Take three.... creative escapes for autumn

Calling all creative types! Here's a top idea for an autumn break: combine a sightseeing trip to Florence with a painting or writing course in Tuscany.

Professional artists and authors are on hand at The Watermill at Posara, a beautifully restored 17th century grain, chestnut and olive mill (below) in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Book in for a week on one of their courses for lots of one-to-one tuition and top tips in a peaceful environment, then opt for a three-day trip to see beautiful Florence.

Prices start at £1,116 per person with an extra £585 for a Florence extension. Your stay at the Watermill includes seven nights' accommodation, pre-dinner aperitifs, all meals (including lunches and dinner with wine both at The Watermill and at charming local restaurants), local travel, transfers and a midweek sightseeing tour to either Lucca or the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera.

If you choose the Florence add-on, you'll have the personal service of a guide who'll show you the city's secret corners and hidden gems and 'must-see' sights. She will also organise entrance to free evening music concerts and reveal beautiful private gardens that are typically off-limits to the general public.


Budding artists should also check out some of the new painting holidays organised by Authentic Adventures, which offers courses all over the world, from Volcanic Sicily to Cuba, while photographers hoping to hone their skills will love the eight-day adventure in Essauira, Morocco, this October run by Creative Escapes.

Inspired? Check out our gallery below for more ideas to set your imagination free!

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Have you been on a creative adventure? Tell us your experiences below!