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| Umbria Local Reference INFOrmation
Information on the facilities in Perugia and Terni for outdoors activities: walks, hikes and cycling activities in the area.
One of the smallest regions of Italy, Umbria is surrounded by Tuscany, the Marches and Lazio. It is the only region of Italy completely bordered by land. There is a wide range of different landscapes in Umbria, ranging from the Apennine mountains and large hilly ranges, to the valleys and broad lowlands. These varying landscapes combine to form what is known as "The Green Heart of Italy". The most prominent Umbrian river is the Tiber, with seven rivers flowing into it: the Clitunno, Corno, Nera, Tissino, Topino, Sordo and Velino. The Umbrian-Marche mountain area is comprised of Mt. Pennino, Mt. Vettore and Mt. Catria. Running from Bocca Trabaria to the Forca Canapine it forms part of the Sibillini mountain range. Influenced by its geographical position, near the Apennine Mountains and relatively far away from the sea, the climate of Umbria experiences cold, damp winters and hot and humid summers. The average annual rainfall is around 800 mm, and the valley is often wrapped in mist and fog. It snows occasionally along the plains and across the hills, while the Apennine mountains receive more snowfall more frequently.
Umbria is an ideal location for a variety of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, horse riding, water sports and golf. Parks of UmbriaUmbria has seven protected natural areas which preserve 7.5 percent of Umbria's landscape. Mount Sibillini National Park Parco (Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini)Mount Sibillini National Park (Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini) is located in the Province of Perugia. Over 70,000 hectares in size, the park was established in 1993 with the aim to safeguard the environment, be suitable for all users and promote economic and socially sustainable development. Many species of animal can be found within the park, including the golden eagle, wolf and peregrine falcon.
Black River Regional Park (Parco Fluviale del Nera)Abundant with rivers (and waterfalls), the Parco Fluviale del Nera is known as the park of the waters. The Velino River, Nera River and Marmore Waterfall are all located within the park. The Marmore Caves allow for speleological excursions. Along the river valley are small fortified towns. Water sports are popular in the park as is free climbing on the rocks and artificial practice wall.
Colfiorito Regional Park (Parco di Colfiorito)The Colfiorito Regional Park (Parco di Colfiorito), in the province of Perugia, is a popular spot for people to enjoy many activities including mountain biking, sport fishing, horseback riding and trekking. The park lies between the regions of Umbria and Le Marche. A large plateau covering over 100 hectares, it contains a peatbog and marsh with rare vegetation, as well as herons, bitterns and mallards and wild cats. The Colfiorito also has Roman ruins. The Park lies on the Altipiani di Colfiorito inside a large karst tectonic plain between Umbria and Le Marche in the the mid-western section of the Apennines.
Mount Cucco Regional Park (Parco del Monte Cucco)Parco del Monte Cucco is renowned for its underground springs and prominent Mount Cucco. The woods of the park contain beech trees and karst caves (as well as the occasional fossil). Animal species inhabiting the park include the wolf and the golden eagle. Due to the park's mountainous terrain, it is an ideal place for mountain sports such as hang gliding, cross-country skiing and trekking. History enthusiasts will find the Roman ruins of interest.
Mount Subasio Regional Park (Parco del Subasio)Parco del Subasio is home to the 1,290 metre Mt. Subasio, arguably the most famous mountain in Umbria. In addition to the mountain, the park contains a valley and hilly landscape. The park has a Geopalaeontology Ecological Lab which is open to the public and contains exhibits dedicated to local and world geology and palaeontology.
Tiber River Regional Park (Parco Fluviale del Tevere)Parco Fluviale del Tevere’s runs largely along the course of the River Tiber from Montemolino (Montecastello di Vibio), near Todi, to Alviano Lake. The parklands contain ilex, oak, chestnut and juniper trees. Cultivated vineyards and olive groves are grown on the hillsides as part of the sustainable horticultural park plan.
Trasimeno Regional Park (Parco del Trasimeno)The Parco del Trasimeno runs along the perimeter of Trasimeno lake and is the largest regional park in Umbria. The park includes three islands: the largest is Polvese Island, which is under the control of the Province of Perugia. The Province operates an environmental research and education centre there. Maggiore Island, includes a small fishing village and Minore Island, is private property. The park is a wetland and is host to many fish and migratory birds.
The Federazione Italiana Parchi e Riserve Naturali website has links to parks, reserves and protected areas in the region.
Walking and Hiking (Escursionismo)Umbria has a range of terrains for walking, hiking and trekking. The Umbrian Apennines have many scenic trails and paths for hiking. The Trasimeno region is renowned for its beautiful walking and hiking trails around Lake Trasimeno and to the Tiber River. For more information about walks in the region, contact local tourist offices.
Climbing (Arampicata) and MountaineeringThere are many places to enjoy climbing and mountaineering in Umbria, including the Nera Valley, Arrone, Ferentillo, Polino, Marmore Waterfalls and the Parco Fluviale del Nera. The following clubs offer information and details about mountaineering and climbing in Umbria (and the rest of Italy). These are Italian-speaking organisations.
Cycling and Mountain Biking (Ciclismo)Road cycling has long been a popular sport throughout Italy. Groups of cyclists can frequently be seen in groups on the roads for training rides and roads are often closed for cycling races. The varied terrain and the many different bike tracks around Umbria make the region popular for both road cyclists and mountain bikers. There are travel companies and numerous cycling clubs that organise bicycle tours of the region.
Horse Riding (Equitazione)Horse riding is a popular activity across Umbria, particularly in the natural parks.
Water SportsMost of the lakes in Umbria are protected natural areas; water sports are not permitted in these protected waters. Water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and motor boating can be enjoyed at Lake Trasimeno (Perugia), the Horn River (Perugia) and on the River Nera (Terni). Annual regattas are held on the Nera River. Kayak, canoe, windsurf and other equipment rental is possible. Rafting is very popular along the Nera River, through the Nera Valley.
GolfingThe Golf Club Perugia is located approximately 5 Km from the city of Perugia. The 18 holes on the par-72 course are lined with thick vegetation and heavy woods, making it an ideal course for those with precise drives. Proof of handicap is required.
Related InformationTourists can find information, brochures, guides and maps in several languages at tourist offices throughout Umbria. In addition to being able to answer questions, the office can also make phone calls on behalf of visitors to local attractions.
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