On a Journey of Discovery Through Umbria

Lake Trasimeno – The Largest Lake on the Apennine Peninsula

Lake Trasimeno, the largest lake on the Apennine Peninsula and the fourth largest in Italy, lies in the Umbria region, just west of Perugia, 850 feet (259 meters) above sea level. Surrounded by mountains rising to 1,968 feet (600 meters) and reaching depths of up to 23 feet (7 meters), the lake has been likened by Lord Byron to a silver veil. Over the centuries, it has enchanted countless poets, painters, and travelers.

The hills surrounding Lake Trasimeno are breathtaking. The air is filled with the scent of fragrant broom and maquis, the sun shines brightly, and the lake glimmers far below. It’s a tranquil, peaceful place. There are no settlements, hotels, restaurants, or large crowds here. Occasionally, you might encounter cyclists or forestry vehicles, but for the most part, you’ll find yourself walking peacefully along gentle gravel paths and trails that wind through the hills.

Circular walk in Passignano with a view of Lake Trasimeno

Panoramic view of Lake Trasimeno in Umbria

The St. Francis' Way to Assisi

Between pilgrimage culture and architecture: The city of Assisi is renowned for its well-preserved historic center, with charming stone streets and historic buildings. A standout example is the Basilica of San Francesco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to stunning frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis. Discover the most famous route of this hiking journey, the Franciscan Way.

Through the Sacred Forest to Assisi

On the way to Assisi, the Sacred Forest is a true highlight. This natural masterpiece features 121 olive trees arranged in three circles, best admired from the tower. The ascent into Assisi leads you through the tranquil forest, on the shaded side beneath the city walls. Only after passing the monastery walls do you arrive at the grand Basilica of San Francesco, where you’ll be greeted by the many visitors who come to admire it.

Read about the most beautiful Eurohike moments and highlights along the Franciscan Way.

Hike through the Sacred Forest of San Francesco

Assissi Basilica of San Francesco Bogengang

Olives, Olive Trees & Olive Groves

A hidden gem on the stage from Spello to Trevi is an alternative route that deviates from the standard path, not directly along the Franciscan Way. This is the Olive Tree Trail, Il Sentiero Degli Ulivi. It’s a more challenging hiking option with added elevation and a slightly longer distance. Along the way, you'll encounter peaceful, solitary hills, few (if any) people, and an abundance of olive groves. The image shows olive trees at Monte Subasio.

Panorama of Trevi

What could be more beautiful than a stunning panorama, sweeping views, a unique landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and a sense of tranquility? Here, you can take in the view of the town of Trevi, nestled in the heart of nature. The surrounding area of Trevi, along with various hiking trails leading to the town, offers plenty of variety while still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.

Villa Fabri in the Town of Trevi

Take your time when visiting Villa Fabri in the beautiful Umbria region. This enchanting place blends art, history, and nature within its grounds. From here, you can enjoy a stunning view of the valley surrounding Spoleto. In fact, the villa has many names, each tied to the families that have owned it over the years.

The frescoes and paintings on the ceilings in several rooms are truly spectacular to behold.

Ceiling paintings in the Villa Fabri in Trevi

Castle on the road from Trevi to Spoleto

Christina Travels from Trevi to Spoleto

Our hiking expert, Christina from product management, ventured along the Franciscan Way and beyond the beaten path in Umbria. On day 6, you start by passing through the city gate, hiking up and down through olive groves, and passing the Franciscan hermitage before reaching the charming Campello, known for its white stone walls. Your route then follows the Via Francigena towards Rome, leading you to the fortified village of Poreta, where a climb to the castle is highly recommended. A short drive then takes you to Spoleto.

Spoleto on Sant'Elia Hill

The town is located on the hill of Sant’Elia, at the foot of the lush, evergreen Monteluce, nestled in the fertile Spoletino Valley. As the backdrop for renowned cultural events like the Spoleto Festival, and home to numerous historical monuments spanning various periods, Spoleto stands as a symbol of international culture.

The stage from Trevi to Spoleto also offers a stunning nature-filled hike. Along the way, you'll encounter tiny hamlets and quaint villages, endless hills, forests, and olive groves. The trail meanders up and down the mountain slopes, providing a true sense of the landscape.

Highlight in Spoleto

The Cathedral of Spoleto, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, stands proudly in the picturesque square at the foot of the hill of Sant’Elia, creating a dramatic scene at the base of the broad staircase of Via dell'Arringo. Encircling it are the 16th-century Palazzo Rancani Arroni, the Palazzo della Signoria, the charming octagonal church of Santa Maria della Manna, and the intimate Caio Melisso Theater.

Underground Spoleto

A truly breathtaking experience awaits at the final stop in Spoleto: The city itself and the surrounding landscape are nothing short of stunning. Truffles and other Umbrian specialties are also extremely popular, delighting visitors, especially. However, beneath the city lies a network of underground transportation systems aimed at making the city center car-free. With escalators, elevators, and moving walkways, you can travel up to four levels from the lower town to the Rocca, passing through tunnels, entrances, staircases, and connecting passageways that are not only part of the transport system but also showcase cultural displays, with fascinating exhibits and images that bring Spoleto’s history to life. This is a significant contribution to reducing pollution in Spoleto. Sustainability is also at the heart of everything we do at Eurohike.

Spello, One of the Most Beautiful Towns in Italy

Spello is nestled on the southern slope of Monte Subasio, between Assisi and Foligno, and is proudly part of the "Most Beautiful Towns in Italy" club, thanks to its wealth of cultural, artistic, and natural heritage. Originally an ancient Umbrian settlement, Hispellum became an important Roman town in the 1st century BC and was honored with the title of "Splendidissima Colonia Julia” (Beautiful Julia Colony) Today, remarkable Roman remnants blend seamlessly with the town's medieval character, offering a captivating glimpse into its rich past.

Feast Time

Indulge in delicious cuisine after your hiking stages. Truffles are abundant throughout the region, but they are especially typical of Spoleto! Treat yourself to a bottle of truffle oil, perfect for you or as a souvenir. A small bottle is both lightweight and affordable. In Trevi, we also recommend the outstanding local olive oil. If you prefer tasting sugus and salsas, here's a tip: Visit the delicatessen "L'Antico Frantoio" (The Old Oil Mill) on Via Arco di Druso in Spoleto.

What is Porchetta? It's roast suckling pork served in a bread roll: locals often enjoy it at the market, arguably a much tastier version of a deli meat or sausage sandwich! You can also find affordable fish and delicious desserts at Lake Trasimeno in Passignano, at "Il Passo di Giano." It’s a hidden gem, also known for its excellent fish platters, though not directly by the lake.

But the whole region benefits from the many culinary delights Umbria has to offer. Dive deeper into this journey!