Guided Tours and Cooking Classes in Central Italy http://www.discoversoriano.com Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:42:38 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.discoversoriano.com Guided Tours and Cooking Classes in Central Italy http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=317&Itemid=216 Our Webcam is off-line until the beginning of our 2010 season. Please check back in May :-) Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:20:26 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=260&Itemid=193 Raves testimonials This has been one of the greatest experiences ever. I felt like I was with friends and family from the very start. I made life long friendships and memories. [I] Can't thank you enough. - Doris - Roanoke, VA - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/doris.jpg) I have been walking around all week with a stupid grin on my face when I think of things that happened last week! Because there were so many, the grin is stuck on my face! -Ann - Pennsylvania, USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/ann.jpg) This was the trip of a lifetime - Ami Jac - Napa Valley, California- USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/ami_jac.jpg) The past week has been an introduction to family we never knew we had. We were embraced by an entire village with warmth, kindness, curiosity and friendship -~- We feel like we have family in Soriano and are already checking our schedules to find a time to return - Mary Erica - New York, USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/mary_erica.jpg) We could not have asked for a better vacation to Italy or more terrific hosts. Going on a Discover Soriano vacation was not like a typical tour because the week we were with you, we felt like Italians, Sorianesi and family - Steve Jessica - New Jersey, USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/seve_jessica.jpg) You have a wonderful discovery in Discover Soriano! The people you have gathered, the experiences you've organized, the variety you offer... nothing compares to the ease, friendliness and grace that you offer by sharing your home and family. - Bruce, Cozy, Brian, Kris, David - Phoenix, AZ New York, NY - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/hallberg.jpg) What a wonderful week of fun and friendship. A perfect mixture of tourism, cooking, fun, laughter. A true Italian experience... - Heather - Sydney, Australia Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/heather.jpg) From our initial contact with Discover Soriano, you became an immediate friend, and once we arrived you shared the sights sounds plus of course the food wine as if we were part of your family... - Jules Jim - Seattle, WA - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/jim_jules.jpg) I've been to Italy 4 times and this by far has been the most memorable trip to date - Marc Catherine - Los Angeles, California - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/catherine_marc.jpg) It's been the trip of a lifetime. Thank you for everything you've done Michael - Couldn't ask for more. - Lauren - Washington DC - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/lauren.jpg) You have opened up your town, your home, your friends, and your family to us, which enabled us to experience Italy and Italian life in a way that those on the big bus tours will never be able to (or even know about) We were treated as visiting friends from the moment we arrivied The entire holiday was magnificent -Maka Sue - Canberra, Australia Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/maka_sue.jpg) We appreciated your attention to detail in making sure that we felt like house guests, visiting realtives -Marcia Christina - Ft; Lauderdale Florida -USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/marcia_christina.jpg) We were welcomed here like family! Today is a very sad day... leaving our 'La Campana'. This Italian experience has taken a huge place in our hearts - Lynda Christine - Scottsdale Arizona -USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/lynda_christine.jpg) We have spent 3 weeks vacationing in europe 12 of the last 14 years and this trip, by far, was the best due to our decision to stay with you! We look forward to another trip to Soriano and all of our new friends!!! - Lou Jan - Stanford, CT - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/lou.jpg) Words cannot explain what a fantastico week we have had in Soriano. Every adventure was better than the last and every cooking class exceeded the last! Thanks again for a wonderful Italian experience. -Michele Kathy - Gaithersburg, MD Houston TX - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/michele_kathy.jpg) We have just had a magical week what really made it special was your warmth friendliness that made us feel like part of the family - Mark Cassie - South Australia Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/mark_cassie.jpg) The only reson the prospect of leaving this place doesn't sadden me today is that I am quite certain I will not fit into my jeans after a few more days - Chad Alicia - London, England Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/chad_alicia.jpg) What a glorious place! we enjoyed our cooking lesson (pizza) and the family style meal with our new family in Soriano - Chris Vanessa - Houston, Texas - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/chris_venessa.jpg) Pat and I can't begin to thank you for the many, many selfless things you did for us. Your business is truly founded on famil and friendship, not customer or client We fell in love with soriano not only for its old world beauty, but also with the welcome afforded by its people - Chuck Pat - Phoenix, Arizona - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/chuck_pat.jpg) We will return as soon as we can and reunite with this special adventure unlike anything else - Debbie Robert - Scottsdale, Arizona - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/debbie_robert.jpg) Your hospitality and open-hearted friendship have made this an unforgettable (too short) week. We had a ball making and eating tons of pasta. Kneading dough is good for the body soul Mille grazie for a week of love and laughter and learning - Arlene Gail - New Jersey - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/gail_arlene.jpg) A perfect introduction to life in Italy - Jahna - Australia Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/jahna.jpg) We are so glad we 'happened upon' Discover soriano when we planned our trip. This has beenthe perfect final week of an otherwise whirlwind trip - Jeff Nancy - Rhode Island - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/jeff_nancy.jpg) Grazie for a wonderful adventure in the true Italy. The people of soriano were warm - even with us Martians! - Grant, Liz Sarah - Frisco, Texas - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/liz_grant.jpg) It has been a highlight of our honeymoon to be able to live like Italians - has opened our eyes to what so many miss when they travel to Italia - Rick Michele - Los Angeles, California - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/rick_michele.jpg) You were right! This was a 'true Italian experience' - Tim Robbie - Baxter, Tennessee - USA Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/tim_robbie.jpg)Read the full letter (http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/stories/testimonials/kim.jpg) Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:26:12 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=250&Itemid= Custom Culinary Cooking Tour Aug 9 - 16, 2008 Includes 3 cooking classes An 8 Day / 7 Night mixture of some of our more popular itineraries with a day cruise off of Tuscany's beautiful Argentario Coast! Day 1 (Saturday Aug 9) - Welcome to Soriano! If you are arriving in Italy today, you will be greeted at the Rome airport and taken to Soriano nel Cimino, where you will get settled in. If you are already in Italy, we can either meet at the Rome airport, the Orte train station (36 min from Rome’s Central Station), or in Soriano if you have a car. If you are arriving by ship, we will pick you up at the Civitavecchia Cruise terminal. For those that arrive early, lunch will await you in your home for the week so you can snack while you get settled. In the afternoon, we'll take a stroll through the medieval streets of Soriano, visit the studio of a local artist and take it easy at a local cafe for some real italian gelato. Dinner will be at Taverna dei Frati, a converted monastery form the 1700's. Places Soriano nel Cimino Classes None Meals Light lunch, Gelato, Dinner at Taverna dei Frati Day 2 (Sunday Aug 10) - Day Cruise to the islands of Elba, Pianosa, Montecristo and Giglio (Tuscany Islands) Today we will be up early as we drive to Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany and board a mini-cruise to the wonderful islands of Elba, Pianosa, Montecristo and Giglio. These beautiful islands of the coast of Tuscany are home to beautiful vistas and crystal clear waters. While Americans think of places like Capri and Portofino, these islands are the desinations of choice for the Italian yachting crowd, and you will see exactly why they would rather keep them secret! For dinner, we'll stop at an authentic Neopolitan Pizzeria that is famous for having the best pizza in the area, hands down! Places Porto Santo Stefano, Elba, Pianosa, Montecristo and Giglio Classes None Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Aboard Ship Dinner Pizzeria en-route home Day 3 (Monday Aug 11) - Montefalco Winery, Assisi Spoleto (Umbria) Today we will have our breath taken away all day long in Italy's 'Green heart': Umbria. Besides breathtaking nature, Umbria boasts some of Italy's best wines, olive oils, and most famous ceramics. We will take a drive to beautiful Montefalco, known as 'The Balcony of Umbria', where we will tour a winery known for the world-famous Sagrantino wine. After our tour, we will participate in a wine tasting with local cheese, salames and more. We'll then proceed to Assisi where we will visit the magnificent cathedral, the tomb of St. Francis, and simply stroll the streets of this wonderful city. Finally we will stop in the beautiful town of Spoleto for a stroll and dinner. Places Montefalco, Assisi, Spoleto Classes None Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Montefalco Dinner Spoleto Day 4 (Tuesday Aug 12) Lake Bracciano (Lazio) (+ 1st Cooking Class) Today we will visit Lake Bracciano, where we will tour Castle Odescalchi where Tom Cruise was married. We'll then have a quick lunch and back to Soriano for our first cooking class. For our class, we’ll learn to make: Crostini with Goat cheese and Pancetta Penne with four different sauces: Carbonara Sauce Amatriciana Sauce Artichokes Cream Sauce Porcini Mushroom Sauce Fresh Peaches drowned in Brachetto and served with fresh homemade whipped cream. Places Bracciano, Soriano Classes Class #1 Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch In Bracciano Dinner Class #1 Day 5 (Wednesday Aug 13) - Royalty in Umbria, The Waterfalls and Class #2 Today we will drive to the stunning Umbrian hilltown of Labro, where we will have the honor of a private tour of Labro's beautiful 11th century castle. Our private tour guide will be Prince Riccardo Vitelleschi-Nobili himself. We'll have lunch at the beatiful Lake Piediluco, then visit the Marmore Falls (The tallest waterfalls in Europe, and the oldest man-made waterfall in the world -- created by the Ancient Romans). We'll then leave for Soriano, where will will hold our 2nd cooking class: Limoncello Biscotti. We will teach you how to make Italy's famous after dinner lemon liqueur, and delicious authentic Biscotti. Limoncello, which is served chilled from the freezer, is a liqueur that takes weeks to make, but is completely worth the effort. It is a multi-stage process, so you will start a new batch, then pick up at the second stage where our last class left off, finally bottling the results of the limoncello started 2 classes back. During the process we will bake and eat fresh Biscotti together while we drink chilled Limoncello made in past classes. You will make two types of Limoncello: The traditional Limoncello Our special Crema di Limoncello (Limoncello Cream Liqueur) Additionally, you will make three types of Biscotti: Ciambelle Spizzicate - Cookies with a White wine and Anise base. Biscotti di Nocciola - Traditional Hazelnut Biscotti Fave dei Morte - All Saints Almond cookies When the class is finished, you will take home a 1/2 liter bottle of each type of Limoncello, as well as the fresh biscotti, and recipes for everything we made during the day. Finally, we'll enjoy a light dinner at home with cold cuts, cheese, fruit and wine (you won't want anything more!) and spend the evening in Soriano. Places Labro, Terni, Soriano Classes Limoncello Biscotti Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Trattoria in Piediluco Dinner At home after class Day 6 (Thursday Aug 14) -The Dying City Pitigliano (Lazio Tuscany) After breakfast, we will visit Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying city. This thousands year old breathtaking town has been crumbling away through the ages, and is connected to the world only by a long foot bridge. In Civita we will stroll and shop as we enjoy this charming place. We'll have Lunch after visiting Civita di Bagnoregio. We'll then venture back into Tuscany and visit the beautiful Tuscan hilltown of Pitigliano, which is well-known for its white wine. We will have an opportunity to do some tastings if we disire before taking the scenic drive around Lake Bolsena, and through Montefiascone (Known for its Est! Est! Est! white wine), and back into Soriano. Places Civita di Bagnoregio, Pitigliano Classes None Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Between Civita and Pitigliano Dinner Due Camini in Soriano Day 7 (Friday Aug 15) -Happy Ferragosto! - Bagnaia, Viterbo + Class #3 Today is arguably the biggest holiday of the year in Italy: Ferragosto. This holiday was originally a celebration of the middle of the summer and the end of the hard labor in the fields. Later, it was adopted by the Roman Empire to honor the gods (especially Diana) and the cycle of fertility and ripening. Later, the Roman Catholic Church adopted it to commemorate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Today there is no significant religious connection to the holiday,but it is observed as a day for large family gatherings, much like the 4th of July for Americans. We'll start the day with a visit to the beautiful gardens of Villa Lante in Bagnaia after our traditional breakfast, followed by a light lunch at our 18th centruy country villa in the rolling hills beneath Soriano. After lunch, we will begin our final cooking class: Bruschetta with Sausage and Stracchino Cheese Fettuccine with Sausage, Cream and Vodka sauce Fettuccine with Ragu’ Tuscan Chicken with Bell Peppers Tiramisu’ (We promise it is the best you have ever had!) After dinner we'll take a stroll through what is considered to be the best preserved medieval quarter in the whole of Europe ( the San Pellegrino District of Viterbo), then stop for a mandatory gelato at the elegant Caffe' Schenardi ( a mansion form the 1500's converted into a very elegant cafe) Places Bagnaia, Viterbo Classes Dinner Class #3 Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch At the country villa in Soriano Dinner Class #3 Day 8 (Saturday) - Goodbye Unfortunately our week comes to a close this morning. We will have breakfast, take you to Rome and exchange hugs this morning. Menu Variations The menus listed on the itineraries are subject to change depending on season. This is a summer menu. We use only fresh ingredients wherever possible, so if we are unable to prepare a certain dish, it will be substituted. In case of expected rain, Pizza night will be replaced with Lasagna class. Between November and April, Pizza night will be replaced with an evening of Italian Grill at the fireplace. Excursion Substitutions In case of rain, some excursions may be altered or replaced. Additionally, we often modify excursions on the fly in order to take advantage of local festivals that may occur during your tour. Fri, 16 May 2008 04:13:41 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=229&Itemid=180 Welcome to DiscoverSoriano's Galleries. We want our future guests to really get a good feel for what their time with us will be like, so we have gone way out of our way to collect thousands of pictures, and many videos that really give you an idea of what you are looking forward to. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words... Videos (component/option,com_alphacontent/Itemid,179/) This is our collection of videos we have made in and around Soriano. They are all fairly high resolution, so be sure you have a broadband connection for these. Photos (html-photo-galleries/) Thousands of photos taken during our tours, cooking classes, excursions, and more. If you want to get a good feel of what it is like in Soriano, what our classes are like, or what our tours are like, you can spend hours here looking at the candid photos taken by us, and by our guests. Desktop Wallpaper (http://www.discoversoriano.com/about-soriano/soriano-nel-cimino/soriano-nel-cimino-desktop-wallpaper.html) Feel like staring at Soriano while you work on your computer? We have taken some of our favorite pictures and formatted them for use as desktop wallpaper. Click here to have a look and download them. (http://www.discoversoriano.com/about-soriano/soriano-nel-cimino/soriano-nel-cimino-desktop-wallpaper.html) Sun, 27 Jan 2008 12:10:39 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=219&Itemid=176 Airfare We travel between the United States and Italy roughly six times a year. Additionally, we talk with our guests all the time about which travel resources they use for their airfare. If you have airline points that you can use, we always suggest you call your airline and see if you can use them. If not, and you are looking for lowest price, let us know. As a tour company, we are also an operating travel agency, and we sometimes have access to excellent fares through consolidators that make bulk airline purchases and sell them at wholesale prices. Finding these fares is always a hit and miss proposition. If we find them, we can often get much better fares than you find on the major travel sites like Travelocity (http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-2816122-10395159) and Priceline (http://www.tkqlhce.com/cf81zw41w3JMSLQLMMJLKNRKKOP). If not, we also have access to similar fares you will find on those sites, but it might be to your advantage to do it yourself, unless you would like for us to do the legwork (which we are always happy to do for our guests). Car Rentals We strongly urge anyone that is visiting Italy to rent a car, but only for time you spend outside of the major cities. In other words, if you are spending part of your trip staying in Rome, Florence, Naples, Milan, or Venice, use public transportation in those cities. However, the moment you want to venture out into the countryside, wine country, the Tuscan and Umbrian hilltowns, etc., if you are without a car, you will lose a great deal of the experience that awaits you. This is because the Italian train system, while extensive, really focuses on connections between major cities, and many of the smaller and more special destinations in Italy are not connected. Trying to use public transportation in these areas will be a huge waste of time between major train routes, small routes, and busses. If you rent a car, on the other hand, you free yourself to experience the beauty of Italy on your terms. For those that are afraid to drive in Italy because they have heard how crazy Italian drivers are, don't worry. For one thing, extremely strict enforcement of traffic laws in recent years has served to calm Italians down on the road. More importantly, however, the 'crazy' driving is really limited to the major cities. Once you get into the countryside and the small towns, they calm down significantly. As for what to rent, the first rule is to rent the smallest thing you can fit into. Most Italian towns were built centuries ago, and they lacked the foresight to plan ahead for Hummers :-). Instead their concept of a large vehicle was an extremely muscular horse. That said, if you get a big car, you may find places you just can't drive. We cannot stress this enough. We have seen guests time after time rent the big comfy car only to regret it. Suddenly they find that it is too big to park, or the GPS navigation system shows them one way to their destination, which happens to take them down a road that is narrower than their car. As for where to rent, we simply suggest Dollar Rent A Car (http://www.kqzyfj.com/rp83iqzwqyDGMFKFGGDFEIMMGFI) . They have multiple locations in Italy, offer Automatic Transmission for those of you that want it, and have generally newer cars than some of the others. Additionally, they are on-site at the airport in Rome and have competitive rates. If you will be our guest and would like for us to do the legwork for you, we will be happy to take care of your rental reservation for you. Hotels As with airfare and car rentals, we will be more than happy to help you secure hotels for the time you will not be with us in Soriano. Just ask. If you want to do it yourself, there are a few different ways to go, depending on your style Big Cities, Traditional Hotels If you prefer the big hotels, we suggest Hotels.com (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755), Travelocity (<a href= http://www.kqzyfj.com/hm122zw41w3JMSLQLMMJLKOSTRLN target= _blank onmouseover= window.status='http://www.travelocity.com';return true; onmouseout= window.status=' ';return true; >Top Destination for hotels!