Inspiration

Artful Escapes

7 unique spots for the art travellers’ bucket list.

For art lovers seeking to get away and slow down while still enjoying the thrill of discovery, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

This guide shares some of the most inspiring destinations where contemporary art meets natural splendour and cultural depth. These unique locations combine cutting-edge creativity with moments of tranquillity, offering a perfect balance for those who want to immerse themselves in beauty, savour the moment, and leave feeling both inspired and refreshed.

From a serene sculpture park, to vibrant art island, these destinations are designed for those who want to escape the ordinary and experience contemporary art and local culture at a slower, more rejuvenating pace.

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Benesse House, Naoshima · © Tomio Ohashi

"Life is art. Art is life. I never separate it."

— Al Weiwei

1. Jupiter Artland (Edinburgh, Scotland)

Just outside Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland offers a serene escape, blending contemporary art with Scotland’s breathtaking countryside. Spread across 120 acres of meadows, woodlands, and galleries, this award-winning sculpture park is a paradise for art and nature lovers.

Discover permanent works by renowned artists like Anish Kapoor, Antony Gormley, Cornelia Parker, Tracey Emin, and Phyllida Barlow, thoughtfully integrated into the landscape. Seasonal exhibitions showcase emerging and established talent, with each installation feeling like a hidden treasure, making Jupiter Artland a uniquely immersive experience.

After your visit, explore Edinburgh’s historic Old Town or iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, or for a memorable stay, book The Artist’s House, a cosy cottage in the park that sleeps up to six.

Sustainability and Accessibility : Reopening on 11th April 2025, Jupiter Artland is just 25 minutes from Edinburgh and easily accessible by car, bus, bike, or train – allowing for both eco-friendly and accessible travel. While the park offers a disabled car park, some terrain may be challenging for wheelchair users, so contact ahead for details.

 

2. Fondation Louis Vuitton (Paris, France)

Fondation Louis Vuitton is a haven for art lovers seeking a more intimate experience away from the bustle of central Paris and the grandeur of the Louvre. Just a short metro ride from the Paris Gare du Nord (Eurostar), it strikes the perfect balance between inspiration and tranquillity.

Set in the lush Bois de Boulogne, the Fondation is both a haven for contemporary art and a modern architectural marvel.  Designed by Frank Gehry, its sail-like glass panels create a mesmerising interplay of light and shadow, while inside, exhibitions blend modern masters with cutting-edge contemporary works for a dynamic cultural experience.

After exploring the exhibitions, unwind at their fine dining restaurant, or step out to enjoy Paris at your own pace. Stroll through the Bois de Boulogne parks, explore Montmartre’s vibrant art scene, or indulge in a treat at a local patisserie.

Sustainability and Accessibility : Travel to Paris via Eurostar and use the metro or rent a bike to explore sustainably. Disabled visitors and their companions enjoy free and priority entry, dedicated hours, and free cultural guides.

Inhotim, Brazil · © Inhotim

Cydne Jasmin Colby, Installation View · Tern Gallery, Nassau, Bahamas · © Tern Gallery

3. Es Baluard Museu d’Art Contemporani de Palma (Palma, Mallorca)

Perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art seamlessly blends art, history, and natural beauty. Housed in a restored 16th-century fortress, its unique architecture combines historic charm with modern design, creating an inspiring setting for its exhibitions.

Located on the historic bastion of Sant Pere, the museum celebrates Mediterranean culture with a collection spanning sculpture, painting, and photography, highlighting regional heritage alongside global contemporary trends. Outdoor terraces adorned with sculptures offer breathtaking views of Palma’s harbour, providing a perfect moment of reflection.

Palma’s rich history and modern charm make it the perfect complement to Es Baluard. After your visit, explore the old town’s boutiques, cosy cafés, and restaurants, or head to nearby highlights like Porta de Santa Catalina, the Paseo Marítimo, Palma’s Gothic cathedral, and Castell de Bellver. For more adventure, visit coastal villages like Sóller or Deià for beaches, hiking, and Mallorcan cuisine.

Sustainability and Accessibility:

Once on the island, make use of its efficient public bus network or rent a bike to explore Palma and its surroundings sustainably.  At Es Baluard Museu, accessibility adaptions include ramps, lifts and wheelchair hire, as well as accessible programmes, posters and multimedia guides.

 

4. Fotografiska (Stockholm, Sweden)

For photography enthusiasts, Fotografiska in Stockholm is a must-visit, blending contemporary art with impactful social commentary. Located in a sleek waterfront building in Södermalm, one of Stockholm’s trendiest districts, this renowned museum showcases cutting-edge exhibitions that challenge perspectives and spark conversation. It features both emerging talents and iconic photographers, often focusing on global issues like climate change, equality, and identity.

The experience extends beyond art. Fotografiska’s top-floor restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Stockholm archipelago, is a destination itself. Its sustainability-focused menu highlights locally sourced, plant-based ingredients, making it an ideal post-gallery retreat.

