Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Discovering Tuscany's Hidden Gem

Umbrian Explorations: Lakes, Squares, and Sacred Spaces

Today was a day of venturing beyond the familiar vineyards of Montepulciano, a day where the rolling Tuscan hills gave way to the shimmering expanse of a vast lake and the ancient stones of a historic city. With Thomas and Leela in tow, I set out to explore Umbria, the region just east of Tuscany, eager to uncover its hidden gems. It felt good to embrace my inner explorer, trading my usual software engineering mindset for a day of historical immersion and natural beauty.

Our morning began, as it often does in Italy, with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Poliziano. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our day of exploration. Leela, of course, opted for her usual *cornetto* with *crema*, while Thomas and I enjoyed a more traditional breakfast of *cappuccino* and a slice of *torta della nonna*. Refueled, we were ready to embark on our adventure.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in how those places change you.

Our first destination was Lago Trasimeno, a vast and tranquil lake that glistened under the morning sun. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming from the familiar vineyards of Tuscany to the lush, green hills of Umbria. As we approached the lake, the views were simply breathtaking. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me as I gazed at the shimmering water and the rolling hills surrounding it. We spent a good portion of the morning simply wandering along the shore, soaking in the scenery. Leela, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the ducks and swans gliding across the water, and Thomas, as always, was snapping photos of everything that caught his eye. It was the kind of simple, unhurried joy that makes family travel so special. Although a boat tour of the lake would have been amazing, we decided against it due to time constraints. Instead, we enjoyed the views from the shore and promised ourselves we would be back to explore the islands another time.


Discover the serene beauty of Lago Trasimeno, a tranquil lake in Umbria, known for its stunning views, outdoor activities, and charming villages.

Lunch beckoned, and we found ourselves at 99 GRADI di Fiorino Davide. This delightful spot offered a variety of local specialties, and we indulged in some traditional Umbrian fare. I tried the *torta al testo*, a type of flatbread stuffed with local cheeses and cured meats, while Thomas opted for a hearty pasta dish. Leela, predictably, chose a simple *pizza margherita*, which she devoured with gusto. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a true taste of the region.

With our appetites sated, we continued our journey to Perugia, a city steeped in history and brimming with architectural marvels. Our main destination was Piazza IV Novembre, the heart of Perugia and a place that truly took my breath away. The square is surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, including the Palazzo dei Priori and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. The Fontana Maggiore, a magnificent medieval fountain adorned with intricate sculptures, dominates the square. As we strolled through the piazza, I felt as though I had been transported back in time. The energy of the square was palpable, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists all drawn to this historic hub. Leela was particularly fascinated by the Fontana Maggiore, marveling at the intricate carvings and the playful water features. Thomas, meanwhile, was captivated by the architecture of the Palazzo dei Priori, snapping photos of its Gothic facade and intricate details.


Discover the captivating charm of Piazza IV Novembre, a historical landmark in Perugia that embodies the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

We also visited Santa Maria della Scala, a historical complex. Originally a medieval hospital, it has been transformed into an exhibition-museum space. Unfortunately, we didn't have enough time to explore the museum in detail, but even a brief visit was enough to appreciate the historical significance of the site. The name 'della Scala' dates back to the 12th century, recalling its location in front of the steps of the main church.


Explore the historical depths of Siena at Santa Maria della Scala, a museum that blends art with the rich heritage of Tuscany.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar, a cozy spot where we could relax and reflect on our adventures. I savored a glass of local wine, while Thomas enjoyed a craft beer. Leela, of course, was treated to a refreshing *succo di frutta*. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration, a chance to savor the flavors of Umbria and to simply enjoy each other's company.


Discover the essence of Tuscan wines at Opificio 16 - a charming enoteca and wine bar in the heart of Montepulciano.

For dinner, we chose Osteria Pizzeria Sotto le Logge del Papa, a charming restaurant with a delightful outdoor seating area. We feasted on traditional Tuscan dishes, savoring the flavors of the region as we watched the sun set over the rolling hills. Leela, tired but happy, fell asleep in my arms as we finished our meal. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian dining at Osteria Pizzeria Sotto le Logge del Papa in Siena - where flavor meets tradition.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Tuscan adventure, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes visits to the Cattedrale San Lorenzo, Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, and De' Ricci Cantine Storiche in Montepulciano. We'll also be stopping by Maledetti Toscani Montepulciano for some last-minute souvenir shopping. I'm looking forward to soaking in every last bit of Tuscan charm before we bid farewell to this enchanting region. I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us long after we've returned to our home in Heidelberg.