Piegaro, Umbria

On the Umbrian map for its history of glass-blowing and its celebration of the chestnut.

Where to stay: Colleen and Tom's L'Antica Vetreria is our favorite launching pad for travelers wanting easy access to both Umbria and Tuscany.  The property is an old glass factory, and Colleen and Tom are veritable fonts of information on how that industry connected little Piegaro to both Venice and Orvieto. In addition, L'Antica Vetreria makes for a relaxing home base (the pool is marvelous), and a place where guests can bask in their hosts' knowledge and warmth. Jeep tours through the nearby celebrated vineyard of Montevibiano is a treat.