Surroundings

Just 30 minutes from Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio appears like a mirage—perched atop a crumbling tuff hill and accessible only by foot across a narrow pedestrian bridge. But Civita is more than beauty; it is geological fragility and human resilience. Known as “the dying city,” its constantly eroding base has made it a symbol of impermanence—and yet, it endures, lovingly preserved and sought out by travelers in search of authenticity.

Just an hour away, Rome is a constellation of eras—a continuous echo of emperors and artists, monuments and history. From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Vatican Museums, the Eternal City is a vertical journey through time. Depart Orvieto in the morning, and by sunset find yourself on the banks of the Tiber—a rare privilege for those who choose a base both tucked away and centrally connected.

An hour’s drive brings you to Perugia, a city that captivates with its historic center brimming with art and heritage. Must-sees include the Fontana Maggiore, Palazzo dei Priori, and the National Gallery of Umbria. And for those with a sweet tooth, Perugia’s chocolate culture—celebrated each year during Eurochocolate—is an irresistible highlight.

Just over an hour away, Montalcino is the birthplace of Brunello, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. The medieval fortress offers breathtaking views of the Val d’Orcia, and the local wineries promise unforgettable tastings. With its cobbled streets and quiet squares, the village itself is a treasure to wander.

About an hour and ten minutes from Orvieto, the Marmore Falls are among the tallest in Europe. Originally engineered by the Romans, they are a stunning natural spectacle. Hiking trails around the falls lead through lush greenery and offer panoramic viewpoints that take your breath away.

Roughly an hour and fifteen minutes from Emme Palace, Siena enchants with its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, home of the iconic Palio horse race. The cathedral—with its striking black-and-white marble facade—and the Civic Museum offer a deep dive into Gothic and Renaissance art. Amid the winding streets and sweeping views, you'll find artisan shops, local flavors, and a medieval charm that defies time.

In just under two hours, Florence reveals its extraordinary artistic heritage. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, crowned by Brunelleschi’s iconic dome, defines the city skyline. The Uffizi Gallery holds masterpieces of the Renaissance, while a walk across the Ponte Vecchio offers romantic views over the Arno River.

About 40 minutes from Orvieto, Lake Bolsena reveals a landscape both essential and almost primordial—shaped by the caldera of an ancient volcano. Along its shores, quiet inlets give way to sweeping reed beds, where trails wind through lava stone docks and vegetable gardens tended by generations.

The towns that encircle the lake—such as Bolsena and Capodimonte—guard a quiet way of life, rooted in fishing, devotion, and the timeless rhythm of the water.