What are we doing each day?
Day 1 Fly to Rome On arrival we meet our tour manager ahead of our transfer to the ancient hilltop town of Spoleto, which overlooks olive groves, vineyards and the distant green Apennines. After checking in at the delightful 4-star Hotel dei Duchi, we settle in before savouring a delicious evening meal at the hotel restaurant. Meals included: Dinner Day 2 Spoleto We begin with a morning guided tour of Spoleto, which stands on the old Roman Flaminia road and whose Roman remains and medieval buildings crouch under a 14th century fortress. We take in sights like the Roman Arch - once the entrance to the forum - the 12th century Duomo and the Roman aqueduct, a symbol of the city. This afternoon brings free time to relax and enjoy your surroundings in your own way before we head out this evening to a superb trattoria in town. Here, we feast on fresh, locally sourced Umbrian cuisine while soaking up the trattoria’s traditional and convivial atmosphere. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 3 Gubbio & Olive Oil Tasting Today is devoted to Gubbio, a Gothic town in the Apennine foothills in northeast Umbria, famous as the place where St Francis of Assisi tamed the wolf. We explore its medieval lanes as we hear how, in the 13th century, St Francis calmed the wolf in what was hailed as a miracle by the populace. Principal sights include Gub- bio’s sumptuous Palazzo dei Consoli, Duomo, and the Fontana dei Matti (Fountain of the Madmen), whilst legend has it that anyone who makes three turns around this 16th century fountain and is then baptised with its waters will go insane. Discover how the legend has given rise to the claim that Gubbio’s citizens are mad – and why it might just hold a grain of truth! On the journey back to Spoleto, we visit an authentic artisanal olive farm for a tour and tasting of some stunning extra virgin olive oil. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 4 Orvieto We travel to the hilltop gem of Orvieto for a guided walk, hearing about its Etruscan past, riding its funicular and admiring its incredible Duomo, whose façade is carved with Bible scenes. After seeing the sights, you have time at leisure to explore alone, perhaps pausing for a chilled glass of Orvieto Classico wine. A highlight is lunch at a wonderfully authentic restaurant, which is not just renowned for its home-made food but its access to Etruscan catacombs. We descend into these ancient caves during our visit – truly something to remember. Before returning to Spoleto, we visit tiny Narni village. This evening is free to enjoy independently. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 Perugia, Bevagna & winery Today we start our fascinating day with a journey to Umbria’s elegant capital city of Perugia. Centre of culture and art, its medieval upper town is a maze of ancient streets, buzzing piazzas and inviting shops. Here we can view the stunning Palazzo de Priori, with its splendid artworks, and the Maggiore Fountain! A short drive takes us to the medieval village of Bevagna, where we’ll have time to explore its enchanting centre including Piazza Silvestri with its spectacular monuments and churches. Next, we continue to one of Umbria’s most authentic wineries for an intriguing tour and wine tasting with Francesco, the owner and winemaker, learn- ing the history of the winery with an explanation of their unique, artisanal set up. We sample a selection of delicious wines accom-
panied by some handpicked local delicacies. Dinner this evening will be in a local restaurant. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 Spoleto Today is free to enjoy Spoleto at your own pace. You might want to explore the nearby Roman amphitheatre and aqueduct, now the Ponte delle Torri bridge. Or, simply enjoy the comforts of your hotel, perhaps interspersed with people-watching at one of Spoleto’s piazza cafés. Dinner is at the hotel tonight. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 7 Spello & Assisi This morning we discover Spello, a honey-stone hill town known for its annual ‘Infiorata’ flower festival. Soak up its charms on a walking tour, and visit the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, whose Baglioni side-chapel is filled with frescoes by Pinturicchio. Next, we visit UNESCO-listed Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis and Umbria’s jewel. Wander the flower-lined alleyways and hidden churches, and visit the Basilica of St Francis whose upper church boasts Giotto’s magnificent fresco cycle of the saint’s life. This evening, arrive at one of Spoleto’s best-regarded restaurants to dine on antipasti, fish, and pasta prepared by local chefs with the freshest ingredients. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 8 Departure We transfer to Fiumicino airport for our return flight to the UK. Meals included: Breakfast
The order of visits & attractions may change
PRICE INCLUDES Return flights London (specific airport will be advised once schedules are available) Fully escorted holiday Meals as stated above and Handpicked Highlights listed
Purposefully handpicked • www.magaritours.com
16
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting