b'Umbria 111 Like much of Italy, Umbrias historical narrative is long, 5 Reasons toIts saturated with historyelaborate and forever fascinating, dating back as far as the 6th century. Plus, by being the only region in Italy not Visit Umbriabordered by the sea or another country, its also managed to keep its cultural identity intact.Travel to Perugia, the regions capital and largest city, to wander the cobbled alleyways and piazzas, passing solemn churches and Gothic mansions as you go. In between coffee-stops at the trendy student-filled cafs, explore the centro storico (historic centre), which hasnt changed much in over 400 years, and admire some of the best-preserved frescoes of Italys Renaissance in The Collegio del Cambio.The hill-top town of Assisi is another must-visit, home to the stunning two-story Basilica of St. Francis church, consecrated in 1253!2 Wine-lovers will feel right at homeIf you like wine, youll love Umbria. Although facing steep competition from neighbouring Tuscany, this region is where youll find some of the finest - and most undervalued - wines in the whole of Italy. Orvieto, a crisp and peachy white wine produced in the Umbrian town of the same name, is the best-known. Youll find it in almost every restaurant in the region, but its also exported all over the world.Just outside Umbria, and surrounded by vineyards, the medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano is known for its noble red wine. Come here for wine-tasting, and to soak up the vast panoramas over the wonderful Val dOrcia and Val di Chiana valleys that surround it.3 The food is out of this worldFoodies are in their element here, with tartufi neri (black truffles), fine cured meats and full-bodied local wines finding their way onto most regional menus. Truffles Often described as the green heart of Italy, theare one of the regions main specialities. You can even go beautiful region of Umbria is something of antruffle hunting in the forest surrounding the beautiful town undiscovered gem amongst British tourists. Readof Trevi, afterwards enjoying a meal made from your finds.our Umbria travel guide to find out why this region should be on your radar, and the best time to visit. Keen foodies should also try the highly acclaimed chocolate in Perugia. In fact, it hosts a Eurochocolate Ah, Umbria. Charming medieval hill towns, vibrant cities,festival each October, which attracts over 900,000 visitors dense forests and mouth-watering truffles and winefrom all over Europe looking to enjoy chocolate tastings extend this Italian regions appeal to just about anyone. and workshops!Refer to our holiday on page 38. 4 Its great for exploring on footWalking holidays are becoming increasingly popular in Umbria, particularly surrounding the beautiful hilltop town of Trevi. Picturesque forest trails, aromatic vineyards and miles of rolling countryside await. And, what better way to Best time to visit Umbria reward yourself after all your exercise than with a wine-tasting and hearty Italian lunch?Early spring, summer, and autumn are great times to visit5 See the beautiful Lake TrasimenoUmbria, owing to the slightly cooler temperatures and quieterUmbria may not have a coastline, but it does cities. At the end of March, the region enjoys temperatures ofhave Lake Trasimeno. The fourth largest lake in Italy, around 15C to 17C, heating up to a scorching 29C comeTrasimenos setting is what makes it so picturesque. August. The temperature often reaches a high of 15C duringEncased by mountains and tiny medieval stone villages, the early winter months, making this an ideal time to go on athe river looks out onto the crumbling towers, fortresses, walking holiday or city break. Renaissance churches and abbeys that punctuate the rolling countryside. Come here at sunset and experience the leisurely rhythm of life that exists by the lakeside. 020 8951 2901|solosholidays.co.uk'