About our painting holidays
Enjoy a different kind of painting holiday in the south of France. Vacations for painters and non painting partners.
A new kind of painting holiday
A painting holiday with a difference, join us for a bespoke experience in the south of France. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, Paint Sospel can tailor your painting holiday to suit you.
Valerie Walsh, the woman behind Paint Sospel, loves to paint. She also loves to relax, read, sight-see, go for long walks and even longer lunches. Traditional painting holidays have always put her off because of their formal schedule and huge tuition costs. So she created Paint Sospel to be a different kind of experience. She provides the accommodation, delicious food and advice on local wine, contact with local artists, painting materials and 40 years of local knowledge. Perfect for painters and non painting partners alike, you are free to decide where and how you want to spend your days, and if and when you want tuition.
An artist's home and studio in the cathedral square, Sospel
THE VILLAGE
Sospel is a beautiful medieval village, nestled in the Provence Alpes Côtes d'Azure. Less than an hour from Nice and a short bus ride from the beaches of Menton, this sleepy and traditional village remains largely undiscovered by tourists. With narrow winding streets and ancient stone fountains, there is something to inspire the artist at every turn. Its quiet secluded nature means you will find many picturesque spots to draw and paint undisturbed. But we recommend finding a favourite shady table at one of the many bars along the river and observing authentic village life. We guarantee you'll soon be one of the locals.
Valerie's painting table, overlooking the valley from one of the bedrooms
THE LIFESTYLE
When you come on a painting holiday with Paint Sospel, Valerie wants to share the same experience she and her family have when they come to this special place. Total freedom to come and go as you please, with no strict schedule. As well as painting you'll have time to relax and enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather, walk the local hiking trails and treat yourself to the delicious local cuisine in the numerous restaurants just a short stroll away in the village. The most special thing about the life Valerie's family has built here is the space to really enjoy the serenity and the natural beauty of the scenery. You'll love it as they do.
A peek inside a local Sospel artist's studio
The ARTISTs
A painting holiday wouldn't be complete without the opportunity to learn and develop your skills. Luckily Sospel has a rich community of local artists with studios and galleries to visit. Visiting artists include:
Full details of the artists will be published in due course, until then if you have any questions about available artists please get in touch.
A view of the terraced gardens surrounding the house.