Boat trips

On Lake Trasimeno short trips go to two islands: one a nature reserve, Isola Polvese and one specialising in fishing and lace making - introduced by an Irish aristocrat - Isola Maggiore. Both have restaurants and lovely walks and old buildings to explore. There are also trips to Castligione del Lago with a castle from which there are enchanting views over the lake through ancient pine tree.

Gardens

There are several gardens to visit in Umbria and Tuscany e.g.

• Villa la Foce owned by the Origo family. There are tours of gardens which were created by Iris Origo who wrote several books including “War in the Val d’Orcia” and the “Merchant of Prato”
• Badia di Coltibuona with Medici connections.

Of course there are many gardens in Rome and the Boboli gardens in Florence.

Countryside

Exploring the gravel road on foot or by car is great fun and always rewarding with in spring and summer swathes of broom and poppies and cultivated sunflowers. The lanes above the house provide spectacular views as you climb.

Drive up Monte Nerona east of Citta di Castello and see the flora change in bands as you climb up to the high plateau. Monte Amiata in Tuscany is another high point with peaceful ecclesiastic buildings. Monte Subasio above Assisi is an exhilarating high plain with herds of horses and white cattle.

Springs

There are sulphur springs at Bagno Vignoni. This small spa village has some smart shops and several good restaurants and places to paddle in the waters. Several hotels have pools. The striking original pool is still in the centre of the village with the water bubbling up. It is no longer used for bathing.

Clear water springs at the magical Fonti dei Clitunno.