Ken and I moved to Italy in 2006, having sold up in England, to make a full life here in Cocconato. We are very well integrated into the local community, taking part in many local activities. In fact I have been adopted as the “Pittrice Cocconatese– the local artist”. We have made many good Italian friends here, which has helped us to feel at home and absorb the Italian way of life. We are constantly exploring the surrounding towns and villages and the local back roads. Subsequently we have gained a great deal of knowledge about the geography and history of the area and the people.

We speak fluent Italian and have translated 3 booklets about the castles churches and parks in the area into English for the Asti tourist board. All of this provides an experience and knowledge of the area that will ensure that you will have a welcoming and interesting stay.

I exhibit and sell my work both locally and in many galleries in northern Italy.

In 2010 I was asked to paint two banners for the palio (historic games) of a town in Tuscany and in 2011 was also asked to paint a new banner for the Cocconato comune (town Hall) to represent their palio here and abroad.

We have a large garden and enjoy growing vegetables enabling us to provide lovely fresh produce for lunches and dinners cooked by Ken during your stay here.

We aim to provide a homely and friendly welcome where you are sharing our home with us rather than being a “hotel guest”. We eat all of our meals together and enjoy long evenings talking, sipping wine and enjoying each other’s company. Many of our guests come on their own but immediately feel at home in our relaxed atmosphere.

The messages below that our guests have left will I hope give you a flavour of what we can offer.

“Not only have you fed me excellent food ( and drink) but you have acted as a tour guide and your local knowledge and circle of Italian friends has given the holiday that extra personal touch which I am sure I would no have received elsewhere” Bert.

“What a wonderful holiday we had, so much over and above the “Painting holiday” idea – hospitality, beautiful surroundings, top facilities, home cooked and home grown food served beautifully with all the wine and drinks you could possibly want. Then the outings- a wealth of knowledge of the area, the routes, the back lanes, the best views…” Chloe.

“Joy and Ken have looked after us so well – delicious meals, glasses of vino and good company; a really marvellous holiday” Frances