Umbria is situated in the very middle of Italy, just east of Tuscany, and is called The Green Heart of Italy.
And for good reason. Olive groves, pine trees and cypresses keep the beautifully undulating landscape green the whole year round.
Towns and smaller villages are intermingled and everywhere there is something interesting to see, to taste, or to experience. The local history is long and culturally rich. The Etruscan and Roman heritage is abundant, and masterpieces from Renaissance artists such as Raphael, Michelangelo, Piero della Francesca and Signorelli to mention a few are plenty. Towns as Saint Francis's Assisi, the plateau city Orvieto with Etruscan tunnels, the Roman Bevagna, or the food-rich Norcia are only a few interesting examples. You can swim in the lake or in swimming pools, sail, wind surf, golf, bike, trek, ride horses, paint, take part in olive-picking, or just sit and read. Warm, hospitable people, nice restaurants, excellent local food and wine, marvelous olive oil will all make your stay an unforgettable experience.
WINE, PECARINO, AND OLIVE OIL
If you are interested in wine, no doubt Umbria is a sacred well yet to be emptied. The neighbourhood has a multitude of big and small vineyards producing high class wine. The Umbrian wine was discovered not long ago but draws more and more wine experts' attention all around the world. So if you want to try something different in addition to the well established Tuscan Chianti and Montalcini wines, you should check them out in Umbria and Panicale. And just down the road a few kilometres, are the Tuscan treasures of Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, and Montalcino for wine tasting and cheese tasting of the highest calibre.
The same can be said for the olive oil. From the many olive groves (too small to be commercially exported) around Lake Trasimeno, you get one of the best olive oils in the world. What is more, to be able to taste it on bruschetta, is a grace to pray for.
DINING
In Italy, each region has its own food. It is particularly good in small restaurants and trattorie. There you will find the best of the local cuisine. Abroad, Italian restaurants normally serve Roman food. Going to Umbria is, therefore, a must, especially if you want to enjoy both new but traditional gastronomic pleasures.