Travel
Visit Umbria, Italy
Often referred to as “the green heart of Italy”, Umbria is a predominantly beautiful and largely unspoiled region of rolling hills, woods, streams and valleys.
Equidistant between Florence and Rome, Perugia, the capital of Umbria, feels simultaneously intimate and infinite. It’s a treasure trove for art lovers, a smorgasbord for foodie.
Perugia accommodates a range of budgets therefore being accessible to everyone.
To the east, pastoral countryside gives way to more rugged scenery, none better than the dramatic twists and turns of the Valnerina and the high mountain landscapes of the Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini.
How to Get There
The only major airport in Umbria is just outside Perugia, the Aeroporto Internazionale dell’Umbria S. Egidio. There are several daily flights from across the UK and prices can go as low as £19.99 one way depending on when you travel. Other nearby airports include Rome, Florence and Pisa.
If you’re driving, keep in mind that most parking facilities are located outside the centre, but there are escalators that bring you to the city centre at the top of the hill. Many hotels offer private parking facilities, so check before arrival.
Where To Stay – Private Villa
Prices from € 1,650.00 for a 7 night stay
Villa Ombrosa is surrounded by a beautiful park, with a great view on the fascinating town of Orvieto, known for its characteristic historical centre, which is built on a cliff of volcanic tuff and located in a dominant position overlooking the valley of the Tiber river.
Acommodation
On the ground floor: A porch with sofa leads you into the main entrance and then to the living room. Adjacent to the living room there is a well accessorised kitchen, from which one has access to a second porch. On the same floor, there is a panoramic terrace overlooking the Orvieto Dome and the magnificent surrounding nature, bathroom with shower and a storage room complete this floor. On the first floor which can be reached by an internal staircase from the living room and consists of one double bedroom and two twin bedrooms, with joinable beds, one of these rooms has a balcony with a view. There are two bathrooms with shower.
Villa Ombrosa is surrounded by a park of approximately 2,471 acres with chestnut trees and age-old plants, and a vast collection of ornamental plants where one can find path ways for beautiful walks. Between the house and the pool there is a fully equipped gazebo ideal for outside dinners. Please notice that photos are taken in spring, therefore flower blossoming, and the colours of the gardens’ grass could be different at the moment of your arrival at the villa.
The pool is open from the last saturday of April to the first saturday of October. The surrounding area is well maintained and furnished with comfortable deck-chairs, sun beds and a gazebo offering shelter from the sun. Near the pool there is also a covered veranda with barbecue, fridge, sofas and tables.
Where to Stay – Roccafiore Wine Resort & Spa
Roccafiore Resort is situated a few minutes away from Todi, on the top of a hill surrounded by vineyards and olive groves:
Overlooking vineyards and olive groves, Roccafiore Spa & Resort is set in the Monti Martani hills, just 2.5 miles outside Todi. This converted Umbrian farmhouse is now a luxury countryside resort and spa.
Surrounded by unspoilt nature, the Roccafiore boasts a free wellness centre with an indoor pool, hot tub and relaxation areas. An outdoor swimming pool is open in mild seasons and is surrounded by gardens and vineyards.
Rooms are named after world-famous vintage racing cars, according to the hotel’s owner passion for motors. Each room has a different style, and is furnished in wood and in natural fabric, or with pastel shaded decorations and antique furniture. Modern rooms are also available.
where to stay – Abbazia Collemedio Resort & Spa
Looking for a place to stay in Collepepe? Then look no further than Abbazia Collemedio, a romantic hotel that brings the best of Collepepe to your doorstep.
A great choice for a stay in Collazzone, Abbazia Collemedio Resort & Spa features an airport shuttle (available on request) and a rooftop terrace. Guests can be pampered with massages at the spa and grab a bite to eat at the coffee shop/cafe. Other highlights at this upmarket hotel include an outdoor pool, a poolside bar and a fitness centre.
where to stay – Domus Volumnia Country House
Domus Volumnia Country House is a “Holiday Home” that consists of apartments tastefully and completely furnished and equipped with all amenities for a comfortable, refined and exclusive stay. It is located at the entrance of Perugia, between city and countryside, surrounded by the typical Umbrian landscape, and near the archeologic zone Etruscan of the Volumni.
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a spa, Domus Volumnia Country House is set in greenery and located just 550 yards from the Hypogeum of the Volumnus Family and the Perugia Centro motorway exit. WiFi and parking are both free.
Accommodation at Country house Domus Volumnia includes air conditioning, a satellite flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. The apartments have a living room with kitchenette.
