Umbria, known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” has long flown under the radar compared to its next-door neighbor, Tuscany. And having lived here for over 16 years, I’ve come to appreciate the slower pace of life. Recently, though, the exclusive Castello di Reschio has increased Umbria's luxury tourism profile. So for those looking to explore this verdant region, here’s what should be on your itinerary.
Umbria comes by its moniker honestly. It’s a land of rolling hills, vineyards and picturesque villages. Assisi is the most famous town, known for its Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and stunning works by historic artists Giotto and Cimabue. The tomb of Saint Francis, which wasn’t discovered until the late 1800s, is another landmark.