6 night stay at hotels (two 4 starred hotels and one very nice country – all with ensuite bathrooms). Book early and we will try to accommodate you in a room with a view.

  All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners. Local wine is always included with lunches and dinners. Vegetarian? Vegan? No problem!

  Transportation along the tour and we carry your luggage

1 local guide for groups smaller than 10. Groups larger than 10 people will be guided by 2 local guides.

  Reenactment of medieval workshops of artisans called “Gaite”

    Fine Sagrantino wines of Umbria region wine tasting and lunch at the farm

 Learn about crescia focaccia making at Ca’ Virginia country inn

access to SPA at Ca’ Virginia country inn

 All taxes

Day 1 – Meeting in Orvieto and visit of Orvieto (Night at hotel in Orvieto)

The tour starts in Orvieto, the Umbrian town standing above a tuff cliff with an important historical and artistic heritage in particular from the Etruscan and medieval times. We meet the group at hotel’s lobby. After a brief introduction about the tour, we join an art guide to explore the city jewels: the Cathedral, a marvel of European Gothic architecture, the streets and alleys. After the tour we enjoy a small local restaurant called the Antico Bucchero.

2 km = 1,2 miles
Palazzo Piccolomini – Orvieto
dinner

Day 2 – Montefalco – Bevagna walk and visit of the “Gaite” medieval guild reenactment in Bevagna (Overnight in Spello)

Today we set off to the Umbrian Valley. The drive is about 1 hour. We stop to get refreshed at Napolini’s, a farm run by a family that produces Montefalco’s most famous wines for generations. We take a loop walk through vineyards in one of the most well-known area for wines. Lunch at the farm will follow and we will taste Sagrantino wine, one of the best full-body wines in Italy. We then transfer to Bevagna, a village suspended in the Middle Ages. It is surrounded by an ancient city wall with six doors. Inside the defensive walls, cobbled streets connect stone houses, monuments and Roman remains. Here we visit the re-enactment of medieval workshops of artisans called “Gaite”: the wax and the silk twisting workshop. We then transfer back to Spello to our next hotel. Dinner tonight is at the hotel’s restaurant.

6 km = 3,7 miles
La Bastiglia – Spello
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 – The Trevi loop walk (Overnight in Spello)

The charming village of Trevi is a small architectural gem perched on a hill: thanks to its remarkable environmental, cultural and artistic heritage, it is part of the of club of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”. We explore its amazingly beautiful countryside. The loop walk is on a gentle terrain surrounded by thousands olive trees. Along the way we also meet a thousand-year-old olive tree. It already existed in the time of Diocletian! It is truly a beautiful monumental tree: its trunk at the base has a circumference of 9 meters, while its height is 5 meters. We arrive at a farmhouse for a lunch with typical Umbrian cuisine. We end the walk returning to Trevi. Dinner tonight is on your own in Spello, with lots of options.

8 km = 5 miles
La Bastiglia – Spello
breakfast, lunch

 

Day 4 – Visit of Assisi. Transfer to Le Marche (Overnight in Ca’ Virginia)

This morning we drive to Assisi. In the year 2000, Assisi, together with its historic center, the Franciscan sites and almost the entire municipal territory, was declared part of the World Heritage of mankind by UNESCO. It is the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare, and it has become famous throughout the world as a universal center for the Franciscan message. The many monuments represent a set of masterpieces of the human creative genius and a fundamental reference for the history of art in Europe and in the world. The majestic Basilica of St. Francis will amaze and excite you. We will visit Assisi with a local art guide. The walk begins at the “Rocca Maggiore” fortress, a fortified structure which stands out on the hill overlooking Assisi: from here you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city and the Umbrian Valley. We walk from the top of the hill down to the center of Assisi. For lunch you can choose one of the many restaurants that serve truffle, local delicious cold cuts and all kinds of pasta. We then transfer to our new hotel in Le Marche region. Dinner will follow and the mother of the owner that will teach us how to make the crescia focaccia.

