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Italy

Choose Your Pace: Walking the Hill Towns of Umbria

Program No. 18709RJ
Learn from scholars and local farmers as you walk the meandering hills of Umbria at the pace you choose, discovering its vineyards, olive groves, villages and sensational cuisine.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
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Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
May 1 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
2,899
May 22 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
2,899
Sep 4 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
2,899
Sep 18 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
2,899
Oct 2 - Oct 10, 2025
Starting at
2,899
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Filling Fast!
May 1 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
3,599
May 22 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
3,599
Sep 4 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
3,599
Sep 18 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
3,599
Oct 2 - Oct 10, 2025
Starting at
3,599
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

With all the amazing views that echo the landscapes of Tuscany but none of the crowds, Umbria holds a special place in the hearts of those who love the stunning Italian countryside. With rolling hills, picturesque medieval towns and beautiful vineyards and valleys, it also holds a special place for those who love to walk. Join local experts for spirited and informative rambles through this truly unique region on daily hikes selected based on your preferred pace and difficulty.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Choose Your Pace
Each day, choose from multiple hiking options based on your desired level of challenge and pace, ranging from 1.5 - 8 miles on mountain trails. Elevations up to 3,596 feet. Sites visited may vary based on the hiking level you choose for that day.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Join a truffle farmer above the town of Spoleto to learn the proper way to hunt this delicacy.
  • Visit the regional capital of Perugia, one of the 12 Etruscan city states, with art dating back to the 13th century.
  • Climb through the Umbrian valley with views of Assisi and Trevi to a local winery for a tasting.
  • Visit, in some groups, a medieval paper manufacturer in the town of Bevagna to learn the technique of this ancient art.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Andrea Maccherani
After earning his degree in economics in 2006, Andrea Maccherani began leading groups, and that’s when he found out that traveling and being with people is his passion. Born and raised in Umbria, Italy, he shares his profound love for his mother country with his groups. Engaging travelers and letting them experience the places they visit is his mission, and he is eager to learn from others as well. His deep knowledge of Italy adds enormously to understanding Italy's long and complicated history.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Andrea Maccherani
Andrea Maccherani View biography
After earning his degree in economics in 2006, Andrea Maccherani began leading groups, and that’s when he found out that traveling and being with people is his passion. Born and raised in Umbria, Italy, he shares his profound love for his mother country with his groups. Engaging travelers and letting them experience the places they visit is his mission, and he is eager to learn from others as well. His deep knowledge of Italy adds enormously to understanding Italy's long and complicated history.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
9 days
Program Begins
Montefalco
Program Concludes
Montefalco
Meals
17 | 7B | 4L | 6D |
Activity Level
With all the amazing views that echo the landscapes of Tuscany but none of the crowds, Umbria holds a special place in the hearts of those who love the stunning Italian countryside. With rolling hills, picturesque medieval towns and beautiful vineyards and valleys, it also holds a special place for those who love to walk. Join local experts for spirited and informative rambles through this truly unique region on daily hikes selected based on your preferred pace and difficulty.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Join a truffle farmer above the town of Spoleto to learn the proper way to hunt this delicacy.
  • Visit the regional capital of Perugia, one of the 12 Etruscan city states, with art dating back to the 13th century.
  • Climb through the Umbrian valley with views of Assisi and Trevi to a local winery for a tasting.
