The Castle of Pupaggi is a unique structure immersed in the stunning natural scenery of Umbria’s green heart. From an old fortified castle, apartments of varying sizes have been created, complemented by numerous shared spaces for guests. The ancient village of Pupaggi took shape in the 11th century around the Church of St. Sebastian. It is a typical villa situated on the namesake plateau, featuring a large internal courtyard overlooked by both the church and the agritourism complex, dominated by a pigeon tower. This long weekend is dedicated to nature lovers and those seeking to escape the chaos and savor farm-to-table cuisine.
UP CLOSE WITH THE FARM ANIMALS.
Welcome to the Castle of Pupaggi, located within the SIC IT5210044-BOSCHI DI TERNE-PUPAGGI area, which spans approximately 1,500 hectares northwest of Sellano, reaching altitudes of nearly 1,000 meters. This area is characterized by extensive forests of oaks, hornbeams, and chestnuts. Upon arrival at the property and check-in, we will explore the surrounding area with a short walk around the magnificent castle before meeting the small farm animals, which are the heart and soul of the estate.
Dinner follows at the castle’s restaurant, housed in its former dungeons, featuring farm products and high-quality ingredients prepared in the spirit of Umbrian culinary tradition, with a touch of creative flair.
MURDER MYSTERY DINNER.
The murder mystery dinner (known as a “murder party” in English) is an engaging game set in a crime-investigation theme. The evening’s goal is to identify the culprit of a heinous murder that has occurred right in the Castle of Pupaggi! The castle’s storied history and legends provide a perfect backdrop for a thrilling mystery. Among tales of love and ancient rivalries, we will recount the legend of Bella Pupa, a young maiden of the castle, during the dinner.
What does it involve?
You’ll find police reports, initial clues, and instructions on your tables to guide you through the investigation. The rhythm of the meal coincides with the progress of the inquiry. The lead investigator will manage the game, answering your questions and providing hints. But beware: not all clues will be conveniently served at the table—some you’ll have to find yourself!
ORIENTEERING IN THE VILLAGE OF PALE AND SURROUNDINGS.
The village of Pale, located about 10 km from Foligno, is nestled in the Altolina area near the Menotre River, a small waterway with a steady flow year-round that cascades naturally into the nearby gorge. This territory is rich in historical, artistic, natural, and scenic treasures. We’ll visit the small village and its surroundings in an unusual way—through an orienteering activity. Equipped with a compass and a specially designed topographic map, participants must complete a route marked by mandatory checkpoints (lanterns) as quickly as possible. The game can be played individually or in teams, making it a fun activity for all ages. Ready, set, go!
Suggested addition:
End the day with a stroll in Rasiglia, a charming cluster of houses surrounded by water, just a 10-minute drive from Pale. Known as the “Village of Streams,” it’s a must-see.
Return to the property for a hands-on workshop on making recycled paper, exploring the region’s historical connection to natural resources. The numerous historic paper mills along the Menotre Valley were so renowned that the first printed copy of the Divine Comedy was produced using paper from this area.
TREKKING WITH A MYSTERY – AN ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME: WHO KILLED THE WILD CAT?
We are in the high hills, specifically Monteluco, a hamlet of Spoleto surrounded by a dense and ancient holm oak forest culminating in a plateau at the mountain’s summit. Some of these holm oaks are monumental trees with centuries of history and are protected as such. This environment is home to numerous wildlife species, including the wildcat. During this trek, participants are tasked with investigating what happened to Felix_39, one of the wildcats monitored by the conservation program, found dead.
What does it involve?
This trek combines hiking with an interactive investigation to uncover the perpetrator responsible for the wildcat’s death within the protected area. You’ll begin with details about the incident and suspects, collecting more clues as you walk and think critically. By the end of the excursion, you’ll present your findings on who should face justice!
The trek is an easy loop suitable for all participants. This immersive experience combines nature, fun, and learning about this important predator and its ecosystem.
Recommended addition:
Visit Spoleto’s historic center after the activity.
Di cosa si tratta? Vi proponiamo un’escursione che si fa indagine passo dopo passo, alla ricerca dell’autore dell’abbattimento di un gatto selvatico all’interno dell’area protetta. Partirete con informazioni sull’accaduto e sui sospettati, avrete i primi indizi e partirete camminando e ragionando, guadagnando altri indizi strada facendo. Vi troverete a giocare con entusiasmo imparando tutto su questo importante predatore e sul suo ecosistema. Al termine dell’escursione ci direte chi deve essere consegnato alla giustizia!
Il trek è semplice, ad anello e adatto a tutti. L’esperienza che vivrete è di totale immersione nella natura e divertimento estremo con i vostri amici e familiari! Alla fine dell’attività si consiglia di visitare il centro storico di Spoleto.
HANDS-ON COOKING: A THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL COURSE IN UMBRIAN CUISINE.
Over time, you’ll realize that mastering basic principles and selecting the right ingredients will allow your creativity to flourish as you successfully craft your own recipes. Simplicity, straightforwardness, and substance are hallmarks of the cuisine at the Castle of Pupaggi, essential for preparing anything from the simplest dish to the most refined menu, always enhanced by the quality of the ingredients used.
Participants will prepare various recipes, such as torta al testo, umbricelli (traditional handmade Umbrian pasta), and bread, while learning about different flour types and milling techniques.
The course concludes with lunch in the castle’s dungeon-turned-restaurant.
End of services.
Via Catanelli 70 | 06135 | Perugia