town stroll in Assisi
Ca’ Virginia – Urbino
breakfast, dinner

 

Day 5 – Coastal walk in Fiorenzuola and guided tour of the Duke’s Palace in Urbino (Overnight in Ca’ Virginia)

We drive to the Adriatic coast (the eastern sea of Italy) and today the walk get most of time the view on the sea. We start from Colombarone. The view today is, for most of time, on the Italian Eastern sea, the Adriatic sea. Lunch based on delicious sea food will be held in Casteldimezzo in a fantastic location, overlooking the sea. After lunch we walk to the town of Fiorenzuola di Focara. This characteristic village rises in a suggestive position, on a promontory overlooking the sea, about 200 meters high. Walking through the pretty alleys you can find evidence of its history such as the remains of the walls that surrounded the village and the medieval doors. We then drive back to our country inn. After some rest we drive to Urbino, Raphael’s birthplace…but not only! Immersed in the rolling hills of the Marche region, it’s a city of immense historical and artistic wealth. A local art guide will give us a tour of the Duke’s Palace of Urbino, a masterpiece of renaissance.  We then have a simple dinner together, based on local truffle. We then drive back to Ca’ Virginia.

8 km = 5 miles
Ca’ Virginia – Urbino
breakfast, lunch, dinner

 

Day 6 – Walk from Candelara to Novilara. SPA in the afternoon. (Overnight in Ca’ Virginia)

This morning we drive to Candelara. Literally the word candela means candle. This small town has attracted a lot of interest in the last 20 years for a festival of candles that is held in November and December. Our walk today takes us through agricultural grounds with lots of fruit trees and wonderful views. We arrive directly on foot at Maria’s restaurant that serves a wonderful piadina (a local bread similar to the crescia but without eggs, served with all sorts of local cold cuts…delicious!). The other specialty that they serve is pasta with bean sauce. We finish our meal with a special coffee mixed with rum! After lunch we make our way back to the property. In the afternoon we will relax at the SPA. We enjoy the farewell dinner at Ca’ Virginia.

8 km = 5 miles
Ca’ Virginia – Urbino
breakfast, lunch, dinner

 

Day 7 – Departure day

This morning we drive to Pesaro train station (1 hour and 50 minutes average by train away from Bologna Centrale train station and 2 hours and 15 minutes to the airport of Bologna – BLQ)      

breakfast

note on the itinerary

Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual walks and sites may vary due to season, special events, or weather. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and in unforeseen circumstances that mandate changes may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience.

Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini – Orvieto

The Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini in Orvieto is characterized by the historic-artistic beauty of its building, protected as a listed building by Heritage law, it belonged to the Papal family Piccolomini from the end of the 15th century until the death of the Countess Cristina Piccolomini in 1905.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL LA BASTIGLIA  – SPELLO

The 34 rooms of the hotel are divided into four different types, all with breathtaking views of the rolling Umbrian hills, characterized by the black green of the cypresses and the gray green of the olive trees.
All rooms offer maximum relaxation, with particular attention to the quality of sleep through the use of hypoallergenic mattresses with memory toppers, duvets and various types of pillows of your choice.

CA’ VIRGINIA – URBINO

This rustic Country House Ca’ Virginia from 14th century has been renovated with attention to details. Modern architecture and typical materials of the region will make your holiday a perfect one.
It is nestled in the picturesque hills of Montefeltro close to Urbino Unesco World Heritage.
The hotel has a SPA and provides massage on request.

GRILLED MEATS IN UMBRIA

Grilled meats in Umbria, Italy, are a culinary delight that showcases the region’s dedication to simple yet incredibly flavorful dishes. Grilling is a popular cooking method in Umbria, especially during outdoor gatherings and festivals. Here’s a description of grilled meats in Umbria:

**1. Selection of Meats:** In Umbria, you’ll find a variety of meats prepared on the grill. The most common choices include succulent cuts of pork, such as pork chops, sausages, and ribs. Additionally, you may also encounter grilled chicken, rabbit, and lamb, depending on the season and availability.