  • Visit, in some groups, a medieval paper manufacturer in the town of Bevagna to learn the technique of this ancient art.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Andrea Maccherani
After earning his degree in economics in 2006, Andrea Maccherani began leading groups, and that’s when he found out that traveling and being with people is his passion. Born and raised in Umbria, Italy, he shares his profound love for his mother country with his groups. Engaging travelers and letting them experience the places they visit is his mission, and he is eager to learn from others as well. His deep knowledge of Italy adds enormously to understanding Italy's long and complicated history.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Outdoor: Choose Your Pace
Each day, choose from multiple hiking options based on your desired level of challenge and pace, ranging from 1.5 - 8 miles on mountain trails. Elevations up to 3,596 feet. Sites visited may vary based on the hiking level you choose for that day.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (19 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
9 days
8 nights
What's Included
17 meals | 7B | 4L | 6D |
1 expert-led lecture
12 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach, driving about 99 miles, approximately 2.25 hours riding time. Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation meeting followed by dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Orientation: 6:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. Road Scholar participants will choose between hikes with different levels of difficulty and demands, organized into groups based on preference and ability: Group 1 (easy), Group 2 (intermediate), and Group 3 (challenging). The groups are led by a combination of the Group Leader, local hikers, and local experts. The group leader will always accompany Group 1, and give the field lecture for the day. The other two groups will be accompanied by a local hiker who will provide the field lecture. Details of each hike will be provided the evening prior; participants are not required to stay in the same group for the entire program, and may select a group for each hike depending on personal preference. Sites visited may vary based on the hiking level selected for that day. Hike durations will be largely dependent on pace and ability level of participants in each group. Transportation is primarily by private motorcoach or taxis (where appropriate), unless otherwise specified. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Three field trip choices: Group 1 (easiest): walking about 2.5 miles/3 hours; roughly 200-foot elevation change (gain of 100, loss of 100). Group 2 (intermediate): walking about 5.5 miles/4 hours; more than 600 feet of elevation change (gain of 270, loss of 351); getting on/off minibus, riding approx. 5 minutes. Group 3 (challenging): walking about 8.5 miles/4 hours; over 1,300-foot elevation change (gain of 692, loss of 680). NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will set out from the hotel on foot for today’s field trip. Group 1 will stop in the center of Montefalco, where they will visit the St. Francis Museum (Museale di San Francesco), which occupies its namesake’s former convent that was built in the 13th century; the complex is home to Francis’ art collection, including renowned frescoes painted by Benozzo Gozzoli – such as “Scenes from the life of St. Francis” – that are considered some of the finest of the Renaissance. The other groups will continue to walk across the town to the outskirts of Montefalco, where they will start walking through woods and open fields to the north. This Umbrian valley has wonderful views (weather permitting) of the city of Assisi. As we walk, we will pass through woods and open fields and learn about the local wines. After some time at the complex, Group 1 will have time for independent exploration before meeting the other two groups for lunch. After hiking for about 2.5 hours, Group 2 will be picked up via minibus and taken back to the center of Montefalco where they will have some free time for independent exploration before all three groups come together for lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, all three groups will walk to a local winery for an expert-led field trip that will conclude with wine tasting. We will and return to the hotel on foot.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Three field trip choices. Group 1: about 1.5 miles/3 hours; roughly 400-foot elevation change (gain and loss of 200). Group 2: about 3.5 miles/3 hours; roughly 1,000-foot elevation change (no gain, loss of 971). Group 3: about 5 miles/4.5 hours; roughly 2,226 feet elevation change (no gain, loss of 2,226). Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice. NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Groups 1 and 2 will take a motorcoach to the tiny hamlet of Collepino, a medieval gem which they will explore while waiting for Group 3 to arrive. Group 3 will set out after breakfast – one hour before the other two groups – and ride the motorcoach to the southern side of Mount Subasio to Madonna della Spella, an old chapel for shepherds on the mountain. The view from here covers a great part of Umbria. The walk will descend down through meadows and woods to Collepino, where all three groups will meet. Group 1 will board the motorcoach and ride to Spello — a former Roman town notable today for its medieval character. There will be some time for independent exploration of the Capella Baglioni with Pinturicchio frescoes while waiting for Groups 2 and 3, who walk all the way to Spello.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Spello.
