach layered compositions calmly, painting one section at a time to maintain balance and flow.
The final session invites you to paint what inspired you most during the week—a hilltown view, vineyard landscape, botanical study, or still life of local cheese or wine. With Lisa’s guidance, you’ll complete your final painting and prepare it for a celebratory, gallery-style showing that evening, honoring your work and creative journey in Tuscany.
LISA AUDIT
Lisa Audit paints the way the Tuscan countryside looks at the edge of morning — loose, generous, alive with light. Her watercolors of botanicals and birds have been licensed onto tableware, textiles, and wallpaper sold around the world, but her studio life remains where it began: a small table, a palette, and whatever flower happened to open that week.
Trained in graphic design and art in Canada, Lisa spent three decades as one of the most-licensed artists in the home décor industry. In Tuscany, she returns to the practice that started it all — teaching the techniques she has used for thirty years, in the country that has informed her palette since long before this retreat existed.
“Being an artist isn’t what I do for a living, it’s simply how I am wired and how I naturally move through life.” — Lisa Audit
TUSCANY, ITALY
Tuscany is a region that seems painted by the very artists it has inspired for centuries. Rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, medieval towns perched on hilltops, and golden sunsets that set the countryside aglow all create an atmosphere that feels timeless. At its heart lies Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Here, every street feels like a canvas—ornate palaces, graceful bridges, and fresco-filled chapels weave together a story of creativity that shaped the course of history.
For those drawn to art, Tuscany is more than a destination; it’s a living studio. Imagine sketching in the shadow of Florence’s Duomo, painting in the quiet charm of hill towns like Cortona or Montepulciano, or finding inspiration in the gentle Tuscan light that has captivated artists for generations. Beyond the easel, days are enriched with local flavors—Chianti wine, hand-rolled pasta, and the warmth of Tuscan hospitality. Whether walking through world-famous galleries or letting the landscape guide your brushstrokes, an art retreat in Tuscany offers both a journey into history and an intimate connection with creativity itself.
Wander through the storybook landscapes of Tuscany with a journey to San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Siena. Begin in San Gimignano, where medieval towers rise above rolling vineyards, offering sweeping views and a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Continue to Monteriggioni, a perfectly preserved walled village where time seems to stand still, inviting you to stroll along its ancient stone pathways. In Siena, immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life as you explore its grand piazzas, Gothic architecture, and charming streets. Along the way, savor the beauty, history, and timeless allure that make this region so unforgettable.
Spend a day immersed in the quiet beauty of Tuscany as you journey through Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, and Montepulciano. Begin in Bagno Vignoni, a rare village centered around ancient thermal waters, where a steaming stone pool replaces the traditional town square. Continue to Pienza, a Renaissance gem known for its harmonious architecture and sweeping views of the Val d’Orcia, where every corner feels thoughtfully designed. End in Montepulciano, a hilltop town renowned for its exceptional wines, where winding streets lead to grand piazzas, historic cellars, and unforgettable vistas. It’s a day shaped by slow discovery, rich flavors, and the effortless elegance of the Tuscan countryside.
Step into the world of Tuscan winemaking with an immersive journey through the estate’s historic cellars and surrounding vineyards. Begin with a guided tour through the fermentation and storage spaces, where you’ll gain insight into each stage of the production process, before continuing into an underground cellar dating back to 1756, where red wines are aged in French oak barrels. The experience then moves to a tasting of five distinct wines—from crisp white and rosé to Chianti Riserva, Super Tuscan, and the sweet finish of Vin Santo—each paired with local specialties like bruschetta, cured meats, cheeses, and biscotti. End with a slow walk through the vineyards, where the beauty of the landscape brings the entire experience full circle.
Step into the kitchen of our villa for an immersive journey into Tuscan cuisine, where you’ll learn the techniques and traditions behind the region’s most beloved dishes. Begin with a hands-on experience guided by the hotel’s chef, preparing a full menu that includes seasonal appetizers, two first courses—featuring handmade pasta with a complementary sauce—and a classic Italian dessert. Along the way, gain insight into local ingredients, time-honored methods, and the art of creating simple, flavorful meals rooted in tradition. The experience then culminates as you sit down together to enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared, paired with local wines, savoring each course in a warm and inviting setting.
Please note: While the itinerary is carefully planned, we may adjust timing and details to ensure the best possible experience, based on local conditions and opportunities as they arise.
