Where to Stay in Umbria

White Truffle Fair at Città di Castello, Umbria

2009-11-13T04:48:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, Città di Castello was host to the 30th annual White Truffle Fair. This event is always a great success, with visitors coming from all over the world to sample this delicious gastronomic delight.

Huge marquees are set up in the gardens of the elegant Palazzo Bufalini with stands selling salamis, prosciuttos, cheeses, truffles, porcini mushrooms, olive oils, dolci from Naples and a whole host of other delicious products. The scent of truffle as you walk into the marquee is strong and sends tastebuds into overdrive! Inside the Palazzo Bufalini there was wine tasting too.

If you missed out this year, think about booking an autumn holiday to Umbria in 2010. It's a great time of year to visit, usually with bright, sunny days and the countryside looking stunning in its autumn colours. Olives are usually being harvested and first pressings are available to taste and to buy.

Several of the villas and B&B featured on Where to Stay are still available for holidays in late October/early November 2010 so email now for enquiries at wheretostayinumbria@hotmail.it.

Festa d'autunno, Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, 23-25 Oct 2009

2009-10-19T04:39:00.000-07:00

The ancient tiny hilltop hamlet of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina is host to the annual Autumn Festival this coming weekend.

For three days the cobbled streets are filled with stalls serving roasted chestnuts, porchetta, woodland goodies like Porcini mushrooms and truffles, locals parade through the streets in medieval dress and there is flame throwing and other entertainment!

The Monte is really, really old with Etruscan origins. If you visit the village today, you can still see the form and layout of medieval times. It is perched high on the hillside with incredible views over the Upper Tiber Valley. The main tower is visible for miles around, even from neighbouring Tuscany and is a real local landmark.

On Friday 23rd the Festa opens with a dinner in the old castle at 21.00. On Saturday 24th October, from 16.00 onwards there are typical artisan stalls and medieval entertainment. On the morning of Sunday 25th, you can walk in the local woods looking for mushrooms and chestnuts, have lunch in the Taverna del Gatto and in the afternoon see the flagthrowers from Castiglion Fiorentino (Sbandieratori).

A lovely, traditional weekend in Umbria, really worth taking part in.

Eurochocolate, Perugia 16-25 October 2009

2009-10-01T01:55:00.000-07:00

Autumn is here and it's time for the huge chocolate festival in Perugia, capital of Umbria, Italy!

Eurochocolate is an amazing event with the streets of the city lined with stands selling chocolate by makers from all over Europe.

Perugia is itself home to the world famous chocolate, the "Bacio", or "kiss", a delicious praline topped with a hazelnut, coated in dark chocolate and visits to the Perugina factory are possible all year round.

The Eurochocolate festival is host to big names such as Nestlè, Toblerone, Milka, Lindt and many other smaller, individual chocolate makers. There are cookery lessons, tastings and even a Chocofarm with beauty treatments available based on cocoa and chocolate!!!

If you've never been to Umbria before, it's a great time to visit. The rich autumn colours of the trees are accentuated by the bright, sunny days and crisp evenings. Combined with a traditional time for eating truffles, funghi porcini and tasting the first pressings of olive oil, think about taking a short break before the onset of winter.

Many of the villas, apartments and B&Bs have great out of season rates too!

Bevagna, Mercato delle Gaite 19th - 18th June 2009

2009-04-08T01:03:00.000-07:00

Bevagna is quite simply a tiny, beautiful medieval village in the heart of the Vale of Umbria. Not far from Assisi, Foligno and Montefalco, Bevagna has retained its central piazza almost as it was in the 1100s and has a timeless atmosphere.

Every year the clock turns back to medieval times and the cobbled streets are filled with stalls selling and making ancient traditional goods, pottery, toys etc. The locals dress up in medieval costumes and the taverns sell food based on fare of many centuries ago.

It is a real treat to visit and immerse yourself in this culture and enjoy the enthusiasm of the locals taking part.

Most of the villas and apartments on Where to Stay in Umbria are an easy day trip away from Bevagna and provide a perfect base for your holiday in Umbria.

With rates as low as £350 per week for self catering accommodation during June it is a perfect opportunity to visit this stunning area of Italy for your summer holiday.

Email Anna at wheretostayinumbria@hotmail.it for more details.

Casa Rosmarino (self catering villa and apartment), Umbria

2009-03-04T05:33:00.000-08:00

One of the most charming and welcoming villas on Where to Stay in Umbria, Casa Rosmarino, has just a few weeks left to fill for this summer!

The main villa comfortably accommodates 6 guests and there is a self contained apartment for 2 (available for rent seperately or with the main villa). The villa has a stunning swimming pool with lovely views and there are plenty of shady areas for those who like to stay out of the sun!

