WATER BIRDS – Excursion to Lake Trasimeno:
Lake Trasimeno is the largest freshwater lake in the Italian peninsula and a true “treasure chest” of biodiversity. The remaining riparian woodlands, meadows, bordering marshes, dense reed beds, and areas of open and deep water create an ideal habitat for a multitude of animal species typical of “wetlands.” Ornithologically, Lake Trasimeno is an exceptionally important site and has been designated a Special Protection Area. Among the larger species we may observe: the Coot, various ducks (especially wigeons), Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Pochard, Cormorant, and Great Crested Grebe. The marsh harrier’s flight and dives are a beautiful sight. We will be accompanied by an expert ornithologist who will provide observation equipment.
Visit the Trasimeno Lake Fishing Museum in San Feliciano, which illustrates the lake’s history and ecosystem, touching on geological, environmental, and human aspects through displays of traditional fishing tools and techniques. In the afternoon, we visit Città della Pieve to tour the center, Palazzo della Corgna, and explore the works of Perugino and Pomarancio.

Murder mystery dinner at a farmhouse to uncover the Legend of the Castle of Pupaggi.

WHO FLIES OVER THE PRAIRIES? MONTE SUBASIO.
Difficulty: E; Elevation gain: 250 m; Distance: 10 km. Drive to the CAI refuge at Madonna della Spella on Monte Subasio, where we will park. This meeting point will be the start and end of our loop hike along the upland meadows of Monte Subasio, which is home to around 80 bird species protected by the Birds and Habitats Directives. During this hike, we may see beautiful birds hunting small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, such as the honey buzzard, the rare goshawk, peregrine falcon, and even the eagle, which, though not nesting here, flies over Monte Subasio. Taking advantage of beech groves and scattered shrubs, we can observe the nightjar, hoopoe, lesser spotted woodpecker, rock thrush, and bunting, among other protected species of great natural interest. The hike offers wonderful views over the Umbrian Valley. Our proximity to Assisi allows us to end the tour in the historic center, especially at the Basilica to view Giotto’s Sermon to the Birds of St. Francis. Nature and art together. Return to accommodation.

ORVIETO AND THE ALVIANO OASIS – LAKE ALVIANO.
The WWF Oasis at Lake Alviano encompasses all the typical freshwater wetland environments: marshes, ponds, swamps, and hygrophilous woods. Covering 900 hectares, it is one of the most important Special Protection Areas in central Italy. Thanks to its diverse environments, the area attracts many bird species throughout the year, both migratory and resident, including herons, marsh harriers, kingfishers, spoonbills, great and little grebes, and numerous duck species. With binoculars in hand, we quietly explore the Reserve, using observation huts to appreciate the rich nature around us. Finally, we head to the city of Orvieto, an ancient Etruscan town perched on a tuff cliff. The guided tour includes Orvieto’s underground city, the incredible hydraulic engineering of St. Patrick’s Well, and the magnificent, timeless Duomo.