TREK & WINE – THE METOLA LOOP: A journey into the high hills above San Giustino Umbro. We begin at a vineyard, La Palerna, set in an area of remarkable beauty. Offering an incredible view over the Tiber Valley and surrounded by vineyards, this landscape is particularly striking in certain seasons. Our trek begins from the vineyard and follows high hillside ridges, alternating between grasslands and woodlands, with streams and ravines along the way. Rich in wildlife, the area is especially beautiful during spring’s orchid blooms and autumn’s vibrant colors, contrasting with the light marly-sandstone. Upon our return to La Palerna, we suggest a wine tasting, featuring samples of Cospaia 1441, a “cimento” wine, and a Valdimonte red. Ever tried painting with wine?

Length: approximately 7.5 km
Elevation gain: +290 m
Difficulty: medium/easy

RIVER LANDSCAPES: An easy hike along the Tiber, offering many glimpses of incredible natural beauty. The path follows a cycle trail, all on flat gravel roads. We suggest the route from the protected area of the Spada Lakes heading north toward Città di Castello. Along this route, you’ll find bird-watching spots, where it’s common to spot local birds such as herons, egrets, and night herons, all thriving among riparian flora in the shade of poplars, willows, alders, and black locust trees. Upon reaching Città di Castello, we suggest exploring the center’s narrow streets and palaces, including a visit to the municipal art gallery and the Tela Umbra Museum, where you can watch traditional looms in action. For modern art enthusiasts, two museum sites dedicated to the great Alberto Burri, known for his “black” series, “cracks,” and “burnt” pieces, are available.

Length: approximately 6 km
Elevation gain: +35 m
Difficulty: easy

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL CASTLE! ARTEORTO at Bufalini Castle: A trip to San Giustino for a tour of Bufalini Castle, a monument of rare beauty with its original spaces, furnishings, and stunning Italian-style garden. This visit includes a focus on the plants depicted in the frescoes (by Gherardi, who also frescoed the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence) and stucco decorations throughout the castle rooms, followed by a walk in the garden to see the actual plants in their natural setting. This cultural and botanical tour offers insight into the art and history of the region. Afterwards, we recommend lunch at one of the many traditional restaurants in the area to enjoy a blend of Umbrian and Tuscan cuisine. A visit to nearby Sansepolcro and its Civic Museum, housing works by Piero della Francesca, is also highly recommended.