Lake Trasimeno - Umbria on a motorbike, along Lake Trasimeno
L’Ombrie en moto

Umbria on a motorbike, along Lake Trasimeno

A tour around Lake Trasimeno, the largest lake on the Italian peninsula

Hop on your bike at Deruta, an ancient town in the Tiber valley. Don't miss out on a walk around the artistic ceramic and majolica shops and factories. You'll certainly find something to embellish your house, such as traditionally decorated tableware or an object designed using mixed modern techniques. If you want to go for a short walk, the small old town centre is practically inside the medieval castle; we recommend a visit to the Gothic style Church of Saint Francis and its nearby convent, now the Regional Ceramic Museum.
Continue along the twisting hill road that passes through Pietraia, Mugnano and Monte Buono and take a break in Castiglione del Lago. This is an excellent spot for photography: the view of the lake and plains that surround it, with their vineyards and olive trees is really rewarding. Admire the romantic and picturesque medieval village with its castle; a backdrop to ancient walls and intimate little streets. Tuoro is a short distance away, famous for the battle over 2000 years ago that saw Hannibal's victory over Rome. There are wharves along the lakeshore where you can catch a ferry to the islands in the middle of Trasimeno: Polvese Island, Maggiore Island and Minore Island (not visitable), offering an opportunity for an excursion amidst castles and fishermen's villages.
Continue around the lake until you reach Passignano. If it is time for a meal, then enjoy one of the romantic little restaurants where you can sample the lake's fish; try a bottle of Trasimeno Gamay, a red wine that is ideal with fish, while the local Umbria PDO olive oil is delicate and fresh, making it an ideal condiment. A walk along the marina is the perfect way to end your visit.
You're almost at the end of the trip. Head towards the hilltop town of Magione, guardian of Lake Trasimeno. See the splendid medieval Torre dei Lambardi; visit the Castle of the Knights of Malta, surrounded by a large park from where the panorama stretches far away… Have a safe trip back.