The Umbria region of Italy is one of the most beautiful and unique in Italy as it is filled with rolling hills and the stunning natural beauty of Lake Trasimeno. For those seeking out a holiday that provides the chance to explore the amazing towns and villages that surround the lake and spend some time in one of the most amazing areas of countryside in Italy this is the place for you. Visitors to the area can spend some time exploring the area and explore ancient cities like Sienna, while also seeking out the sights of Rome and Florence if willing to travel a little further afield. At the lake itself in Umbria every visitor can find an activity to entertain themselves no matter of their age. The countryside region on the shores of the lake are filled with hiking and mountain bike trails that are suitable for all experience levels, including children who can take in the bird nesting area at La Ville Oasis. Something that makes a trip to the lake in Umbria so entertaining is the beauty of the three islands that are found within the lake, which include the remains of a 14th century castle to add a little history to any journey. An aquatic plants garden is also found on the islands of the lake where the natural beauty of the area can be explored and the plans for sustaining the area into the future can be seen in a historic and modern location.
Italy's central region, Umbria is well-known for its Sagrantino wines, which are mainly made from the local Sagrantino grapes that have a very high tannic level. A mong the blends, Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG is made from 100 percent Sagrantino grapes, which are grown only in the local Montefalco town and its immediate surroundings. The dry secco type goes well with cheeses and cured meats while the sweet passito type is a good dessert wine. If you adore white wine, you should sample Orvieto Classico, which is primarily made from Trebbiano grapes and other grape varieties. To sample various blends of white and red wines including Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, make a trip to the huge winery in the hilly town of Torgiano. In addition to wines, Umbria is also famous for its various cheeses, cured meats, sausages, truffles and olives especially its extra virgin olive oil. A visit to Norcia, a hill town, is a must if you wish to sample a variety of delicious sausages and cheeses. To sample a typical Umbrian dish, strangozzi, a pasta dish that is normally served with a choice of spicy tomato sauce or black truffles, typical in Spoleto. For a taste of rustic and simple mountain fare that includes grilled meats, salamis, lentils, mushrooms and truffles, visit Norcia. Those wanting to sample Umbrian classic dishes should visit the ancient town of Assisi. Here, you can enjoy sumptuous dishes like stringhozzi alla Pallotta, coniglio alla cacciatore and piccione alla ghiotta, which is made from pigeon meat at the quaint Pallotta restaurant.
An adorable marriage of culture and art, Umbria boasts an impeccable collection of assets that have paved the way for future generations belonging to this fascinating Italian region. A world of museums and art galleries, you will be able to see first hand exactly what defines the region of Umbria as one of the most unique and inspirational in Italy. Some of the greatest poets and writers in history have chosen to live out some of their lives here, due to its rich integrity and magical influence on their works. The capital of Umbria is called Perugia and is regarded by many as one of Italy's finest cities. The numerous towns in this region all have their own special tales to tell, many of which are situated on the top of rolling hillsides, creating incredible views over the landscape. If you plan to spend some time in the capital of Umbria, try and squeeze a visit to the traditional Brufani Palace into your itinerary. The Church of San Bernardino and the National Museum are also located in this historic city. Towns such as Todi boast dramatic examples of fine Renaissance churches and your trip to Umbria should include a visit to the town of Spoleto. As one of the great cultural hubs of the region, this town has been made famous by one of Italy's most stunning Cathedrals, known for the frescoed apse by Filippo Lippi. Other inspiring towns in this region include Gubbio, Assisi and Spello.
Renowned as the green heart of Italy, Umbria boasts everything that its neighbour Tuscany possesses, plus a few gorgeous extras. The winding green valleys have always created a series of perfectly untouched landscapes, characterising a region that never seizes to impress. Although this region isn't famous for its iconic cities, it's more humble appeal includes the likes of far more intimate hillside towns and villages like Orvieto, Todi and Perugia. Each one has enough to keep you occupied for at least or day and they any of them are situated within close vicinity of each other. This means your Umbria tour can be highly manageable and promises you will never have to spend too much time on the road. Cypress topped hills and olive groves contribute to much of the pastoral scenery here and the agriculture in this region helps to define a very unique and delicious local cuisine. The largest lake in the central part of the country, Lake Trasimeno, is located here and the natural landscape creates a spellbinding and romantic setting when combined with the stillness of this water body. The waterfalls of Cascate delle Marmore near Terni are regarded as some of the most visually resplendent in Europe and while surrounded by lush vegetation, the local area of water is a haven for lovers of canoeing, kayaking and other water sports enthusiasts.