**2. Seasoning:** Grilled meats in Umbria are typically seasoned with a combination of locally sourced herbs, garlic, olive oil, and simple yet flavorful rubs or marinades. The use of fresh, aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage imparts a fragrant and earthy aroma to the meats.

**3. Slow Grilling:** The key to the exceptional taste of grilled meats in Umbria is the slow cooking process over an open flame or charcoal grill. This slow grilling allows the meats to develop a delicious smoky flavor while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.

**4. Simplicity:** The beauty of Umbrian grilled meats lies in their simplicity. The focus is on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and the cooking technique enhances the natural flavors of the meat. It’s all about letting the meat speak for itself.

**5. Sausages:** Umbria is particularly renowned for its flavorful sausages, such as salsiccia umbra. These sausages are made with a mix of ground pork, herbs, and spices. When grilled, they develop a deliciously crispy exterior while retaining their juicy interior.

**6. Local Traditions:** Grilled meats are often a centerpiece of local celebrations and festivals in Umbria, where communities gather to enjoy communal grilling and share the experience with friends and family. The festive atmosphere adds to the enjoyment of the meal.

**7. Sides and Accompaniments:** Grilled meats in Umbria are often served with simple yet delicious side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, fresh salads, and rustic bread. The use of high-quality olive oil for drizzling and dipping is common.

**8. Wine Pairing:** To complement grilled meats, Umbria offers a range of excellent wines. You can enjoy local red wines, such as Sagrantino, which pairs well with the rich flavors of grilled meats.

In Umbria, the art of grilling meats reflects a deep connection to tradition, simplicity, and a celebration of the region’s exceptional ingredients. Whether enjoyed at a local trattoria, a family gathering, or a festive event, grilled meats in Umbria are a culinary experience that captures the essence of this charming Italian region.

TRUFFLES IN UMBRIA

Truffles in Umbria are a culinary treasure that has earned the region a well-deserved reputation for producing some of the finest truffles in the world. Here’s a description of truffles in Umbria:

**1. Truffle Varieties:** Umbria is primarily known for two types of truffles: the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) and the summer truffle (Tuber aestivum). The black truffle, also known as the “Norcia truffle,” is highly prized and considered one of the most flavorful and aromatic truffle varieties globally. The summer truffle, although less intense in flavor compared to the black truffle, still offers a delightful earthy taste and is more readily available during the warmer months.

**2. Truffle Hunting Tradition:** Truffle hunting is a revered tradition in Umbria, passed down through generations. Truffle hunters, often accompanied by trained dogs, venture into the region’s forests and woodlands to search for these elusive treasures. The symbiotic relationship between truffle hunters and their dogs is an integral part of the experience.

**3. Harvest Seasons:** The black truffle season in Umbria typically runs from late autumn to early spring, while the summer truffle season spans from May to September. These different seasons allow for a variety of truffle dishes to be enjoyed throughout the year.

**4. Culinary Uses:** Umbrian truffles are used to create a wide range of delectable dishes. They can be shaved or grated over pasta, risotto, or polenta, enhancing these dishes with their intense and earthy aroma. Truffle-infused oils, butters, and sauces are also popular, providing an easy way to incorporate truffle flavor into various recipes.

**5. Simplicity and Elegance:** Truffle cuisine in Umbria is characterized by its simplicity and elegance. Chefs and home cooks alike understand that truffles are the star of the show, and their dishes often showcase the truffle’s natural flavors without overwhelming them with other ingredients.

**6. Truffle Festivals:** Umbria hosts numerous truffle festivals throughout the year, celebrating the region’s truffle culture. These festivals feature truffle-themed events, food stalls, and opportunities to taste a variety of truffle-infused dishes and products.

**7. Pairing with Wine:** Umbria’s local wines, such as the robust Sagrantino red wine, pair wonderfully with truffle dishes. The wine’s structure and depth complement the earthy and aromatic qualities of truffles.