</a>), and Priceline (http://www.dpbolvw.net/88115kjspjr69F8D899687B79DB9). Here are some direct links to some of the major cities on Hotels.com (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755): Rome (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A//travel.ian.com/index.jsp?pageName=hotNetList&cid=131241&city=Rome&stateProvince= &country=IT&hotel=2), Rome Airport (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A//travel.ian.com/index.jsp?pageName=hotNetList&cid=131241&city=Rome&stateProvince=%20&country=IT&hotel=2&landmarkDestinationID=ac108a63-391c-3910-3332-2c6b09907f01) (Leonardo Da Vinci - A good choice for your last night in Italy), Florence (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DFlorence%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2), Naples (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DNaples%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2) (Close to Pompeii), Sorrento (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DSorrento%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2) (Close to The Amalfi Coast), Venice (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DVenice%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2), Milan (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A//travel.ian.com/index.jsp?pageName=hotNetList&cid=131241&city=Milan&stateProvince= &country=IT&hotel=2), Pisa (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DPisa%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2), Genoa (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A//travel.ian.com/index.jsp?pageName=hotNetList cid=131241 city=Genoa stateProvince=%20 country=IT hotel=2), Cinque Terre (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2797846-10429755?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftravel.ian.com%2Findex.jsp%3FpageName%3DhotNetList%26cid%3D131241%26city%3DLa+Spezia%26stateProvince%3D%2520%26country%3DIT%26hotel%3D2) (These are listings in La Spezia, which puts you in the area). The major sites listed above only list traditional hotels, and mostly only list the large cities. If you are looking for more off the beaten path areas, or smaller, more quaint lodging, read below: Small Towns, B Bs, Agriturismi Independent Hotels None of the major hotel search engines list the thousands of smaller locations, so if you are looking for a beautiful little bed and breakfast that is located at a winery in the hills of Tuscany, or a charming seaside inn at Cinque Terre, for example, you will have a difficult time finding it. We strongly suggest that you call us if you are looking for such places, as our experience can be extyremely valuable when choosing, but if you want to go it on your own, there is really only one website to look at: Venere.com (http://www.venere.com/site/index.php?ref=873317&geoid=106). This is an Italian company that specializes in private lodging in Italy, and serves as a booking engine for thousands of places you will not find elsewhere. It is a hotel and accommodation reservation service that directly links the you with five star and budget hotels, bed and breakfasts, country retreats and villas throughout Europe, and especially Italy. Additionally, they show detailed profiles of properties, as well as guest reviews. Click here to visit their site. (http://www.venere.com/site/index.php?ref=873317&geoid=106) Cruises Europe cruises are getting more and more popular, and the Rome's port is becoming an increasingly popular starting and ending point for many cruise lines. Additionally, many cruise lines are starting and ending cruises at sevaral of Italy's other ports. With this increased popularity, many of our guests have been combining a cruise with their tour with us. If you fit this bill, please let us know. We can help you organize the switchover between tour and cruise. Additionally, we can plan and book your entire itinerary, including the cruise. We have access to extremely favorable group rates on cruises, and can often get you free cabin upgrades and special perks. Furthermore, if you have us plan your cruise along with your tour, we will be able to make sure that the transition between cruise ship and Soriano is absolutely seamless. In other words, we can hold your hand from the moment you leave home until the moment you return. Maps Here are some driving and travel maps of Italy that you can purchase before your trip. We always suggest that you bring paper maps with you wherever you go, but if you will be renting a car, please also rent a GPS Navigation system with current Italian maps. It will make your life much easier. Italian roads can get confusing, street names are difficult to find, and the cities are full of one way streets. A GPS Navigation system will help you here where a map will fail. Rand McNalley Travel Maps of Italy (http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-2816122-10460177?url=http%3A%2F%2Fstore.randmcnally.com%2Fcategory%2Finternational%2Bmaps%2Feurope%2Fsouthern%2Beurope.do) Florence Street Map (http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C1352%2C4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D552) Milan Street Map (http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D1402) Rome Street Map (http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D10953) Sicily Street Map (http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D16139) Tuscany Street Map (http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D1427) Venice Street Map (http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C61%2C615%26pid%3D16435) Guide Books Following is a list of Guide books to take along with you: Lonely Planet ROME (http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C1352%2C1355%26pid%3D13034) Lonely Planet TUSCANY and UMBRIA (http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C1352%2C1355%26pid%3D13052) Lonely Planet Venice (http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-2816122-10362975?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.maps.com%2Fmap.aspx%3Fnav%3DMS%26cid%3D4%2C1352%2C1355%26pid%3D13056) Learning Italian If you are looking to learn some Italian before your trip, I really don't like the standard 'Learn a language' courses, because they tend to teach you phrases that are really not used... so you would be just as well simply speaking English in most cases. If you want to pick up some Italian before your trip, I would urge you to at least get started with a real language course. TELL ME MORE Language Learning Software (http://www.tkqlhce.com/6181xdmjdl039272330215A6257). uses advanced speech recognition technology that engages you in real-life dialogues and conversations while you are learning, rather than just having you learn key phrases. While it is not cheap (compared to the 29.95 software out there), it is far less expensive than some of the other real courses, like Rosetta Stone. For an alternative language course, check out Onlingo. (http://www.jdoqocy.com/r975zw41w3JMSLQLMMJLKPKTKRP) Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:26:30 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=214&Itemid=43 Pienza Distance from Soriano 67 mi / 107km Highlights Wine, Pecorino Cheese, and beautifully flowered streets Region Tuscany (Chianti) Description Pienza is known as the is the 'touchstone of Renaissance urbanism'. It is a magnificent town with streets full of beautiful flowers and lovely shops. It is clean to a fault, with every little thing maintained to absolute perfection. Pienza has been nominated and confirmed as a 'World Heritage Site' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO ), which lists it as offering 'outstanding cultural or natural importance to the common heritage of humanity'. Pienza is without question worth a visit, especially if you will be visiting the wineries in nearby Montepulciano and Montalcino. Video Tour of Pienza, Tuscany (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/travel/tuscany/pienza-siena-tuscany-italy.html) Picture(s) Map Tue, 06 Nov 2007 07:34:48 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=213&Itemid=43 Montalcino Distance from Soriano 79 mi / 126km Highlights Wine: Brunello di Montalcino Region Tuscany (Chianti) Description Montalcino is without question one of the top stops for anyone touring Tuscan wine country. Their Brunello is considered one of the world's best wines, and visitors can buy this wine here for a fraction of what they pay back home. It is a Tuscan hilltown of exceptional beauty that produces what is considered by many wine connoisseurs to be among Italy's absolute best red wines: Brunello di Montalcino. * Thousands of tourists book day tours from Florence to this town for visits to cellars and vineyards, but it should be noted that Montepulciano is much closer to Soriano than it is to Florence, so if your itinerary includes a stopover in Florence, you should consider visiting this area from Soriano instead. Some of our favorite stops here include Fattoria dei Barbi and Antico Poggio. It is worth noting that just outside of Montalcino you will find the Banfi winery, which is one of the best known wineries internationally (We see their wine regularly even in supermarkets in the states). While beautiful, it is likely the most touristy thing in the area. Picture(s) Map Tue, 06 Nov 2007 07:14:05 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=173&Itemid=161 Untitled Document Directions from Soriano to Corviano Before Going Corviano is probably one of the most amazing things you will see in Italy because it is a largely undisturbed site. There are countless larger and more historically significant sites in Italy, but there is something to be said about the raw beauty of Corviano. You have to visit to really understand. That said, several precautions should be taken before going. Please read this in full before you decide. Be Prepared Make sure you bring along water, some food, and a cell phone. A portable GPS is worth its weight in gold! You will be doing a light hike, but Corviano is very off the beaten path. If you choose to go without a guide, be extremely cautious, as it is not difficult to get lost. That said, at the end of this article, I will show you how to get found should you get lost. Be Adventurous Corviano is not for everybody. You should be in fairly good shape, and able to walk for a few miles. While you don't need to be a mountain climber, there are many uneven surfaces next to very steep cliffs. There is nothing to keep you from falling out of the cave dwellings to the valley below. Additionally, you will be in the woods with poorly maintained trails at best. Be prepared for things like poison ivy and the possibility of snakes and spiders. Know when not to go Corviano should only be visited in dry periods. If there has been a sigificant amount of rain, it may be impossible to arrive, and the trails may be impossible to follow. During the winter months, there is a fair amount of hunting done in the area . While I have never seen them, Wild Boar hunting is done in this area, so there is the risk of being a victim to the boar, and to the hunter. Do you see the hunter in the picture above? This is taken at Corviano in January. I saw the hunter by accident and he gave me a dirty look. I decided I didn't want to be a story on the evening news about an accidental shooting, and chose not to visit that day. If you didn't see the hunter in the picture above, I have exposed him in the picture below. OK, all of the warnings are behind us. Here are the directions to Corviano: Pictures in the article All of the pictures in this article were taken in January. If you go at another time of year, foilage will cause things to look quite different than what uyou see here. Directions to Corviano Before starting, get yourself to the Soriano/Bomarzo exit of the Orte-Viterbo Superstrada (Freeway). This is one of the only two exits for Soriano, and is probably the one just after the one you exited when first coming to Soriano. We will start the directions at the bridge that crosses over the freeway, coming from Soriano. Just after crossing the bridge, you will see an intersection. When you get to the stop sign, turn left. You will find yourself on a country road (SP151) that runs parallel to the freeway, which you will see to your left. As a point of reference, 1/2 mile after you turned onto this road, you will see this large building to your right with 1756 written in fairly large numbers on the side. After about another 1 1/2 miles, you will find yourself entering SANTARELLO, as you will notice by the cluster of buildings and the sign as you enter. SLOW DOWN AND GET READY TO TURN RIGHT. Just after the curve, you will see a sign on your left with a cow on it. Just past it, on your right, you will see a rough road. The road may or may not have a directional sign to Corviano. TURN RIGHT on the rough road. This road will turn into a dirt road very shortly. You will have a hair over 2 miles of dirt road, but it may seem like more because you will be going slowly. After a bit, you will run into a fork. The road to the right is actually a private driveway. TAKE THE ROAD TO THE LEFT. As you continue on, you will arrive at another small fork. You will see a tiny house on the right, and there should be a directional sign for Corviano. STAY TO THE LEFT After a few more moments, you will find a wide bend with a beautiful country villa. Have a good look at this villa as we use this as a point of reference if you get lost later. CONTINUE ON THE ROAD. Shortly after the villa, you will find yourself facing this stream. This is the first of 2 big decision points. If it has been raining, the stream may be impassible. Please use good judgement here. From here you have 3/4 of a mile to go. Just after the stream, you will have another fork. TAKE THE ROAD TO THE RIGHT. Here is decision point #2. As you approach the road to the right, you will see that the dirt road becomes quite rough and a little steep. This small hill is the last place where you may get stuck (I have been stuck here). As long as the dirt is dry, if you take it slow and steady, you should have no problem getting past it. The road from this point is quite rough, but this is the only part that is difficult to pass. Soon you will see several directional signs. I don't know why there are two identical signs for Corviano, but they do point in the only direction you can go. The third sign 'parcheggio' means parking. DO NOT PARK HERE. Just keep driving. Here we find another fork with no directional signs. STAY TO THE RIGHT and continue. You will come upon yet another fork. This one has another 'parcheggio' sign. Ignore it and continue on the right to Corviano. As you continue, you will see another road to the left with a fairly large clearing. Just continue on the right. You are almost there. Finally you will see this road with a sign that tells you to turn right to Corviano. Note the barrier gate at the beginning of the road so that you know you are at the right place. DO NOT TURN HERE! Your car will not make it on this road. Just ahead, you will see a turn out where you can park. As you see, there is a little turn off for parking. There are rarely other people at Corviano, but if there are cars parked here, you should still have no trouble finding another spot to park without blocking the rest of the road. Once you have parked, go back to the road with the barrier gate and follow it on foot. It isn't a long walk at all. Soon you will find youself ina clearing, which is where the cave dwellings can be found. You will see a trail that can be followed to see more cave dwellings, the necropolis and more. Following the Trails The trails in Corviano are fairly easy to follow, and they take you to the things you will want to see. However, after the necropolis, I suggest that you turn back. Once you pass the necropolis, the trails get difficult to follow, and you can get easily lost. If you get lost If you do end up lost, the trails in the area will generally lead to the dirt road you took to get to Corviano in the first place. The main trail will end up next to the beautiful villa we passed driving to Corviano. If you get to that point on foot, your best bet is to continue on to the road, and walk back to the car along the road. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 11:00:47 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=172&Itemid=160 Soriano Shuttle Bus Soriano’s shuttle bus runs during business hours throughout the day, circling town roughly every hour. It costs €1 to board and ride wherever you like. It makes a total of 25 stops, including the train station, larger bus stops, shopping areas, residential areas, and several stops in the town center. Because of the route and frequent stops, you should allow yourself about 30 to 40 minutes when scheduling. The following is the posted schedule for the main Piazza and station stops. Keep in mind that there are 23 other stops before and after the ones listed here: Soriano Shuttle Bus Schedule Piazza Station Piazza Station 7:00 AM 7:13 AM 1:00 PM 1:15 PM 7:05 AM 7:25 AM 1:18 PM 1:38 PM 7:45 AM 8:05 AM 3:00 PM 3:20 PM 8:04 AM 8:17 AM 4:00 PM 4:20 PM 9:00 AM 9:20 AM 5:00 PM 5:20 PM 10:00 AM 10:20 AM 6:10 PM 6:32 PM 11:00 AM 11:20 AM 7:20 PM 7:42 PM 12:00 NOON 12:20 PM Mon, 13 Aug 2007 10:59:12 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=171&Itemid=159 Bus Schedule Soriano - Orte Train Station Soriano offers bus service to many destinations, but we have only included the schedule for Orte Train station here. This schedule is valid as of January 2007. These schedules may change Stations Buses stop at the Train Station and at the Papacqua bus stop. Please look at the Soriano Map for details. Bus from Soriano Train Station to Orte Station Monday through Saturday Leave Soriano Arrive Orte Leave Soriano Arrive Orte 4:15 AM 4:55 AM 8:40 AM 9:20 AM 5:05 AM 5:40 AM 12:10 PM 12:45 PM 5:10 AM 5:50 AM 12:10 PM 12:50 PM 5:55 AM 6:30 AM 12:50 PM 1:30 PM 6:00 AM 6:40 AM 4:15 PM 3:50 PM 6:10 AM 6:50 AM 4:20 PM 5:00 PM 6:50 AM 7:35 AM 5:10 PM 5:45 PM 7:05 AM 7:45 AM Bus from Soriano Papacqua Bus Stop to Orte Station Monday through Saturday Leave Soriano Arrive Orte Leave Soriano Arrive Orte 6:10 AM 6:50 AM 12:30 PM 1:10 PM 7:05 AM 7:40 AM 12:30 PM 1:15 PM 7:05 AM 7:45 AM 2:20 PM 3:00 PM 7:05 AM 7:50 AM 5:10 PM 5:50 PM 11:10 AM 11:50 AM 5:15 PM 5:55 PM 12:30 PM 1:10 PM 5:45 PM 6:45 PM Bus from Orte Station to Soriano Train Station Monday through Saturday Leave Orte Arrive Soriano Leave Orte Arrive Soriano 7:50 AM 8:30 AM 2:20 PM 3:05 PM 9:05 AM 9:45 AM 3:25 PM 4:05 PM 11:05 AM 11:45 AM 4:05 PM 4:45 PM 12:40 PM 1:15 PM 5:05 PM 5:45 PM 12:40 PM 1:20 PM 7:05 PM 7:45 PM 1:15 PM 1:55 PM 8:05 PM 8:45 PM 1:30 PM 2:10 PM 9:05 PM 9:45 PM 2:20 PM 3:00 PM 9:15 PM 9:50 PM Bus from Orte Station to Soriano Papacqua Bus Stop Monday through Saturday Leave Orte Arrive Soriano Leave Orte Arrive Soriano 5:25 AM 6:05 AM 7:40 AM 8:20 AM Mon, 13 Aug 2007 10:58:23 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=170&Itemid=158 Orte Train Schedules We don't list the actual schedules here, because there are just so many trains, and it would be impossible to keep up to date. Instead, visit http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html where you can search train schedules in real time. Below you will find some information on common destinations that will help you on the Trenitalia website. Rome Airport In doing your search, enter FIUMICINO AEROPORTO as the station nameThere are trains roughly every 30 to 45 minutes between the airport and Orte all day and night. Be sure to check for direct trains by selecting the 'According to Journey Time' button on the results page. The direct trains take about 90 minutes between the airport and Orte. Central Rome There are several train stations in Rome. The central station is called ROMA TERMINI. There are trains to and from this station roughly every 30 minutes, with higher frequency during the morning and afternoon commute. The travel time is usually between 36 and 45 minutes, depending on the train. Florence The fastest train to florence will be to the Campo di Marte station (to search, enter Firenze Campo di Marte), which should take about 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you would like to go to the central station in Florence, enter Firenze S.M. Novella. Other Destinations You will find that Orte is an extremely convenient train station, since it is a hub on a major route. Because of that, you can get just about anywhere in Italy with no more than 1 or 2 trains. Simply enter the destination you are looking for on the website. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 10:57:39 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=169&Itemid= 2009 Pricing for 8 Day / 7 Night All-Inclusive Cooking Tours Base Price: US $2,995 $2,695 per person, based on double occupancy. The dollar has strengthened, so our prices have gone down. This price is valid for a very limited time, so lock this price in by reserving now.. Click to send a booking request now (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) We also offer fixed pricing in British Pounds, Australian Dollars and Euros. Supplements / Discounts: Single occupancy in home: Add $350. 3rd, 4rth and 5th person in same home: Deduct $300 per additional person. Each person that does not participate in classes on cooking tours: Deduct $300. Group staying in accommodations not provided by DiscoverSoriano.com: Deduct $300. per person Multiple Week Tours If you wish to combine multiple weeks, we offer discounts as long as they are consecutive weeks. Additionally, we will help you fill in transition days between tours and to make sure tour itineraries do not repeat during your stay. Deposit Payment Requirements: 20% of the total is due at time of booking to secure your dates, half of which is non-refundable, the remainder of which is refundable up to 120 days before your tour begins. The balance is due 90 days before your tour begins. What's Included : 7 nights private accommodation in a beautiful medieval village home (Each party has their own private home) or B B Hands-on cooking classes (as per itinerary) Lunch and Dinner out or catered as listed in itnerary. Daily day trips and excursions 7 Traditional Italian Breakfasts (Cappuccino Pastries) Wine with all meals All transportation (Including Rome Airport, Train Station or Cruise Terminal Transfers ) All entry fees for tours English speaking guide throughout the week 1 cell phone per party. What's Not included: Airfare (http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-2816122-10463203) Personal Expenses Snacks/Drinks between meals Click here to read a more detailed description of what is and what is not included (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/pricing.html) Click here for available dates (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/browse-tours.html) Click here to request more information or initiate a reservation request. (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Thu, 02 Aug 2007 12:29:02 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=167&Itemid=43 Montepulciano Distance from Soriano 59 mi / 94km Highlights Wine: Vino Nobile Region Tuscany (Chianti) Description This is a Tuscan hilltown of exceptional beauty that produces what is considered by many wine connoisseurs to be among Italy's absolute best red wines: The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. It also produces an exceptional 'Rosso di Montepulciano * Thousands of tourists book day tours from Florence to this town for visits to cellars and vineyards, but it should be noted that Montepulciano is much closer to Soriano than it is to Florence, so if your itinerary includes a stopover in Florence, you should consider visiting this area from Soriano instead. When you are in Montepulciano, you will find dozens of little wine shops that all offer wine tasting, as well as fantastic cheeses, salame, etc. Among our favorite stops here is the Cantina del Redi, (http://www.cantinadelredi.com/) which is a beautiful and ancient wine cellar. Here is a video that gives you a view into Montepulciano wineries (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/culture/food-and-wine/wine-and-cheese-pienza-and-montepulciano.html) Picture(s) Map Tue, 31 Jul 2007 09:37:24 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=130&Itemid=120 Specialized Group Tours Events Would you like to coordinate a Yoga Workshop in which you hold daily yoga classes in mystical forests, ancient castles, Tuscan sunflower fields, etc? We can arrange that for you. Perhaps you would rather arrange a a group ride with 20 Harleys through the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside for a week? Yeah, we can do that too. How about a vegetarian retreat, or a week of wine making the old fashioned way. This is what we do. All you need to do is contact us and let us know what your goals are. Special Events Weddings Have you been dreaming of a wedding in an 11th century church, followed by a reception in a medieval castle atop a hill? Or perhaps you are putting together an annual conference, and want to make it something everyone will remember for the rest of their lives. Whatever the case, we can handle groups of up to 100 people. We handle everything from catering, entertainment, special arrangements, conference rooms, meeting space, to reserving your very own castle for the night. All you need to do is contact us and let us know what your goals are. Corporate Tours Getaways Paintball weekends and fishing trips getting old? Would you rather try wild boar hunting in the rolling hills of Italy? How about a Porcini mushroom hunt? Or a week of wine making? Perhaps you would like to try harvesting olives in the hills of Umbria, or a simple week of utter relaxation in one of Italy's most breathtaking regions. All you need to do is contact us and let us know what your goals are. Family Reunions How would you like to arrange your family reunion as an unforgettable tour through Italy? Everything you see in our tours is available (and highly customizable) for family reunions. All you need to do is contact us and let us know what your goals are. Mon, 21 May 2007 06:19:40 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=129&Itemid=121 There are so many companies offering custom tours of Italy that choosing can become a daunting task. Here are some things you may consider when choosing: 01. Experience With The Personal Touch When you want to organize a custom tour, you usually find huge tour operators that are dealing with thousdands of bookings at a given time, or smaller operators that act more like an agent that contracts your tour out to various service providers. Not us. While we are headquartered in Florida (DiscoverSoriano.com, LLC), the Italian side of our operation is handled directly by DiscoverSoriano.com, SRL in Italy. This is not an agent. It is the Italian arm of our company that handles all of the logistics. The tour leaders are employees of DiscoverSoriano, and all contracts are with DiscoverSoriano. What this means is that we have direct control over everything, allowing us to offer more personal service and resolve any issues that may arise quickly and directly. 02. We Know Italy! If a customer was to ask us to organize a tour in Brazil for them, we would be able to do it with no problem. There are many resources available to tour operators that allow them to organize tours all over the world. However, those resources are limited to providers that advertise to tour operators internationally. We don't even look at them. We have more than 300 years of collective first-hand experience throughout Italy. We won't visit the winery we saw advertised in a trade magazine. We'll go to that other one that is run by a local family with centuries of tradition. We won't go to that ceramics factory that mass-produces for international export. We'll go to the small one where we can interact with the artisans. We won't go to those restaurants that have menus primarily printed in English. We'll go to that special hidden gem that the locals rave about. It's a different experience when you have intimate knowledge of and love for a place your are going. 03. An infusion of Real Italian Culture This statement is the core of who we are and what we are about. It is why we do what we do. We talk to people all the time that tell us about their big bus tours to Italy. While they tell us what they saw, it is always about visions, and rarely about experiences. They saw St Mark's Square. They saw the Tower of Pisa. Along the way they learned some history, took a bunch of pictures, but while they saw Italy, they never actually experienced what makes Italy so amazing. They were sheltered from the culture. The big tour companies do this for a reason: The more you shelter the tourists and keep them in their comfort zone, the less chance there is that they will complain about the things they miss from home. So they wake up and find the bacon and eggs breakfast waiting for them in the morning, and they are only brought to places that speak English and follow a guideline for what is normal in our culture. That it not Italy, and while that may make sense in some parts of the world, Italy is a modern culture with amazing insights to offer us. So our goal when we design your itinerary is still to have you see what you wish to see, but along the way, we expose you to the culture in a way the others don't. 04. Tour Guides that are always there for you Most tour guides are pretty much just there for the times you are touring, and leave you to fend for yourself most of the time. Our tour guides are there to help you in every way, from the moment you begin your time with us, until the moment you leave us. 24 hours a day. They are knowledgable, They speak english, and they are there to help you with everything from interpreting on your behalf, to just about any minor or major personal needs you may have. 05. You are family This can't be stressed enough. A tour with us just doesn't feel like a tour at all. We have a very casual attitude toward it... this is fun for us, and we love sharing this wonderful place with others. Perhaps it is because we get to know you well before you arrive and we can't wait to finally meet, or perhaps it is our little slice of the Tuscan Sun that does it. :-). Either way, you will go home having had the most amazing vacation of your life, having made amazing new friends, having seen remarkable things few tourists have seen, and having felt an uncanny sense belonging in a place so far away. Long before you get home, you will have started planning your return. • Request More Information (/book/request-information.html)• Pricing Information (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/custom-tour-pricing.html) • Back (/guided-tours/organized/organized-tours.html) Mon, 21 May 2007 06:19:23 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=128&Itemid=151 Christmas New Year Tour (12 days, 11 nights) The Holidays in Rome, Tuscany Umbria Limited to just 8 people, you will experience the magic of a Country Italian Christmas and New year with our family on this incredibly intimate tour. In Italy, Christmas isn't commercial as it is in the States. You won't find red and green lights everywhere with lawns covered by plastic reindeer and giant snow globes. Instead, you will experience a holiday season that centered around family, religion, and yes... we are talking about Italy... Food. We'll bask in Italy's most endearing holiday traditions as we visit stunning full-scale recreations of ancient Bethlehem, tour Assisi, the home town of St. Francis, experience the dazzling lights of Christmas in Rome, marvel at the official Nativity Scene at the Vatican, tour the incredible museums of Florence and so much more. We will eat and eat and eat. You will become a part of our family as we invite you into our home for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts. We will ring in the new year in Soriano's stunning 12th century castle as we watch thousands of fireworks at the stroke of midnight. This is the experience of a lifetime you are certain to never forget. Day 1 If you are arriving in Italy today, You will be greeted at the Rome airport and taken to Soriano nel Cimino, where you will get settled in. If you are already in Italy, we can either meet at the Rome airport, the Orte train station (36 min north of Rome), or in Soriano if you have a car. That evening, we will all dine in Soriano’s best restaurant and talk about how the remainder of the week will unfold. At this time, if the group wishes to alter the itinerary, we can plan accordingly. Places Arrival, Transfer to Soriano, Check-In Day 2 This morning we will get up and have breakfast at around 9AM. We’ll then take the short drive to the Orte Train station and board a 1st class train* for the 36 minute ride into central Rome. We’ll spend the morning visiting some of Rome’s highlights, such as The Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. All the while we will also do some Christmas shopping in Rome’s most famous shopping districts. We will have a fantastic lunch together at our favorite pizzeria in Rome, then visit Piazza Navona, which hosts a huge traditional outdoor Christmas market, complete with Santa Claus, nativity scenes and booths that sell Christmas items, toys and sweets. Kids can visit Santa Claus and parents can take in the holiday atmosphere of the market. In the evening, we will visit the Pantheon, have dinner in a local café’ then stroll around the beautifully lit cobblestone streets of Rome’s historical downtown. Places Rome Sightseeing Shopping Day 3 - Christmas Eve After breakfast, we will take a drive to Assisi, the home of St. Francis and Greccio, the site where St. Francis held history’s first ever nativity scene (Christmas Crèche) in 1223. We’ll spend the better part of the day soaking in the beauty and history Assisi, and experiencing the Christmas tradition of this amazing place. We will have lunch in Assisi, explore a bit more, then proceed back to Soriano. For the evening of Christmas Eve, you will be our guests at our villa, where you will enjoy a wonderful and traditional Italian Christmas Eve feast with our family. At around 11:00 we will go back up to town, where those that wish to join us will attend midnight mass in one of Soriano’s beautiful churches. Places Assisi Greccio Day 4 - Christmas Day On Christmas day, we will leave you to sleep in (or take a jog to shed a few pounds!). As though you haven’t already eaten enough by now, at around 12:30 PM, we will get together and go back to the villa for the traditional Christmas Day feast with our family. These often last upwards of 6 hours, so eat light that morning! There will most certainly be something under our tree for you, too! That evening, we will go to the nearby town of Bassano to visit their Living Nativity. Bassano converts the medieval quarter of their village into a recreation of ancient Bethlehem. Hundreds of townspeople dress up in theme and play their own role in this amazing experience. You will truly feel as though you are walking through time two-thousand years in the past. You will sample local wine, local cheeses and much more as you take in this magical experience. Places Soriano Bassano Day 5 Wednesday morning we will take it easy in the morning. We will have lunch in Soriano’s Taverna dei Frati, then proceed to Viterbo in the afternoon, where we will visit many churches to enjoy their nativity scenes. That evening we will visit our second living nativity. This one is in Soriano’s suburb of Chia, and is even larger and more impressive than the one we saw in Bassano. While the theme of this one is still ancient Bethlehem, instead of creating it in the medieval quarter, Chia creates theirs along a hillside full of ancient grottos. You will walk down torch-lit paths past Roman soldiers guarding prisoners, you will see small shops set inside of caves, food stands that offer free samples of ancient delicacies, and much more. When you get to the valley below, you will be in the re-created bustling village of Bethlehem, completely re-created, and as you continue outside the village, you will find an amazing living nativity scene. You will leave Chia in total awe over this elaborate production. Places Viterbo, Chia Day 6 Thursday morning we will have breakfast before driving to the nearby provincial capital of Viterbo, which was the home of the Vatican centuries ago. We will visit the ancient Papal Palace, as well as the mediaval quarter of San Pellegrino, which is considered to be the best preserved medieval quarter in Italy. We will have lunch in Viterbo, then cross into Tuscany and visit the breathtaking Tuscan hilltown of Pitigliano. Dinner will be at a local Soriano trattoria.. Places Viterbo, Pitigliano Day 7 Friday morning we will get an early start as we board a first-class train for Florence. We will have breathtaking views as we take the 1 hour and 50 minute ride through Umbria, Tuscany and its Chianti region. We will spend the day in Florence with Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, etc., visiting the world-famous Uffizi gallery, the Academia gallery Ponte Vecchio, and much more. We’ll dine in Florence before returning home for the night. Places Florence Day 8 Today we will be back in Rome. After all, you simply can’t see Rome in a day. We’ll spend time at the