Named by the Romans after the mysterious Umbrii Tribe, Umbria is an inspiring holiday setting for painting, learning to cook authentic Italian food or just relaxing the soul. The green heart of Italy is often referred to as the land of Saints, the most notable of whom was Saint Francis of Assisi. There are countless striking hill top towns crammed with architectural treasures which can rival any found it Italy.

What makes Umbria unique?

The Umbrian landscape is a beautiful region of rolling hills, woodlands and water that provide a tranquil setting even through the long hot summers. A strange haze over the countryside gives a unique silvery tinge to the skyline, known as the Umbrian Haze, which further enhances the subtlety of the gentle hill curves.

Umbria has only recently started to capitalize on its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. A major earthquake in 1997 damaged many buildings some of which are either still closed to the public or have only recently reopened. Assisi is one such place that impresses even before you arrive in the town itself. The awesome Basilica di San Francesco that rises above the town has a stunning backdrop of Monte Subasio. A stroll round the houses which trace the shape but now cover the Roman amphitheatre leave you knowing you have just visited one of the most perfect towns you will ever see.

Most visitors head for Perugia (provincial capital), Assisi (the superb frescos by Giotto) and Orvieto (the glittering mosaics of the Duomo and, of course fresh crisp white wines) but do not skip these sites just to avoid other tourists they are too good to miss. Less popular with tourists are Todi, Gubbio (another of one of the most perfect town centres in Italy) and Spoleto (very avant garde).

Don’t Miss...

1. The Piano Grande at Norcia – a place of almost supernatural beauty created by the stunning wild alpine flowers throughout Spring and Summer.
2. Assisi – Basilica di San Francesco, Chiesa Santa Chiara, the Forum Romano and the Anfiteatro Romano. Lunch at the Locanda del Podestà in Via San Giacomo is good value, has friendly staff and is near the town centre.
3. If you like camping and the summer pursuits of horse riding, tennis and swimming try Lago Trasimeno.
4. The Marmore Waterfall created by the Romans in 271 BC is the highest in Europe. A visit at the weekend provides the best chance to see it in full flow.
5. Ovieto – Piazza del Duomo to view the mosaics in the late afternoon sun.
6. Todi – The hill top town like the Santa Maria della Consolazione is perched precariously on a little green shelf.