Elegantly furnished, one of the most stunning rooms is the dining area. Once a barn, this room has now been converted into a beautiful space for dining, with ancient beams and terracotta tiles and is "open" on the sides, allowing a lovely gentle breeze to flow through and the magical sounds of the garden at night - perfect for candlelit dinners during the balmy summer months.

The apartment is available from:

4th April until 9th May
6th to 13th June
29th August to 12th September

And the main villa from:

18th April to 9th May
29th August to 12th September

Please email Anna at wheretostayinumbria@hotmail.it for more information or to make a reservation.

Infiorata at Spello, Umbria, 13 June 2009

2009-03-04T05:29:00.000-08:00

Spello is one of Umbria's most magical and historical hilltop towns. Roman walls and a watch tower can still be seen today and the beautiful medieval centre is fabulously preserved.

Every year the tiny town is host to the annual Infiorata (The Flowering). Artists draw pictures on the narrow cobbled streets which are then filled in with brightly coloured flower petals creating amazing images. A prize is awarded to the best design!

To see the designs at their best it is good to get there early on the Sunday morning (14th June) before the local procession to the church.

Spello is an easy drive away from many of the properties at Where to Stay in Umbria and is well worth visiting, especially for such a memorable occassion.

Email Anna now at wheretostayinumbria@hotmail.it to find out if your preferred property is still available for the week starting 13th June!

Truffle Hunting in Umbria

2009-02-11T04:35:00.001-08:00

This weekend there was an interesting article in the Times about truffle hunting in Umbria!

Saverio is a good friend of ours and is delighted to offer guests at any of the accommodation featured on Where to Stay in Umbria the chance to hunt for truffles, a tour of the truffle farm and a delicious 7 course meal based on truffles.

Take advantage of the great rates for our villas and apartments in Umbria and make time to visit the truffle farm (we can arrange visits for you)! It will be something you will talk about for ages afterwards...

In case you missed the article, click on this link to learn more:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/destinations/italy/article5670579.ece

For bookings or enquiries for accommodation please email anna@wheretostayinumbria.com

Umbria in May

2009-02-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

There are so many wonderful and interesting events taking place in Umbria in May that it makes a perfect month to consider taking your holiday.

The historic town of Assisi is host to the Calendimaggio from 7th to 9th May when the town comes alive with medieval processions, music and much more...

Gubbio, the beautiful medieval town on the slopes of the Monte Ingino holds the Festa dei Ceri on the 15th May and the Palio della Balestra on the 31st May. Both events are not to be missed and draw huge crowds! The atmosphere is fantastic and the costumes are amazing.

All of our villas and apartments are within easy driving distance of Assisi and Gubbio so find one you like and contact me for availability at anna@wheretostayinumbria.com .

I look forward to hearing from you!

Umbria Jazz 2009, 10-19 July

2009-01-26T06:36:00.000-08:00

Umbria jazz 2009 promises to be more exciting and with more fantastic events than ever before!

From the 10th - 19th July, the streets of the historic capital of Umbria, Perugia, will be packed with jazz lovers from all over the world.

The line up this year includes Paolo Conte, James Taylor, Burt Bacharach, Steely Dan and Simply Red!

It's a great time to visit this beautiful region of Italy, soak up the sun, enjoy the great food and wine and hear some amazing live music, not only in the theatres and marquees but also in the many restaurants, wine bars and trattorias in the city.

The villas, apartments and B&B on Where to Stay in Umbria are all within easy reach of Perugia and provide the perfect base offering luxury and comfort plus the chance to enjoy the music at Umbria Jazz. Some are offering great discounts for these weeks in July!

Email Anna now on wheretostayinumbria@hotmail.it for help with choosing the right accommodation for your holiday!

Self catering villa rental for 2 in Umbria, Italy

2008-11-10T02:20:00.000-08:00

We are very pleased to have been able to add the charming Casa Cerqueto to our portfolio of stunning holiday accommodation in Umbria.

This is the perfect place to stay for 2 people looking for a beautifully furnished villa tucked away in the countryside but still within easy reach of the main sights and attractions of Umbria, including the excellent local restaurants!

Casa Cerqueto is a converted and restored drying tower with all the old features you would expect - stone walls, terracotta floors and ceilings, ancient beams - combined with a contemporary kitchen with top of the range appliances and french doors opening onto the terrace and gardens beyond.

There are two bedrooms, so could also provide accommodation for 4, but we think that it suits a couple best.

With very reasonable rates at 600 Euro in the high season, it makes sense to book soon! Email us at info@wheretostayinumbria.com for more information or to book.