Vatican, visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, etc. Then we’ll visit the Colloseum and the Roman Forum Finally, we will visit the recently re-opened Domus Aureus, which was Emporor Nero’s 400 room ‘Golden Palace’. Places Rome Day Sunday morning after breakfast we will go to Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying city. This beautiful place was founded by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago. The village, with only 12 year-long residents, is a sort of island on top of a cliff of volcanic rock that has been eroding over the years, making it one of the 100 most endangered sites in the world as it crumbles away. Once we leave Civita, we will take a short drive to one of the most beloved towns in Umbria, Orvieto. Orvieto is most famous for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, ceramics, and its world-famous white wine Orvieto Classico. We’ll have lunch in Orvieto, tour the town, then go to a special Pizzeria in the town of Vetralla for dinner. After dinner, we will see our third Living Nativity production in Vetralla. This one is quite different. While the others recreate the Bethlehem of 2,000 years ago, Vetralla chose to convert their town to the bustling Vetralla of the early 19th century! Again, hundreds of townspeople are in full costume, playing their individual roles. You will see a Blacksmith, a schoolhouse, a tax collector, children playing in the streets, weavers, mills, etc. You will watch as artisans craft, and even watch people make Ricotta cheese (which you are free to sample as it is made). Again, this is a spectacle you have to see to believe. You will never forget it! Places Civita di Bagnoregio, Orvieto, Vetralla Day 10 - New Years Eve Weather permitting, we will take a special light hike with those that are up to it this morning. In the outskirts of Soriano are the precious ruins of a place called Corviano that few people know about. Corviano was an Etruscan village that dates back 3,000 years. You will enter the actual homes the Etruscans had carved in the cliffs. You will walk through the village necropolis, looking at clearly defined graves carved out of rock. You will hike through the ruins of a medieval castle, and more. For those that visit us, Corviano is generally the highlight of their trip. It gives you a completely different perspective, allowing you to truly feel the presence of an extinct race. In the afternoon we will rest a bit and get ready for tonight. We will spend New Year’s Eve attending a huge party in Soriano’s castle. There will be tons of music, dancing, and…. Well, we are in Ital, right? A grand feast! At the strike of midnight, you will experience fireworks like you have never seen before. Imagine all of the fireworks of the fourth of July happening at the same time, everywhere. The sky lights up virtually everywhere you look with skyrockets, firecrackers, etc. For the next 15 to 20 minutes, the sky will look as though Italy is at war. Places Corviano, Soriano Day 11- New Years Day We probably didn’t get to bed until 4 or 5 in the morning, so today we will take it very easy. Feel free to sleep in, or come down to the villa where we will have some movies showing, and perhaps a football game from back home on the TV. Tuesday evening we will have our farewell dinner. Places Soriano Day 12 Departure Day. Wednesday morning we will have breakfast and take you back to the Rome Airport, Rome City, or Civitavecchia. Places Soriano to Rome Dates Prices Dates: • December 23 2007 - Jan 2 2008 • December 23 2008 - Jan 2 2009 Prices $3,995 per person based on double occupancy $300 single occupancy suppliment What's Included: 11 nights accomodations in your private first-class village home All transportation, including transfers to and from Rome Airport, Cruise Terminal or train station All 1st class train tickets for Rome and Florence days Traditional Italian breakfast every day (Cappuccino Pastry) Lunch with wine during all sightseeing tours All entrance fees as required for sightseeing tours (Museums, Monuments, etc.) Dinner every night with wine Christmas Eve, Cristmas Day and New Years Eve feasts English speaking guide throughout 1 cellular phone per party The time of your life! Notes Conditions *In many major Italian cities, driving in the historical districts is not permitted. In these cases we use trains, subways and cabs where needed. This also saves a great deal of time. ** Due to the fact that we cannot predict weather, the schedule may be altered or rearranged in order to provide the best possible experience. Click here to book a tour now (/book/book-online.html) Click here to request more information (/book/request-information.html) Mon, 21 May 2007 06:18:53 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=127&Itemid= All-Inclusive Guided Tour - Sample Itinerary This itinerary is a sample. When you book a tour, you have the option to create your own custom itinerary based on the destinations you see here, plus many more. You can choose days in Rome to see the Colosseum, The Vatican, The Domus Aurea, etc. Or perghaps you would like to visit Florence, Cortona and Siena. We even offer daytrips down to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii on our tours. 7 Day All-Inclusive Tour of Tuscany, Umbria and Alto Lazio Instead of following the crowds of tourists through Rome and Tuscany, try this extremely unique and rich experience, and see the real Italy, the other Italy that so few tourists have had the opportunity to experience. We take care of everything from the moment you arrive in Rome until the moment you check in to go home. We will take you to ancient Roman and Etruscan archaeological sites few tourists have ever seen. We will travel through vineyards, we will visit Italy's most coveted hidden treasures, and we will eat amazing Italian food and indulge in local cheeses and wines. Day 1 (Saturday) If you are arriving in Italy today, You will be greeted at the Rome airport and taken to Soriano nel Cimino, where you will get settled in. If you are already in Italy, we can either meet at the Rome airport, the Orte train station (36 min north of Rome), or in Soriano if you have a car. That evening, we will all dine in Soriano’s best restaurant and talk about how the remainder of the week will unfold. At this time, if the group wishes to alter the itinerary, we can plan accordingly. Places Soriano nel Cimino (Lazio) Day 2 (Sunday) At around 9:00 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We will then proceed to the nearby town of Bagnaia and visit the beautiful Villa Lante. Then we will proceed to Viterbo and visit the San Pellegrino district, which is considered one of the best preserved medieval quarters in Italy. We will also visit the Palazzo Papale (Papal Palace), which was the Vatican in the 13th century during troubled times in Rome, and was the location of the famous 33 month enclave (1269-1271) in which citizens tore the roof off the vatican to force them to elect a new pope. From Viterbo, we will go to the Faggeta and have a picnic lunch. In the late afternoon, we will take a tour of Soriano’s castle and medieval quarter. That evening we will have dinner in a local Soriano trattoria. Places Bagnaia, Viterbo, Faggeta Forest, Soriano Day 3 (Monday) At around 9:00 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We will depart for Carsulae, an ancient Roman archeological site in Umbria. There will be a little light hiking here. From there, we will have lunch and spend the early afternoon at the beautiful Lake Piediluco. Finally, we will visit the Marmore falls in Terni, the tallest man-made waterfall in the world, which was constructed by the ancient Romans. Dinner will be at an extremely unique and fantastic pizzeria in a town called Gallese, which serves countless types of pizza 'by the meter'. Places Carsulae, Lake Piediluco, Marmore Falls (Umbria) Day 4 (Tuesday) At around 9:00 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We will then depart for the ancient Civita di Bagnoregio, which is a beautiful 3,500 year old ‘Dying’ city that is crubling away. We will then cross over to Umbria and go to Orvieto, which is famous for its amazing cathedral, underground city and the world-famous white wine, Orvieto Classico. We will then venture into southern Tuscany where we will drive through some beautiful hilltowns and visit the breathtaking Tuscan village of Pitigliano. Places Civita Bagnoregio, Orvieto, Pitigliano (Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio) Day 5 (Wednesday) At around 8:30 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We will then travel to the ancient ruins of Corviano, an ancient Etruscan village and necropolis in the outskirts of Soriano. This will be roughly 2 ½ hours of light hiking through the woods, so you will have to dress appropriately. We will picnic in the ruins of an ancient castle. After we have rested up, we will proceed to the Monster Park at Bomarzo, which is a 14th century amusement park believed to have been designed by Michelangelo himself. Dinner Wednesday night will be a pizza cookout at our villa. Places Corviano, Bomarzo (Lazio) Day 6 (Thursday) At around 9:00 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We begin by visiting the ancient Etruscan tombs at Tarquinia. We will then have lunch at an amazing Pizzeria in Vetralla, followed by a visit to an ancient roman amphitheater in Viterbo. From there we will drive through the Cimini Mountains, visit Lake Vico, and back to Soriano. Dinner in Soriano. Places Tarquinia, Vetralla, Sutri (Lazio) Day 7 (Friday) At around 9:00 in the morning we will have breakfast in Piazza. We will go to Ostia Antica, widely considered to be 'The Better Pompeii'. Ostia was Ancient Rome's port city, and is one of the best preserved ancient Roman sites, covering roughly 10,000 acres! Linch in Ostia, then back to Soriano where you can rest and prepare your bags. That evening we will have a BBQ at our villa for our last evening together. Places Ostia Antica (Lazio - Ancient Rome) Day 8 (Saturday) Today is departure day. How it unfolds will depend on your travel plans, but we will have breakfast and take you back to the Orte or Rome train station if you are travelling onward by rail, The Rome Airport if you are going home, or to the Civitavecchia Cruise terminal if you are proceeding on a cruise. Places Rome and beyond... Mon, 21 May 2007 06:18:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=126&Itemid= Mon, 21 May 2007 06:18:13 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=125&Itemid=128 There is no shortage of websites advertising cooking vacations in Italy, and they certainly all look wonderful. How to choose? This guide will help you decide if ours is the best for you. 01. Our vacations are truly All-Inclusive We encourage you to browse other websites and look at their itineraries, but look closely. Most of the time you will find that they are peppered with lines like 'this afternoon you are free to...' , or 'optionally you can...', etc. Many only include meals resulting from the classes. We include everything, If one morning we are not doing a class, we will have an excursion. Of course, if you would rather venture out on your own one day, you are free to, but if you want to go on an excursion with us, it is there, and it is included. What makes this important is that if we were to simply remove 3 meals and 3 excursions from our week, it would increase our profit by 20%, so the while our pricing is in line with others, the value is much greater. 02. 100% Hands On, Full immersion classes Many of the others do a great deal of 'Demonstration'. In other words, your class will include a 5 course meal, but you are only preparing one or two courses, while a great deal of the meal is being demonstrated for you. We don't believe this makes sense. With us, you will be 100% involved in preparing 100% of the meals. 03. Balance: Cooking, Major sightseeing Off the beaten path Our unique location in Italy affords us a luxury others simply cannot afford... we are close to so much! It allows us to build itineraries that balance cooking classes with fantastic sightseeing excursions to major sights such as Rome, Florence, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, and much more. Still, we balance these excursions with visits many of Italy's most prescious hidden treasures. You will find that our itineraries strike a wonderful balance that is unmatched. 04. Home Cooking vs. High Cuisine While this is a matter of preference, it is important to note that we focus our classes on home cooking. Some others focus more on high cuisine, which doesn't translate well into the real world. We focus on traditional Tuscan and Umbrian dishes that you can make at home. We believe that you should be able to use all of the knowledge you have gained while you were with us once you get home. Because of this, we carefully select recipes that can be made with ingredients found outside of Italy, and when you leave we will provide you with a recipe book that includes both metric and imperial measurements, as well as substitutions for ingredients that you may not find at home. 05. A home kitchen vs. an industrial kitchen Many others hold their classes in a restaurant kitchen or a modified villa kicthen for large scale classes. We hold our classes in the same kicthen that we have used for our family meals for years. We believe that if you are learning to cook Italian food for home, you should learn it in a kitchen that is equippped for home cooking, not large scale cooking. Our classes will be at Villa Eddarella, our summer home in Italy. This is a 380+ year old restored country farmhouse that has been in Paola's family for centuries. In other words, we welcome you into our home for your classes. 06. Accomodations Some others will put you up in a hotel, while others will house you in a shared villa for your trip. We believe that living within the Italian culture is essential to making your time with us as magical as possible. You will stay at one of our breathtaking village homes. These are truly 1st class accomodations. Each one is completely independent, and beautifully decorated. They feature all modern conveniences, such as dedicated high speed WIFI Internet, satellite television, air conditioning, full kitchen, and much more. The homes are never shared. You have your own private place nestled in the medieval quarter of Soriano. 07. Location Many people are not really familiar with the various regions in Italy, but they know certain buzzwords like 'Tuscany' or 'Umbria'. People often tell us they want to go to Tuscany and Florence. That is like hearing someone say they want to go to Los Angeles and California. The area of Italy that most people think of when they hear terms like 'Tuscan Countryside' or 'Tuscany Hilltowns' is an area known as 'Tuscia', which is made up of Southern Tuscany, Southern Umbria, and Northern Lazio. In fact, many places people think of when they think of Tuscany, aren't in Tuscany at all. Soriano nel Cimino is right at the center of this area. Soriano also has the added benefit of being very close to Rome, compared to most of Tuscany. 08. You are family This can't be stressed enough. A week with us just doesn't feel like a tour at all. You will feel like you are visiting extended family, and we will feel like extended family is visiting. This isn't part of some formula to make your trip special, it is just the way it all works out. We have a very casual attitude toward it... this is fun for us, and we love sharing this wonderful place with others. Perhaps it is because we get to know you well before you arrive and we can't wait to finally meet, or perhaps it is just the Soriano air :-). Either way, you will go home having had the most amazing vacation of your life, having made amazing new friends, having learned to make incredible Italian home cooking, having seen remarkable things few tourists have seen, and having felt an uncanny sense belonging in a place so far away. Long before you get home, you will have started planning your return to Soriano nel Cimino. Click here to see a sample itinerary (http://www.discoversoriano.com/cooking-vacations-and-classes/itineraries/cooking-tour---4-classes-wine--off-the-beaten-path-tour.html) Click here to book a cooking vacation online (http://www.ntzone.com/book/book-a-cooking-tour-online.html) Click here to request more information (/book/request-information.html) Sat, 19 May 2007 14:36:48 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=124&Itemid= All-Inclusive Cooking Vacation - Sample Itinerary This is just a sample itinerary. When you choose to book, you will have many options for day trip excursions, as well as cooking class menus. Day 1 (Saturday) -Arrival If you are arriving in Italy today, you will be greeted at the Rome airport and taken to Soriano nel Cimino, where you will get settled in. If you are already in Italy, we can either meet at the Rome airport, the Orte train station (36 min from Rome’s Central Station), or in Soriano if you have a car. If you are arriving by ship, we will pick you up at the Civitavecchia Cruise terminal. We will have a light lunch, and give you a few hours to get settled in. For those that are up to it, later in the afternoon we will take a drive to Lake Vico and have some Gelato while we look at this beautiful volcanic lake and get to know one another. Tonight we will go out to dinner at an extremely unique Pizzeria that serves seemingly endless varieties of pizza ‘by the meter’. After dinner, we will go home so that you can get a good night’s sleep. Places Soriano nel Cimino, Gallese Classes None Meals Light lunch, Gelato, Pizza Dinner Day 2 (Sunday) -Getting to it.. We will kick off Sunday morning at around 9:00 AM. We’ll start by going into town to have some cappuccino. Since you are probably tired today, we won’t have an intense class. Instead, today we will learn how to make Limoncello and Biscotti while lunch is catered for us. After lunch, we will rest a bit, then take a tour around Soriano nel Cimino to visit the castle and the medieval quarter. We’ll stop in a local artist’s studio to see what he is working on, and how this amazing place inspires him. We’ll stroll, have a gelato and get to know one another a little more. This is a day to take it easy after the long trip. For dinner, we will have Soriano’s famous roasted suckling pig with roasted potatoes and dessert. We will be dining in a beautiful restaurant that was converted from an ancient monastery. Places Soriano nel Cimino Classes Biscotti Limoncello Class Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch - (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert*) * Class #1 will be held before lunch, and will be part of today's dessert. This is the only class that is only part of a meal. Appetizer Prosciutto e Melone (Prosciutto Melon) First Cannelloni al Forno (Baked Cannelloni) Second Salsicce in padella al vino bianco (Sausage sautéed in white wine) Side Insalata mista (Fresh garden salad) Dessert Biscotti Limoncello Dinner (at the Taverna) Appetizer Olive Ascolane, Antipasto misto (Deep fried sausage-stuffed olives, mixed Italian appetizer) First n/a Second Porchetta (Roasted suckling pig) Side Patate arrosto, Insalata mista (Roasted potatoes Fresh Garden Salad) Dessert Charlotte alla crema pasticcera e frutta (cake with pastry cream and fresh fruit) Day3 (Monday) -A full day of cooking Today will be a full day of cooking. After breakfast, we’ll do some shopping at the local family groceries, bakeries, and butchers. At around 11:00 AM, we will begin our dinner preparations. We will make a delicious sausage and cheese bruschetta, lasagna made completely from scratch, and more. Lunch today will be casual Italian finger foods and sandwiches as we will