UMBRIAN GETAWAY

Assisi sits serenely along the slopes of Mount Subasio, overlooking the green valleys below, as if placed there by heavenly hands. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, Assisi is world-renowned as the birthplace of Saint Francis, patron saint of all animals, nature and of Italy itself. Retrace his steps on a walking tour through the streets and squares of this city-sanctuary, exuding peace and spirituality at every corner, and hear about the legendary life of one of Roman Catholicism’s most cherished and widely worshipped personalities. Born around 1181, son of a wealthy merchant, Francis of Assisi abandoned his dissolute life after hearing the voice of God who commanded him to rebuild the Catholic Church and live in poverty. Francis gave up his worldly possessions, became a devoted Christian and founded the Franciscan Order in 1209. He died on October 3, 1226 and was canonized a saint just two years after his death on July 16, 1228. On that same day Pope Gregory IX laid the first stone of the future Basilica which was to become the mother Church of the Order of Friars Minor, one of Italy’s most famous pilgrimage destinations and a treasure trove of priceless medieval masterpieces, attracting thousands of faithful visitors and art lovers every year.

Traces of the town’s 2,000-year-old history still survive within its pristinely preserved medieval historic centre. Your starting point is the site of a long-lost ancient Roman amphitheatre. Having served as a rich mine for building material in the Middle Ages, the original structure is no longer standing though the spot still provides a fascinating glimpse into Assisi’s early beginnings and development throughout the ages, as well as wonderful views of the imposing 14th century fortress that looms over the town. From here, follow your guide along narrow alleys, past charming piazze on a quest for significant landmarks in the life of Saint Francis. You will come across the Cathedral of Saint Rufino, where he was baptized, and take a peek inside the Basilica of Saint Claire to find the holy Crucifix that triggered Saint Francis’ spiritual awakening. The nearby 17th century Chiesa Nuova was supposedly built on the site of the childhood home of Saint Francis. It was here, inside a small cell that can still be seen, that his father Pietro di Bernardone locked him up in chains in an attempt to discourage him from exchanging his comfortable lifestyle for one of poverty. Another notable feature of the town is Assisi’s main square, the picture-postcard Piazza del Comune. It sits on top of the remains of an ancient Roman forum whose strikingly well preserved 1st century BC classical temple was converted into a church in the 1500s.

Your morning will end with a visit to the town’s most iconic monument: the Basilica of Saint Francis. The spectacular complex is built into the side of a hill and is comprised of two independent churches on two different levels, the Lower and Upper Basilica. An underground crypt houses the earthly remains of the saint, buried secretly here shortly after his death to prevent ransacking by relic hunters, only to be rediscovered six hundred years later, in 1818. The greatest artists of the 13th and 14th centuries, including Giotto, Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti and Simone Martini, are responsible for the splendid decorative fresco cycles that grace the walls and ceilings of the complex, a cornerstone for understanding the development of Italian art in the Middle Ages. Your guide will lead you past the churches’ highlights and explain the meaning of the painted scenes, illuminating details of the life and miracles of Saint Francis.

After some free time for lunch, together with your guide, meet your private driver, who will be waiting just outside the pedestrian town centre, and continue your trail with a visit to the three most important sanctuaries and Franciscan sites in the vicinity of Assisi. The first destination of the afternoon is the Eremo delle Carceri, a 15th century hermitage located in the woods, 790 metres above sea level on the slopes of Mount Subasio. The structure incorporates the grotto where Saint Francis used to retreat to contemplate spiritual matters and sleep on a stone bed away from worldly temptations. Second on the itinerary is the nearby Sanctuary of Saint Damiano where it all began. “Francis, go repair my house, which, as you see, is falling into ruin” were Christ’s words to the young saint as he was praying on this very spot. The final call is the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli sheltering the venerated Porziuncola. It is within the sacred walls of this stone oratory, that Francis breathed his last.

After the tour your private chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel.

After breakfast meet your private driver outside your hotel and set off for Perugia. Here your guide will be waiting ready to lead you on a half-day tour of this delightful Umbrian town.

Best-known as Italy’s vibrant university hub, lively stage for jazz concerts and the homeland of the world-famous Perugina chocolate factory, Perugia was once far from being the peaceful idyll we can admire today. Echoes of clinging swords, blasts of trumpets, clattering hooves and the raging voices of merciless popes still resonate across the town’s surprisingly well preserved historic centre, awakening memories of a turbulent past. Despite a seemingly endless succession of battles, sieges, rebellions and strife, Perugia resisted hardship and managed to flourish, becoming a prosperous centre for manufacturing and trade as well as a thriving artistic and cultural magnet.