You will find the garden and a sun terrace with hot tub. Indoors, you will find relaxation area with sauna, steam bath, and hot tub.
Where to stay – Borgo Petroro Country Relais & Restaurant
Situated in Todi, 23.6 miles from La Rocca, Borgo Petroro features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace.
At Borgo Petroro, you can look forward to free continental breakfast, a poolside bar and a rooftop terrace. Treat yourself to a massage, a manicure/pedicure or a body scrub at the on-site spa. Be sure to enjoy a meal at Locanda Petreja, the on-site fine-dining restaurant. Enjoy on-site activities, such as hiking/biking and ecotours. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, and guests can find other amenities, such as a firepit and a cafe.
where to stay – Lo Spedalicchio
Lo Spedalicchio is an excellent budget choice for travellers visiting Bastia Umbra
Lo Spedalicchio is located a short distance from Chiesa di Sant’Angelo (2.4 mi) and Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo (2.5 mi).
During your stay, take advantage of some of the amenities offered, including 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and room service. Guests of Lo Spedalicchio are also welcome to enjoy free breakfast, located on site. For travellers arriving by car, free parking is available.
During your visit, be sure to check out the many popular Bastia Umbra tapas restaurants.
Things to do – Assisi full day tour including Basilica of St. Francis and Porziuncola
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Assisi is one of central Italy’s most charming towns, . Discover Assisi with a guide on this small-group tour, including a a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi with its Giotto frescoes. This tour allows you to get to know Assisi and its most famous sites. In addition to the walk in the city, the tour also includes a visit to external sites such as the Eremo delle Carceri, the sanctuary of San Damiano and the Basilica of our lady of the angels with the Porziucola.
Things to do – Umbria countryside. Winery tour with lunch and village tour – 7 hours
This tour is all about wine and food, and visiting small villages in Umbria.
After the pickup at your hotel your driver will take you for a short stop in the centre of Montefalco. In the main square you will be able to have a coffee and admire the beautiful view of the Umbrian valley. Montefalco is also called the railing of Umbria.
Itinerary
Meet at 10:30 am at the winery just outside the walls of Montefalco. Here, you will enjoy a beautiful experience. There will be a tour of the winery, a visit to the oil mill and a tour of the olive grove. After the tour a fantastic light lunch to taste the wines of the winery and typical Umbrian products.
After lunch transfer to Bevagna, a splendid medieval village perfectly preserved. With your tour guide you will discover the beauties and secrets of this magnificent village.
After Bevagna, transfer to Spello, the city of flowers. Spello is one of the most visited villages of Umbria. Together with your tour guide, you will visit the beautiful Baglioni Chapel, with frescoes by the famous artist Pinturicchio and enjoy a relaxing walk through the alleys.
After the stop in Spello, return to the hotel.
Things to Do – Taste Perugia Food Tour Led by a Local Guide
Delve into Perugia’s lively food scene and discover the top gourmet spots in the historic center that only locals know with this walking tour. Join your guide and a small group of fellow food lovers for a stroll through the medieval old town, stopping to meet local shop owners and producers along the way. Sample specialties like local cheeses and charcuterie, Umbrian olive oil, fresh truffles, and the city’s famed chocolate.
One-of-a-Kind Food Tastings – This guided Perugia Food Tour visits multiple tasting locations within the historic centre of Perugia. Classic Umbrian food samplings, enough for breakfast and a hearty lunch, are served from local, one-of-a-kind restaurants, charming cafes and markets.
Stops and tastings include Perugia’s famous chocolates, hand-made truffle pasta, cheeses, an authentic Umbrian “osteria,” the city’s oldest spice shop, and one of Italy’s top rated artisan gelaterias. The tour also includes two wine tastings. All food and wine tastings are included in the ticket price. See all Tasting Locations below.
Historic & Cultural Experience – Between tastings, you’ll experience the vibrant life of “i Perugini” as you stroll the medieval streets and alleyways of Perugia’s historic center. Our enthusiastic local guides share their knowledge and recommendations of ancient architectural gems, historic local attractions, museums, music and arts venues, and restaurants.
Eat and drink like a local as the guide shares the history and charm of this amazing city.
Breakfast Italian Style
Sip a creamy cappuccino with your freshly baked cornetto in this contemporary café that pays homage to Perugia’s ancient past.
Farmstead Cheeses & Famous Prosciutto
Enjoy a variety of typical cheeses, Umbria’s famous Prosciutto, ancient flatbread and local craft beer at a welcoming local cafe in one of the Perugia’s main piazzas.
