Paola and Daniela welcome you to the agriturismo “La Ginestrella,” a peaceful oasis nestled in nature, the perfect place to spend relaxing days amidst the tranquility of Umbria’s magnificent valleys, the green heart of Italy. Agriturismo “La Ginestrella” is the ideal base for visiting nearby Assisi, Perugia, Gubbio, and Spoleto, the majestic Lake Trasimeno, and the many magical medieval castles scattered across the hilltops, surrounded by unspoiled nature. This makes a stay in Umbria an unforgettable experience, far from the stress of modern life.
Here, you’ll be greeted by a cuisine with unique aromas and flavors, evoking memories of grandmother’s delicious recipes, offering traditional and wholesome dishes. Courtesy and cleanliness are at your service in a simple yet carefully curated setting, where time seems to stand still, guided by the rhythms of nature.
The course is designed for all hiking enthusiasts who want to learn the basics of hiking techniques—not as professionals but as independent walkers. Theoretical lessons will be held on-site, while the practical, hands-on activities will take place “in the field,” exploring the natural areas of Umbria.
CYCLING ALONG THE TIBER, ANSA DEGLI ORNARI
A fun cycling excursion suitable for everyone along the bike path that runs alongside the Tiber River within a Special Area of Conservation, including a visit to the Ecomuseum. We’ll drive to Ponte San Giovanni to begin the bike tour. The Tiber River has been a decisive element in the development of the peoples of central Italy in ancient times. Over the centuries, this waterway has witnessed exchanges of goods and people, as well as encounters and clashes between different civilizations and cultures.
In March 2004, after serious and dedicated efforts, the Tiber River Ecomuseum was established. Today, it serves as a socio-cultural, economic, and tourism development project, functioning as a dynamic territorial laboratory. It focuses on preserving traditions, ancient trades, neglected or abandoned resources, historical and artistic heritage, industrial archaeology, intangible heritage (living treasures), and the rich landscapes surrounding the Tiber.
Return to the accommodation and dinner at the Agriristorante – a unique way to experience a working farm!
POLVESE ISLAND AND LAKE TRASIMENO
This proposed excursion is a delightful panoramic walk suitable for everyone, including children. It visits the most interesting spots on Polvese Island, the largest island on Lake Trasimeno. We’ll drive to San Feliciano and take a ferry to Polvese Island, a place of great natural interest featuring a tall holm oak forest, a centuries-old olive grove, and an extensive reed bed.
This excursion offers a fascinating interplay of science and culture, allowing participants to experience the island as it resonates with the seasonal changes of water, earth, air, and fire. Starting from the Service Center, we’ll visit the Castle and the Church of San Giuliano. From there, we’ll follow a path skirting the southern reed bed to reach the Church of San Secondo and the Olivetan Monastery. Walking along the ancient Procession Route, we’ll arrive at the Water Garden before returning to the Service Center.
Declared a Scientific Educational Park in 1973, Polvese Island boasts remarkable natural and historical treasures. The itinerary is easy and diverse, offering a unique perspective of Lake Trasimeno. The surrounding landscape is typical of Umbria, but the lake’s presence adds a distinctive charm. The island also showcases sustainable solutions in land management, such as phytodepuration, organic farming, and renewable energy.
There will be opportunities for birdwatching. Lake Trasimeno is the largest freshwater lake in peninsular Italy, serving as a “treasure chest” of biodiversity. Its wetlands provide optimal habitats for a variety of animal species. Notable bird species include the Coot, various ducks (especially the Wigeon), Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Pochard, Cormorant, and Great Crested Grebe. The majestic Marsh Harrier can also be observed in flight.
TREKKING MYSTERY – ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME: WHO KILLED THE WILDCAT?
Set in the high hills of Monteluco, near Spoleto, this trek takes place in 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 for their significance. This environment is home to many wildlife species, including the wildcat.
During this environmental crime trek, participants will investigate the death of Felix_39, a wildcat monitored by conservation program members, found dead in the protected area.
What’s it about?
This excursion is also an investigation. You’ll start with information about the incident and suspects, gather initial clues, and begin hiking while reasoning out the mystery, picking up more hints along the way. Enthusiastically learn about this important predator and its ecosystem. At the end of the trek, reveal who should be brought to justice!
The trek is easy, circular, and suitable for everyone. It offers a total immersion in nature and extreme fun with friends and family. After the activity, a visit to Spoleto’s historic center is recommended.
TREASURE HUNT IN PERUGIA
This activity combines all the elements of a thrilling modern treasure hunt with puzzles, riddles, and skill-based challenges. Participants, grouped into teams, will explore the city equipped with maps and other materials. Clue by clue, they will learn about Perugia, competing with one another by solving historical questions, orientation challenges, and various enigmas. The event is coordinated by a guide.
The treasure hunt in Perugia is set in a medieval theme:
“Everything happened very quickly: on October 13, 1307, by order of King Philip the Fair of France, all the Templars in France were arrested. Overnight, a simultaneous raid months in the making – as Régine Pernoud describes – was carried out, preceded by a defamation campaign and followed by hopeless trials. Thus, the Templar Order ceased to exist suddenly.”
Participants will assist Knight Michele in locating an important document, the Chinon Parchment, to clear the Templars’ name. They will explore Perugia’s historic center, including the fascinating underground passages of Rocca Paolina and Piazza IV Novembre.
At the end of the morning, a visit to Perugia’s stunning historic and artistic museums is recommended. Conclude with a visit to a patisserie or chocolate shop to indulge in the world’s most universally loved treat!
End of services.
Via Catanelli 70 | 06135 | Perugia