Perfect Pairings: Rome & Umbria

Kickstart your bespoke itinerary arriving at the enchanting Hotel de Russie. The only place to be seen in Rome, the hotel exudes a magical, cosmopolitan and buzzing atmosphere. Home to a beautiful secret garden, along with stunning terraces, here you can expect the limitless luxury that all Rocco Forte properties promise you. 

Dive into the splendour of Rome on an exceptional private tour through the Baroque centre. Your local art historian will share their passion and insider knowledge taking you to Piazza del Popolo, its art galleries and ateliers, the magnificent Piazza di Spagna and the Barcaccia fountain, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. You will be treated to a visit to the small Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, a treasure trove of important works of art including three absolute masterpieces by Caravaggio. In the early afternoon, meet a master goldsmith at his workshop and learn about the traditional artisan techniques and the secrets of this ancient art. Then brace yourself for an exclusive afterhours visit to the Vatican Museums, a rare chance to admire the priceless masterpieces of the greatest artists. You will also have time to privately contemplate Michelangelo's Vault and the Last Judgment. 

Bid farewell to Rome as you take a private transfer to Umbria, via a guided visit to the beautiful hillside town of Orvieto, one of the oldest towns in Italy. Take in the beauty of the city before going underground to discover the wonder that still hides there. Explore the underground city which holds many surprises; a few steps from the Cathedral, the tunnels and cavities reveal another world to be discovered. Wells, quarries, laboratories and olive mills still survive here. Follow this with an extraordinary tour of a winery and its centuries old cellar before enjoying lunch with a delicious wine pairing. 

Plunge into the magnificent beauty of Castello di Reschio as you arrive in Umbria. A restored ancient castle estate, Castello di Reschio stands in the rolling hills, offering you a slice of timeless luxury. You can expect olive oil from the surrounding trees, truffles from the forest, and vegetables from the kitchen garden. Admire spectacular sunsets from the rooftop restaurant, where the setting sun hugs the hillside. 

After a decadent breakfast lose yourself in beautiful Perugia, the capital city of Umbria. Perched high on a hill, you will discover its historic centre surrounded by Etruscan and medieval walls. Take in the historic centre, the Basilica of San Domenico and the monumental Piazza 4 Novembre. Stop for a delicious break at a historic chocolate producer to discover the link between the food and the gods. Then, head to the Moretti Caselli studio, founded in 1859-60 by the painter and master glassmaker Francesco Moretti. It is a museum-archive where you can retrace the history of the laboratory and the techniques used to create artistic glass windows. You will then be taken on an exquisite visit to Deruta, listed as one of the most charming villages in Italy, boasting beautiful architecture. Here you will discover the century-old art and unique world of Umbrian pottery. Admire the artisans at work and step into the Alviero Moretti Foundation. Return to the tranquillity of your hotel for a refreshing swim, a relaxing spa and sublime alfresco meal watching the sunset on your penultimate evening here. 

For your final bespoke experience, you will indulge in an enchanting and totally fascinating guided walk through the beautiful hill town of Assisi and the centre of Franciscan spirituality, Basilica of San Francesco, a place that preserves and guards the mortal remains of the saint. Be wowed by the priceless art treasures here, such as the extraordinary frescoes by Cimabue, Giotto, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti.