Europe's most stunning outdoor art galleries
What's the story
Small European towns often hide unique treasures, including quirky outdoor art galleries that offer a fresh perspective on creativity.
These galleries beautifully blend art with nature, giving an immersive experience to the visitors.
Exploring these hidden gems can be a delightful adventure, revealing the artistic soul of lesser-known locales.
Here are some intriguing outdoor art galleries worth discovering in small European towns.
Swedish sculptures
Sculpture park in Sweden
In southern Sweden, Wanas Konst is an enchanting sculpture park located within a historic estate.
The park showcases over 70 contemporary artworks spread out across lush landscapes and ancient woodlands.
Visitors can explore the grounds to find pieces by famous artists like Yoko Ono and Ann-Sofi Siden.
This blend of art and nature makes for a calm setting for contemplation and inspiration.
French gardens
Artistic gardens in France
Every year, the International Garden Festival hosted by the town of Chaumont-sur-Loire sees artists turning gardens into living canvases.
The event features innovative garden designs which redefine the very idea of landscaping.
From plants to sculptures and installations, the festival allows visitors to explore a range of themes across the castle grounds.
It's a unique opportunity to see how art can bloom with nature.
Italian museum
Open-air museum in Italy
Located in Tuscany's Chianti region is Parco Sculture del Chianti, an open-air museum where contemporary sculptures are installed amidst nature.
Each artwork has been carefully positioned to match its surroundings, creating a beautiful dialogue between art and environment.
The park hosts works by international artists such as Jeff Saward and Yasmina Heidarova, making it a fascinating journey through modern creativity set against scenic beauty.
Portuguese Trail
Street art trail in Portugal
The small town of Estarreja has an amazing street art trail called ESTAU (Estarreja Arte Urbana). The initiative calls on artists across the globe to paint murals on the buildings of the town center.
The lively artworks embody different styles and themes, breathing color and imagination into urban spaces.
Walking through this trail gives you a glimpse into contemporary streetart culture in a lovely Portuguese setting.