Afternoon:
All three groups will ride back to the hotel together. The remainder of the afternoon will be free. This period of time has been set aside for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests each of us most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; riding about 68 miles roundtrip, approximately 1.75 hours riding time. Morning walking all groups about 3 miles, approximately 2.5 hours; city streets. Afternoon walking Groups 2 & 3 about 2 miles, approximately 2 hours; city streets. NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we will board our motorcoach and ride to Perugia (673 feet) where we’ll set out on a walking field trip with a local guide. We’ll learn about the area’s history and culture as we walk. When Perugia was founded is lost in the mists of time but it developed during the 4th century BCE with both Umbrian and Etruscan roots. It was one of the 12 Etruscan city-states — the Dodecapolis — in what is now the region of Umbria, for which it is the regional capital.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Perugia. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Groups 2 and 3 will set out on expert-led urban trekking field trip. Group 1 will have time for independent exploration and will then rendezvous at an announced time and place to meet Groups 2 and 3 for transfer back to the hotel by motorcoach.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles, approximately 40 minutes riding time. Three field trip choices. Group 1: 2 miles/3 hours; city streets and cobblestones. Group 2: 2.5 miles/3 hours; roughly 1,615 feet elevation change (gain of 161, loss of 1,453). Group 3: 5 miles throughout the day/5 hours; roughly 2,650 feet elevation change (gain of 233, loss of 2,424). NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Groups 1 and 2 will ride to the Eremo delle Carceri, now known as the Hermitage of St. Francis near Assisi. Group 3 will set out early and ride to Mount Subasio, then walk to the Hermitage. Upon their arrival, all three groups will explore the Hermitage with a local expert. First visited by St. Francis around the year 1205, this peaceful forest on the mountain about three miles from Assisi features many caves that were eventually occupied by both Francis and his followers. Shortly thereafter, friars were going there to pray ardently and emulate the solitary ascetic tradition of St. Francis. A sanctuary and small chapel were built up around his particular cave soon after and the hermitage, after some expansions over the centuries, became a sort of complex dedicated to religious contemplation and solitude. It has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century. Group 1 will take taxis on to Assisi while Groups 2 and 3 will walk. Designated as a UN World Heritage Site, Assisi is situated under Mount Subasio, which provided the pink stones for a number of Franciscan building. The tranquil backstreets and homes with geranium-filled window boxes give the impression that one has gone back in time.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the regional cuisine in Assisi. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will rendezvous at an announced time and place, then walk to the Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi — the Basilica of St. Francis — for a field trip led by a monk who lives in the monastery. Francis, the patron saint of ecology as well as Italy, is one of Catholicism’s most revered figures. Having been born into wealth, he founded the Franciscan Order – which practiced a lifestyle of self-induced poverty and care for animals and the environment – after an encounter with a man with leprosy. Just a couple of years after he died in 1226, he was canonized, and the basilica – itself a UN World Heritage Site – began construction. Here we can see Francis depicted in late medieval frescoes painted by a number of Italian artists including Cimabue and Giotto. All three groups will have some time for independent exploration before riding back to the hotel together.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Three field trip choices. Group 1: up to approximately 1 mile/3 hours; city streets, cobblestones. Group 2: approximately 4 miles/3 hours; dirt and asphalt, roughly 719-foot elevation change (gain of 92, loss of 1,165). Group 3: approximately 5.5 miles/5 hours; nature trails, dirt roads, and asphalt bits, roughly 719-foot elevation change (gain of 646, loss of 1,348). NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board a private motorcoach and ride to Gualdo Cattaneo. During a brief exploration of this medieval fortified village, we’ll learn about Umbrian history as we all walk through the hamlet with our Group Leader. Groups 1 and 2 will visit the town of Gualdo Cattaneo. After the visit, those in Group 1 will go on to explore the Fortress of Gualdo Cattaneo and then ride to Torre del Colle. Those in Groups 2 and 3 will then begin walking towards Torre del Colle. About half way to Torre del Colle, Group 2 will be picked up and transferred the rest of the way. Once all three groups arrive in Torre del Colle, those in the Group 2 will join Group 1 and ride to an olive mill. Group 3 will continue walking to the olive mill. Once at the mill, all groups will learn from a local expert about olive oil production.
Lunch:
At the olive mill.
