Although the Roman gods have been regulated to the pages of history, some think that they were too wise to stay there and, instead, retired to the only place on Earth that reminds them of their former kingdom – Tuscany. You may not catch a glimpse of Jupiter strolling with his queen, Juno, in the soft, pastel mists of a Tuscan morning, but once you’re here, you’ll understand why almost anything is possible.
It’s easy to think that some magic is responsible for the wondrous nature of a land that so easily and thoroughly blends history, culture and art. The forces that shaped this landscape are natural, however; and the special warmth of the people who have called Tuscany home for thousands of years creates a place that beckons and welcomes you to immerse yourself totally in its indescribable beauty.
Think of Tuscany as a “six-sense” travel experience. Your eyes will widen in response to the constant panoramas of nature and architecture; your nose will fill with the clean, perfumed air; your ears will vibrate with natural sounds and the joyous voices of the people; your touch will communicate the textures of a bountiful soil, the gnarled wood of venerable olive trees and the ages-old surfaces of finely worked stone; and your taste buds will explode with the flavors of the table and vineyard. Accenting it all is that undeniable sixth sense of the spirit that whispers in your mind that you are closer than you’ll ever be to perfection on Earth.
How do you enter this living painting, this realm of the Renaissance? Tuscan Muse will show you the way! World-renown for its premier Tuscan tours and photography and painting workshops, Tuscan Muse doesn’t just guide you through this work of reality in art, but finds a place for you in its awe-inspiring tapestry.
Your host is Linda Bass, who has followed her own creative muse to become a writer, watercolorist and musician, and is passionate about helping others find their muse among the gentle, rolling landscape and vibrant cities of Tuscany. Linda’s creative persona is in balance with her organizational skills, which has made Tuscan Muse’s tours some of the greatest adventures for travelers from anywhere in the world.
Yes, Linda will show you the grand attractions of Florence – the Cathedral and the churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce, the Pizzale Michelangelo and Palazzo Vecchio and the museums and galleries of the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi. Many Tuscan Muse tours also include Siena, with its town square, Piazza del Campo, the location of the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia. These and other architectural wonders in the center of Siena are all part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also visit spectacular mountain villages, ancient abbeys and the Tuscan coast. More importantly, however, Linda knows the places tourists are seldom seen, freeing you to experience these places as the residents do and to find unique vistas and subject matter for your photography and paintings.
Tuscan Muse has 5 tours scheduled for 2015.
- Holiday in Tuscany, May 26–June 6, is a general interest tour that will put you in touch with the heart of the region and its people.
- Best of Tuscany, September 10–20, is a special tour created from Tuscan Muse guests’ favorite places to visit and revel in the Tuscan lifestyle.
- Capturing Tuscany, May 14–24, is especially planned for photographers of all skill levels that will relish this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a travel photography portfolio like no other.
- Taking Tuscany, September 20–27, introduces photographers to the unique light of Tuscany during the fall. Both photography excursions included scheduled shooting locations as well as plenty of free time to photograph whatever inspires you.
- Colors of Tuscany, September 2–9, is a painting workshop that allows you to surrender to your muse and share the experience of Renaissance artists, as they sought the autumn light.
Linda Bass and Tuscan Muse also create custom tours for individuals, families, clubs, organizations and corporations that want truly unique and memorable corporate retreats. Tuscany is also the perfect location for weddings, anniversaries and reunions and Tuscan Muse will develop a special package of events and locations for these and any other occasion.
For complete information on pricing, accommodations and other details, and to book a 2015 tour, please visit tuscanmuse.com.