The region of Umbria lies due north of Rome right in the centre of Italy. Known as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is identified by its dramatic landscape, rolling autumn mists, rich history and breath-taking views. Among the hills lie many quaint and beautiful towns, all offering something unique. The following excursions are recommended.
TODI
(20 minutes)
“Perched on a hilltop high above the winding River Tiber, the pretty town of Todi is like something straight out of a fairy tale. Narrow, cobbled streets meander its hilly terrain and lead to beautifully preserved medieval cathedrals and monuments like the Palazzo del Popolo; built in 1213, this is one of Italy’s oldest public buildings, positioned alongside cute cafes and boutiques. Largely untouched by tourism, Todi offers a real slice of peaceful Umbrian life”
CASCATA DELLE MARMORE
(45-60 minutes)
The Marmore Falls were engineered by the Romans and are the largest man-made waterfalls in the world. Explore many walks of varying intensity to reach the sides and top of the falls and enjoy the cooling spray on the way! A perfect family day out.
ORVIETO
(50 minutes)
The city of Orvieto is built upon a tufo (volcanic stone) outcrop from which it rises dramatically. Orvieto is famous for its underground labyrinth of tunnels and its Cathedral (the Duomo), which is striking for its frescos, sculptures and imposing decorative façade. Orvieto is also home to the Grechetto grape which makes the famous vino bianco, Orvieto Classico.
SPOLETO
(60 minutes)
A visit to the town of Spoleto is particularly recommended – a town renowned for its international arts Festival dei Due Mondi in June/July each year. The ancient town on the side of the steep Appenines overlooking the whole Umbrian valley has a Roman amphitheatre and aqueduct, medieval castle fortress on the hill and historical Roman gates.
MONTEFALCO
(60 minutes)
Montefalco, and the drive to it, provides some of the best scenic views of the Umbrian landscape. Montefalco is the centre of the Umbrian vino rosso region and the closely guarded Sagrantino grape varietal. An ancient town on the central hill of the Umbrian valley with medieval walls and cobbled streets surrounded by orchards, olive groves and, of course, vineyards. Try the robust Sagrantino di Montefalco or the velvety Sangiovese grape Montefalco Rosso.