Umbria through the eyes of the founders of Nice2stay
Umbria is not just a destination for us. It’s where it all began. In 2012, we – Remco and Femke – moved with our young family to this green region in the heart of Italy. What started as an adventure to live differently soon grew into Nice2stay: a carefully curated collection of unique accommodations with character and soul.
“Umbria feels like coming home.” “It is the beating heart of Nice2stay.”
What drew us to Umbria was the peace, the space, and the purity of life. No crowds of tourists, but rolling hills, centuries-old villages, and locals who welcome you as if you’ve always belonged. Here, you live by the rhythm of the seasons: olives in autumn, truffles in winter, blooming fields in spring, and warm summer nights lit by fireflies.
Our bond with this region goes beyond our own experience. Femke’s parents lived here for twenty years, renovating two beautiful homes and managing rentals and renovations for other families. Beautiful properties with history and charm – three of which are still proudly part of our collection today.
Our Favorite Places in Umbria
Todi
A charming hill town with a relaxed atmosphere, lively piazzas, and stunning views over the Tiber Valley. It’s where we first found inspiration for Nice2stay.
Spello
A flower-filled town with narrow streets, perfect for an afternoon of wandering. The annual Infiorata (flower festival) is a feast for the senses.
Norcia & the Valnerina
A paradise for nature lovers and foodies. Truffles, lentils, mountain landscapes, and endless hiking trails. Here, you feel the power of nature and the simplicity of life.
Montefalco
Famous for its Sagrantino wines and medieval charm. A perfect spot for wine tastings with a view. Follow the Strada del Sagrantino and discover small, family-run wineries where you taste straight from the source.
Lake Trasimeno
A peaceful counterpart to Tuscany’s lakeside scene. Ideal for families, picnics, and sunset boat rides. The lake is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and medieval castles.
Città di Castello & Montone
Northern Umbria is surprisingly beautiful and quiet. Città di Castello has an elegant historic center with great restaurants and shops. Montone, a small medieval village, is atmospheric and timeless – perfect for an evening stroll and a local glass of wine.
Assisi, Perugia & Orvieto
Three cities that each form the cultural and spiritual heart of Umbria in their own way. Assisi is serene and awe-inspiring with its basilica, Perugia buzzes as a student city full of markets and culture, and Orvieto rises dramatically above the valley – an architectural and historical wonder.
Bevagna & Città della Pieve
More low-key, but just as charming. In Bevagna, time seems to stand still. Città della Pieve is colorful, lively, and offers sweeping views toward Tuscany.
Why Nice2stay Belongs Here
Umbria is our origin. It’s where we lived, worked, built, and dreamed. Many of the homes in our collection were discovered personally – visited, experienced, and connected through the people behind them. We know who presses the olive oil, who makes the best pasta, and where to find the most breathtaking views.
The accommodations we’ve selected in Umbria are as diverse as the region itself: rustic farmhouses, elegant country homes, and modern villas with infinity pools. What they have in common? They connect you with the real Italy.
Practical: Why Umbria Is So Appealing
Umbria is centrally located and easily accessible via the airports of Perugia, Florence, Rome, Bologna, and even Pisa. It’s also very reachable by car from the Netherlands and Belgium. Once you arrive, it feels like stepping into a different rhythm of life.
The climate is mild, with warm summers and soft spring and autumn seasons. Perfect for walking, cooking, swimming, or simply enjoying the view. Each season has its charm – and its flavors. Umbria is a paradise for food lovers: taste local truffles, pecorino cheese, handmade pasta, and the famous olive oil. A visit to a market in places like Perugia or Spoleto is a treat for all senses.
Remco & Femke’s Tips for Umbria
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Cook local. Visit a farmers' market, buy fresh produce, and cook at home in your holiday house.
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Go hiking. Whether it’s a short walk near Lake Trasimeno or a full-day trek in the Sibillini Mountains, there’s always something to discover.
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Visit in spring or autumn. That’s when the light is most beautiful, nature at its purest, and the peace most profound.
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Stay somewhere with character. Choose a place that tells a story. Our collection helps you do just that.
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Follow a wine route. For example, the Strada del Sagrantino, with tastings at small, local winemakers around Montefalco.
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Explore the lesser-known villages. That’s where you’ll find the calm, charm, and warmth that makes Umbria so beloved.
In Conclusion
Umbria is not just a spot on the map for us – it’s a place full of memories. It’s where Nice2stay was born and where we return time and again for inspiration and peace. We hope you’ll fall in love with it just as much as we have.
– Remco & Femke, founders of Nice2stay