While summer blesses Umbria with dazzling sun and fields of sunflowers, autumn transforms it into a masterpiece, an explosion of warm hues that blend with intense flavors and intoxicating aromas. It’s the season when nature prepares for rest, but the life and traditions of the region are more vibrant than ever.
The Foliage: Nature Painting Wonders
Umbria, with its dense woods and gentle hills, is the perfect stage for admiring the phenomenon of foliage. The beech, oak, and chestnut trees ignite in reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a spectacular contrast with the green of the olive trees and the blue of the sky.
An essential place to enjoy this spectacle is the Mount Subasio Park, which wraps Assisi in a multicolored cloak. The Valnerina area also offers breathtaking views, with trails that delve into enchanted forests. Going for a hike or a walk during this time means immersing yourself in a magical atmosphere, made of leaves crunching underfoot and crisp air that smells of earth and undergrowth.
Truffle: The Hidden Treasure of the Earth
Umbrian autumn is synonymous with truffles. Although they are also present in other seasons, the white truffle and the fine black truffle reach their peak splendor during this period. Towns like Norcia, Gubbio, and Città di Castello are famous for their fairs and festivals dedicated to this “diamond” of the earth.
Participating in a truffle hunt with an expert truffle hunter and their trusty dog is a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a way to connect with local traditions and discover the mystery surrounding the search for this precious underground fungus. And after the search, there’s nothing better than savoring a simple yet sublime dish, like homemade tagliatelle or fried eggs, generously topped with shavings of freshly found truffle.
Novello Wine and New Oil: A Celebration of Flavors
With the arrival of autumn, Umbria’s wineries and olive mills come alive. It is the time for the grape harvest (vendemmia) and the olive harvest, moments of effort and joy that culminate in the production of two regional excellences: Novello wine and new extra virgin olive oil.
Tasting a glass of Novello wine, with its fruity and lively flavor, is a ritual that celebrates the end of the grape harvest. Likewise, sampling the freshly pressed oil, with its intense and pungent taste, is a sensory experience that tells the story of an entire year. Many wineries and farms offer tastings and guided tours, allowing visitors to discover the secrets of production and savor the true taste of Umbria.
Autumn in Umbria is not just a season; it’s a complete experience that engages all the senses. It’s the ideal time for those seeking a slower journey, away from the summer crowds, who want to fully immerse themselves in the beating heart of this splendid region.