Traces of the city’s 2,500-year-old history have miraculously survived to this day. Etruscan walls, Roman ruins, medieval churches, Renaissance palazzi… every corner of Perugia harbours a compelling story waiting to be unravelled. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you on a leisurely stroll along stone alleys, up and down stairways, across bustling piazzas and also below the ground, allowing you to gain a complete introduction to Perugia’s development throughout the ages, from its 6th century BC origins, right up to the city’s contemporary triumphs.

You begin your day with a visit to the remains of the Rocca Paolina where a momentous event in the history of Perugia once unfolded. Listen as your guide explains how a tax increase imposed five centuries ago on the indignant Perugians triggered a popular uprising, brutally repressed by the troops of Pope Paul III. In 1540, as a stark reminder of his supremacy and power, the pope ordered the construction of a colossal fortress in the pre-existing neighbourhood of Santa Giuliana. Medieval houses and churches were either demolished to make way for the stronghold or incorporated within its foundations. The mighty Rocca Paolina stood guard over Perugia for three centuries until Italy’s unification in 1861, when it was eventually torn down by the citizens who had always regarded it as a symbol of oppression. However, as your guide will reveal on a subterranean journey back in time, a maze of passageways and rooms belonging to an age-old district of the city still survives beneath the surface allowing visitors a fascinating glimpse into the once busy streets of medieval Perugia.

From here, amble along Corso Vannucci, the city’s main thoroughfare, and reach Piazza IV Novembre, the pulsing heart of Perugia since Etruscan times. Your guide will point out three striking monuments: the imposing Gothic-style Palazzo dei Priori, complete with crenellated walls and trefoiled windows; the 13th century Fontana Maggiore, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture, featuring symbolic representations of the twelve months and zodiac signs; the beautiful, unfinished Cathedral of San Lorenzo, housing the stirring Deposition from the Cross by Baroque painter Federico Barocci.

But there are more than just medieval sights to delight you on your tour of Perugia. Dip into the city’s soft centres and unwrap its sweet secrets. Along with the lip-smacking Baci, Perugia is home to a number of artisanal confectioners and chocolate shops and proudly hosts the Eurochocolate festival every year in October. Your guide will show you where to find the best pralines, brittles and truffles in town and treat you to a tasting of mouth-watering specialities.

After lunch rejoin your private chauffeur and reach one of the region’s leading wineries. The history of this pioneering estate began in 1971 when a textile entrepreneur first purchased a plot of land near Montefalco with the aim of reviving the native Sagrantino grape variety, back then almost unknown outside of Umbria. The winery owes its fortunes to the founder’s son who took over the helm in 1988. As a firm believer in the potential of this terroir and great opportunities that could derive from revitalising traditional flavours by means of an innovative approach to wine making, he set out to work on revolutionising the company. His immense dedication brought about massive changes to all of the winery’s activities: from the application of modern production methods and management, to research and promotion. Today this estate prides itself on creating top quality, elegant Sagrantino di Montefalco wines and has made a significant contribution to Umbria’s well-deserved reputation as a fine wine producing region.

On a tour of the premises, led by a qualified member of staff, guests will get to know the history and achievements of this estate. They will also hear about wine making and ageing techniques and discover the distinctive characteristics of the soil and climate that make wines produced here so complex and powerful. A tasting of the estate’s wines will allow you to better appreciate the results of fifty years of wine growing wisdom…. cheers to Umbria!

Your private chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel in the afternoon.

Canter through the splendid Umbrian landscape on this full-day excursion to the hills. You will enjoy an unforgettable horseback ride, and then saunter back in time on a guided walking tour of a beautifully preserved medieval town.

Your private chauffeur will meet you at your accommodation and drive you to a riding establishment panoramically located on a plateau, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Founded over fifteen years ago, this equestrian centre is run by a local family of horse trainers who can cater for riders with experience at any level, from beginners to seasoned cowboys. Upon arrival you will be greeted by your instructor and venture out on a half-day trek. Itineraries can be customised to suit different ages, needs and skills. Enjoy the unparalleled views Umbria has to offer from the saddle as you trot along a scenic route through unspoilt nature.

Back at the stables, sit down to a home-cooked lunch washed down with a glass of wine. Then rejoin your chauffeur and set off for your next stop.

A 15-minute drive will bring you to Spoleto, a charming hilltop town dominated by a 14th century fortress and set against the deep green backdrop of the Apennines. A true treasure trove of artistic and architectural wonders, spanning hundreds of years, Spoleto dispenses surprises at every corner. Your guide will be waiting at the meeting point, ready to lead you on a trail along narrow alleys, across pretty squares, up and down steps, and make sure you take note of its famous landmarks.

