Umbria is described as being located in the heart of Italy and with neither a coastline or a border with a foreign country, it is also the only landlocked one. Known for it’s verdant hills and valleys, picturesque medieval hill towns and unique cuisine and wines, Umbria will steal your heart!
Your “home base” to fall into Umbria’s heart could be Montefalco, also known as the “Railing of Umbria”, or the Belvedere. A picturesque medieval hill town (one of many we will be exploring during our stay), it is perched on top of a steep hill dominating two large valleys and enjoys a spectacular panoramic view of the very heart of Umbria. Within the steep medieval walls, with its cobbled streets, charming piazza and frescoed churches, Montefalco is a gem indeed!
Umbria autumn leaves
Overlooking olive and wine groves, your visit in autumn will be accentuated by the vibrant colors of harvest and pleasantly warm sunny days. Renowned for its exquisite wines (including Sagrantino and Rosso di Montefalco, both renowned and coveted by wine connossieurs), unique cuisine and friendly locals, this little village has much to offer.
What to Do
Enjoying a comfortable pace, you should enjoy wine tasting in local wine cellars, go truffle hunting with a professional, and meet local artisans. In addition, informative and interesting talks and guided walks to bring to life the rich history, art and architecture of each medieval gem. The relaxed pace will also ensure that you have the time to enjoy and drink it all in…time to just relax with an espresso or glass of wine. Ahh…la dolce far niente (the sweet doing nothing)!
What to Eat and Drink
Umbria is renowned for its variety and diversity! Sample and savor the best it has to offer! Rich regional culinary traditions include fresh organic locally grown and seasonal produce as well as the game of the region.
Wild mushrooms, black truffles and cinghiale (wild boar) are often featured. With no coastline, pork is also prominently featured in sausage, ham and salami often accompanied by cheeses from sheep or goat milk. Umbria’s light and fruity olive oil is another delight. All of this and luscious local wines, too! (Of course!)
What to See
Explore nearby medieval gems – Assisi, Spello, Bevagna, Orvieto, Spoleto, Deruta, Perugia, Todi and, of course, Montefalco – each with its unique history and character and spend some time to stroll ancient passageways and meander around charming piazzas.