Often described as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is a region of rolling hills, medieval hill towns and deeply rooted traditions. Olive groves ripple across the landscape, lakes glint between valleys and time seems to move a little more slowly here. It’s a place where long lunches, local festivals and family-run trattorias shape everyday life, offering a more understated, authentic take on Italy.
Tourism has been overshadowed by neighbouring Tuscany, meaning Umbria remains refreshingly unspoilt – with fewer crowds and a strong sense of local character. Our collection of villas with pools in Italy offers the perfect base for relaxed, family-friendly escapes, whether you’re drawn to countryside tranquillity, historic towns or outdoor adventures. This is Italy lived quietly, and beautifully.
Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our handpicked villas in Umbria reflect that beautifully. Selected by destination experts who know the region inside out, each home is chosen for its individuality, comfort and setting.
Once you’ve booked, our Concierge Service is on hand to help with the finer details, from pre-arrival shopping and private chefs to housekeeping and tailored local experiences, for a truly extraordinary Umbrian escape.
Umbria is a region that reveals itself gradually. Medieval hill towns such as Assisi, Spoleto and Perugia sit high above valleys, their stone streets leading to grand cathedrals, ancient fortresses and quiet piazzas where daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace. History is everywhere, from the streets you walk on to the ancient wonders you quietly pass by.
Nature plays an equally central role. Often called the green heart of Italy, Umbria offers landscapes that invite exploration – olive groves, vineyards, wooded hills and shimmering lakes. Lake Trasimeno provides a softer, waterside counterpoint to the hills, while the dramatic Marmore Waterfalls showcase the region’s more powerful side. Walking, cycling and scenic drives are all part of the experience, with routes that feel refreshingly uncrowded.
Cascate delle Marmore – the world’s largest man-made waterfall system
Food in Umbria is deeply connected to the land. Truffles, olive oil, lentils and cured meats form the backbone of local cooking, served simply and seasonally. Meals are rarely rushed – and whether you’re dining in a village trattoria or cooking at your villa with ingredients from a local market, the emphasis is always on quality rather than show.
Unlike some of Italy’s better-known regions, Umbria remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. With fewer crowds, a strong sense of tradition and a calendar dotted with small festivals and cultural events, it offers a quietly rewarding alternative for travellers seeking an authentic Italian escape.
Authentic Italy – medieval towns, family-run restaurants and time-honoured traditions
Green landscapes – valleys, lakes and forested hills ideal for walking and cycling
Historic architecture – basilicas, castles and beautifully preserved hill towns
Food rooted in the land – truffles, olive oil, lentils and rustic Umbrian cooking
Outdoor adventure – hiking, rafting, cycling and scenic drives
Relaxed family holidays – space, nature and a slower pace of life
Umbria’s summer jazz festivals, where world-class music fills medieval piazzas – an unexpected highlight that captures the region’s quiet cultural depth.
Embrace Umbrian timing. Lunches run long, shops may close in the afternoon and evenings unfold slowly. Lean into the local pace and you’ll experience the region at its most authentic.
Umbria is easy to reach and best explored at your own pace.
By plane
Fly into Rome or Pisa, then continue by car to reach your villa in around two to three hours.
Getting around
A car is recommended for exploring Umbria’s countryside and smaller towns. Trains connect key centres such as Perugia, Assisi and Spoleto, but are less practical for rural areas.
