Grand Tour Umbria: what to visit

Lord Byron's Umbria itinerary is one of Italy's most fascinating literary grand tours. The famous English poet, in fact, during his travels in the early 19th century, explored Italy at length, one of the favourite destinations of the English nobility on their educational journeys. Among the various places he fell in love with, three in Umbria stand out: Lake Trasimeno, the Springs of Clitunno, and the Marmore Falls. Following in the footsteps of Lord Byron in Umbria means discovering unique landscapes celebrated in the famous Childe Harold's Pilgrimage, in a literary itinerary between history, nature and poetry.

Lake Trasimeno: Lord Byron's first love in Umbria

Lake Trasimeno is the fourth-largest lake in Italy and boasts a very ancient history: the earliest traces date back to prehistoric times, and it later formed part of Etruscan and Roman territory. This is one of Byron's Umbrian haunts: when he visits it, the poet reflects on the famous Battle of Trasimeno and in his writings contrasts the clamour of war with the peaceful atmosphere that characterises the lake. 

The landscape that will appear in front of you is truly unforgettable: a beautiful body of water framed by the Umbrian hills in a sort of natural amphitheatre. Its shores are home to several medieval villages with an ancient charm:

• Castiglione del Lago. Listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy, this town is home to several important buildings such as the Palazzo della Corgna and the Rocca del Leone, as well as equipped beaches.

• Città della Pieve, from where you can admire one of the most famous views of central Italy.

• Panicale, a picturesque historic village located at 440 metres and home to the Sanctuary of Mongiovino. 

• Tuoro sul Trasimeno. The focal point of the Battle of Trasimeno and also the point where Lord Byron wrote his verses. It hosts a perfect beach for a few hours of relaxation.

In addition, you will find two islands to visit during your stay to immerse yourself even more in the beautiful nature of the Lake: 

• Isola Polvese. Uninhabited, this island is now being used as a scientific-educational park and is part of the Trasimeno Regional Park. It is an oasis of unspoilt nature that boasts centuries-old olive groves, an extensive reed grove and several buildings of historical interest such as the recently restored medieval castle. 

• Isola Maggiore, where you can visit the Guglielmi Castle and several churches, but also admire the beautiful buildings that welcome visitors surrounding the docking area.

Where to stay near Lake Trasimeno: recommended hotels

To explore Trasimeno and its villages in peace, there is nothing better than a hotel that offers a convenient location combined with a natural setting: the Posta Donini | UNA Esperienze, located just over 40 minutes from the lake, is the perfect choice for your stay. Located between Perugia and Assisi, the hotel is set in a historic house surrounded by a centuries-old park just waiting to be discovered. Among the many amenities you'll find, we highlight the outdoor pool set in greenery and the exclusive Biowellness SPA for a truly authentic wellness experience.

The Springs of Clitunno: the sacred oasis praised by Byron

What to see in Umbria following in Lord Byron’s footsteps? Certainly the natural park of the Springs of Clitunno, a splendid nature oasis located in Campello sul Clitunno, between Spoleto and Foligno. Fed by natural springs, in Roman times the Springs were considered a place of worship and a hub for reaching the Capital of the Empire by boat. 

In the 5th century, a major earthquake destroyed part of the Springs, and it wasn't until the 19th century that the park took on its current appearance. Count Paolo Campello della Spina, in fact, introduced animals, created the picturesque lake, and reorganised the spaces, which were also celebrated by Giosuè Carducci in 1876.

Many years earlier, it was Lord Byron who praised the wonders of this natural spot, describing it both in a letter to his friend John Murray and in Childe Harold's Pilgrimage. Even today, the Springs of Clitunno evoke peace and tranquillity: as you walk around, you may encounter various types of trees, such as weeping willows and cypress poplars, as well as animals like swans, various birds, and fish. You can visit this little corner of paradise at the following times:

• 1 May – 31 August: from 08:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• 1 September – 15 September: from 08:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

• 16 September – 30 September: from 09:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• 1 October – 1 November: from 09:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• 2 November – 31 December: from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Prestigious hotels near the Springs of Clitunno 

Just a 15-minute drive from the Springs, you'll find the UNA Hotels Villa dei Platani Foligno, an elegant 4-star boutique hotel located in an Art Nouveau villa from 1928 that was later renovated. Tradition, design, and modernity come together in the hotel's spaces and in its 27 bright, contemporary rooms. The hotel will also surprise you with its outdoor spaces, such as the enchanting Italian-style garden and the rooftop terrace overlooking Foligno and its surroundings.

Marmore Falls: the spectacle that conquered Byron

The last stop on your Lord Byron Umbria itinerary is in Terni: we're talking about the Marmore Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe. During his stay, the English poet was enthralled by the power of nature and the impressive spectacle this landscape offers – an experience you can still enjoy today when visiting this splendid place. 

The majestic waterfall is surrounded by the Marmore Park, which you can explore via five scenic trails to enjoy the natural spectacle from different perspectives. If you're travelling as a couple, we recommend visiting the Lovers' Tunnel, located at the end of trail 1. For details on the park's opening hours, water releases, and ticket purchases, we refer you to the official website.

Where to stay near Marmore Falls

In addition to the Marmore Falls, this area of Terni is home to the village of San Gemini, a little gem famous above all for the properties of its waters and for the remains of the ancient Roman town of Carsulae. Immersed in Umbrian nature, you will discover the Grand Hotel San Gemini | UNA Esperienze, where elegance plays a leading role.

Located inside the Palace of the Princes of Santacroce, the hotel makes its connection with art its greatest strength: you will be captivated by the paintings in the Hall of Frescoes and the works housed in the Picture Gallery, as well as by the interiors that tell an ancient and fascinating story. And that's not all: the hotel will make your stay even more special thanks to its services, such as the outdoor pool, SPA, gym and Origine restaurant with views of the surrounding landscape.

Following the Lord Byron itinerary in Umbria is an unusual and special way to discover the most beautiful medieval villages and natural landscapes in the region.Book your stay in one of the prestigious facilities we have recommended and prepare for an unforgettable literary journey.