Tour - Destinazione Subasio

Your journey begins with absolute peace of mind. Upon arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), a private transfer awaits to whisk you away through the rolling hills of Lazio and Umbria to the gates of Paciano.

As you pass through the medieval walls of this enchanted village, you’ll feel an immediate shift in frequency: the noise of the world fades, replaced by the golden hue of ancient stone. After checking into your historic residence, the afternoon is dedicated to a gentle orientation. Strolling through perfectly preserved alleys, you’ll discover why Paciano is ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages in Italy," offering breathtaking glimpses of Lake Trasimeno at every turn.

The evening marks the start of your retreat with a Welcome Dinner in a traditional local restaurant. This is your first encounter with authentic Umbrian flavors: DOP extra virgin olive oil, heirloom legumes, and wines that embody the history of these sun-drenched hills.

Escape the modern noise. This morning is a deep dive into the mystical forests of Mount Subasio. We head to the Eremo delle Carceri, a sanctuary frozen in the 13th century. Instead of a typical tour, you’ll experience a "digital detox" in the very caves where St. Francis found clarity. It’s an immersive sensory experience: the scent of wild ilex trees, the touch of ancient cool stone, and the profound stillness of the mountain.

In the afternoon, Paciano becomes your private retreat. No schedules, no rush. This is your time for "Il Dolce Far Niente"—the sweet art of doing nothing. Find a sun-drenched bench on the medieval walls, watch the hawks soar over Lake Trasimeno, and let your mind drift. We conclude with a farm-to-table dinner in the heart of the village.

Today is about finding greatness in simplicity. We visit the grand Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, which houses the Porziuncola—a tiny, 4th-century chapel restored by St. Francis’ own hands. For an English-speaking traveler, this is the ultimate "hidden gem" story: a massive cathedral built to protect a humble shack. It’s a powerful metaphor for personal growth and focus. You’ll feel the weight of history in the cool stone and the soaring spirit of the Rose Garden.

The afternoon is your "Umbrian Sabbatical." Back in Paciano, the pace slows to a crawl. Use this time for high-quality rest: a photography walk to capture the golden hour over the valley or a quiet moment with a book. We gather in the evening for a traditional dinner, where the conversation flows as naturally as the local wine.

Today is an immersion into the "Art of Living." We start at San Damiano, the most intimate sanctuary in Assisi. Away from the cathedral crowds, this is where St. Francis heard the famous call and St. Clare founded her legacy. It’s a sensory journey through ancient wooden choirs and tiny, sun-drenched cloisters. It feels like a private discovery, a space where the soul can finally breathe.

In the afternoon, we shift from spiritual to physical creation in Paciano. You’ll enter the artisan workshops where the ancient tradition of hand-weaving still thrives. Watching the rhythmic movement of the looms is meditative. You’ll touch fabrics that carry the DNA of Umbria, connecting with a lifestyle where quality is measured in hours, not minutes. Dinner in the village celebrates this "handmade" philosophy.

Escape the mainland for a day of pure blue. We set sail across Lake Trasimeno to reach Isola Maggiore, a tiny island where time has officially stopped. Imagine walking the same paths where St. Francis found ultimate silence during his 40-day retreat. It’s an island of olive groves, wild paths, and an extraordinary heritage: the Irish Point Lace. You’ll see local women sitting in their doorways, weaving intricate masterpieces by hand—a living connection to a slower, more graceful century.

In the afternoon, we head back to our sanctuary in Paciano. This is your time for "Creative Stillness." Whether you want to sketch the landscape, practice mindfulness on the medieval walls, or simply watch the kites fly over the valley, the village provides the perfect backdrop. We conclude with a lakeside-inspired dinner, blending the best of the water and the earth.

Prepare for a visual crescendo. Today we enter the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the beating heart of Western art. You won’t just "see" paintings; you’ll witness a revolution. This is where Giotto broke the rules of the Middle Ages, introducing human emotion and that vibrant, signature blue into his frescoes. Standing in the Upper Basilica is a life-changing moment of beauty that transcends religion.

In the afternoon, we return to our medieval nest in Paciano for a "soft landing." This is your final chance to soak in the village atmosphere, perhaps picking up some last-minute artisan treasures or enjoying a farewell spritz in the piazza. Our Grand Finale Dinner will be a celebration of the week’s journey—a toast to the friendships made and the peace rediscovered under the Umbrian stars.

Your final morning in Paciano is a moment of pure gratitude. As you enjoy one last Italian breakfast overlooking the valley, you’ll realize you aren’t just packing clothes and souvenirs—you are packing a new version of yourself. The frantic pace of life has been replaced by a steady, rhythmic calm.

Our private transfer ensures a smooth, stress-free journey back to Rome Fiumicino (FCO). As the Umbrian hills roll by your window, you have the space to reflect on the highlights: the silence of the hermitage, the blue of Giotto, and the warm stones of your home-away-from-home. You aren't just leaving a place; you are taking its essence with you. This isn't the end of the trip, but the beginning of a more centered way of living.