These days, everyone has heard of Italy's Lake Como, largely due to its association with the captain of cool, George Clooney. However, Italy's central, land-locked region of Umbria is home to another spectacularly belissima watery resort - Lago Trasimeno. Only slightly smaller than Como, Trasimeno is a popular Italian summer vacation spot due to its historic castles, intriguing islands, and abundant opportunities for lakeside sports, and its mild winters make it a romantic getaway any time of the year.
From Atlanta, Delta Airlines flies nonstop to Rome, and local airlines connect to the Eleuteri airport, near Castiglion del Lago. One can also take a train to several of the towns on the lake, the largest of which are Castiglion del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno. Either town is a convenient day trip from Perugia, the largest city in Umbria.
Castiglion del Lago has the largest coastline on the lake, and if one is driving, it would be easily accessible at any time of year. However, in the winter, the buses and taxis from the train station do not run into town, so be prepared for a long, albeit scenic, walk if you are on foot. Passignano's train station is located much closer to the actual town, and therefore this would be a better choice for entry to the lake in the off-season if you are traveling without your own car.
Lago Trasimeno is known for its food as well - it is not unusual at any time of year to find Umbrians from neighboring towns making the trip to the lake for an indulgent Sunday feast of fresh, local seafood and homemade pasta. In Castiglion del Lago, the Monna Lisa restaurant is an intimate, family-run establishment housed in a building dating back to the 1500s that will leave you with a satisfied smile as you stroll through the olive groves by the lake after your meal.
If your holiday bonus check has you fantasizing about a romantic vacation in the new year, it's not too early to start planning a springtime trip to Umbria and Lago Trasimeno. You won't rub elbows with Clooney, but the authentic, unspoiled beauty of the region has an intimate charm that will make every day a valentine.
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