Allerona

Allerona is a town so adorable that you will think you stepped into a postcard scene or a movie set. It is set in Umbria, set in the crook where the region meets the borders of Lazio and Tuscany, in reach of many desirable sites in all three regions. It is next to a nature preserve, near Lake Bolsena, Orvieto, and Montepulciano, and many other places. The setting is idyllic, with olive groves, vineyards and wooded hills, dotted with stone hill towns.

Allerona, like many towns in the area, has Etruscan and Roman roots, then came into its own during the Middle Ages. The protective stone walls that encircled it are intact, as are some of the gates that would have been closed to keep it safe from invasion. Of particular note are the two on opposite towns of the village, the ornate Porta del Sole (sun) and the other appropriately called Porta della Luna (moon). The intact walls contain the well-kept medieval buildings tucked inside. It's no wonder that Allerona is on the list of the Borghi Piu' Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). The ambiance factor is high here!

At the edge of the village is the Piazza Attilio Lupi, where the town hall and tourist information office are located. Ramble inside through the gate to find the pretty stone homes and buildings adorned with plants and flowers, balconies, lanes, and charm. There used to be a castle at the highest point but it was destroyed, rebuilt and went through several changes but as a private palazzo residence. In the old town is the Piazza Santa Maria, still a gathering spot and the scene for some of the rustic and traditional festivals throughout the year. Stop into the beautiful church of Santa Maria Assunta, too. Trust us; you'll want to behold the frescoes!

While you're in town, visit the nearby nature reserve of Monte Rufeno, a back-to-nature experience with trails for hiking or biking, with waterfalls galore, stone bridges over streams, birds singing and lots of flora that perfume the air.

The art nouveau Villa Cahen is not far and worth a stop for its lovely setting, pretty villa and gorgeous gardens that include both Italianate and Japanese garden sections, a lemon house, and more (we won't spoil the surprises).

Enjoy the atmosphere of an unspoiled hill town, while having the advantageous location of exploring the great sights of three regions in central Italy!