Nestled in the heart of the Umbrian countryside, overlooking the sparkling shores of Lake Trasimeno and hidden away from the eyes of the conventional tourist, you will find the lively lakefront resort of Passignano Sul Trasimeno. A maze of cobbled streets and quirky, mismatched apartments, its charming character and friendly locals make this quintessential Italian town a delightful holiday destination. Enjoy an evening ‘passeggiata’ along the lake front promenade, to the Hotel Lido which offers spectacular views across the lake, and if you are lucky enough to chance upon this place towards the end of July you will be enchanted as the resort transforms for the Palio delle Barche. The week long festivities which portray the reenactment of the power struggle between two of Perugia’s most prominent families are something not to be missed, don’t just take my word for it, it’s also listed in the Top 4 summer events to go to in Umbria! To step back into medieval Italy at any time of the year drive up to one of the of the characteristic hamlets dotted around the rolling Perugian hills. A true Italian treasure is the charming hilltop gem of Castel Rigone which offers stunning panoramic over both the lake and also the surrounding countryside. The echoes of history can be felt in the place which was once part of the stronghold which guarded Perugia’s valley from invaders during the Gothic Wars. Moving further afield the town of Passignano is an excellent base for sightseeing. The Renaissance city of Florence, home to the Uffizi gallery, Michelangelo’s David and one of the best steak restaurants I have ever had the pleasure of dining in (Mario’s situated in the corner of the Market Square), is less than 2 hours away by regional train. The impressive and quintessentially Italian towns of Assisi and Cortona are just a stones-throw away, with the wine-lovers favorite; Montepulciano, right on the doorstep it really is no surprise that everyone wants to keep this enchanting little destination to themselves.
So shhhh, lets keep this between us and I’ll see you there.
Emma