Long dismissed as TuscanyS “gentler sister, Umbria has recently emerged from the shadow of its more western neighbor. Forming an expanse of gentle pastoral countryside and high mountain wilderness, the picturesque region has been dubbed the “Green Heart of Italy.” Umbria is also well known for the beauty and profusion of its medieval hill towns.
The region was inhabited by the Umbrians, a peaceable farming folk and later colonized by the Etruscans and Romans. In Perugia, the capital, there are numerous Romanesque churches, vivid fresco cycles and endless medieval nooks and crannies. This walk, unlike any other in Tuscany, offers you the chance to meet these local Umbrians and see what daily life is like for them.
Continuing on, Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, contains the Basilica di San Frencesco and is not to be missed. Each day, you will sustain your energy and enjoy the best cuisine and wine of the area: Barolo, Amarone, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and the beautiful Assisi red from Tili as well as many more . Tasting these wonderful wines over a lovely meal with the Sibillini mountain range in the distance truly makes time seem to stand still.
This is a remarkable itinerary that features the best of Tuscany and its countryside. You will be awed by the crater lake of Casteluccio and the surrounding views, enjoy the village of Spoleto, referred to as the most romantic village and well known as the loveliest of the Tuscan hill towns, and tour the Etruscan ruins in Orivieto. There is something for every interest on this wonderful walk.