UMBRIA: ITALY'S BEST KEPT SECRET
What if I tried to convince you that I know of a place that is full of beautiful green and olive hills, draped with the prettiest of roads that pass the most local of farms that produce the freshest ingredients for cooking, the tastiest olives for oil, and grow grapes for a wine that can stack up to the greatest of Bordeaux? All while connected picturesque villages that seem frozen in time. If there is ever a location where a movie set has come to life, it's Umbria. And the best part? It's scarcely populated, unknown to the masses of tourists and is full of ideal terrain for a great week of cycling. The region of Umbria, the smallest in Italy and the only one that doesn't border water or a foreign country, is known as Il Cuore Verde d'Italia- the green heart of Italy- it's a secret escape that, once you know what is available as cyclist and a traveler, not to mention as both an epicurean and food and wine enthusiast, makes it a treat for all the senses. But, be forewarned: one taste of Umbria makes it very difficult to leave.
World-Class Cycling
Different terrain appeals to different types of cyclists, but one theme that is common when it comes to searching out enjoyment on a bike it's a search for quiet and scenic roads that make riding so pleasurable. Umbria is ideal for this- whether its an easy route that rolls along the Olive Way in the Tiber River basin, or a more difficult route into the Appenine Mountains- riding in Umbria compares to the most scenic hilltop roads in Tuscany and the most demanding climbs in the Alps. The difference? It's undiscovered, unspoiled and waiting for discovery. With all that defines a great ride for you, what are you waiting for?
Authentic Culture
Uncovering the secrets of Umbria isn't limited to just cycling. Medeival hilltop villages line the ridges of the Umbrian hillsides, including Citta del Pieve, Assisi and Todi. We'll visit the Benedictine abbey of Sassovivo, the church of Santa Maria della Consolazione-a Rennaissance masterpiece- the duomo of Orvieto and a private tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. We'll enjoy private tastings of the best wines of Umbria at Lungarotti, famous for defining quality among Umbrian vineyards. Refined and traditional Umbrian cuisine-based on fresh local produce and regional specialties such as black truffles-is served amidst the converted grounds of a convent and high on the hills of a family wine estate. This is Umbria at its most authentic.
Exemplary Service
Italian pride is well known and no country has implemented greater improvements in what people can be proud of-exceptional service- than Italy. The national movement has found its ways to Umbria and is experienced inside the refined walls of an historic hilltop palazzo, the gardens and quaint buildings of a 5-star Relais, and the sophisticated refinements and luxury spa in a converted convent. The culinary excellence of Umbria succeeds in minimizing the distance of farm to table produce and is a producer of the finest olive oils in Italy; exceptional wines made from the Sagrantino grape and is known for culinary gems such as the famed black truffle, umbricelli pasta and Chianina beef. It's clear the final piece of the puzzle is in place, so isn't it time to experience the riches of Umbria for yourself?