Villas for rent for 2 people in Umbria, Italy

2008-10-06T06:07:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that it is difficult to be able to rent a property for just two people that has all the features and stunning locations of a larger villa? Where to Stay in Umbria is pleased to promote the beautifully restored cottages at San Giuliano sleeping 2 guests...

Three delightful, independent cottages have been restored in the grounds of an old farmhouse. Each has its own private terrace with table and chairs looking out over the valley towards Assisi. Located on the hillside near Pierantonio (Umbertide), Perugia is just a 20 minute drive away.

With a lovely swimming pool set on the hillside above the cottages, this is perfect accommodation for couples. The owners provide a warm welcome and chance to join in the weekly pizza night...

Email info@wheretostayinumbria for more information or to book.

Few weeks remaining in summer 2009!

2008-09-24T01:05:00.000-07:00

Several of our beautiful villas are already nearly fully booked for next summer. Don't miss out, click on the links below for full details on each villa and book by 30th November for a 5% early booking discount on the tariff (this rate can't be beaten else where!).

Villa della Lavanda (sleeps 8 plus 4 in the cottage)

Dream villa set in private estate with stunning views and panoramic swimming pool.

Weeks available: 20th - 27th June 2009; July 18th - 25th 2009

Villa Murlo (sleeps 8)

Beautifully restored villa with gorgeous gardens, amazing views and infinity pool. Complete privacy guaranteed.

Weeks available: 27th June - 11th July 2009

Villa Caterina (sleeps 6 + 2 in the cottage)

Sitting on the hillside, with incredible panorama from the villa and stunning swimming pool, this converted farmhouse has been loving restored...

Weeks available: 27th June - 11th July 2009

Bargain holiday villas for rent in Umbria, Italy!

2008-06-11T00:11:00.000-07:00

Amazing value last minute holidays on luxury villas in Umbria!

Villa Murlo

Fantastic villa for 8 guests with pool set in private estate with on site butler, maid and chef

Only €2,500 for the week of 14th June 2008!

Villa della Lavanda

Ultimate dream villa for 8 guests with pool and stunning views

Amazing €1,500 for the week of 14th June 2008!

Other dates also available during the summer for both villas at great prices. Please email info@wheretostayinumbria.com for more details.

Self Catering apartments for rent, Umbria, Italy

2008-06-04T00:40:00.000-07:00

Villa Tramonto has 5 beautiful apartments for 2, 4 or 6 guests to rent by the week on a self catering basis.

Special discounts available during the summer months! Please email info@wheretostayinumbria.com for more details and availability.

This country house has been beautifully restored into 5 self catering apartments with independent entrance. There is a fantastic view over the valley northwards to Città di Castello (15 mins drive) and south to Perugia (40 mins drive), with the mountains of Monte Nerone and Catria in the distance. The swimming pool looks out over the countryside and is only for use by guests staying at the property. There is a restaurant on site, run by the family who own the property which offers an excellent menu based on traditional Umbrian food and also great pizzas!

10% discount on Villa Caterina (sleeps 6+2)

2008-05-26T23:10:00.000-07:00

Special offer for late summer bookings!

The beautiful Villa Caterina is available at a special 10% discount tariff during July and August.

With only a few weeks left to fill including the week from 5th July and from 19th July, this luxury villa with ecofriendly swimming pool, landscaped gardens and gorgeous views, sleeping 6 in the main villa and 2 in the cottage, is the perfect place for a dream holiday in Umbria, Italy.

Soak in the Umbrian sunshine, lazing by the pool, or visit some of the spectacular sights of Umbria including Assisi, Perugia, Gubbio and Lake Trasimeno. A championship golf course is only 10 minutes drive away from the villa!

To book or enquire about availability, please email info@wheretostayinumbria.com .

Last minute offer! Self catering cottages for rent Umbria, Italy

2008-05-14T11:57:00.001-07:00

Last minute special offer on holidays in Umbria, Italy

Delightful self catering cottages available at incredible prices.

The tiny hamlet of San Gabriel comprises three cottages and the main farmhouse, set in beautiful grounds and with a stunning swimming pool. Situated on the hillside, the views are incredible and can be enjoyed from the terrace of each cottage at the end of the day, with a glass of wine, watching the sunset in the distance...

Two cottages are still available for the week of 31st May to 7th June:

Wisteria cottage sleeps 2-4 guests and is only €450 for the week!

Rosmarino cottage sleeps 4-6 and is only €600 for the week!

Email info@wheretostayinumbria.com for more details or to book!