**8. Truffle Products:** In addition to fresh truffles, Umbria produces a range of truffle-based products, including truffle oil, truffle sauces, truffle-infused cheeses, and truffle-flavored condiments, making it easy for visitors to bring the truffle experience home.

Overall, truffles in Umbria represent a deep-rooted culinary tradition, a testament to the region’s dedication to preserving and celebrating its natural bounty. Whether enjoyed at a local trattoria, purchased from a truffle market, or experienced during a truffle hunt, Umbrian truffles are a gastronomic delight for food enthusiasts worldwide.

VEGETARIAN STRANGOZZI

Vegetarian Strangozzi in Umbria is a delightful pasta dish that caters to those who prefer a meatless or plant-based option while still embracing the rich culinary traditions of the region. Here’s a description of this flavorful dish:

**1. Strangozzi Pasta:** Strangozzi is a traditional hand-rolled pasta that is similar in shape to thick, long strands or ribbons. It is made from simple ingredients like flour and water, giving it a satisfyingly rustic and homemade quality. The texture of strangozzi pasta is slightly chewy, making it an excellent vehicle for absorbing sauces and flavors.

**2. Seasonal Vegetables:** The star of vegetarian strangozzi in Umbria is a medley of seasonal vegetables. These vegetables can vary depending on what’s fresh and available, but common choices include truffle, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley.

**3. Olive Oil:** Umbria is renowned for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and it plays a prominent role in this dish. The vegetables are often sautéed or roasted in olive oil, infusing them with a rich, fruity, and slightly peppery flavor.

**4. Garlic and Herbs:** To enhance the flavors, minced garlic is typically added to the olive oil, infusing the dish with a delightful garlicky aroma. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and sometimes rosemary or thyme are used to season the vegetables and pasta.

**5. Grated Cheese:** While the dish is vegetarian, it’s common to finish it with a sprinkle of grated Pecorino cheese, a sheep’s milk cheese from the region. This adds a savory and salty element that balances the dish’s flavors.

 

 

WINES IN UMBRIA

Umbria, often referred to as the “Green Heart of Italy” due to its central location, is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and a growing reputation for producing high-quality wines. Here’s an overview of the wines you can expect to find in Umbria:

1. **Sagrantino:** One of the most celebrated wines of Umbria, Sagrantino is a full-bodied, deeply colored red wine made primarily from the Sagrantino grape variety. It’s known for its bold tannins and rich flavors of dark fruits, blackberries, and plums. Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG is the most prestigious appellation for this wine. It pairs well with hearty Umbrian dishes.

2. **Rosso di Montefalco:** This is a more approachable and youthful red wine from the Montefalco area, often a blend that includes Sangiovese, Sagrantino, and sometimes Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s characterized by its balanced acidity and red fruit flavors.

3. **Orvieto:** Orvieto is a well-known white wine produced in the town of Orvieto and surrounding areas. It’s made from a blend of grape varieties, including Grechetto and Trebbiano. Orvieto wines are typically crisp, dry, and refreshing with notes of green apple, citrus, and floral aromas. They are excellent choices for aperitifs and seafood dishes.

4. **Grechetto:** Grechetto is a white grape variety that is often used to produce varietal wines or blended into Orvieto. It yields wines with a medium body, good acidity, and flavors of white peach, honeydew melon, and herbs. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy aromatic white wines.

5. **Passito:** Some Umbrian winemakers produce passito wines, which are sweet wines made from grapes that have been dried on the vine or after harvest. These wines are often enjoyed as dessert wines and exhibit concentrated flavors of dried fruits and honey.

Umbria’s wines reflect the region’s diverse terroir, offering both traditional and modern expressions. Whether you prefer red or white, dry or sweet, Umbria has a wine to suit your taste, and exploring the local wineries is a delightful way to experience the region’s rich wine culture.