Afternoon:
Groups 1 and 2 will ride to the serene, handsome, medieval town of Bevagna, which has two of Umbria’s finest Romanesque churches. They will first visit a medieval paper manufacturer and learn from an onsite expert about the techniques of this ancient art. Then, they will have some time for independent exploration of the town. Group 3 will walk from Torre del Colle through vineyards and olive groves to Bevagna. When they arrive, everyone will ride back to the hotel together with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 25 miles, approximately 40 minutes riding time. Three field trip choices: Group 1: about 1.5 miles/2 hours; roughly 200-foot elevation change (gain/loss of 100). Group 2: 3 miles/5 hours; roughly 550-foot elevation change (gain of 486, loss of 56 or more). Group 3: 8.5 miles throughout the day/5 hours; approximately 1300-foot elevation change (gain of 1,014, loss of 253). NOTE: All three groups will encounter unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast, Group 3 will set out on foot and begin walking towards the truffle farm with their local hiking guide. Groups 1 and 2 will board the motorcoach and ride to the Sacred Wood and Franciscan Hermitage of Monteluco with the Group Leader. Full of evergreen oaks, this sacred forest is home to numerous species of birds, particularly several types of woodpeckers. It was protected by the first forest regulation law, the Lex Spoletina, in the late 3rd century BCE. Here we might see a reproduction of ancient stone slab the law was carved into. The hermitage, located at an elevation of 800 meters, was the sanctuary of Saint Francis. Both groups will then board the motorcoach and ride to Monte Patrico - located above the town of Spoleto on the summit of the Valnerina Mountains, known for their rugged beauty. When all three groups have met at the truffle farm, we will meet with the owner and learn about truffles. We’ll then set out on a truffle hunt with the owner and his truffle dogs.
Lunch:
At the farm with the truffle farmers.
Afternoon:
Next, all groups will ride to Spoleto for an expert-led walking field trip. In Spoleto, we will all together see the Ponte delle Torri, a bridge and aqueduct of 10 towering arches that links Spoleto with the slopes of Monteluco and is arguably one of the greatest engineering works of the Trecento (14th century) in Italy. We’ll walk to the upper part of the town center, then take the motorcoach back to Montefalco.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our Farewell Dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach, driving about 117 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
17 Meals
7 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
6 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Low Fat, Gluten Free, Low Salt
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
  • Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
  • May 01, 2025 - May 09, 2025
  • May 22, 2025 - May 30, 2025
  • Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
  • Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
  • Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
7 nights
Location: Montefalco
The Camiano Piccolo Hotel is situated in a historic hamlet in Montefalco. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and sitting 450 meters above sea level, the hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley stretching from Spoleto to Perugia. Within walking distance is the historic center of Montefalco.
7 nights
Location: Montefalco
The Camiano Piccolo Hotel is situated in a historic hamlet in Montefalco. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and sitting 450 meters above sea level, the hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley stretching from Spoleto to Perugia. Within walking distance is the historic center of Montefalco.
7 nights
Location: Montefalco
The Camiano Piccolo Hotel is situated in a historic hamlet in Montefalco. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and sitting 450 meters above sea level, the hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley stretching from Spoleto to Perugia. Within walking distance is the historic center of Montefalco.
7 nights
Location: Montefalco
The Camiano Piccolo Hotel is situated in a historic hamlet in Montefalco. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and sitting 450 meters above sea level, the hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley stretching from Spoleto to Perugia. Within walking distance is the historic center of Montefalco.
7 nights
Location: Montefalco
The Camiano Piccolo Hotel is situated in a historic hamlet in Montefalco. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and sitting 450 meters above sea level, the hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the valley stretching from Spoleto to Perugia. Within walking distance is the historic center of Montefalco.
Participant Reviews
4.84
Based on 36 Reviews
Sort By:
Connie – Class of 2019 | Hudsonville, MI
Hiking in the Umbria area was awe inspiring and a spiritual experience in visiting the St. Francis of Assisi area. The beauty and ancient cities unsure passed any standard tourist trip .
— Review left October 27, 2024
Janet – Class of 2023 | Stockton, NJ
Our first Road Scholar program and we were extremely pleased. Group leader Andrea Maccherani was excellent and was ably assisted by two other local guides, Sara and Sam. The program was a good balance of hiking, sightseeing, and hearing from local experts: wine tasting at a vineyard, olive pressing at an olive oil mill with a superb lunch afterwards, learning how truffle-hunting dogs are trained and watching them with their owner - and another superb lunch . Really enjoyed spending time with the other participants, as well. A great experience all around.
— Review left October 26, 2024
Donna – Class of 2016 | Missoula, MT
Umbria was so beautiful and the program was packed with wow experiences and information
— Review left October 26, 2024
Kenneth – Class of 2015 | Lakewood Ranch, FL
We had a very enjoyable trip to a beautiful area of Italy. Led by Irene, this is a very well organized program, and there truly were three levels of hiking from easy to challenging (at least for a “senior” group). We were generally in the intermediate group, except for one day when we chose to do join the easy group in the morning so we could tour the fortress in one town, and then I joined the challenging group in the afternoon for one of their shorter walks. I’ve taken a number of Road Scholar trips, and this was clearly one of the most collegial groups I’ve traveled with - a real pleasure for our overall experience.
