Barcelona, Picasso's mistress

Nature and the sublime have been the muse for artists and poets for hundreds of years, and now holidaymakers are being given the chance to go and experience the destinations that inspired some of the world's greatest painters.

Earlier in May this year, Pablo Picasso's Mistress became the second most expensive painting ever to be sold at auction, after it was picked up for a cool £51.5 million.

This year it is also the 125th anniversary of the cubist painter, and VFB Holidays is giving travellers the chance to take a break in Barcelona, where he created many of his works.

To commemorate his birth, a number of special exhibitions have been organised in Barcelona, most notably one focussing on his Mediterranean works.

The holiday, including entry to the Picasso exhibitions, means art lovers can enjoy some of Pablo's finest works, as well as enjoying the rest of the rich artistic endeavours Barcelona has to offer, including the architectural masterpieces of Gaudi.

Between July and October, a three-day trip starts from £235 per person, and includes two nights' accommodation in a city centre hotel, direct flights and entry into the Picasso museum and the Mediterranean exhibition.

Or if it is impressionism you are keener on, a holiday in Giverny could be in order. This small French village is renowned for being the home-town of Claude Monet and being the back-drop of many of his paintings.

During a four-day break there, holiday-makers can gain an insight into the great painter's mind, visiting his old home and gardens. Here you can see the bridge and water lilies which he was famous for capturing with his brush.

Between May and the end of October, a four-day break starts from £117 per person, which includes three nights in a local hotel, return Channel crossings and entry into the Museum of American Art, which holds many depictions of the local pastoral landscapes.

More information on these holidays and others can be found at www.vfbholidays.co.uk XXX