On this wonderful week, Maxine will lead you through the hubbub of Berlin, to the calm of Dresden, and out to the awe-inspiring world of Saxon Switzerland to celebrate the  250th anniversary of German Romantic Landscape painter, Caspar David Friedrich.

We begin in Berlin, a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a dynamic cultural scene. Renowned for its diverse architecture, including remnants of the Cold War and modern structures, Berlin is a city that seamlessly blends the past and present. We will spend a couple of days here, visiting some incredible museums and exhibitions, that will liven your mind and fill it with awe and inspiration for the rest of the trip.

During our time in Germany, Maxine will lead sketching sessions with all her usual energy and enthusiasm, making this a trip to appeal to urban sketchers, nature lovers and art historians alike.

Next, we venture out to Dresden, a city on the banks of the Elbe River in eastern Germany.  Despite the devastation it faced during World War II, Dresden has meticulously reconstructed its historic landmarks, including the iconic Frauenkirche and Zwinger Palace. The city’s Baroque architecture, scenic riverfront, and cultural treasures, create an enchanting atmosphere that lures visitors seeking a blend of history and beauty.

We continue to Saxon Switzerland National Park. This picturesque and rugged landscape, renowned for its striking rock formations and lush valleys, served as a profound source of inspiration for the German Romantic – Caspar David Friedrich.

We celebrate the 250th anniversary of this renowned artist by visiting a special exhibition of his work at the Albertinum Museum.

The Hamburger Kunsthalle unveils an extraordinary exhibition featuring over 60 paintings, including iconic masterpieces, alongside around 100 drawings and select works by his artistic companions. This showcase provides the most expansive panorama of Friedrich’s art in years, with a primary focus on the unparalleled relationship between man and nature in his profound body of work.

250th Anniversary of Caspar David Friedrich

Caspar David Friedrich, a prominent German Romantic artist of the 19th century, is celebrated for his profound influence on landscape painting. Renowned for his contemplative and emotive depictions of nature, Friedrich’s work often features solitary figures in majestic, atmospheric landscapes, conveying a deep connection between the human spirit and the natural world. His masterpieces, characterized by sublime compositions and a sense of spiritual introspection, have solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Romantic movement, influencing subsequent generations of artists and leaving an enduring impact on the art world.

Highlights of this tour include:

• Many inspiring Museum visits including: Käthe Kollwitz Museum, the Brücke Museum in Berlin, the Old National Gallery, the Berlinische Galerie of Modern Art and Museum Island itself, which is home to a remarkable ensemble of five world-renowned museums
• Visit the iconic landmarks of Berlin, on a city bus tour you’ll hit all the classic hot spots, and then we’ll visit Brandenburg Gate at night to see it in its full spectacle.
• Take an enchanting boat trip through Spreewald forest. Guided by our personal punt ferryman, we’ll glide past charming villages, serene meadows, and majestic forests, all reflecting in the water.
• Explore the Albertinum Museum, with a special tribute to the 250th anniversary of Caspar David Friedrich’s birth. It was within these walls that this skilled draughtsman and painter crafted his most exceptional masterpieces, now revered as the pre-eminent works of German Romanticism.
• Visit the iconic Bastei Observation Platform, perched high above the Elbe River. This elevated vantage point offers panoramic views of the sandstone cliffs, winding river below, and the lush valleys.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Moritzburg’s iconic castle, this Baroque palace is surrounded by a vast lake which creates an enchanting island-like setting.