— Review left October 13, 2024
Sandra – Class of 2024 | Canton, NC
I've been wanting to visit Italy for thirty years. This program was perfect for me and more than met my expectations. It was everything I'd hoped for and more. I will definitely travel with Road Scholar again.
— Review left October 8, 2024
Kevin – Class of 2023 | Chanhassen, MN
Very nice program for those that wish to see rural Umbria, enjoy good food and access to good wine (the plentiful wine provided without extra charge was just OK, but very good and reasonably priced local wines were always available to supplement). The hiking component, even for those choosing the “challenge hikes” were shorter and easier than intense serious hikers generally prefer. But they are accurately described in the itineraries, so make sure those match your expectations. We met really nice people on this trip (hikers tend to be compatible). The dining room was cramped with 33 participants, but the hikes did not feel crowded as 9 or 10 reliably chose each of three levels of difficulty. I highly recommend the trip unless you are looking for intense hiking.
— Review left October 5, 2024
Karen | Cockeysville, MD
The trip had too many people. We didn't get a chance to interact with everyone. It was impossible to get lunch or dinner in a timely manner. Road Scholars schedule our return trip to the airport for 7AM. Our plane didn't leave until after 3PM. When someone else called Road Scholars and complained you didn't seem to care. The guides were great. They were very knowledgeable. I wouldn't recommend this trip to my friends.
— Review left September 16, 2024
Mary – Class of 2023 | Bloomington, IL
Umbria is beautiful and fascinating! We enjoyed this program and recommend it for people who like to hike up and down hills, as we averaged about 17,000 steps per day, mostly on the intermediate options. Our leader, Irene, was well-organized and fun. All of the guides and presenters were also top-notch. Camiano Piccolo Agriturismo was quaint and comfortable, and we especially appreciated the pool after a hot day of hiking. The WiFi was quite weak and intermittent, so we were glad we had an international phone plan to access the internet. Our group of 36 was interesting and compatible. Provided meals were all inside, and the noise level was usually high, as everyone was very conversational.
— Review left September 15, 2024
Gail – Class of 2012 | Brunswick, ME
Be prepared to be in a very large group. Check the elevation figures to know that you will be walking only downhill often on rocky paths where good balance is required. The hill towns of Umbria are extraordinary!
— Review left September 15, 2024
Kate – Class of 2015 | Bristol, CT
We loved our hiking visit to Umbria. The agritourism villa, the food, the scenery seen during our hikes and the leadership were all top notch. We had a wonderful group and Andrea was the perfect leader. Sam and Sara were great hiking guides. Umbria is such a beautiful place; I am so glad we chose this trip and would encourage any hiker to sign up.
— Review left June 14, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Maria – Class of 2022 | Albany, NY
I can’t say enough good things about this trip! Every aspect was fantastic. From the lodging, to the food, to the carefully planned hikes, to the pre-arranged tours…all were wonderful. The group leader, Irena, was especially attentive to everyone’s needs. I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to explore the beautiful hill towns of Umbria!
— Review left May 2, 2024
Robert | Daytona Beach Shores, FL
This program was our first Road Scholar experience and it far exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend it to anyone interested in hiking the hills of Umbria. The tour guides were very knowledgeable about so many aspects of the program (local culture, history, social norms, food and wines). Road Scholar took care of all the travel details from start to finish, which is a huge stress reliever. We will definitely consider taking another Road Scholar program. Many of the participants with us on this particular tour had been on as many as 9 other programs and spoke highly of every one they had taken.
— Review left April 15, 2024
Joan – Class of 2013 | Marietta, GA
This trip is a must do! The accommodations, scenery, hikes, history, presentations and guides were all amazing. Irene, our trip leader, is an accomplished professional and extremely organized with the "choose your pace" logistics. I am still basking in the glow of this trip.
— Review left April 14, 2024
Howard – Class of 2017 | Highland Mls, NY
Umbria is a beautiful region of Italy. Irene and Sara, our primary leaders, were just fantastic--warm and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to explore this less-familiar part of Italy.