Wine & Olive Oil
Sample the ancient and nearly extinct Fagiolina del Trasimeno with tangy olive oil and Grechetto wine.
Chocolate & Spice
Step back in time while tasting Perugia’s famous and lesser known chocolates at the city’s oldest spice shop and general store.
Local Truffles
Enjoy a taste of Sagrantino wine alongside a plate of handmade pasta with black truffle sauce.
Artisan Gelato
Not all gelato is created equal! Taste two flavors of creamy gelato or dairy-free sorbetto made fresh daily at one of Italy’s Top 100 artisan gelaterias.
Things to DO – Visit The “invisible town”, also called “Todi underground”
The whole complex was rediscovered by chance on the occasion of the restoration works of the above Pazzaglia-Valentini tobacco shop. In terms of orientation, it is perfectly parallel to its twin structure on the opposite side of Piazza del Popolo (East), which rooms extend under the foundations of Palazzo dei Priori (Priors’ Palace).
Unlike the Western complex, discovered in modern times, the Eastern one has been known since 1262, as witnessed by Gianfabrizio Atti‘s Cronaca dell’egregia città de Tode dated 16th century. Unfortunately only nine rooms, out of twelve, are accessible and visitable.
things to do – Soft rafting on the Nera River in Umbria
30€ per person
Discover the green heart of Umbria and experience nature up close with a fun rafting descent on the Nera river in the picturesque and lush Valnerina.
Grab your paddle, get on the raft and let yourself be carried away by the current in a marvellous natural setting, among rock walls, green meadows and dense vegetation.
Soft rafting is an activity suitable for everyone, even families with children, who will be able to discover river sports and spend a few hours in close contact with the environment, having fun in safety.
THings to do – Caving at Marmore Falls
This complex of caves and caverns is accessible even to the less experienced, and can be visited accompanied by professional guides. For this plunge into the heart of the earth you need footwear with rugged soles, long pants, a sweatshirt, protective gloves and … a pinch of courage.
The vertical spectacle that meets your eyes is unforgettable: among stalactites and stalagmites like stone giants and chambers illuminated by dim glimmers of light, you will feel like a real explorer.
A plunge of 165 meters
The journey to discover the “belly” of the Marmore Falls begins at Marmore’s Campacci Park, about 10 kilometers from Terni, near the village of Marmore. You are 377 meters above sea level, on the cliff of the waterfall, to the right of the Velino River and at the foot of Mount Mazzelvetta, which rises to 641 meters. From here, along with the waterfall, the view encompasses the Nera River and its river park.
For guided visits, tel. +39 0744 67561 – +39 0744 362231 Monday-Friday 10.00-13.00 -15.00-17.00, Saturday 10.00-12.30
Things to do – Clay mud baths in the river
Your small wellness centre in the great outdoors: clay mud baths in the river in Umbria.
The guide will take you to an unexplored, almost secret place along the banks of the river Paglia. The meeting point will be in Monterubiaglio, a picturesque village in southern Umbria near Orvieto, from where you will be taken to the departure point of your experience of clay mud baths in the river. After parking, you will walk for about 15 minutes in the woods to reach this fantastic location, where there is a small bend in the river Paglia. You will be completely surrounded and immersed in nature and you’ll notice that, both inside and outside the river, there are small gushing springs of sulphurous water, which make the temperature very pleasurable.
The boulders on the banks of the river are flat and form small pools at certain points where you can enjoy a natural hydromassage. In these rocks you will extract the clay, the guide will accompany you and teach you its beneficial properties, showing you how to apply it over your body, creating your own natural wellness therapy.
The Mud Bath therapy area is located in the nature reserve of monte Rufeno.
things to do – Chocolate from Norcia. Tour and workshop 25€
A unique experience featuring the king of confectionery, plus a chocolate workshop.
One of the oldest and most deeply rooted culinary traditions in the Umbria region is certainly the processing of chocolate. The specialities of the region are famous throughout Italy and beyond.
You will tour a small artisan chocolate company led by the staff and learn about the production chain and processing techniques. You will actually see the artisans at work and have hands-on contact with the chocolate mass yourself. The master chocolatier will guide you in exploring and understanding the cocoa bean: from selection to processing and transformation into chocolate, along with all the various scents and aromas. The chocolate workshop will enable you to create your own chocolate bar with your own hands, using the combinations you like best.
At the end of the tour and workshop, you will be presented with a basket for a delicious ‘choc-nic’, a small chocolate picnic. An all-round experience in a world of discovery, suitable for all ages.