Traces of Spoleto’s 2,000-year-old history, including its early days as a thriving Roman settlement, still survive within the town’s medieval fabric which incorporates the ruins of an ancient arch, a temple and theatre, as well as remains of pre-Roman stone walls. One of Spoleto’s finest features is the striking Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Among the masterpieces to be found inside are the intricately-patterned marble and mosaic flooring, Filippo Lippi’s apse frescoes representing Scenes from the Life of the Virgin Mary, the Eroli Chapel decorated by Pinturicchio and an authentic 13th century letter thought to be written by St. Francis himself.

The picture-perfect Piazza del Duomo in front of the cathedral is the setting for concerts held during the Festival dei Due Mondi, a popular cultural summer event that lasts a fortnight and takes place every year between the end of June and beginning of July. At that time Spoleto explodes with colour and creativity: art exhibitions and poetry readings are held in locations across the town, ballet and theatre performances draw an enthusiastic audience and an open air stage hosting internationally acclaimed artists keeps the adrenalin flowing.

Take a long last look at this enchanting corner of Umbria before returning to the present day and to your accommodation.

Nose your way through the Umbrian woods on this unforgettable adventure. Foodies will live an authentic, fully absorbing Italian experience as they join a local farmer on an exciting truffle hunt and later sit down together for a delicious meal.

Truffles are one of the world’s most expensive, sought-after delicacies. They are the fruiting bodies of subterranean fungi that rely on a symbiotic relationship with trees. Nature has chosen to bestow these rare gifts, harvested since ancient times by the Greeks and Romans, in particular abundance on the unspoiled green hills of Umbria. A favourable climate, dense vegetation and fertile soil rich in mineral salts, all contribute to the growth of the exquisite black truffle.

After breakfast and check out you will meet your private driver outside your hotel and begin your day with a pleasant ride to a tiny, remote village tucked away in the heart of the Umbrian hills. Here you will be welcomed by your warm, friendly hosts and set off to enjoy an exhilarating truffle hunt, accompanied by an experienced truffle seeker. It is actually his dog who will lead you on the trail, as he follows the precious scent through the trees and pastures digging out aromatic treasures. With guidance from your truffle seeker, you will identify different plant species, understand the ideal habitat for truffle growth and discover how dogs are trained to detect these woodland treats. En route there will be a stop to enjoy both the delightful surrounding views and a refreshing glass of Prosecco.

Back at the village, the quest for local flavours continues. A cooking demonstration featuring hand-made tagliatelle will be accompanied with bites of pecorino cheese, morsels of family history and a peppering of rural village culture.

Later, sit down to a mouth-watering meal washed down with local wine. Tasty highlights might include omelettes, pasta, bruschette, wild boar meat, salami and prosciutto, all seasoned with a sprinkle of freshly hunted truffles… Buon appetito!

After lunch a 1-hour 30-minute drive will bring you to your hotel in the countryside where you will be staying for 2 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Savour Umbria’s irresistible sights, scents and flavours on an unforgettable country cooking class. Inside a family run farmhouse you will participate in a cooking workshop and produce a delicious meal with fresh, locally grown ingredients. The estate’s owners are fully committed to sustainable, environmentally sound organic farming. In accordance with their principles and green philosophy chemicals, pesticides and artificial fertilizers are banished from this arcadia. Everything here is lovingly grown following the laws and rhythms of Mother Nature. The earth rewards such practices with the juiciest of gifts and the proof of the pudding is in the eating! Fruits, vegetables, olive oil, wine and honey are among the farm’s certified organic sources of pride.

Your private chauffeur will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to a country house gorgeously located among the gently rolling Umbrian hills. Here, after an introduction to the estate’s activities and a tasting of prize-winning extra virgin olive oil, you will enjoy a truly Italian hands-on culinary experience. In a comfortable, intimate setting, under the guidance of a friendly instructor, you will pick up cooking tips, try out infallible techniques and learn how to create genuine, nutritious, mouth-watering dishes using the farm’s fresh produce. Recipes are deliberately kept simple and easy to recreate so as to encourage rising chefs to practise their newly acquired skills once they return home. Depending on the season and day of the week tempting highlights might be handmade tagliatelle, pasta filled with Pienza cheese, eggplant parmigiana, vegetable soups, tiramisù, traditional Umbrian cookies and so much more! After the cooking class, feast on the fruits of your morning’s efforts… Buon appetito!

In the early afternoon your chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel.

After breakfast and check out, which will take place before 10:00 or 11:00 AM, meet your private driver outside your hotel and head for the airport or your next travel destination.