Agriturismo Somaia is located on the hills of San Giustino Umbro, a town known for the splendid Bufalini Castle and the unique history of the Cospaia Republic. The agriturismo overlooks the valley from a privileged position, with views of the vast amphitheater carved out over centuries by the Tiber River flowing below. In the valley, Sansepolcro—home to Piero della Francesca—and Città di Castello with its Renaissance palaces are nearby, while Citerna and Anghiari, ranked among Italy’s most beautiful villages, can be seen perched on the hills across the Tiber Valley. During this long weekend, we will guide you through this region, discovering both art and nature!
TREK & TASTE – THE METOLA LOOP:
Arrival and check-in. Discover the surrounding area with a scenic hike, departing from the agriturismo along high hill ridges with breathtaking views over the Tiber Valley. The trail alternates between meadows and forests and includes streams and creeks, rich in wildlife. In spring, it’s fascinating for its orchid blooms, while in autumn, the vivid colors contrast beautifully with the light stone of marl and sandstone origins. A stop at a perfectly functioning medieval mill is recommended, where you can learn about flour and grain milling. Sample local delicacies such as “ciaccia,” cantucci, and other treats.
Lunghezza: circa 7,5 km
Dislivello: + 290 m
CITY CYCLING TOUR:
Depart from the agriturismo on hybrid or assisted bikes, following a secondary paved road through the countryside, passing sites like Villa di Celalba and Villa di Plinio. The destination is Città di Castello, the city of Burri, a charming center in the Tiber Valley with a historic old town. Take a break here and explore the city’s rich cultural offerings. In the afternoon, return via the Tiber bike path along a quiet, shaded gravel road. You might spot local bird species like herons, egrets, and night herons, along with native riverside plants under the shade of poplars, willows, alders, and locust trees. The path is mostly flat and very easy. If traveling with children or if preferred, you can cycle only on the bike path for the round trip.
TREK AND VILLAGES:
A loop hike around Citerna with a stop in Monterchi. We start from Citerna, known as the “balcony” of the valley and ranked as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages with a distinctive medieval charm. After taking photos from its square with the best view of the Tiber Valley, the trail descends southeast along the Saint Francis Path. We’ll then follow smaller roads to Monterchi, in nearby Tuscany, where you can visit the Madonna del Parto Museum featuring Piero della Francesca’s enchanting, rare depiction of a pregnant Madonna. We’ll return to Citerna after exploring the countryside between Umbria and Tuscany.
ART AND GARDEN at Bufalini Castle:
Around 10 a.m., transfer to San Giustino to visit Bufalini Castle, a rare and beautiful monument with preserved spaces, furnishings, and a lovely Italian-style garden. The tour will highlight plants depicted in the castle’s frescoes, followed by a walk in the garden to observe the same plants up close. This cultural and botanical visit is a fascinating journey into the art and history of the region. We recommend ending with lunch at one of the many local restaurants to enjoy the unique flavors of Umbrian and Tuscan cuisine. A visit to nearby Sansepolcro and the Civic Museum, which houses works by Piero della Francesca, is also highly recommended.
Via Catanelli 70 | 06135 | Perugia