— Review left April 13, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Roy – Class of 2008 | Carmel, CA
This trip was fantastic. The leader, Andrea Maccherani did a marvelous job of coordinating this adventure into the villages and towns of Umbria. Each day he organized with his assistants Sara and Sam three levels of walks -easy, moderate and advanced. The hotel Italia in Foligno was comfortable and the meals were very good. Breakfasts were served before we headed out for our day treks. If you want to exercise while learning the history, economics, food and culture of the region, you won't be disappointed.
— Review left November 19, 2023
Wendy | Middlesex, VT
The walks were great. The leaders lovely. Lots of yummy food. A great trip overall.
— Review left October 31, 2023
Ronald – Class of 2023 | Portland, OR
A great combination of physical activity and learning.
— Review left October 28, 2023
Carol – Class of 2022 | Waterville, OH
I would choose the trip again in a minute ! The combination of hiking, eating the most delicious food and wine and cultural/historical learning was perfect. We had gorgeous weather throughout, which didn't hurt. I generally chose the intermediate hiking option (and due to one leader's illness, the intermediate and challenging options were combined for the last hiking day), and this regular-walker (on flat geography) had no difficulty with the approximate 5 miles of up-and-down walking involved throughout the day. There was considerable hiking downhill on one hike for which trekking poles would be wise. Learning about Etruscan/Roman history, and experiencing olive oil production, winemaking, truffle-hunting and paper-making were great additions to my knowledge. Thank you to Irene, Sara and Sam for a great experience !
— Review left October 17, 2023
Suzanne – Class of 2023 | Elmhurst, IL
What a fantastic experience! The different hiking levels were spot on the descriptions given in advance of the program and our Guide Irene was just top notch. Irene, Sara and Sam were not only knowledgeable, they were passionate about the Umbrian area, it's history and culture. Would do it all over again!
— Review left September 20, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Fulton – Class of 2018 | Newport Beach, CA
What could be more fun than to enjoy daily hikes in Italy? By hiking, you see the countryside, the cities and the people on a slower, more human, pace; you can really enjoy being in Italy. Our group leader, Irene, was excellent and found a way to keep us safe and sound while we enjoyed our experiences. The Hotel Italia in Foligno was a perfect "base camp" for our daily hikes and travels; the breakfasts and dinner meals here were outstanding, as would be expected in a family-owned and operated small hotel. There were so many highlights, but the visit to the olive oil mill (and the luncheon that family served) was outstanding as was the visit to the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi led by one of the monks. The local guides were very knowledgeable and showed us some beautiful trails, especially those in the Umbrian hills. With the different levels of hikes available, everyone found a "happy" place.
— Review left June 27, 2023
Howard – Class of 2019 | Long Beach, CA
Terrific trip. Very well organized. Activity level is accurately described and the choices were advantageous. Great mix of exercise and touring. Wonderful, plentiful food and wine. Umbria is amazingly uncrowded and a true hidden gem. Hopefully your leader will be Irene.
— Review left June 5, 2023
Cheryl – Class of 2023 | Cottage Grove, MN
If you are wondering if a tour group is for you like I was, I encourage everyone to look through the options and take the chance. To have everything expertly coordinated allowing you the freedom to learn, explore and experience was wonderful. Highly recommend.
— Review left May 28, 2023
Karen – Class of 2017 | Hamden, CT
This program packs a lot into six days: wonderful hikes through beautiful countryside, gorgeous towns with Etruscan and Roman remains, incomparable frescoes and Romanesque churches, and a great group of interesting and amusing people, fellow travelers and guides alike!
— Review left May 11, 2023
James – Class of 2018 | Madison, WI
This program is one of the top two of the eight Road Scholar trips we've taken. Umbria is a beautiful, uncrowded region of Italy. The hiking is very good, the food superb, and our leader (Irene) was outstanding. The walking tours of the ancient hill towns, led by local guides, were excellent.
— Review left May 1, 2023
Linda – Class of 2023 | Saint Paul, MN
We were first time Road Scholar participants and this won’t be our last program! We consider ourselves seasoned travelers. That said, we loved the overall program, the depth of learning , the flexibility of the program and the guides and fellow participants. It was in short a unique and extraordinary experience. We added a few days by ourselves on each end of the trip as this was our first trip to Italy. (We got over jet lag and were happy to have a few more days in Italy before we had to return home.