The company is family-run and, with its passionate love for chocolate, engages in constant research into the processing and combination of chocolate with the most typical local products, such as truffles, lentils, spelt, and roveja field peas.
Antiche Sere – Bevegna
Located beneath the Porta di Canara, at the East end of town. The Antiche Sere is a delightful place. It is small, unassuming and intimate.
To start: opt for a simple plate of sardines topped with red onions, parsley, lemon and a drizzle of olive oil, next try the panzanella: chopped tomatoes tossed with a sliced onion and a handful of torn bread. The freshly made fettucine with shavings of truffles is divine and what better way to end than with a Tiramisu.
You can find the restaurant here.
Antiche Sere
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi 10
Bevagna +39.0742.361.938
Casa Vissani – Baschi
Casa Vissani is no ordinary restaurant. Half-hidden along the main road and not immediately obvious if you’ve never been here before, this restaurant on Lago di Corbara is home to one of Italy’s best-known chefs. For almost fifty years, Gianfranco Vissani has been – and continues to be – one of the country’s most innovative chefs. Those lucky enough to get a reservation at chef Gianfranco Vissani’s acclaimed restaurant will dine on some of the most sumptuous and creative dishes made with the very finest locally-sourced ingredients. These are paired with the finest wines from an ever-evolving list. The dining room is comfortable and tasteful, and the service is impeccable. The taster menus are a delightful way to savour some of the chef’s very best work and to get an insight into the culinary pleasures of the region.
After arriving at the restaurant and being greeted by the chef’s son Luca, you can spend time in the lakeside garden before heading into the elegant dining room. This outdoor space is where guests can enjoy an aperitif and make their culinary choices, while the indoor dining room is the setting for elegant and impeccable service with open-view kitchens that are framed as if they were paintings.
The tasting menus (Colori di Casa Vissani ) are named after colours: Gold (Oro) is traditional in style; Blue (Blu) is dedicated to fresh- and saltwater fish; Red (Rosso) to meat; and Green (Verde) to vegetables. Lastly, 7Black is a surprise menu chosen by the chef.
Osteria a Priori – Perugia
Located in the very central Via dei Priori in Perugia. Its path is dotted with churches, noble palaces and little artisanal shops.
You can choose to sit in the informal atmosphere of the ground floor, stools with cushions or in the cozy upper floor at one of the eight regular tables or at the large “convivial table”.
In the summer you can opt to sit in the outdoor space, within the historic walls, next to the Church of San Filippo Neri.
The menu is created with raw ingredients that are sourced from carefully selected small producers, with particular attention to the Slow Food Presidia of the region. Lentils from Castelluccio, red potatoes from Colfiorito, onions from Cannara, black celery from Trevi, broad beans, fagiolina from Lake Trasimeno, extra virgin olive oil, fresh black truffle from Norcia, Chianina beef and wild pork, cold cuts, sheep and goat cheeses.
From seasonal truffle dishes to silky pastas discover the region’s culinary delights.
Black and white truffles. Most people don’t realize that Umbria is known for white truffles as well as the summer and winter black truffles. In fact the largest white truffle in the world was found a few years ago in Umbria—it weighed 4.16 pounds and sold for $61,250!
Salumi. Anyone in Italy who makes cured meats is known as a Norcino, because it was in Norcia, in Umbria, where the art of salumi making was perfected. So, of course, the prosciutto, capocollo, salami, salsiccia, guanciale and pancetta from Umbria are the best!
Lentils. You haven’t had lentils until you have tried the tiny brown Umbrian lentils. They are meaty and never get mushy when cooked so are perfect for both soups and salads.
Pecorino Umbro. Umbria’s hilly, wild-herb covered landscape is perfect for sheep…. and thus, pecorino cheese. From fresh to cave-aged, you can’t miss it – it’s everywhere.
Extra virgin olive oil. Umbrian extra virgin olive 0il (along with the oil from Tuscany and Liguria) is considered to be the best in Italy, if not the world. Moraiolo olives are harvested when they are barely ripe, and are therefore extremely high in Vitamin E and polyphenols (antioxidants).
Torta al Testo (known as Crescia in the North and Pizz’ sotto il Fuoco in the South). The Torta is a type of flat bread cooked on a stone or cast aluminum disc called a Testo. It is then filled with cured meats or braised greens and is perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic.
Rocciata. A typical dish from Foligno, it is a type of strudel that can either be savory or sweet. The savory version is usually with wild greens and sausage, while the sweet [variety], traditionally made in autumn, is filled with apples, pears, raisins, walnuts, pine nuts and cocoa powder.
For more information on Umbria visit Umbria Tourism
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