Discover the Best Destinations for a Break in Umbria

A nation renowned for its fine landscapes, delicious cuisine and rich culture and history, Italy is a wonderful place for a relaxing getaway. Boasting fascinating towns and scenic steep valleys, Umbria is an excellent choice - but which are the best spots to explore?

If you are looking for villas with pools in Umbria, you'll find there are a number of great spots to choose from - each offering something a little bit different. However, generally speaking, whichever location you select, you will find an enticing mix of history and picturesque landscapes.

Just one of your options is travelling to northern Umbria, which is home to some of the region's most intriguing medieval towns. For example, you could pay a visit to Gubbio, which is widely regarded as one of the best medieval sites in Umbria.

Alternatively, you might like to head to the attractive city centre of the Citta di Castello. While you're here, you can explore some interesting art museums, including the works in the Pinacoteco Comunale, which include pieces by Signorelli and Raffaello, among others.

If you choose to explore the south of the region, you will have the chance to admire the steep hills that particularly characterise this part of Umbria. Among the most impressive and exciting places you can visit here is Orvieto.

Sitting atop a tufa outcrop, the city is especially imposing and is home to several sites well worth visiting. Don't miss out on seeing its spectacular gothic duomo - widely regarded as one of the nation's best gothic buildings - while a trip to the Pozzo di san Patrizio is also worthwhile.

This is a huge well - spanning some 10 m across - that boasts an amazing double helix staircase. When it was built, this vast stairwell allowed donkeys to carry water up and down without colliding with one another.

Another north Umbrian destination you might like to visit is Todi. This lovely town is believed to have its origins in Etruscan times and is home to a charming medieval piazza, as well as the church of Santa Maria della Consolazione.

Alternatively, you could opt to base yourself in the university city of Perugia. Perhaps the most exciting thing about this destination is the fascinating medieval city that can be explored underground. Take the escalator from the station to look at the buildings hidden underneath the modern settlement's surface - a really magical experience.

So, why not book your holiday cottage in Italy today?

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We have an excellent selection of holiday homes, including amazing villas with pools, so browse our site today.

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Discover What A Scottish Winter Break Has To Offer

Try something different this year, and experience what Edinburgh has to offer during the winter months and be pleasantly surprised.

When winter breaks are suggested the first thing that springs to mind is skiing during the day and relaxing next to a log fire in a toasty cabin at night. From Norway to Austria why not try break from the norm and try something different this Christmas.

Try replacing the desolate slopes for an unmistakeable atmosphere in Scotland's capital, Edinburgh. With a wide range of activities and events it's an unmissable experience that caters all types of visitors and families. And instead of a cool chalet hidden in snowy hills, why not try a unique and luxurious hotel that Edinburgh has to offer, while overlooking the wonderfully light city.

The Christmas events begin on the 25th of November and followed by Edinburgh's famous Hogmanay party. Providing 6 weeks of festive celebrations for all.

Throughout the Christmas period princess street is transformed into a winter wonderland with Christmas decorations, one of the largest ice-rinks in Europe and funfair. Furthermore, there is the well known and loved German market that sells hot food, mulled wine and gifts and a great way to help embrace the festive period and gathering of many people.

As mentioned previously, there is a funfair and ice-rink that will help keep children entertained and able to cherish the wonderful atmosphere that is created. Who knows what new events and activities will be available this year.

Once everything has been explored, eaten and skied, why not take part in the new year celebrations. Three days of fun and games to welcome the new year, during 30th December to 1st January, 2012. Take part in the street party, concert in the gardens or welcome 2012 in style as you dance through the bells at the 'The Keilidh'. Then proceed by experiencing the torchlight procession that follows. And be around the ones you love for the beginning of the new year.

Don't forget to carry out in-depth research to find every activity available to ensure nothing is missed. As there is a huge range of diverse and interesting activities for all the family. Also, try picking out one of the many hotels in Edinburgh that offer something different. Throughout the capital there a wide and varied opportunity to experience the very finest in luxury hotels, including the very interesting boutique hotels that the capital is renowned for. Or even try experiencing one of the many loved B&B's.

Harvey McEwan writes to offer information amd advice on a variety of areas, from technology to holiday destinations. Read through Harvey's other articles here to find out more.

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