I have lived within the reach of Cortona now for over 2 years. Over this time I have come to realize the vast amount of attractions there are here.
During the summer months the heat can hit the 40's quite easily! So bring that sun lotion!
Cortona is a VERY old mountain side town which overlooks Lago Di Trasimeno (Lake Trasimeno). In was in this area that Hannibal defeated the Romans.
Cortona has many attractions for the tourist including the Etruscan museum which is situated in Piazza Signorelli. At the top of Cortona is an extremely old Fort.
The views from Cortona are very Panoramic and
a photographer would definatly appreciate the views.
At Lago Di Trasimeno (Lake Trasimeno) there are many public beaches. On these public beaches are pedal boats, snack bars and the odd volley-ball court!
Lago Did Trasimeno has a total of 3 islands on it. You can take a boat trip to the main island (which is inhabited) and see the local attractions on this island.
Popular villages to visit which are situated on the lake are Passinagno and Catiliogn Del Lago. Passinagno and Castiliogn Del Lago are the main villages where you can catch a boat to the main island on the lake.
In the summer all the towns around the lake have a festival where they race a wooden rowing boat (each town has its own rowing boat) on the lake. The all parade there boats on their shoulders through the streets (Passinagno) and then onto the race.
There are MANY festivals in the summer in this area.
For the car enthusiasts, there is a town below Cortona which is called Camucia. It is here that every year (in the summer) the Mille Miglia car rally travels through. You see all the old exotic cars (Porsches, Mercedes, Ferraris', and then a few modern super cars who are also taking part).
Other car events include a race day where racetrack cars try and get the quickest time from Camucia to Cortona. They shut a few roads down and use them for the day (officially organized).
There are many Festas' in Cortona and Camucia throughout the year.
There are many Vineyards in this area (which it is renowned for). Montepulciano is only 15-20 mins away. Pienza is only 15 mins further on from that.
Arezzo is only about 30-40 mins drive and is a haven of history with its Duomo's and museums and Palazzo's.
Perugia is also 30-40 mins in the opposite direction. Perugia is located in Umbria (one region closer to Rome) and has many sightseeing attraction itself. If shopping is your thing then Perugia is a must. You can find many Jewelers there, designer shops and many other types of stores.
If motor racing is your hobby or spectator sport then Magione race circuit is a must. You will find many events there through-out the summer months (even in the winter). I regularly attend the events during the summer months. Mainly the biker events, as I am a biker myself. You will however find many car events. Formula 3000 is held there and even an event which takes place every year where car manufacturers take their cars, display them and then show them off on the race-track. If you pay a small fee you can go along for the ride. Yes even super car manufacturers attend!! :)
I first came to this area for the first time roughly 4 years ago. I fell in love with the atmosphere, views and lifestyle here and then made the decision about 8 months later to move here. I have not looked back for one second.
If you happen to visit Pienza and decide to have lunch there then I STRONGLY recommends a small cozy restaurant called 'Sperone Nudo'. It is located in Via Marconi which is a small side alleyway from the main street. I recommend that you try the Pasta with Porcini mushrooms. It is the best version of such a dish that I have tasted. They also have a good selection of wines for your taste buds too.
In these areas are many antique shops and you will find an Antique fair in Arezzo once a month. This is very popular and can get very busy.
On the whole this area makes a good holiday location for the family, couples and groups on tour. It has something for everybody.
Cortona is located in the South-East of Tuscany. On the boarder of Tuscany / Umbria. The two nearest International Airports are Pisa and Firenze (Florence).
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AT the moment your review is like brief bullet points. It may be helpful for you to elaborate on each point - give your personal experiences of the atractions. etc :-)
Hannah xxx
m.lyon 29.03.2004 12:13
Sounds a really nice place - I'd love to live somewhere like that!! Marc
Connoisseur_Haggler 26.03.2004 12:52
Mille Miglia car rally sounds fun! Especially if I can get to see a few Ferrari’s and alfa romeo’s?! I love Italy and have longed to visit Tuscany. Can you just explain where Cortona is geographically? in the region of Tuscany? And where would be the nearest airport and places to stay, I’m definitely hooked! Sounds gorgeous.
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