SEAFOOD IN MARCHE

Seafood in Le Marche, a picturesque region in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, is a culinary treasure that reflects the area’s seaside location and rich gastronomic traditions. Here’s a description of the seafood you can expect to savor in Le Marche:

1. **Variety of Fish:** Le Marche boasts a wide variety of fresh fish caught daily in the Adriatic Sea. You’ll find an array of fish species, including anchovies, sardines, sea bream, sea bass, mullet, cuttlefish, octopus, squid, and various types of shellfish such as mussels, clams, and shrimp.

2. **Brodetto:** One of the most famous seafood dishes in Le Marche is “Brodetto.” It’s a savory fish stew made with a mix of different fish and shellfish, cooked with a rich tomato-based broth. The dish is typically seasoned with garlic, chili pepper, and local white wine, creating a flavorful and hearty seafood medley.

3. **Risotto al Pesce:** Le Marche is known for its exceptional seafood risotto. Creamy Arborio or Carnaroli rice is cooked with a flavorful seafood broth and adorned with an assortment of fresh seafood, often including mussels, clams, shrimp, and squid. The result is a luxurious and aromatic dish.

4. **Fritto Misto di Mare:** This is a beloved Italian dish that consists of a mixed seafood platter, lightly battered and deep-fried until golden and crispy. It typically includes a variety of fish, shrimp, squid, and sometimes vegetables. It’s served with lemon wedges and is perfect for sharing.

5. **Grilled Seafood:** Given the region’s proximity to the coast, grilling seafood is a popular cooking method in Le Marche. You can enjoy fresh whole fish, fillets, or shellfish seasoned simply with olive oil, herbs, and a touch of lemon, allowing the natural flavors of the sea to shine through.

6. **Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare:** This classic pasta dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in a flavorful sauce made from mixed seafood, garlic, white wine, and often, fresh tomatoes. It’s a true celebration of the Adriatic’s bounty.

7. **Seafood Antipasti:** Le Marche offers a range of seafood antipasti (appetizers) that include marinated anchovies, grilled or marinated octopus, and bruschetta topped with fresh seafood and herbs.

8. **Accompaniments:** Seafood in Le Marche is often accompanied by local ingredients such as aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme, extra virgin olive oil, and wine produced in the region, which perfectly complements the flavors of the sea.

CRESCIA IN MARCHE

Crescia is a traditional savory flatbread from the Le Marche region of Italy. It is a beloved and iconic part of the local culinary heritage. Here’s a description of crescia in Le Marche:

**1. Flatbread Base:** Crescia is a type of flatbread made from simple ingredients, including flour, water, yeast or baking powder, and a pinch of salt. The dough is typically left to rise for a period to achieve a light and airy texture.

**2. Unique Shape:** What sets crescia apart from other Italian flatbreads is its distinctive shape. It is often round, resembling a large, thick pancake or a rustic pizza without toppings.

**3. Cooking Method:** Traditionally, crescia is cooked on a griddle or in a heavy skillet over an open flame or on a stovetop. This method imparts a slightly crispy and golden-brown exterior, while the interior remains soft and tender.

**4. Regional Variations:** Le Marche is known for its diverse culinary traditions, and crescia comes in various regional variations. In some areas, it may be enriched with ingredients like cheese, herbs (such as rosemary or sage), or even small pieces of cooked vegetables.

**5. Versatile Dish:** Crescia is a versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways. It can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying and rustic bread. However, it’s often used as a base for various toppings and fillings.

**6. Toppings:** Common toppings for crescia in Le Marche include cured meats like prosciutto or salami, cheeses, such as pecorino or stracchino, and a variety of grilled or roasted vegetables. The choice of toppings can vary depending on personal preference and regional traditions.

**7. Social Food:** Crescia is often associated with social gatherings, picnics, or family meals. It’s a popular choice for outdoor events and celebrations due to its easy-to-share nature.

**8. Accompaniments:** When served as a standalone dish, crescia is often accompanied by local condiments and spreads, like olive oil, fresh tomatoes, and pickled vegetables. These condiments enhance the flavor and experience of enjoying crescia.

**9. Local Tradition:** Crescia is not only a culinary delight but also a symbol of Le Marche’s culinary heritage and traditions. It reflects the region’s emphasis on simple, high-quality ingredients and the importance of communal dining experiences.

