Umbria

The timeless charm of the Italian countryside
Region and culture

A village in the heart
of Umbria

Known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” Umbria is a region of breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions. Nestled in central Italy, it features rolling hills, medieval towns like Assisi and Perugia, tranquil lakes, and vibrant markets. Known for exceptional wines, olive oil, and truffles, it’s a haven for food lovers. Umbria’s charm lies in its perfect harmony of history, natural beauty, and authentic Italian culture.


People and stories

Our rich
community

The Umbrian people are known to be warm, welcoming, and celebrants of local traditions, and Rastrello has been embraced by Panicale's warm sense of community in this spirit. All hotel staff live less than 20 minutes away, and the hotel is a meeting point for villagers for a drink, a game of cards, and comparing age-old recipes from their local Nonna's in  Rastrello's own cookbook Spaghettata–Love and  Pasta from Panicale. Welcoming guests like family,  delicious cuisine, and timeless traditions are key parts of the beautiful  hospitality that makes Umbria so special.

1
/
1
Maria Lombardi – 56

Maria makes authentic Italian pizza with passion and skill—making her pizzeria a favorite amongst locals for its fresh ingredients, traditional techniques, and perfect, crispy crurst.

Marco Ricci – 78

Marco has been running his cozy restaurant serving traditional Umbrian dishes in Perugia for 15 years. One of Marco’s most beloved dishes is his grandmother’s secraet truffle pasta that has been passed down for generations—the stuff of local legends.

Elida Wassmann – 66

A Panicale resident since 1995, Elida is the pioneer of Rastrello’s sustainable approach and the loving tender to every herb, plant, and flower that comes into the hotel, as well as its annual olive harvest. She is also the mother of Rastrello’s owner, Christiane Wassmann.