Umbria is sometimes regarded as a postscript to Tuscany, its more glamorous neighbour. In fact, it is a slice of Italy unclotted by tourists. See great works of the Renaissance, discover medieval hilltowns, vineyards and stunning towns such as Orvieto, Perugia and Assisi. Umbria has everything you want from Italy except a seaside – but it does have a jolly nice lake at Trasimeno. 
Recommended tour operator: Real Holidays
Real Holidays says
Umbria is the core of our Italian Portfolio. Each October, our director and his wife visit the region and their search for new properties tends to be as fruitful as the olive harvest taking place around them.
The result is a wide selection of stylish country house hotels, converted farmhouses, estates with shared pools and self-catering apartments - and we know them all really well. Here’s a few of our favourites.
For the ultimate views, we recommend a stay at Le Silve. A characterful converted farmhouse, it’s set in a tranquil spot in glorious countryside, close to Assisi (pictured centre).
Foodies will enjoy the Villa di Monte Solare; this elegant hotel has an excellent cookery school (top left) and is also a great base for the annual Umbria jazz festival in nearby Perugia (9-18 July 2010).
Perhaps our most romantic hotel is the intimate Locanda Palazzone. It’s set on a wine estate near Orvieto and has just seven suites, a clever mix of old-world charm with modern touches.
If you prefer self-catering, our pick is the Borgo Il Poeta (top right). This group of six country houses, close to the hilltop town of Gubbio, works really well for families.
Get under the skin of Umbria by staying in two or more different properties in the north and south, from the ageless hill towns of Valle Umbra to the softer hills and lakes around Orvieto.
Click here for holiday ideas and prices in Umbria or to request a brochure.