**10. Savoring the Experience:** When savoring crescia in Le Marche, you’re not just enjoying a delicious flatbread; you’re partaking in a cultural and gastronomic experience deeply rooted in the local way of life.

Crescia in Le Marche is a comforting and flavorful bread that showcases the region’s commitment to preserving its culinary history and serving up delightful, rustic dishes to be enjoyed with friends and family. It’s a must-try when exploring the culinary traditions of Le Marche.

2890 euro/per person

• 640 EURO (single supplement only in case you need your double room for single use)
• deposit 300 EURO
• balance is due 95 days ahead of trip beginning date
• you can pay in instalments

• deposit 300 EURO
• balance is due 95 days ahead of trip beginning date
• you can pay in instalments
• if you travel in July or August there is a seasonal surcharge of 400 euro per person

group meets here at 4:00 pm of day 1

Orvieto – Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini
Piazza de’ Ranieri, 36
05018 Orvieto

Tour ends here at 9:30 am of day 7

Pesaro train station (1 hour and 50 minutes average by train away from Bologna Centrale train station and 2 hours and 15 minutes to the airport of Bologna – BLQ)   

 How to prepare for this trip

Walking or jogging for 60 minutes 3 times a week for 5 weeks ahead of trip will make your experience more enjoyable. In case you live in a flat area you might also incorporate some steps in your physical activity.

 

What to bring:

• Walking shoes with good traction (sometimes we might have mud on the trail)
• Hat, Swimming suit, sun cream, water bottle to refill with tap water
• Dinners at Italian restaurants do not require any special dress code.
  Wear shoes with good traction

An average day of the trip

On a typical day you hike/walk with your guide in the morning for 3 hours, then we stop at a restaurant or farmhouse for lunch (lunch can last 1hour and half). We serve local food and wines as we believe that food plays an important role in the enjoyment of Italy.
In the afternoon there might be some more walking or town stroll. Around 4.30 or 5pm your guide will take you back to the hotel.
Your guides are available from 9am to 5pm on each day.
Before dinner you will be able to rest a couple of hours.
Dinner will be served in a restaurant in town that you will be able to easily reach on foot. At dinner the guide will not be with you. This is why we planned to have most of the hotels in the town centers and pedestrian areas. And if the hotel is away from the town center we have set up transportation to take you to the next restaurant or activity.
Local wine is always included for lunch or dinner. We serve vino della casa (house wine) as the quality of local house wines is very high. Not by chance this part of Tuscany is one of the most famous wine making area in Italy (Chianti Classico, Brunello, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano).

Weather

In general, the climate in Umbria & Le Marche is very mild. Usually summers in Tuscany are hot with little or no rain. July and August are the hottest months (but still nice for walking as there is always a breeze blowing up on the hills). Spring (April and May) and Autumn (October and November) are milder. You can have some drops of rain but not too many. Winter is colder but you still can count on many sunny days.

Month   avg. High     avg. Low

Apr   66 °F (19 °C)    46 °F (8 °C)
May  73 °F (23 °C)   54 °F (12 °C)
Jun     81 °F (27 °C)   59 °F (15 °C)
Sep    81 °F (27 °C)   59 °F (15 °C)
Oct     72 °F (22 °C)  52 °F (11 °C)
Nov    61 °F (16 °C)  45 °F (7 °C)

Tipping your guides

Should you wish to tip your guides, the gratuity is entirely at your discretion. The standard in the industry ranges from 5€ to 10€ per person, per guide, per day. Tipping is not due to Gianni Stanghellini as he owns the company.

Tipping your drivers

Should you wish to tip your drivers, the gratuity is entirely at your discretion. The standard in the industry ranges from 1€ to 3€ per person, per driver, per day.

Extra expenses

Plan to have extra cash or money in your credit card enough to buy a couple of coffee or tea every day (5 euros average) . Two nights out of seven you are on your own for dinner (20-25 euros per meal per person, average)