THE JOURNEY
Explore
Would you like feel the ancient cobblestones under your feet?
Imagine strolling through the narrow alleys of Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis, with its historic basilica and spiritual ambience. Or perhaps you’d like to explore the artistic treasures of Gubbio, a town steeped in history and myths set on a spectacular hillside with endless green vistas. Umbria’s hilltop towns offer a journey through the past, where every corner reveals a new story. Each has it’s own special charm and are a testament to the rich tapestry of Italian culture.
Eat
“Cooking is like love, it should be entered into with abandon or not at all” Harriet Van Horne
One of the things we love so much about travelling in Italy is the food! The Umbrian cuisine is celebrated for it’s simplicity and use of high quality ingredients from local areas. Dishes such as truffle based pastas, porchettas (roast pork) and lentil dishes are some of the many regional specialties. We have just returned from eating our way around Umbria to bring you our favourite eateries, mostly on recommendation from the locals. Many are hidden in tiny villages and off the beaten track, but delight in offering the freshest local produce prepared in the simplest but tastiest way. This journey has an array of food & wine experiences, from rustic local restaurants to some special luxurious dining experiences.
Experience
Be hands on in discovering Umbria’s culinary delights
Genuine experiences have been planned for our special journey. Discover the authentic taste of Umbria on a truffle hunt in the beautiful hills in the valley of Chiesa del Carmine. You will be accompanied by our expert truffle hunter, his truffle dog and an English speaking guide. After the hunt, you will return to the Chiesa del Carmine winery where you will be served a 5 course truffle degustation lunch and wine tasting. Furthermore, we have an authentic Umbrian cooking class where our Italian host will take us into her country home and enjoy a hands on fun cooking experience; creating scrumptious local dishes which we will gladly consume afterwards! A few more event surprises are in store!
Stay
Be awestruck by Villa Podere Masale in Pesciano & Le Cappuccinelle Suites & Spa on the outskirts of Perugia
Nestled in the Umbrian green rolling landscape and with a view to the tiny village of Pesciano, Villa Podere Masale is a hidden gem full of character. A carefully restored property with a luscious green landscape, large outdoor terraces, a spectacular library, a beautiful pool and lovely large stylish rooms with individual ensuites. A great base for the first week of our journey, located just outside Todi. With only one move during the journey, we can spend more time relaxing and eating! The second property we stay at is Le Cappuccinelle Suites & Spa - not far from Perugia, the boutique Agriturismo fits harmoniously into the Umbrian countryside. It is a relaxation and well being property incorporating a fabulous spa facility where we have daily access. A welcome relief for our bodies after all the hilltop towns!
Relax
Travelling Italy is about embracing the slower pace of life, valuing leisure and savouring each moment.
The concept of ‘la dolce vita’ or the sweet life, reflects Italy's appreciation for enjoying simple pleasures, good food and meaningful connections with family & friends. We have embraced this Italian way and reflect this on our planned days with later morning starts and an importance of relaxation and downtime. We aim to enjoy the beautiful properties we are staying at and breathe in every present moment! Our spa resort will allow us to enjoy indoor heated swimming pool with lumbar hydromassage, cervical waterfall, underwater hydromassage beds, Finnish sauna, steam, ice fall & salt room. Deluxe!
Drink
Would you like to sip on Italian wine while admiring the undulating hills of the Umbrian landscape?
Umbria boasts a rich viticultural heritage, with indigenous grape varieties such as Sagrantino and Grechetto. Exploring a few wineries allows you to delve into the history and traditions that have shaped the unique character of Umbrian wines. We shall enjoy a guided vineyard tour and sample wines well known in the Montelfaco area. Throughout our journey, we will also enjoy the Italian tradition of an aperitivo – a pre-dinner drink to wet the appetite for dinner; an opportunity to catch up, share stories, and enjoy re-telling our favourite events from the day.