Guide to Canalicchio

"Quiet days amid stunning countryside, laid-back roaming around Umbria's timeless towns – medieval Canalicchio is a truly relaxing and utterly Italian base."

A miniscule 13th century hamlet tucked away in southern Umbria, Canalicchio is a well-kept secret that you'll pray stays that way. Resting on a hilltop in glorious countryside, this picturesque medieval village seems to have shrugged off the passage of time and ways of modern life almost completely. You'll hear nothing much more than the chorus of birds or occasional buzzing Vespa, making it ideal if you're longing to indulge in some unbroken R&R. From your elevated perch, you'll be treated to luscious sun-drenched views over the surrounding hills and farmland. Before your eyes, olive trees march over gentle slopes, country trails lead through silent vineyards and lone farmsteads nestle in sunlit valleys. Make time to explore by foot, car or on horseback and you'll instantly understand why Umbria is known as the 'green heart' of Italy. You'll come across wondrous villages too. Steeped in history, settlements like Todi, Deruta and Torgiana beckon with climbing streets, quiet convents and simple trattorias perfect for gorging on home-cooked Umbrian cuisine. Meanwhile, the region's bigger towns offer some stellar sightseeing. However much you want to laze around, make sure you see Assisi. This pink-stone town is so beautifully preserved, visiting it is pressing the rewind button back to the Middle Ages. Its highlight is the stunning Basilica of St. Francis, where the Saint himself is buried. Make Perugia part of your plans too. A bustling university city, it's packed with historic gems and some of Umbria's finest eateries. And don't miss Orvieto. Another of Italy's jewels, the sight of its stupendous striped cathedral will live with you forever, just like Umbria will.

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