spend most of the day on our dinner preparations. In the afternoon you will have a few hours to rest up after this intense day, followed by the dinner you have spent all day preparing. Places Soriano nel Cimino Classes Dinner Class (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Today is a full day of cooking for dinner, so lunch will be about an hour break with Italian finger foods and sandwiches. Dinner - Class #2 (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Appetizer Sausage Cheese Bruschetta First Lasagna made from scratch Second Involtini Eddarella (Veal rolls stuffed with mortadella and celery, sautéed in white wine) Side Sautéed Porcini Mushrooms Dessert Crema Fredda con amaretti (Ameretto mousse) Day 4 (Tuesday) -The Monsters, The Enchanted Forest and GNOCCHI! After breakfast we will go to The Park of Monsters in nearby Bomarzo. This park is one of a kind in the world, with huge sculptures of monsters and fantasy. It is regarded as the 14th century Disneyland. We will then go up to the enchanting Faggeta forest, where we will have a nice walk, followed by a traditional Italian picnic with Focaccia, Prosciutto, local cheeses, other local cold cuts and fresh fruit. The picnic will be just under the forest at Sasso Naticarello (Shaking Rock), which is a huge volcanic rock that was made famous by Pliny the Elder, the famed Italian philosopher who died at Pompeii. In the afternoon, we will learn how to make home made Gnocchi from scratch for today’s class. Places Soriano nel Cimino, Bomarzo, Faggeta Forest Classes Dinner - Class #3 (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch A traditional Italian picnic with Focaccia, Prosciutto, local cheeses, jams, other local cold cuts and fresh fruit. Dinner - Class #3 (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Appetizer Bruschetta Mista (Assorted varieties of Bruschetta - Olive, Peppers, Porcini Cream, etc.) First #1 Gnocchi con Panna e Gorgonzola (from scratch) (Gnocchi with cream and Gorgonzola cheese) #2 Gnocchi alla Bolognese (from scratch) (Gnocchi with Bolognese Ragu) Second Pollo alla Contadina (Sautéed Chicken with pearl onion, mushroom, cream and vodka) Side Patate Pasticciate (Sautéed sausage, ground beef onion in a tomato cream sauce, mixed with mashed potatoes and topped with Parmesean cheese and grilled) Dessert Chiacchiere alla canella e zucchero ( Fried pastry with sugar and cinnamon ) Day 5 (Wednesday) -Pizza Night! In the morning we get up early and prepare the dough for tonight’s pizza class, then take off for Assisi. In the evening we will visit a local farmer where we will spend our evening making our pizza in an outdoor wood-fired oven. You will make amazing pizza and focaccia like you have never had before. In between, as we visit with the farmers, we will have a chance to tour his vineyard, olive orchards, hazelnut orchards, and his private cantina, where we will sample his private wine. Places Soriano nel Cimino, Assisi Classes Dinner -Class #4 (Pizza) Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Trattoria in Assisi Dinner - Class #4 (Pizza, Pizza and more Pizza) It’s all about different varieties of pizza (even a dessert pizza), wine, beer, and laughs tonight. We will learn how to make pizza from scratch and cook it in an outdoor wood-fired oven. Day 6 (Thursday) -A day for touring You have had at least one cooking class every day this week, so today we will let you rest. However, your stomach gets no rest until you go home. Today we will go to see the beautiful Villa Lante. We will then visit the provincial capitol of Viterbo, where we will see the ancient Papal palace and what is considered to be one of the best preserved medieval quarters in Italy. For lunch, we will stop in a local restaurant that specializes in Neapolitan cuisine. After lunch, we will visit the dying town of Civita di Bagnoregio, and finally the beautiful city of Orivieto, best known worldwide for its Orvieto Classico wine. We will arrive home to a gourmet dinner that awaits us. Tonight we will have a very traditional menu from Soriano’s immediate area. Places Soriano nel Cimino, Bagnaia, Viterbo, Vetralla, Civita di Bagnoregio, Orvieto Classes None, take a break from cooking Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Neapolitan restaurant in Vetralla Dinner - A traditional Sorianese Dinner at the Tre Scalini restaurant in Soriano tonight. Appetizer Cold cuts First Strozzapreti al’amatriciana (A local hand-made pasta with Amatriciana sauce) Second Arrostino Sorianese (Sorianese Pork Roast with local herbs and garlic) Side Cipolline all’agro dolce (pearl onions sautéed with caramelized sugar and vinegar sauce) Dessert Macedonia (fresh seasonal fruit cup in white wine, lemon juice and sugar) Day 7 (Friday) - Farewell Dinner Today is your last day, and we have saved the best for last. We will be going to town at 7:45 for those that would like to see Soriano’s Friday market. However, at 9:00 sharp, we will be taking those that are up to it to a place very few people (tourists and locals alike) have ever seen: Corviano. Corviano is an archeological site near Soriano that reveals an ancient Etruscan village which is thousands of years old. You will explore ancient cave dwellings, an abandoned castle, an ancient necropolis, and more. This will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip. Corviano is a light hike, so we will return early to rest. Lunch today will be light since we have a mega dinner tonight, and you need time to pack, but as afternoon approaches we will begin our final class… the one that will leave your mouth watering on your trip home. Places Soriano nel Cimino, Corviano Classes Dinner - Class #5 (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Meals Breakfast Cappuccino Pastries Lunch Panini after Corviano Dinner - Class #5 (Appetizer, first course, second course, side dish, dessert) Appetizer Tortellini in Carrozza (Tortellini in cream, peas and pancetta sauce stuffed in puff pastry baskets) First Canederli al burro e salvia con Porcini Trifolati (Pancetta and Onion bread balls, served with melted sage butter on a bed of sautéed Porcini mushrooms) Second Spezzatino con carote, patate, cipolla (Veal Pot Roast with carrots, potatoes, onion red wine) Side Gnocchi fritti (Fried home-made Gnocchi) Dessert Tiramisu’ Day 8 (Saturday) - Farewell In the morning you will check out of your home before we have our last breakfast together. We will then take you to the Rome Airport for your flight home, to a train station if you are travelling onward by rail, or to the Civitavecchia Cruise Terminal if you are taking a cruise. Places Rome Classes None Meals Breakfast Menu Variations The menus listed on the itineraries are subject to change depending on season. We use only fresh ingredients, so if we are unable to prepare a certain dish, it will be substituted.If it expected to rain Wednesday, Pizza night will be replaced with Grill night, in which we will grill sausages, pancetta and other meat and veggies in our huge 17th century fireplace. Sat, 19 May 2007 10:58:11 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=121&Itemid=95 If you love to cook, love to travel, and love Italian food, you will absolutely love the experience of our cooking classes while you are in Italy. We offer classes at our villa in Soriano's countryside, in the same place we teach our week-long classes. You can choose anything from a one-day class, to a class every day of your trip. Whether you are a beginner, or a gourmet, you will not only have the time of your life, but you will leave with amazing new skills and appreciation for the delicate balance of ingredients that makes the best Italian food. These classes and tours are open to our guests, as well as Palazzo Catalani (http://www.discoversoriano.com/palazzo-catalani--discoversoriano.com-in-soriano-nel-cimino.html) guests and those staying at other places in or around Soriano and beyond. If you are just passing through (perhaps you are driving between Rome and Florence) , a day with us in Soriano is a great way to make your day! Our Single-Day Classes Tours The Dying City, Homemade Gnocchi, A Winery & Olive Mill Description This is an all day adventure (about 14 hours) into the amazing culinary culture of Central Italy. We'll start the morning at around 8:00 AM as we shop in the local grocers, vegetable stands and butchers for the class we will hold later today. After shopping, we will begin our excursion to the dying city of Civita di Bagnoregio, a nearly deserted town that was originally built by the Etruscans in the 6th century BC. It is called the dying city because it is literally crumbling away thanks to thousands of years of erosion, to the point that it is now accessible only by a foot bridge. Civita resembles a ghost town, but is extremely well kept as a place where time is frozen. While there, we will visit Civita's ancient olive mill that was built by the ancient Etruscans. After our visit, we will proceed to the nearby village of Castiglione in Teverina, where we will pay a visit to the small, family-run Madonna delle Macchie Winery and Olive mill. Our visit will begin with a tour of their ancient working Cold-Press Olive mill, where we will get a complete lesson on the process of making extra virgin olive oil, followed by a tasting with Olive oil and Bruschetta. Next we will visit their ancient wine cellar with a lesson on the wine making process, followed by a complete tasting of all of their fantastic wines. During the wine tasting, we will have lunch served to us, consisting of a large assortement of locally produced salames, cheeses, bruchettas and much more. After lunch, we will proceed to Soriano nel Cimino for our cooking class at the beautifully restored 18th century Villa Eddarella. This informal class is all about fun, food wine... lots of it! Roll up your sleeves as you will be completely involved in every stage of today's six-course meal. Today you will learn our family secrets of making homemade Gnocchi from scratch, and prepare two delectable sauces for it. The first is a delicate butter and sage sauce, followed by a traditional local Porcini mushroom-based sauce, made with fresh Porcinis from our local forests. For our appetizer, we will make fresh farmer cheese and grilled Pancetta atop fresh Ciabatta bread. For our second course we will learn to make Tuscan-Roasted Chicken, with Tuscan-roasted potatoes as a side dish. To cap the meal off, for dessert we will teach you to make our own very unique and special recipe of Tiramisu that is certain to be the best you have ever tasted. Price 2-4 People: $495 per person 5-8 People: $445 per person 9+ People: $395 per person Time For those already in Soriano or drivng in: 8:00 AM Start Time for those that wish participate in shopping for class. We leave at 8:45 AM for those not interested in the shopping experience. The day will end at around 10:00 PM. For those taking the train into our area today: We offer a pick-up service at the Orte Train Station at 9:40 AM. If you are coming from Rome, there is a train at 8:55 AM that arrives in Orte at 9:30 AM. At the end of the day, we can drop you off at the train station in Orte in time for you to get the 10:00 PM train back to Rome. Guests taking the train in will not be able to participate in the shopping experience. When Available • Always available between October 15 April 15 • Between April 16 October 14 this is available if we don't have any confirmed one-week tours at the time. • If we do have a confirmed one-week tour, see our 'Join an Existing Tour for a Day'. • We require reservations a minimum of one week prior. Class Menu Tartine Rustiche Gnocchi al burro e salvia Gnocchi ai funghi porcini Pollo alla Diavola Patate Arrosto Tiramisu What's Included All meals, transportation during tour, entrance fees, english-speaking guides, classes, tour costs. Plus you take home your Villa Eddarella Apron all recipes. Villa Lante The Ancient Vatican with Limoncello, Biscotti, Gelato Spaghetti alla Carbonara Class Description This is an all day adventure (about 12 hours) into the amazing culinary culture of Central Italy. We'll start the morning at around 10:00 AM as we begin our excursion to the magnificent Villa Lante. This estate was designed in the 16th century for Cardinal Riario, and later inhabited by Cardinal Gambara. The estate, which has been credited as one of the inspirations for Versailles in France, boasts some of the most stunning gardens and water fountains in Italy. After our visit to Villa Lante, we will go to the provincial capital of Viterbo, home of the San Pellegrino district, credited as Europe's best-preserved medieval quarter, and the Papal Palace which served as the seat of the Pope for years during the 13th century. This was the ‘unofficial’ Vatican during a time when life in Rome was considered too dangerous for the Popes and Cardinals. In fact, this is where the first papal conclave occurred, and where the tradition of white and black smoke began in the choosing of a new pope. While sightseeing, we will have a fantastic lunch in Viterbo's Osteria San Pellegrino restaurant. After lunch, we will proceed to Soriano nel Cimino for our cooking class at the beautifully restored 18th century Villa Eddarella. Today we teach you how to make Italy's famous after dinner lemon liqueur, delicious and authentic Biscotti, and Gelato. You will make two types of Limoncello: The traditional Limoncello Our special Crema di Limoncello (Limoncello Cream Liqueur) Additionally, you will make Hazelnut Biscotti, and two types of Gelato: Chocolate Pepperoncino Gelato - A chocolate gelato made with hot peppers that give it a subtle, but distinct contrst of flavors. Vanilla Balsamic Vinegar Gelato - A vanilla gelato, topped with a sweet balsamic vinegar glaze. During class, we will snack on locally produced salames, prosciutto, pecorino cheese and much more while we sample a variety of locally produced wines. Finally, we will prepare some Spaghetti alla Carbonara for dinner before we end our day. When the day is finished, each group travelling together will take home a 1/2 liter bottle of each type of Limoncello, as well as the fresh biscotti, and recipes for everything we made during the day. Price 2-4 People: $495 per person 5-8 People: $445 per person 9+ People: $395 per person Time For those already in Soriano or drivng in: We leave at 10:15 AM. The day will end at around 10:00 PM. For those taking the train into our area today: We offer a pick-up service at the Orte Train Station at 9:40 AM. If you are coming from Rome, there is a train at 8:55 AM that arrives in Orte at 9:30 AM. At the end of the day, we can drop you off at the train station in Orte in time for you to get the 10:00 PM train back to Rome. Guests taking the train in will not be able to participate in the shopping experience. When Available • Always available between October 15 April 15 • Between April 16 October 14 this is available if we don't have any confirmed one-week tours at the time. • If we do have a confirmed one-week tour, see our 'Join an Existing Tour for a Day'. • We require reservations a minimum of one week prior. Class Menu Limoncello Limoncello Cream Chocolate Pepperoncino Gelato Vanilla Balsamic Vinegar Gelato Hazelnut Biscotti Spaghetti alla Carbonara What's Included All meals, transportation during tour, entrance fees, english-speaking guides, classes, tour costs. Plus you take home your Villa Eddarella Apron, A bottle of limoncello limoncello cream per group travelling together, a package of the biscotti we made per gorup travelling together all recipes. Orvieto, Homemade Fettuccine, A Winery & Olive Mill Description This is an all day adventure (about 14 hours) into the amazing culinary culture of Central Italy. We'll start the morning at around 8:00 AM as we shop in the local grocers, vegetable stands and butchers for the class we will hold later today. After shopping, we’ll take a short drive around Soriano during which we’ll get a little history of this medieval village, stop for a few picture opportunities, and see some of the more prominent local monuments. The drive will end at our 18th century villa in the countryside below Soriano where our class will take place. Today we will learn the secrets of making homemade Fettuccini from scratch, and prepare two wonderful sauces for it. The first is our special family recipe for Ragu, passed down through the generations. Following the ragu, we will learn to make a delicious sausage, onion and vodka cream sauce. In addition to Fettuccini, you will also learn to make a delicious pancetta-wrapped pineapple appetizer. To cap the meal off, for dessert we will learn to make our own very unique and special recipe of Tiramisu that is certain to be the best you have ever tasted. After lunch, we will rest a bit over an espresso before we go on our first excursion to the nearby Umbrian city of Orvieto which is the home to one of Italy’s most magnificent cathedrals, as well as the world-renowned white Orvieto Classico wine and beautiful ceramics shops. Next we will take a short drive to a small family-run winery and olive mill in the village of Castiglione in Teverina. Here, one of the owners will give us a private tour of their wine cellar and olive mill, followed by a tasting of their line of wines and their olive oil, as well as a light dinner based on local specialties. Price 2-4 People: $495 per person 5-8 People: $445 per person 9+ People: $395 per person Time For those already in Soriano or drivng in: 8:00 AM Start Time for those that wish participate in shopping for class. We leave at 8:45 AM for those not interested in the shopping experience. The day will end at around 10:00 PM. For those taking the train into our area today: We offer a pick-up service at the Orte Train Station at 9:40 AM. If you are coming from Rome, there is a train at 8:55 AM that arrives in Orte at 9:30 AM. At the end of the day, we can drop you off at the train station in Orte in time for you to get the 10:00 PM train back to Rome. Guests taking the train in will not be able to participate in the shopping experience. When Available • Always available between October 15 April 15 • Between April 16 October 14 this is available if we don't have any confirmed one-week tours at the time. • If we do have a confirmed one-week tour, see our 'Join an Existing Tour for a Day'. • We require reservations a minimum of one week prior. Class Menu Ananas con Pancetta Fettuccine al Ragu Fettuccine alla Vodka e Salsiccia Tiramisu What's Included All meals, transportation during tour, entrance fees, english-speaking guides, classes, tour costs. Plus you take home your Villa Eddarella Apron all recipes. Cooking Class Only Description Choose from any of the cooking classes above, or from any of our itineraries. Classes are subject to existing calendar. Price $195 per person, minimum 2 people Time Mornings (Lunch) or Afternoons (Dinner) (5 hours) When Available All Year Where At Villa Eddarella in the Soriano countryside. What's Included Everything except transportation. Plus you take home your Villa Eddarella Apron all recipes. Join an Existing Tour for a Day Description If you will be in the area while one of our popular week-long culinary tours is in progress, we invite you to join in on one or more days. Simply have a look at our itinerary for the week you are interested and join the group. Everything we will be doing that day is included in the price. Price Ride Along in Our Van: $395 per person, based on availability. We can only guarantee space 30 days or less before the date. Follow Us (You follow our van on excursions in your own vehicle): $345 per person, unlimited availability. Your transportation expenses (car, fuel, parking fees) are not included. When Available Whenever we havea confirmed tour What's