Outside the gallery, Stockholm beautifully combines design, history, and innovation. Stroll through Gamla Stan’s charming cobblestone streets, where colourful buildings, quaint cafes, and the Royal Palace await. Beyond the historic centre, the city’s archipelago offers serene boat rides, kayaking, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Accessibility and Sustainability: Reach Fotografiska easily via Stockholm’s excellent public transport – metro, bus, boat, or bike. While parking is limited, the venue offers space for individuals with reduced mobility and a few spots at the back of its entrance.

5. Tern Gallery (Nassau, The Bahamas)

Small, but packing a punch, Tern Gallery is a vibrant contemporary art space located in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. For art lovers seeking to experience the Caribbean’s creative heart, it offers a unique window into the region’s dynamic art scene.

Founded by Lauren Holowesko Perez and Amanda Coulson, the gallery shines a spotlight on Bahamian and Caribbean creativity, offering a platform for emerging and mid-career artists – as April Bey, Cydne Jasmin Coleby,  and Melissa Alcena. With a commitment to showcasing underrepresented voices and diverse perspectives, Tern Gallery celebrates cultural identity while pushing artistic boundaries.

Nassau itself is a breath-taking destination where cultural heritage meets natural splendour. Explore its historic landmarks, savour authentic Bahamian cuisine, and experience the pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reef diving that The Bahamas are renowned for.

Accessibility and Sustainability: Nassau is easily accessible via direct flights from major cities. Choose eco-conscious accommodations and use local transportation or bicycles to explore sustainably. The gallery is conveniently located on one level, though it’s recommended to call ahead for specific accessibility details.

 

6. Inhotim (Brumadinho, Brazil)

Tucked within the lush landscapes of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Inhotim is a breathtaking fusion of contemporary art and nature. Spanning over 140 hectares and situated between the Atlantic Forest and the Cerrado savanna, it offers a stunning natural backdrop that captivates both art and nature enthusiasts. Established in 2006 by entrepreneur Bernardo de Mello Paz, this cultural treasure has transformed a former farm into one of the world’s largest open-air art museums.

Visitors can explore approximately 700 works by over 60 artists from nearly 40 countries, showcased in both outdoor settings and beautifully designed galleries. Sculptures and installations seamlessly blend with tropical flora, tranquil reflecting pools, and rolling terrain. The botanical garden, with over 4,300 rare plant species, further enriches the experience with its remarkable biodiversity.

Nearby, the city of Belo Horizonte complements the Inhotim experience with its architectural and cultural gems, such as Oscar Niemeyer’s Museu de Arte da Pampulha, set in gardens designed by Roberto Burle Marx. The city’s vibrant culinary scene invites visitors to enjoy Brazilian favourites like pão de queijo and feijoada. Together, Inhotim and the surrounding region offer an inspiring blend of cultural and natural wonders, from rainforests to mountains.

Accessibility and Sustainability: Inhotim is easily accessible with free parking, bus connections, and shared transfer options. While the terrain can be uneven, the museum accommodates visitors with wheelchairs, accessible pathways, and complimentary transport for guests with disabilities and their companions. This service requires booking 50 minutes in advance at the front desk.

Fondation Louis Vuitton, Paris · © The Thomas-Ferdinand Gallery | Es Baluard Museu, Palma · © 2020, Fundació Es Baluard Museu d’Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma | Fotografiska Stockholm · © Fotografiska

7. Naoshima Island (Japan)

Located in the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima Island, also known as Japan’s “Art Island,” is a tranquil haven of art and culture. Once a smelter town, this 8-square-kilometre island has transformed into an international hub for contemporary art, seamlessly blending creativity with its natural surroundings.

Highlights include the Chichu Art Museum, a partially underground space designed to harmonise with the environment, featuring works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. The Lee Ufan Museum and Benesse Art Site further enhance the island’s charm, offering museums, galleries, and outdoor installations that merge contemporary art with the island’s serene landscapes. Among these, the Benesse House Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, uniquely combines a museum and hotel, perched on a hill overlooking the sea. Visitors can also discover scattered site-specific artworks along the coastline and amidst the island’s natural beauty.

Beyond its artistic allure, Naoshima offers a peaceful retreat from city life. Stroll through its quiet fishing villages, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese hospitality at eco-conscious accommodations like Benesse House.

Accessibility and Sustainability: Naoshima exemplifies sustainable tourism, offering eco-friendly travel options. Use Japan’s rail system to reach Uno or Takamatsu Port, then take a ferry to Miyanoura or Honmura Port. On the island, explore by foot, bike, or local bus. Electric-assist bikes are available but restricted in some areas like Benesse House grounds. Shuttle buses connect major sites, including the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum. Accessibility varies, so check in advance before visiting.

 


 

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Cells of Life, a landform by Charles Jencks at Jupiter Artland, Scotland · © Jupiter Artland

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