ITINERARY
BENVENUTI TO TUSCANY
Arrive at Florence Airport, where a private shuttle will greet you and carry you into the rolling countryside of Chianti. As the landscape shifts to vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads, you’ll arrive at your villa in Tuscany—a romantic historic residence with origins dating back to the 14th century, overlooking the green hills of the Chianti Valley. Settle into this charming retreat, where timeless architecture and sweeping views create a peaceful and inspiring place to land.
After time to unpack and unwind, gather for a relaxed welcome aperitivo. Enjoy a glass of local wine, light bites, and the soft glow of the Tuscan evening as the sun dips behind the hills. That night, join us for a traditional Tuscan welcome dinner celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage. During dessert, you’ll be officially welcomed, with a glimpse into the days ahead and the creative rhythm of the retreat—setting the tone for a memorable and meaningful week in Tuscany.
FOUNDATIONS IN WATERCOLOR
The first guided session begins after breakfast overlooking the Chianti hills—a foundations day. Lisa walks through brush selection, palette setup, and color mixing, then guides you into loose sketches of simple Tuscan objects: a terracotta pot, a lemon, or an olive on a branch. Easy shapes, in a loose style—an exploration of value, light, and color harmony before anything more involved. The focus is on feel, not finish—getting paint on the page and your eye into the work. The morning ends with a warmed-up hand and a few first sheets underway.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hotel, followed by free time to rest, continue painting, or unwind by the pool with a book, soaking in the peaceful surroundings or connecting with fellow artists. As the day winds down, gather again for a relaxed dinner on-site, where seasonal Tuscan dishes and local wines offer a perfect close to a day centered on creativity, inspiration, and settling into the experience.
MEDIEVAL TOWNS + TIMELESS STREETS
Set out for a day of exploration through three of Tuscany’s most captivating hill towns—Monteriggioni, Siena, and San Gimignano. Begin in Monteriggioni, a beautifully preserved walled village where time seems to stand still, inviting you to wander its quiet stone pathways and take in the surrounding countryside. Continue on to Siena, where you’ll have time to explore at your own pace—strolling through grand piazzas, browsing local shops, and enjoying lunch at a café or trattoria of your choosing.
In the afternoon, make your way to San Gimignano, where medieval towers rise above rolling vineyards, offering sweeping views and a glimpse into the region’s rich past. After time to wander its charming streets, return to the villa to relax and unwind, perhaps with a glass of wine or a quiet moment overlooking the hills. In the evening, gather back at the hotel for dinner, sharing stories from the day and settling into a slower pace after a full and inspiring journey through Tuscany.
LAYERED COMPOSITIONS + IMAGE TRANSFER
Begin the day with a peaceful moment to soak in the beauty of the Tuscan hillside—perhaps with a quiet coffee, a stroll past the olive groves, or simply taking in the morning views before gathering for your next art session. With Lisa’s guidance, you’ll explore more layered compositions using provided reference photos, learning simple techniques with tracing paper to transfer your images onto watercolor paper and build your painting with confidence, one thoughtful section at a time.
Pause for a leisurely lunch at the villa, then return to your work or continue exploring your composition at your own pace. In the afternoon, enjoy time to relax—whether that means lingering over your painting, unwinding by the pool with an aperitivo, or simply soaking in la dolce vita alongside fellow artists. As evening settles in, gather once more for dinner at the villa, where shared conversation and Tuscan flavors bring a gentle close to another inspiring day.
TUSCANY BEYOND THE VILLA
Venture into the heart of the Tuscan countryside for a day of discovery through Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, and Montepulciano. Begin in Bagno Vignoni, an extraordinary village built around ancient thermal waters, where a steaming pool takes the place of a traditional town square. Continue on to Pienza, a Renaissance treasure known for its balanced architecture and sweeping views over the Val d’Orcia, with time to explore, browse local shops, and enjoy lunch on your own.
Later, travel to Montepulciano, a picturesque hilltop town celebrated for its wines, where charming streets open into lively piazzas and scenic overlooks. After time to wander, return to the villa to rest and take in the peaceful surroundings. That evening, gather together for dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the day’s experiences and settling back into the relaxed rhythm of life in Tuscany.