Included All meals, transportation during tour (fopr those in van with us), entrance fees, english-speaking guides, classes, tour costs. Click here to book online (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Click here to request more information (/book/request-information.html) Fri, 18 May 2007 05:55:20 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=120&Itemid=94 A week-long adventure in cooking, sightseeing real Italian culture... ...the Experience of a Lifetime Browse Our Tour Dates Itineraries (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/browse-tours.html) View our itineraries (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/browse-tours.html) Compare to other Tours (http://www.discoversoriano.com/cooking-vacations-and-classes/all-inclusive-cooking-vacations/compare-to-other-cooking-vacations.html) Submit a Booking Request (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Request more information (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Tour Prices (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/pricing.html) It’s all about fun, laughter, friends… and food, of course. This is the core of Italian culture, so it is the core of every vacation we organize. Our week-long cooking vacations are extremely unique, as they are designed not only to teach you to cook fantastic Italian meals, but to fully immerse you in Italian culture. You will savor the meals you prepare while you soak up the culture behind them. You will make new friends that are as interested in learning about you and your culture as you are about theirs. It is as much about the food as it is about the experience. Whether you are a beginner, or a gourmet, you will not only have the time of your life, but you will leave with amazing new skills and appreciation for the delicate balance of ingredients that makes the best Italian food. Click here to view a video of our 2007 tours. (http://www.discoversoriano.com/about-soriano/organized-tours/soriano-2007-video.html) Classes for the Real World Our classes, which are held in the family kitchen of our country villa, focus on traditional Tuscan and Umbrian dishes with a few truly special dishes from other regions. We take great care to make sure these are recipes you will be able to make at home, and are sure to impress. When you leave, you will bring home a recipe book that includes everything we made during the week, with metric to imperial conversions, as well as shopping lists for each recipe based on products you will find at home. It’s like visiting family in Italy Before you even arrive in Italy, you are family. We will have spoken many times and gotten to know one another. We will know your likes and your dislikes. There is a simple reason for this: Unlike cookie-cutter tour operators and cooking schools, we structure what we do so that we can fine-tune your vacation for you. Our groups are extremely small and intimate, rarely exceeding 8 people. This gives us tremendous freedom to shape the week on the fly based on your desires. The itinerary is not set in stone, and it is not fixed week to week. So if we can stay somewhere longer if we like, or we can add stops to our day trips… whatever we want as a group. In other words, we treat you the way we treat visiting family. We don’t want to structure your vacation on our terms, we want to do it on your terms. When we're not cooking, we're exploring If we have a dinner class today, we will have an excurion in the morning. If we have lunch class, we will have an excurion in the afternoon/evening. That gives us at least six excursions during the week. Of course, if you feel like resting or going out on your own, you are free to, but if you want to explore with us, it is part of our all-inclusive policy. Our excurions change with every group, because we select them with the group! We can explore Ancient Etruscan Ruins, or visit Assisi for the day. We can spend a day in Rome, or head off to the beach. We can spend the day at the ruins of the Ancient Roman port of Ostia, or climb down the underground caverns of Grotte di Frasassi. We can tour Tuscan hilltowns, or the Marmore falls (The tallest man-made waterfall in the world, created by the Ancient Romans). There are seemingly endless options based on what kind of excurions attract you. Experience it like a local When we shop for our classes, we will shop in the local stores, where you will get to know the people behind the counters. Before you know it, you will be on a first name basis with the butcher. The grocer will welcome you in recognition as you get shop. The fruit and vegetable stands will be genuinely proud to share the product of their farms with you. On the occasions that we eat out, we will be sampling true local cuisine in trattorias and cafes where the locals eat. After a few days, you will see people at other tables that you have encountered in town at one time or another. Many of our guests tell us that after a few days, they feel a sense of ‘home’ here… that they belong… they can’t believe that in such a short amount of time, they made so many connections and felt themselves such a part of the town. It is really an amazing feeling to be a world away, yet feel such a strong connection. Even on the sightseeing tours, you won’t be among crowds of tourists. Instead, you will be seeing the amazing Italy few people know exists, and you will see it more like a local would. A typical all-inclusive cooking vacation includes: 7 nights accommodation in a beautiful medieval village home or B B 3 or 4 hands-on cooking classes (as per itinerary) Lunch and Dinner out or catered when we are not eating the results of our class. Daily day trips and excursions 7 Traditional Italian Breakfasts (Cappuccino Pastries) Wine with all meals All transportation (Including Rome Airport, Train Station or Cruise Terminal Transfers ) All entry fees for tours English speaking guide throughout the week Cost: Click here for our tour prices (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/pricing.html) Minimums and Maximums There is a minimum of 4 people per week, and a soft maximum of 8 people. A soft maximum means that we will not book a week with more than 8 people unless the other guests for that week agree to it. We do this so that our guests can be assured that the group will be small and intimate, while also allowing room for groups of more than 8 people for private tours. For private tours, we can accomodate up to 50 people. All-Inclusive Policy Everything mentioned above is included in the price quoted. These prices do not include: Airfare (http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-2816122-10463203) , Tips, food or drink between meals (except during classes). Personal expenses, excess baggage charges, or anything not indicated in the ‘includes’ section above. Browse Our Tour Dates Itineraries (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/browse-tours.html) View our itineraries (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/browse-tours.html) Compare to other Tours (http://www.discoversoriano.com/cooking-vacations-and-classes/all-inclusive-cooking-vacations/compare-to-other-cooking-vacations.html) Submit a Booking Request (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Request more information (http://www.discoversoriano.com/book/book-online.html) Tour Prices (http://www.discoversoriano.com/guided-tours/organized/pricing.html) Fri, 18 May 2007 05:54:26 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=116&Itemid= Wed, 16 May 2007 13:32:45 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=114&Itemid= Sample Itineraries for Day Trips These itineraries are available as HTML, which you can view and print from your web browser, and also as MapPoint files. If you have Microsoft MapPoint with European maps, you can import the mappoint files directly. Otherwise, select the HTML option and print the itineraries from your web browser. Web Page Itinerary Open (/directions/html/bomarzo-bagnoregio-orvieto-montefiascone.htm) Bomarzo - Civita di Bagnoregio - Orvieto - Montefiascone The day starts with a visit to the Monster Park at Bomarzo, a wonderland of obscure 14th century statues and carvings that are considered to be the medieval Disneyland. You then proceed to Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying village that is literally crumbling away. Next you go to the beautiful Umbrian city of Orvieto, home of the famous Orvieto Classico wine, and finally Montefiascone, home of the famous Est! Est! Est! wine. Open (/directions/html/capodimonte-pitigliano-sorano-tuscania.htm) Capodimonte - Pitigliano - Sorano - Tuscania.htm On this day trip, you will see the breathtaking Bolsena lake from the beautiful village of Capodimonte. You will then proceed into the countryside of Southern Tuscany where you will visit two of Tuscany's most beautiful towns. Finally, on your return, you will visit the beatiful village of Tuscania. Open (/directions/html/Carsulae-Marmore-Labro-Piediluco.htm) Carsulae - Marmore - Labro - Piediluco The day begins as you visit the ancient archaelogical site of Carsulae, an Ancient Roman stopover on the Flaminia. Next you visit The Marmore Falls, the tallest waterfall in Europe.Next the beautiful village of Labro, which overlooks Lake Piediluco, and finally the town of Piediluco, where you can take boat rides on the lake. Open (/directions/html/Chiusi-Cortona-Pienza.htm) Chiusi - Cortona - Pienza A day of Southern and Central Tuscany as you tour three of the best known towns in Tuscany, and drive through wine country. Open (/directions/html/Etruscan Sites.htm) Etruscan Sites For those interested in the Etruscan civilizatiion that was wiped out by the ancient Romans, this day trip takes you to the three most important ancient Etruscan sites in the world: Tarquinia, Cerveteri, and Vulci. Open (/directions/html/ostia antica.htm) Ostia Antica A site that is said to rival Pompeii, these ruins made up the port of ancient Rome. Open (/directions/html/pompeii-vico equenze-positano-amalfi.htm) Pompeii - Vico Equenze - Positano - Amalfi Coast For a long day with an early start, this day trip takes you to the ruins of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, with hours to spend in the beautiful seaside village of Positano. We added in a stopover for lunch at Vico Equenze, where we suggest 'Da Gigino - Pizza al Metro', which is the most famous pizzeria in all of Italy, widely considered to be the best Pizza in the world. Open (/directions/html/spoleto-assisi-perugia.htm) Spoleto - Assisi - Perugia A day through some of the most popular towns in Umbria, including Assisi, the home of St. Francis. Open (/directions/html/sutri-bracciano-anguillara-caprarola.htm) Sutri - Bracciano - Anguillara - Caprarola Lakes and Ruins - This trip takes you around two of the three major lakes in Central Italy: Bracciano and Vico. Sutri is the site of ancient Roman ruins, that include an amphitheater carved completely out of tuff. The castle at Bracciano was the site of Tom Cruise's wedding in 2006. Open (/directions/html/Vitorchiano-Bagnaia-Viterbo.htm) Vitorchiano - Bagnaia - Viterbo This trip keeps you extremely close to Soriano, highlighting the 14th century Papal Palace in Viterbo, the San Pellegrino district, which is known as one of the best preserved medieval quarters in Italy, The stunning Villa Lante, which rivals the Tivoli Gardens, and more. Wed, 16 May 2007 12:37:56 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=113&Itemid= This page includes a collection of maps sample itineraries for day trips from Soriano nel Cimino. Click here to download it. (http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html) Wed, 16 May 2007 12:37:35 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=112&Itemid= This page includes a collection sample itineraries for day trips from Soriano nel Cimino. The links below are available as Microsoft MapPoint files that can be edited. You must have the Microsoft MapPoint software installed on your computer with European maps in order to view, edit or print them. Click here for information on Microsoft MapPoint. (http://www.microsoft.com/mappoint) Wed, 16 May 2007 12:37:10 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=111&Itemid= These directions are available as HTML, which you can view and print from your web browser. Web Page Destination Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Amelia.htm) Amelia Beautiful Umbrian town. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Argentario.htm) Argentario Coast Crystal blue waters, day cruises, more. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Assisi.htm) Assisi The home of St. Francis. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Capodimonte.htm) Capodimonte Beautidul lakeside village at Lake Bolsena. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Cerveteri%20Etruscan%20Necropolis.htm) Cerveteri Etruscan Necropolis One of the most important Etruscan digs. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Cinque%20Terre.htm) Cinque Terre Popular seaside area in the north. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Civita%20di%20Bagnoregio.htm) Civita di Bagnoregio The dying town, crumbling away. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Civitavecchia.htm) Civitavecchia Cruise Terminal All of the cruise ships for Rome arrive and depart here. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Cortona%20Train%20Station.htm) Cortona Town made popular in 'Under the Tuscan Sun' Open (/directions/html/soriano-to-corviano/index.html) Corviano / La Selva di Malano ( Click to Open in Adobe Acrobat Format (directions/pdf/soriano%20to%20corviano.pdf) ) This is the prehistoric archaeological site near Soriano. It features ancient cave dwellings, an Etruscan necropolis, a medieval fortress in ruins and more. There is no MapPoint download of this because most of this drive is on dirt roads. Instead, we have provided pictorial driving directions so that you don;t get lost. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Faggeta%20Forest.htm) Faggeta Forest Soriano's enchanting forest. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Ferentillo.htm) Ferentillo Among the best preserved mummies in the world. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Florence%20Train%20Station.htm) Florence Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Labro.htm) Labro Beautiful Umbrian town overlooking Lake Piediluco. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Lake%20Bracciano.htm) Lake Bracciano Rome's nearest Lake, beautiful castle where Tom Cruise was married. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Lake%20Piediluco.htm) Lake Piediluco Beautiful Umbrian lake. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Lake%20Vico.htm) Lake Vico The closest lake to Soriano. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Marmore.htm) Marmore Beautiful waterfalls in Umbria. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Marta.htm) Marta Beautidul lakeside village at Lake Bolsena. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Monster%20Park%20at%20Bomarzo.htm) Monster Park at Bomarzo Considered the Disneyland of the 14th century. A must see. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Montefiascone.htm) Montefiascone Home of the world famous wine, Est! Est! Est! Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Orte%20Train%20Station.htm) Orte Train Station The major train hub near Soriano. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Orvieto%20Train%20Station.htm) Orvieto Popular Umbrian tourist destination. Home of the world famous Orvieto Classico wine. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Perugia.htm) Perugia Beautiful city in Umbria. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Pisa.htm) Pisa Home of the leaning tower. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Pitigliano.htm) Pitigliano Beautiful southern-tuscany hillside village. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Pompeii.htm) Pompeii The ancient ruins of Pompeii Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Positano.htm) Positano Beautiful seaside town at the Amalfi Coast. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Rome%20Saxa%20Rubra.htm) Rome Saxa Rubra The easiest place to park your car if you drive to Rome. From here there is a short rail connection into central Rome. This allows you to avoid the hassles of driving and parking in downtown Rome. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Rome%20Villa%20Borghese%20parking.htm) Rome Villa Borghese Probably the best parking garage in Rome if you elect to drive into the city. This also exits across from the American Embassy. We strongly urge people to elect to take the train to Rome from Orte, or drive to Rome Saxa Rubra, and take rail into the city. Driving in Rome is very difficult. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Saturnia.htm) Saturnia Hot sulphur pools in a giant cascading waterfall. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Siena.htm) Siena Beautuful Tuscan city, home of the famous Palio di Siena. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Sorano.htm) Sorano Beautiful southern Tuscany hillside village. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Spoleto.htm) Spoleto Umbrian home of the Spoleto Jazz Festival. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Sutri.htm) Sutri Some amazing ancient Roman ruins, including an amphitheatre carved out of tuff. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Tarquinia%20Beach.htm) Tarquinia Beach The closest seaside resort to Soriano. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Tarquinia%20Etruscan%20Necropolis.htm) Tarquinia Etruscan Necropolis Considered the most important Etruscan necropolis in the world. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Tivoli%20Gardens.htm) Tivoli Gardens The famed water gardens of Villa D'Este. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Villa%20Lante%20at%20Bagnaia.htm) Villa Lante at Bagnaia A beatiful villa that rivals that of Tivoli. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Viterbo%20Papal%20Palace.htm) Viterbo Papal Palace This was the Vatican during much of the 13th century. The surrounding area (The San Pellegrino district) is considered o0ne of the best preserved medieval quarters in the whole of Italy. Open (directions/html/Soriano%20to%20Vulci%20Etruscan%20Necropolis.htm) Vulci Etruscan Necropolis An imortant Etruscan necropolis. Wed, 16 May 2007 11:57:21 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=110&Itemid= This page includes a collection of maps and driving directions from Soriano nel Cimino to popular day trip destinations. Click here to download it. (http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html) Wed, 16 May 2007 09:21:24 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=109&Itemid= This page includes a collection of maps and driving directions from Soriano nel Cimino to popular day trip destinations. The links below are available as Microsoft MapPoint files that can be edited. You must have the Microsoft MapPoint software installed on your computer with European maps in order to view, edit or print them. Click here for information on Microsoft MapPoint. (http://www.microsoft.com/mappoint) Tue, 15 May 2007 17:48:57 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=107&Itemid= Tue, 15 May 2007 09:32:52 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=106&Itemid= This page includes a collection of documents that will help you prepare for your trip. These include maps to Soriano, directions to the rentals, travel checklists and much more Click here to download it. (http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html) Tue, 15 May 2007 09:26:36 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=105&Itemid=57 Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off service While we strongly suggest that you rent a car in the name of freedom and free roaming, we understand that some guests prefer not to drive. If you would like for us to arrange private transfers to and/or from Soriano for you, we can do so for the following rates: Rome Fimincino Airport <--> Soriano nel Cimino €200 each way Rome Ciampino Airport <--> Soriano nel Cimino €200 each way Florence Airport <--> Soriano nel Cimino €350 each way Pisa Airport <--> Soriano nel Cimino €350 each way Civatavecchia Cruise Terminal <--> Soriano nel Cimino €225 each way Downtown Rome <--> Soriano nel Cimino €250 each way Downtown Florence <--> Soriano nel Cimino €250 each way Rome Termini Train Station <--> Soriano nel Cimino €250 each way Orte Train Station <--> Soriano nel Cimino €50 each way Viterbo <--> Soriano nel Cimino €50 each way There is a limit to 4 people and a total of 6 standard sized bags for this service. Please call us if you are interested. Cell Phone Rental We offer cell phone rentals while you are in Soriano for $75 per week. This includes €25 .00 worth of calling credit and free incoming phone calls. Your phone will be ready for you when you get the keys to you apartment, and we will provide your phone number to you about 1 week before you arrive. Please call us if you are interested. GPS Navigation System Rental Don't worry about maps and driving directions. We offer portable TomTom navigation systems that we have pre-loaded with all of the points of interest and itineraries you find here on our website. You can even use it for walking tours of Rome, Corviano and other sites. The rental is US$75 per week. Call for details Guided Day Tours We offer several options for day tours. You can get more info on this by clicking here. (http://www.discoversoriano.com/cooking-vacations-and-classes/single-day-cooking-classes/single-day-cooking-classes.html) Mon, 14 May 2007 14:06:12 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=104&Itemid= Guest Preferences Mon, 14 May 2007 14:06:00 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=103&Itemid=54 Mon, 14 May 2007 14:00:00 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid=43 Labro Distance from Soriano 40 mi / 65km Highlights Restored Medieval Village overlooking lake Region Umbria Description A beautiful town, overlooking the lake. This town was completely restructured and remodeled. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:54:35 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=53&Itemid=43 Spoleto Distance from Soriano 30 mi / 49km Highlights The famous Umbrian town, Spoleto Region Umbria Description Spoleto is one of the more beautiful cities in Umbria, but it is best known for its Jazz festival. The city dates back to the fifth century BC, and its vast history can still be seen at every corner. Some of the more interesting sights in Spoleto are the massive 14th century Rocca Albornoziana (The Albornozian Castle), which is full of beautiful frescoes and the 12th century cathedral (Duomo), both of which are shown in the video. Interesting sights in Spoleto that are not shown in the video include: The Ancient Roman theater, the 1st centtury Ponte Sanguinario (The bloody bridge), Ponte delle Torri (the 13th century aqueduct), the 16th century Palazzo Racani-Anoni, the 14th century Palazzo della Signoria, and much more. Many of our DiscoverSoriano.com itineraries feature a visit to this magnificent town, but for those that wish to go on their own, it can be found in the Perugia Province of Umbria, Italy; about 15 miles north of Terni, or about 75 miles north of Rome. It is about 30 miles north of our home base, Soriano nel Cimino. Video(s) Fri, 11 May 2007 22:53:34 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=52&Itemid=43 Carsulae Distance from Soriano 30 mi / 49km Highlights Ancient Roman Archeological Site Region Umbria Description One of the most important archaeological ruins in Italy, probably had its origins as a rest stop and watering place for travelers, traders and soldiers, but most historians fix the town's official founding to about 300 BC. Carsulae's growth into a major town only took place, however, with the building of the ancient Roman road, the via Flaminia, in 220-219-BC. This interesting archaeological site, located between Terni and Sangemini, has not been completely excavated. Yet you can see the Forum area with the remains of the cathedral and two twin temples, the Theatre and amphitheatre, both well preserved. The beautiful St. Damian Arch and, further on, the interesting sepulchral monuments. Just next to the Forum the beautiful St. Damian mediaeval church was built with archaeological stones from the area. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:52:09 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=51&Itemid=43 Assisi Distance from Soriano 78 mi / 125km Highlights Saint Francis' Basilica Region Umbria Description An absolute must visit town, the home of St. Francis Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:49:57 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=43 Ferentillo Mummies Distance from Soriano 42 mi / 68km Highlights Mummies Region Umbria Description Not for the faint of heart, the 'mummies' kept in the Museo delle Mummie directly under the central church of Santo Stefano are accessible to the public all year round. Brought here by order of Napoleon, these are the bodies of past inhabitants of Ferentillo that have remained startlingly intact thanks to a particular chemical composition of the soil in which they were originally buried. Some of the bodies still display details such as the hairs of the person's beard or the wounds that provoked death centuries ago. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:48:28 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=49&Itemid=43 Lake Piediluco Distance from Soriano 38 mi / 62km Highlights Beautiful Lake Region Umbria Description An absolutely stunning lake!!! Boat rentals are available, but swimming is not permitted in the lake. The town here is adorable, too. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:46:29 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=48&Itemid=43 Marmore Falls Distance from Soriano 33 mi / 54km Highlights Beautiful Waterfalls Region Umbria Description Consult their website for opening hours!!!! (http://www.cascatamarmore.it/document.php?id=126) These waterfalls are actually man-made... by the ancient Romans. In fact, these are still the tallest man-made waterfalls in the world, and are the tallest falls of any kind in Europe! This is definitely an absolute must for whoever decides to visit the area. The Waterfalls, which are immersed in a natural scenery of incomparable beauty, are an artificial work due to the Romans. In fact, at that time, the Velino river was greatly enlarged and had created a vast zone of stagnant waters, swampy and unhealthy. Aiming to make these waters deflow, the consul Curius Dentatus had a canal dug which directed them in direction of the Marmore cliff. From there, he had them precipitate, in a total fall of 165 meters, into the river-bed of the Nera river which runs along below. For ages, the beauty of the Waterfalls has inspired poets and artists, among these: Virgilius, Cicero, G. Byron, and many others. A video of the Marmore Falls (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/cascata-delle-marmore.html) Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:43:39 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=47&Itemid=43 Amelia Distance from Soriano 19 mi / 31km Highlights Medieval Quarter Region Umbria Description Amelia is a beautil town in Umbria that has a stunning historical center. One of the more interesting things to see here is the ancient plumbing system in the town. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:41:37 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=46&Itemid=43 Orvieto Distance from Soriano 28 mi / 46km Highlights Cathedral, Wine Region Umbria Description Known for its beautiful cathedral, underground passageways, Etruscan roots, and the world-famous Orvieto Classico wine Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:30:33 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=45&Itemid=43 Marta Distance from Soriano 25 mi / 40km Highlights Lakeside village Region Lazio Description Marta is situated on Bolsena Lake and is famous for both its cuisine of lake fish and a particular red wine (cannaiola); in certain restaurants. During the months of June to September there are Farnesian menus with Renaissance dishes. A nearby place of interest is Martana Island, with its legends on the destiny of the Ostrogothian queen Amalasunta. Among the tourist attractions, is the Barabbata, a silvo-pastoral festival of pagan origin that is full of folkloric intensity (May). Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:27:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=44&Itemid=43 Capodimonte Distance from Soriano 27 mi / 44km Highlights Lakeside village Region Lazio Description A great tourist center due to a beautiful lakeside beach. It is dominated by the sixteenth century Rocca Farnese (Farnese stronghold). From the small port there are boat trips to the nearby Bisentine Island, where there is a church that was designed by Antonio da Sangallo and that was completed by Vignola, by the order of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese. It guards the tomb of Ranuccio Farnese, one of the founders of Farnesian prestige in Tuscia . On the island itself classical music concerts are held (on certain occasions the guests are invited to dine by candle light in the park) and from June to September Renaissance music concerts are held, organised by the Musical Experimentation Center. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:25:38 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=43 Civita di Bagnoregio Distance from Soriano 30 mi / 49km Highlights Crumbling city Region Lazio Description Civita di Bagnoregio, which bills itself today as the dying city, is a small medieval town with a stable year-round population of 25, exploding to more than 300 during the summer months. It is neither its size nor its age which makes it so special... it is its actual physical location, perched on the pinnacle of a narrow, pointed plateau (1,440 ft. above sea level), which has been steadily eroding away over the centuries, and every time another piece of the ancient plateau plummets into the surrounding valley, another bit of this evocative city risks to disappear with it! The site of an Etruscan settlement already almost 3,000 years ago, in a unique location easily defended from marauding armies, Civita suffered greatly from a seemingly endless series of earthquakes starting in the late 17 th century (more than ten of them over a sixty year period). During this period, many of its citizens moved across the valley to the mainland, creating the more modern town of Bagnoregio... but a few have refused to leave, even today. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:24:09 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=42&Itemid=43 Villa Lante (Bagnaia) Distance from Soriano 7 mi / 12km Highlights A stunning villa with amazing gardens and water features. Region Lazio Description A stunning villa with amazing gardens and water features. Not to be missed. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:21:51 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=41&Itemid=43 Tivoli Gardens (Villa D'Este) Distance from Soriano 64 mi / 103km Highlights Famous gardens and fountains Region Lazio Description One of the more popular destinations for tourists visiting Rome. These beautiful gardens are certainly worth an afternoon visit. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:19:11 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=40&Itemid=43 Sutri Distance from Soriano 34 mi / 55km Highlights Roman Theater Region Lazio Description Sutri has a beautiful ancient roman theater. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:16:31 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=39&Itemid=43 Corviano and La Selva di Malano Distance from Soriano 11 mi / 19km Highlights Etruscan Ruins / Necropolis Region Lazio Description This is VERY off the beaten path, but one of the most amazing things you will see. It is a completely abandoned Etruscan/Roman settlement with cave dwellings, an old temple, and a necropolis dug out of volcanic rock The structures here date from prehistoric times, to medieval times. As yoou walk the trails through this amazing site, you will find youself awestruck as the trails wind through the ruins of a medieval fortress, then alongside cliffs where you can walk down carved steps into caves that were inhabited thousands of years ago by the mysterious Etruscans, then through the ruins of an ancient church. As you navigate the trails of Corviano, at one point you simply stumble upon an ancient necropolis that is simply unmistakeable. You can see the forms of the bodies carved out of the volcanic rock while you simply feel life as it was in another time. Corviano is a once in a lifetime experience that should not be missed. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:13:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=38&Itemid=43 Tarquinia Distance from Soriano 38 mi / 60km Highlights Etruscan Tombs Region Lazio Description Tarquinia is famous for it amazing etruscan tombs. Additionally, it is the home of the most important Etruscan museum in the world. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:10:59 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=37&Itemid=43 Tarquinia Beach Distance from Soriano 38 mi / 60km Highlights The closest beach to Soriano Region Lazio Description This is the closest beach to Soriano. If you are looking for a simple day at the beach, this is it. If you are looking for beautiful crystal waters, look north to the Argentario coast. Tarquinia offers full service: Umbrellas, food service, etc. It is about 45 minutes from Soriano Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:09:57 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=36&Itemid=43 Vulci Distance from Soriano 41 mi / 67km Highlights Etruscan Tombs Region Lazio Description Vulci is another important town with Etruscan tombs and a museum Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:08:23 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=35&Itemid=43 Civita Castellana Distance from Soriano 28 mi / 45km Highlights Ceramics Region Lazio Description If you have Italian ceramics at home, this is where they may have come from. A medium sized city, it is famous for its major ceramics industry. You may be able to get factory tours here. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 22:07:07 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=34&Itemid=43 Lake Bracciano Distance from Soriano 48 mi / 77km Highlights Beautiful Lake Castle Region Lazio Description A beautiful castle overlooks this stunning lake. Driving around the lake reveals many beaches with restaurants, bars, umbrella rentals and paddle boat rentals. The castle on Lake Bracciano was the setting of the wedding between Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes in November 2006 Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:59:49 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=33&Itemid=43 Lake Vico Distance from Soriano 13 mi / 22km Highlights Beautiful Lake Natural Reserve Region Lazio Description This is a beautiful lake, and being the smaller of the local lakes, is less crowded than the others. This placemark it at Bella Venere, which offers a restaurant, coffee bar, umbrella rentals, paddle boat rentals and more. Right down the road you can also go horeseback riding. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:58:03 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=32&Itemid=43 Bomarzo (The Sacred Grove / Park of Monsters) Distance from Soriano 8 mi / 13km Highlights 16th Century rock carvings Region Lazio Description A must-see in this area. It is known throughout Italy as one of the country's best kept treasures. Description In the 16th century, Prince Vicino Orsini had this fabulous and grotesque fairyland built in memory of his late wife. It sits in a deep valley that is overlooked by the Orsini Palace and the houses of the village. Prince Orsini's park, Bosco Sacro (Sacred Grove), is filled with grotesque figures carved from natural rock. Nature and art have created a surrealistic fantasy: the Mouth of Hell (an ogre's face so big that people can walk into its gaping mouth), a crude Hercules slaying an Amazon, nymphs with butterfly wings, a huge tortoise with a statue on its shell, a harpy, a mermaid, snarling dogs, lions, and much, much more. A Debated History There is no question that this was the work of a true master, but debate surrounds the question of which master. It has long been believed that the architect Pirro Ligorio, who is credited with finishing St.Peter's Cathedral after Michelangelo died and desiging the famous Villa D'Este (The Tivoli Gardens), designed the Sacred Grove. However, recent evidence strongly suggests that it was designed by the renaissance genius, Michelangelo himself. It is said that Michelangelo designed it, while a group of his best students carried out the major work. In the world of art The Sared Grove (or Monster Park) was a favorite of 20th-century artists Jean Cocteau and Salvador Dalí, who discussed to a great extent. Additionally, Bomarzo's story and the life of Prince Orsini were the subject of a novel by the Argentinian writer Manuel Mujica Lainez, Bomarzo (1962). Mujica Lainez went on to write a libretto based on his novel, which was set to music by Alberto Ginastera in 1967. 'Bomarzo' premiered in Washington in 1976. It was banned by Argentina's dictatorship, but Lainez and Ginastera were awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:54:39 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=43 Montefiascone Distance from Soriano 18 mi / 30km Highlights Est! Est! Est! Region Lazio Description Beautiful town, known for its world-famous wine, Est! Est!! EsT! Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:51:46 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=43 Viterbo Distance from Soriano 10 mi / 16km Highlights San Pellegrino District Region Lazio Description During Roman times, this was an important stop along the Cassia. Viterbo's medieval quarter is known to be among the best preserved in all of Italy. During periods of the middle ages, the Vatican was located here in Viterbo, and you can still visit the old Vatican palace. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:49:53 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=29&Itemid=43 Faggeta Beech Forest Distance from Soriano 5 mi / 9km Highlights Enchanting Forest Region Lazio Description This forest is at the summit of Mount Cimino, just above Soriano. Many people travel here from Rome, Umbria and Tuscany to spend the day in this mystical forest full of huge volcanic rocks and towering Beech trees that are distant from one another, but create a canopy that almost covers the sky. With the green of the leaves above, the red of the ground beneath, the rolling landscape, the huge volcanic rocks, and the rays of sun shining through the leaves while spotting the red ground, this forest gives you the feeling of utter enchantment. It is something truly special. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:33:11 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=28&Itemid=43 Argentario Coast Distance from Soriano 37 mi / 66km Highlights Everything Region Lazio Description Rome is less than an hour away by car, but driving in Rome is not a simple task. We suggest you take the 15 minute drive to the Orte train station, then take the 36 minute train ride into Central Rome. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 16:31:16 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=27&Itemid=43 Argentario Coast Distance from Soriano 74 mi / 119km Highlights Beautiful Beaches and Coastline Region Tuscany Description It will take you about an hour and a half to get here, but WOW! Beautiful, water, beautiful towns... if you want to go to the beach, spend the extra time to get here rather than going to Tarquinia... you won't regret it. For fun, go to Porto Santo Stefano and gasp at the mega yachts in port! Video Montage of Porto Santo Stefano on the Argentario Coast (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/travel/tuscany/porto-santo-stefano-argentario.html) Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 14:53:49 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=43 Pitigliano Distance from Soriano 39 mi / 63km Highlights Synagogue, Etruscan Ruins Region Tuscany Description This is a stunning medieval town that has the distinction of having had a large Jewish population in the 15th century. Enough to give it the nickname of 'Little Jerusalem'. Popular tourist attractions are the restored Synagogue and the jewish cemetery. The town is surrounded by important archaeological sites, from the ancient vie cave to the various necropolis and primitive villages. Without doubt, the most important necropolis is Poggio Buco, the largest Etruscan center on the Fiora. In addition to the remains of the original city, numerous varieties of tombs have been discovered, among which the monumental cliff tombs such as the Tombadelta Regina (the Queen's Tomb). The wine production is another good reason to visit this land.The vineyards, fertilized by volcanic tufa and thousand year old humus, produce prestigious white DOC wines. The caves and tombs cut into the tufa rock are used as cellars for the wines' preservation and aging. The olive oil as well, produced by cold pressing, has few rivals on the national and international scene. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 14:48:27 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=25&Itemid=43 Saturnia Distance from Soriano 43 mi / 70km Highlights Hot Spring Waterfalls Region Tuscany Description Saturnia is famous throughout the world for its thermal (sulphuric) waterfalls that come out at around 200 gallons per second, at a termperature of 100 degrees fahrenheit..The waters flow over a series of natural waterfalls, forming natural swimming pools where thousands of people bathe each year. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 14:44:58 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24&Itemid=43 Cortona Distance from Soriano 69 mi / 111km Highlights Beautiful Town Region Tuscany Description A beautiful town, made famous in the book/movie, Under the Tuscan Sun, as well as the movie, The English Patient. Video Tour of Cortona, Part 1 (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/travel/tuscany/cortona-part-1.html) Video Tour of Cortona, Part 2 (http://www.italybyvideo.com/travel-videos/travel/tuscany/cortona-part-2.html) Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 14:41:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23&Itemid=43 Sorano Distance from Soriano 39 mi / 63km Highlights Medieval Village Region Tuscany Description Another adorable village in southern Tuscany. Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 13:14:01 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=22&Itemid=43 The Tarot Garden Distance from Soriano 45 mi / 73km Highlights Sculpture Garden Region Tuscany Description A garden full of the big and impressive mosaic sculptures of Niki de Saint Phalle Picture(s) Map Fri, 11 May 2007 07:07:27 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=21&Itemid=42 Where is Soriano? (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/about-soriano.html) Food in Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/food-in-soriano.html) The People of Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/the-people-of-soriano.html) Soriano's History (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/history-of-soriano.html) Soriano's Weather (this page) Soriano boasts a wonderful climate. During the summer months, when Rome and Florence soar into unbearable 100+ degree temperatures with high humidity, Soriano is usually at least 10 degrees cooler or with lower humidity. Furthermore, you will often find a nice, cool breeze in the air while Rome and Florence are still hot and muggy. During spring, Soriano comes to life with beautiful flowers and green pastures. The weather ranges between the 60's and 70's with occasional spring showers. During autumn, the colors are breathtaking as the season changes, and temperatures average around the 60's and 70's. In the winter months, you can expect crisp, cold days with stretches of sunshine and rain. The winter temps range between the 30's and 50's. Soriano is generally mild with very few, if any extreme temperatures. The mountain behind Soriano serves to shelter the town from the slightly more extreme temperatures and winds of the nearby provincial capital of Viterbo. At worst, it dips slightly below freezing at night in the winter months, and heavy storms are very infrequent. It may snow for a day or two in the winter, but it rarely sticks around. Following are a few charts showing average weather for the city of Viterbo, which is 10 miles from Soriano. Note that the temperatures in Viterbo are slightly more extreme than Soriano: Average temperatures in Viterbo (Fahrenheit) Average precipitation in Viterbo (in inches per month) Tue, 08 May 2007 17:53:01 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=20&Itemid=41 Untitled Document Where is Soriano? (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/about-soriano.html) Food in Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/food-in-soriano.html) The People of Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/the-people-of-soriano.html) Soriano's History (this page ) Soriano's Weather (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/weather-in-soriano.html) Looking at Soriano, you can see its history expanding outward from the castle. At the center, the castle's main tower dates back to Roman-Etruscan times. In the 13th century, Pope Nicolas III (Orsini) built the castle around the tower, where it became a summer papal getaway. A small medieval village then sprung up surrounding the castle. As you look beyond the medieval village, you can clearly see something of an outer ring, which was constructed during the renaissance. Finally, you see the more modern Soriano spidering out from the center. Soriano nel Cimino is believed to have originally been an Etruscan village named 'Surrina Vetus', which had been conquered by the Romans thousands of years ago. However the earliest historical documents referring to Soriano date back to the year 747 AD, which consist of papal documents that mention Soriano as being part of the Tuscania diocese. In 1278, Pope Nicolas III, of the Orsini family constructed the taller tower of the castle as his summer residence. This lasted nearly a century, until the castle was sold to the Holy See, after which it changed hands many times through the years as the balance of power shifted in the region. In 1497 the Orsini family allied with the king of France, Charles the VIIIth. Against the will of Rome, Soriano became the theater of an important open-field battle that saw the papal army defeated by the Orsinis. They were then defeated and forced to leave Soriano by Cesare Borgia, (Valentino) in 1503. Soriano and its castle continued to change hands, usually among various members of the pope's family until 1588, when it was sold to the Altemps, who remained lords of the feud for 136 years, until 1715 when i was sold again to the Albani family, who then built the Papacqua Palace and restored numerous monuments. In the first half of the 19th century, Soriano was allotted to Agostino Chigi, a descendant of the Albani family. In 1848 the Chigi family, who now occupied the Papacqua Palace, renounced their feudal rights to the Holy See. After the short Roman Republic of Mazzini (1849) and some isolated insurrection attempts, on the 12th of September 1875, Soriano was finally conquered by the Italian troops during their march toward Rome. During World War II, when Soriano was occupied by Nazi forces, the castle served as an observation point until June 5th, 1944 when U.S. forces liberated Soriano. Later, the Italian government used the castle as a minimum security prison until the mid 1980's. Today, the base areas of the castle is a University, while the main towers are open to public tours and offered for parties and wedding receptions. The Chigi-Albani Palace and the Papacqua Fountain - 1561 AD The Palace was partially built during the period that the feud belonged to the Madruzzo family. Cardinal Cristoforo Madruzzo commissioned the fountain. The Papacqua fountain is fed by spring water. It boasts various groups, in single figures and decorations. The main group is made up of figures of animals, satyrs, kids and the God, Pan, below by a huge woman with goat feet. There is also a group of biblical inspiration which shows Moses causing water to spring out of stone, surrounded by the Hebrews. Additionally there are statues representing the four seasons and the gushing masks on one side of the Palace-square. The church of Saint Nicolas of Bari (The Main Cathedral) - 1794 AD Located in the main square (Piazza), the land was previously occupied by two smaller churches dedicated to Our Lady Of The Annunciation and Saint Eustice. This neo-classical cathedral was designed by Giulio Camporese. Inside you will find a Greek cross with a vault at the center, above which a wide dome rises. The church of Saint Eustice - 1718 AD The front, a walling of single order, has the architectural part (base, pilasters, cornice, tympanum, door, window) made of pepperino; in the middle of it the pre-eminent window is halved by a pilastered banister and the Albani coat of arms. The inside is single naved but there are three altars on each side. The high altar, a silve bust of S. Eutizio, an XVIIIth century picture of Our Lady ( ascribed to Sebastiano Conca), a marmoreal oil-storer (ascribed to Andrea Bregno and used as baptismal font) and a big Baroque wooden crucifix, are very remarkable. INNER FOUNTAIN ~1400 AD Built by Pope Nicolas V to provide a convenient water source for the villagers beneath the castle. The church of Saint George - ~1000 AD It is a little Romanic church of the XIth century consecrated to S. George. The temple, all in pepperino, has a little semi-circular apse, it is enriched by various ornaments and sculptures and by a squared bell-tower on the left side. The church has a bell-shaped; the tympanum has a mullioned window with two lights and a column surmounted by a tuscanian capitol. On the sides of the window, there are two angels and evangelical symbols. Lower, some pepperino slabs delimit the tympanum. The door is rounded by basso-rilievos of stylized chestnut-tree branches; on the right of the door there is a sculpture of Christ and on the left one of S. Peter. At half-height there are five horizontal slabs, maybe more ancient than the other basso-rilievos. Tue, 08 May 2007 17:52:42 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19&Itemid=40 Where is Soriano? (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/about-soriano.html) Food in Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/food-in-soriano.html) The People of Soriano (this page) Soriano's History (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/history-of-soriano.html) Soriano's Weather (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/weather-in-soriano.html) The people of Soriano are warm, friendly, and outgoing. They enjoy an amazing quality of life that is centered around friends, family and food. This page focuses on some of the people you will most certainly see around the Piazza (town square). Usually you will see them at or around 'Caffe' Centrale', The central bar. For those that don't know, the term 'bar' in Italy does not refer to a bar as you may know it. It is more of a coffee house, that also serves alcohol and other drinks. They often serve pastries and candy, and sometimes pizza and sandwiches. Bars are open to everyone, and you find them everywhere. They are typically open very early in the morning until very late at night. The bars are the town gathering places. In the piazza alone, you will find 4 bars. A picture of Bar Centrale in the center of Piazza at night. This picture was taken in July 2006. This is Federico, the owner of Bar Centrale. A very friendly guy who only speaks a few words of English. Still, he is very good at interpreting hand gestures :-) Carla, Federico's wife. She does a bit better with English than Federico does. Marcello and Peppe. We've decided that if Soriano were a kingdom, they would certainly be the court jesters. They are absolutely insane together. Marcello (the one with hair) owns the photo shop near the clock tower, and he even does quite well with English. As far as Peppe goes, forget about it. Paola, Antonella, and Carla. Yep, that is my Paola on the left. In the center is Antonella, Marcello's wife, and Carla, my sister in law. Carla owns a small gift shop next door to Caffe' Centrale (it is the door between Paola and Antonella in this picture), and will probably be your main contact in town. The Lost Boys. This is a picture of a group of kids in town that are always running free. The kid on the far left is our son Andrei :-) Another picture of Carla. Learn this face, since you will be looking for her when you get to Soriano :-) Riccardo and MariaGrazia. Riccardo is a local artist with an amazing style. You can visit his studio while you are in Soriano and see what he is working on. Meloni. What can I say about him? Remember Otis from the Andy Griffith Show? This is Soriano's version of Otis. Need I say more? Gigi Mago. (Gigi the Magician) - You may find this guy in the piazza randomly doing magic tricks for people... really :-) Tue, 08 May 2007 17:52:24 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18&Itemid=39 Where is Soriano? (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/about-soriano.html) Food in Soriano (this page) The People of Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/the-people-of-soriano.html) Soriano's History (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/history-of-soriano.html) Soriano's Weather (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/weather-in-soriano.html) When eating in Italy, you may wonder why the Italian food is so much better in Italy than anything you have had back home. Besides the obvious answers, it is important to understand how important food is in the Italian culture. It is all about the delicate balance of flavors, quality and the experience of the meal. At home, we ignore the balance of flavors, and think that the more sauce we throw on top of the pasta, the better. We ignore quality of ingredients in favor of lower prices. As a result, even the best Italian food in our Italian restaurants pales in comparison to the real thing. Finally, we attempt to convey experience visually. That is, we concentrate on making the meal look good, and on atmosphere in the restaurant. Italians don't often concern themselves with visual presentation. Their experience is all about the actual food, and the people they share it with. A dish of pasta will rarely look like a piece of art. The art is in the flavor, and no matter how spectacular a plate may look in your favorite Italian restaurant at home, the flavor will never come close to the amazing meals you will have even in the simplest of family restaurants in Italy. Regional Cuisine When most non-Italians think of Italian food, they think of a series of dishes that they simply consider to be 'Italian'. However, each of these dishes is usually local to a certain region, and Italians believe that a regional dish can only be prepared in its own region. If you want Risotto Milanese, you better go to Milan, because a Roman doesn't believe he can make it as good as someone in Milan, so he doesn't. Food in Soriano Probably the most obvious thing on all menus will be dishes based on Porcini mushrooms. Porcini are extremely rare and unbelievably delicious mushrooms that happen to grow wild in the local forests. People come from far away to eat Porcini based dishes here, so there is no shortage in any of the restaurants. Soriano is also famous for it's Porchetta (roasted baby pig), which is made with a fennel seasoning. You won't necessarily find this in the restaurants. This is typically something you pick up at food stands in town and eat in a sandwich. Soriano's most popular local pastas are 'Gnocchi col Ferro' and 'Strozzapreti'. Gnocchi col Ferro are not Gnocchi as you know them. It is actually a long and thick pasta that is made entirely by hand (no presses). It has an amazing feel in the mouth. StrozzaPreti literally translates to 'Priest Stranglers', which is another long and think pasta. It is delicious. You will find that when you order Bruschetta as an appetizer, you will not get the Bruschetta we see outside of Italy. We normally consider Bruschetta to be toasted bread with chopped tomatoes and garlic on top. While you will also get that, Bruschetta often comes with Porcini mushrooms, olive paste, sausage, etc on top. Boar hunting is a popular sport around the area, and as a result, you will find many dishes with sauces based on Boar meat. Of course, you will find many broader regional dishes as well, such as Spaghetti Carbonara, Amatriciana, Marinara, Lasagna, and some cream based sauces. A few of the restaurants serve Ragu, but it is not popular here. Tue, 08 May 2007 17:52:10 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16&Itemid=36 Where is Soriano? (this page) Food in Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/food-in-soriano.html) The People of Soriano (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/the-people-of-soriano.html) Soriano's History (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/history-of-soriano.html) Soriano's Weather (click here) (/about-soriano/about-soriano/weather-in-soriano.html) The town of Soriano nel Cimino is located in the province of Viterbo. It is 8 miles from Italy's primary expressway (The A1) that connects Rome and Florence, at about 37 miles north of Rome (45 miles, 50 minutes driving) and about 90 miles south of Florence. It is in the region of Latium (Lazio), about 4 miles from of the border with Umbria, and 24 miles (30 - 35 min. drive) southeast of the Tuscany border. This map is interactive. You can pan, zoom, and overlay satellite imagery. Note Soriano at the center of the map. Its proximity to the A1 Expressway and the Orte train hub, along with its unmatched beauty and mild climate make Soriano an extremely popular getaway destination for many people from the surrounding cities. Many Romans, for example, have their weekend getaway homes here. In that way, it might be compared to Lake Arrowhead or Palm Springs for Los Angeles residents, or Connecticut for New Yorkers, or The Cape for Bostonians. On the flipside, it is close enough to Rome, that many people who work in Rome, but don't want to live in the city make the daily commute. Typically, they drive to the Orte Train station (15 minutes), and take the 36 minute train ride into Central Rome. Train service between Rome and Orte is extremely regular throughout the day. Tue, 08 May 2007 17:48:50 +0100