Last Minute Holidays, Villa rental, Umbria, Italy

2008-05-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

Luxury villa with pool for up to 8 guests half price in June!

Week commencing 14th June only €1750 self catering.

Ultimate Umbrian dream villa in stunning location by Antognolla golf course near Perugia.

click on www.wheretostayinumbria.com/special_offers.htm for more details.

Last Minute Holidays, Villa Rental Umbria

2008-04-30T12:34:00.000-07:00

Two of our stunning villas have got fabulous deals on the few last remaining weeks of the summer!

Villa Murlo (Sleeps 8 guests)
Fantastic villa with pool in private nature reserve with on site butler, maid and chef
Weeks commencing 17th May and 24th May - €1950 euros
Week commencing 14th June – €2,950 euros

Villa della Lavanda (Sleeps 8 to 12 guests)
Ultimate Umbrian dream villa with infinity pool and incredible views!
Week commencing 10th May – unbelievable €1,700 euros
Week commencing 14th and 21st June - €2,500 euros

Email us now at info@wheretostayinumbria.com for bookings

Umbria Jazz, Perugia 11th to 20th July 2008

2008-04-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

Exciting news! Confermed for Umbria Jazz 2008:

Sonny Rollins, exclusive in Italy for 2008!

Alicia Keys, REM, Enrico Rava, Mario Biondi, Carla Bley, Paolo Fresu, STefano Bollani, Cassandra Wilson, Herbie Hancock, Gary Burton, Pat Metheney...

It's a fantastic line up this year! Tickets are already available on line and the full programme for Umbria Jazz 2008 will be on line by 8th May.

Book your accommodation at www.wheretostayinumbria.com for July and enjoy the atmosphere and music of Umbria Jazz for yourselves.

www.umbriajazz.com

Umbria Jazz Festival, Perugia, Umbria

2008-04-07T00:55:00.000-07:00

Summer in Umbria

Fields full of sunflowers, vines slowly ripening in the summer sun, balconies draped in bright red geraniums and roses blooming. Temperatures can reach 35 degrees or more. Days are long and each tiny village holds its summer “Sagra” or celebration of life, which usually involves plenty of traditional Umbrian food, lots of good wine and an Italian band playing Ballo Liscio with an accordion and double bass!

Perugia - Umbria Jazz (First two weeks of July)

The capital of Umbria resounds with the music of Umbria Jazz. This international music festival brings together artists like Keith Jarret, Santana and Elton John. All the wine bars, restaurants and pubs have a live band and musicians get together for jamming sessions into the tiny hours!

www.umbriajazz.com

Infiorata, Spello, Umbria

2008-03-17T03:44:00.001-07:00

The gorgeous and perfectly restored medieval hilltop town of Spello, Umbria is host to the annual Infiorata (The Flowering). Artists draw pictures on the cobbled streets, which are then filled in with brightly coloured flower petals. A prize is awarded to the best design!

Ryanair flights to Perugia on Saturday!

2008-03-10T02:28:00.000-07:00

Ryanair direct from London Stansted to Perugia

Great news!

Ryanair are introducing flights to Perugia, Umbria on Saturdays from 5th April thoughout the summer. This is perfect as most villas, apartments and holiday homes let from a Saturday to Saturday avoiding the need to find accommodation for the Friday night or missing out one day of your holiday, arriving on the Sunday instead.

Flights are currently available from 1p so get booking!!! Lots of the properties on Where to Stay are offering special discounts as well, so come to Umbria for a perfect summer getaway!

www.ryanair.com

Race of the Ceri, Gubbio, Umbria

2008-03-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

The Festa dei Ceri is held annually in one of Umbria’s most interesting medieval towns, Gubbio, where you can watch the race of the ancient “Ceri” (Candles) through the tiny cobbled streets and up the mountainside to the church at the top. There is a fabulous atmosphere and it’s wonderful to see all generations join in the celebrations.

Gubbio is divided into three "Rione" or quarters and each Rione has its Saintly protector. The ceri are huge wooden candles which have to be carried by many men as they are so heavy. On the top of each candle is a statue of each Saint. There is Saint Ubaldo, the patron saint of Gubbio and protector of workmen. Then there is Saint Giorgio, protector of businessmen and finally Saint Antonio, protector of "Contadini" or peasants.

The race starts at the bottom of the town and works its way up the narrow, steep streets of Gubbio to the main square, which has to be circled three times before the ceri can continue up through the town and up the mountain to the Church of Saint Ubaldo at the top.

It is an honour to be part of the team that carries each Ceri and positions are handed down through the generations of families of Gubbio. Brightly coloured banners are hung out all over the town each representing the colour of its Rione!