MELEZZOLE LOOP, AMERINI MOUNTAINS
Difficulty: E (Hiking); Elevation gain: 400 m; Distance: 9.2 km.
This loop largely overlaps the third stage of the “Path of the Silent Villages”. Starting from the village of Melezzole, a hamlet of Montecchio, the route combines trails and dirt roads, leading to a small chapel. The environment is characterized primarily by mixed forest, with areas of chestnut trees and Mediterranean oaks at higher elevations. The trail reaches Mount Melezzole, a stunning panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Martani Mountains, the Sibillini Mountains, and Lake Alviano. Known as “the terrace of Umbria,” it is a must-see. Trail markers include stickers, arrows, and yellow paint dots from the Path of the Silent Villages. This enchanting route through the Amerini Mountains blends nature, history, stunning landscapes, and ancient flavors.

BIKING AMONG WINE AND MAJOLICA
Located just a few kilometers from Perugia, Torgiano is an ancient medieval village situated at the confluence of the Chiascio and Tiber rivers, amidst rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves. Renowned for its high-quality wine and olive oil, this easy 28-km mountain bike route with about 160 meters of elevation gain includes stops in Torgiano and Deruta, where you can visit a production facility for the area’s famous ceramics. The day ends with a visit to the Wine Museum in Torgiano, followed by a wine tasting.

AMONG THE VILLAGES OF SPELLO AND COLLEPINO
Drive to Spello for the excursion. Difficulty: E (Hiking); Elevation gain: 200 m; Distance: 5 km.
This easy itinerary follows the ancient Roman aqueduct connecting the villages of Spello and Collepino at the foot of Mount Subasio. Along the way, enjoy the vibrant colors of the olive-clad slopes and the scents of central Umbria’s wild flora while breathing in the fresh air. The aqueduct winds along the Chiona stream, with the trail closely following its route. Of Roman origin, the aqueduct supplied water to Spello until the 19th century. Over the centuries, maintenance has adapted the structure, yet it retains many original features. Some sections are underground, while others are built using local white and pink limestone. The valley-facing side of the aqueduct includes rectangular openings for inspections and vents for air circulation. Its roof, occasionally visible, features stone slabs laid “a cappuccina” (like a gable roof). In one stretch, the aqueduct even supports the main road linking Collepino and Spello. During this scenic and enjoyable hike, you will visit the two villages, both rich in historical and artistic heritage.

Return to the villa and COOKING LESSONS
Enjoy a traditional, rustic cooking class followed by dinner inside the magnificent 18th-century Villa La Montagnola. In spring, guided tours for wild asparagus foraging are offered, while in autumn, walks to hunt mushrooms and truffles are organized, accompanied by a mycologist.