NATURE STUDY + WINE EXPERIENCE
Settle into a peaceful morning at the villa with an Italian breakfast before gathering for an art session inspired by the natural beauty just outside your door. You’ll collect organic elements from the grounds—wildflowers, olive sprigs, leaves, grasses, or seed pods—and create a still life that captures the essence of the Tuscan landscape. This session focuses on observation, simplification, and translating what you see into fresh, expressive watercolor marks, with Lisa offering personal guidance to build confidence and trust your instincts.
After lunch at the villa, the art session will continue with time to reconnect with Lisa, refine your paintings, or add final touches at your own pace. Later, travel to a nearby vineyard for an immersive wine tasting experience. Tour the historic cellars, including an underground space dating back to 1756, before sampling a curated selection of wines paired with local specialties. Conclude with a gentle walk through the vineyards, then return to the villa for dinner, reflecting on a day rich with creativity, connection, and the flavors of Tuscany.
COMPOSITIONS + TUSCAN COOKING
Begin the day with a peaceful moment to soak in the beauty of the Tuscan hillside—perhaps with a quiet coffee, a stroll past the olive groves, or simply taking in the morning views before gathering for your next art session. With Lisa’s guidance, you’ll work from a photo you’ve taken during your stay or a simple sketch you’d like to develop into a painting, focusing on refining your composition, color, and values to create a piece you’ll be proud to frame at home or gift to someone special.
After lunch, return to the studio for continued time with Lisa to refine your work, ask questions, and add final touches. Later in the afternoon, step into the villa’s kitchen for a hands-on Tuscan cooking class led by the hotel’s chef, where you’ll prepare a menu of appetizers, fresh pasta, and dessert. That evening, enjoy the meal you’ve created together with local wines before gathering to share and celebrate each other’s artwork in a warm, gallery-style setting.
ONE LAST MORNING IN TUSCANY
Enjoy one final Italian breakfast at the villa, savoring fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, and a cappuccino or espresso as the morning light settles over the Chianti hills. Take time to linger on the terrace, stroll the grounds, or simply soak in the quiet beauty of this special place before your shuttle departs for Florence Airport later in the morning.
As you say your goodbyes, we send you off with heartfelt thanks for sharing your creativity, connection, and time with us. We hope you leave feeling inspired and refreshed, carrying with you lasting memories of Tuscany—and the creative journey you experienced with Crafted Roads.
Please note: While the itinerary is carefully planned, we may adjust timing and details to ensure the best possible experience, based on local conditions and opportunities as they arise.
ROOM + BOARD
A historic hillside villa in the Chianti countryside, set among olive groves and vineyards. The property dates to medieval times — stone terraces, garden paths, and rooms that open to the long view of the hills. From its elevated setting, the property overlooks rolling green hills, offering a peaceful and inspiring backdrop for your stay.
Stone terraces, garden paths, and panoramic views invite you to slow down and savor the rhythm of the countryside—whether with a morning espresso, an afternoon by the pool, or a quiet moment with a sketchbook in hand. Each day begins with a thoughtfully prepared Italian breakfast, while evenings bring you together around the table to enjoy seasonal Tuscan cuisine and local wines, grounding your experience in the rich flavors and traditions of the region.
Dining / Beverage
Food and wine are woven into every part of the retreat, offering a true taste of Tuscany’s rich culinary traditions. Each morning begins with an Italian breakfast featuring coffee, tea, fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, and a selection of local favorites to start the day at a relaxed pace.
All breakfasts and dinners are included, along with most lunches (all except select meals during excursions), whether enjoyed at the villa or out exploring the region. Highlights include a hands-on Tuscan cooking class, a guided wine tasting experience, memorable meals featuring seasonal ingredients, and a celebratory final dinner shared together.
Most dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. Guests may share dietary preferences at checkout. Menus vary seasonally.
Pricing is per guest. Couples sharing a room each book separately at the per-guest rate.
Standard Room
1 Guest
Superior Room
1 Guest
- Approx. 20 m² (215 ft²)
- One double bed
- Slightly larger guest room offering additional space to relax
- Classic Tuscan furnishings with unique architectural character
- Often features more open views of the Italian-style gardens or Chianti countryside
- Private bathroom with shower or bathtub
- Air conditioning, minibar, TV, and WiFi
- Located on either the ground or upper floors, rooms reflect the villa’s historic character with varied layouts and architectural details; views differ, and images may not represent the exact accommodation