— Review left May 1, 2023
Adelaide – Class of 2022 | Brookline, MA
This was my first Road Scholar trip and my first trip to Italy. Road Scholar provided a terrific introduction to the country and whetted my appetite for more. I'll definitely take another RS trip.
— Review left October 21, 2022
Antonina – Class of 2019 | San Jose, CA
Great way to go hiking in Umbria on trails that you wouldn't know about. While walking in the countryside you learn about the area around you. Learn about the significant towns in Umbria and how they are interconnected and significant to the rich history of the area.
— Review left April 17, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Linda – Class of 2019 | Boston, MA
This was a wonderful experience!.The hikes were more strenuous than what i anticipated but I was able to keep up with the group and the scenic rewards were well worth the effort. Be prepared for some real climbing though!! I really didnt have a good understanding of level of hiking pre trip. I enjoyed the mix of physical activity with visiting Umbrian towns and historical sites like St Francis hermitage and basilica. The food was incredible- in spite of the exertion of climbing I gained 4 pounds! The highlight for me was visiting the truffle farm- spectacular. Our tour guide Irene was wonderful as were the hiking guides. Overall a wonderful trip.
— Review left October 19, 2021
Bruce – Class of 2015 | Knoxville, TN
This was a wonderful trip. Perfect logistics, good food, challenging hikes, special attention to personal needs, beautiful vistas, landscapes, and towns. Trip leader made everything work out seamlessly.
— Review left October 16, 2021
Donna – Class of 2021 | Mobile, AL
I am not a serious hiker and had reservations about my ability to fully participate in the program. This program really was "choose your pace" for each activity. I tended to vary my activity level between easy and intermediate. I think the easy level is really not too different from the walking required of typical walking tours. Most of the hikes had an overall downhill direction in the session I attended. Our tour director Irene was excellent as were our hiking guides and tour guides.
— Review left October 15, 2021
Connie – Class of 2019 | Summerville, SC
This is an excellent tour. Umbria is a beautiful part of Italy. Going during the pandemic was nice because towns were not crowded with tourists. Weather was chilly in October so pack layers and jacket and rain poncho. We needed all. Having different options for activity level is perfect for not young anymore travelers.
— Review left October 14, 2021
Mary – Class of 2007 | Kennett Square, PA
Wonderful views and a variety of hiking experiences available. Comfortable family owned hotel in Foligno with great food selections. This is a great way to see a more rural Italy without the hordes of tourists.
— Review left February 8, 2020
Robin – Class of 2019 | Eatonton, GA
The Walking Tour of the Hill Towns of Umbria was even more exciting and beautiful than I had expected. It was fun getting to know the other 27 people in our group who were from all over the United States. We were able to decide which level of activity we wanted on a daily basis and even between the morning and afternoon walks. Our time was spent both in the countryside and lovely cities of Umbria. I felt it was very educational and a lovely tour.
— Review left September 21, 2019
Peter – Class of 2003 | Brookline, MA
Beautiful part of Italy, great people in our group - as usual! But the weather was bad, the hotel running on fumes and the much talked about "flexibility" in terms of "options" NOT really delivered on. Group leader & hiking specialists couldn't get or stay on the same page. Rain happens! Adjustments to the schedule should have been made but were not. All this because the trip SHOULD BE a 5-star one, but a few tweaks are definitely called for.
— Review left June 19, 2019
Deborah – Class of 2019 | Colorado Springs, CO
How many trips change how you shop at a grocery store at home? I have changed how I look at Italian wine, learned about Olive Oil, and sniff truffles exuberantly.
— Review left May 29, 2019
Elizabeth – Class of 2019 | North Lima, OH
Fe This experience was wonderful, beautiful, and helped me to step out of my day to day life and have a marvelous adventure with a group of fun, warm and intelligent participants. The Umbria region was not only beautiful, it was a trip back in time to the Romans days. Our leader, Irene ,was intelligent, fun. and informative. I recommend this program to anyone who enjoys hiking at different paces in a beautiful country.
— Review left May 10, 2019





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