Italy (and Europe in general) can be glorious in the fall. The weather is cooler, the hills are ablaze with color. But it doesn't always mean the crowds have disappeared. Especially in Italy where high season can last deep into October. But you can experience Fall glory with a bit of elbowroom - you just have to know where to find it. After all, its no fun getting stuck behind a tour bus (or three). Thanks to See Italy Travel, who have been so kind to allow me to share their knowledge of Italy with you. LUCCA, TUSCANY Tuscany is much much more than Florence and Chianti. The walled city of Lucca lies in the region’s north. Surrounded by vineyards and olive orchards, Lucca is an ideal setting for fall in Italy. Visitors can observe farmers gather olives from the trees before pressing them into emerald-green oil . Sporty travelers might enjoy a bike tour through the countryside, stopping at a family-run vineyard for a wine tasting and lunch. During the fall, Lucca also hosts food festivals that celebrate the area’s natural bounty--chestnuts , farro and wild boar. UMBRIA - UNTOUCHED CENTRAL ITALY Just a couple hours’ drive from Rome, travelers will find themselves in the countryside of Umbria. Home to postcard perfect towns like Orvieto and Assisi, Umbria abounds with golden hillsides and delicious sights. Those with a sweet tooth can head to Perugia for the annual Eurochocolate festival. Or, hunt for black truffles in the woods or learn to make pasta from local cooks.visitors at an agriturismo – a deluxe accommodation on a family farm. PIEDMONT'S WINE COUNTRY Travel experts have called Piedmont the “next Tuscany,” due to its quaint hilltop towns, lush vineyards and rich cuisine. Tucked in Italy’s northwest, Piedmont offers visitors a charm all its own. During October, the hills of Le Langhe wine region burn yellow as the vines change color. Fall is prime white truffle season as well. The town of Alba hosts an annual white truffle fair from October through November —spotlighting this world-famous delicacy. Visitors to Piedmont can also revel on the shores of Lago d’Orta, a quiet lake bordered by foliage-draped mountains. VAL D’ORCIA, TUSCANY Tuscany brims with charming towns and rolling vineyards, especially in the quiet Val d’Orcia region. Located just 2-hours south of Florence, Val d’Orcia is easily reached while still feeling removed from the crowds. September through October is harvest time at the vineyards, so travelers can watch workers pluck grapes from their golden vines. Wine lovers might sip on the famed Brunello varietal, while foodies will enjoy tasting local pecorino cheese. Ready to plan a trip? Call us at 602.540.7338 to start the discovery process or complete this simple form . Comments are closed.
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