My mom and I are finishing plans for our soon trip to Rome for 9 days. We plan to spend three days in Umbria, traveling out of Rome by car. Assisi is a must see for my mom, but want to see the countryside a bit too. What town would you recommend as a base for three nights (leave Rome in afternoon, stay 3 nights, early morning back to Rome). Thanks greatly, Sandy

Bellarose, Check out Malvarina, a little piece of Umbrian heaven about a 15 minute easy drive in the countryside near Assisi. Type Malvarina into the search box at the top of your page and several messages should appear from the archives. It's a Fodor favorite. Mamma's dinners are luscious. <BR><BR>www.malvarina.com

Betsy, Based on previous postings, I did try Malvarina!! Today, I received a response in Italian, which I do not read. I tried translating it on several free translation websites, but the translated text was nonsensical. I have emailed again, asking if they can reply in English. Are they far from Assisi? <BR>Any other recs are welcome too. Thanks, Sandy

Betsy, oops, just reread your reply indicating a 15 min drive to Assisi. BTW, have you ever stayed in Assisi itself? S

No, I've only been to Umbria once and haven't stayed in Assisi. If you do a search, you'll find previous posts from lots of folks who have.<BR><BR>The folks at Malvarina speak a bit of English. You may want to find someone in your neighborhood or at work who can translate for you. Or if you type in your response on this thread, there'll probably be posters who can help you.

Bellarose, I agree that Malvarina is a good rural choice. Two other options in towns are:<BR>Hotel Umbra--Assisi<BR>Palazzo Bocci--Spello<BR><BR>I like Spello as a base location.

Thanks Bbbthenavigator, I'll chekc those out. Betsy, on the Malvarina website there's a photo of &quot;mama&quot; cooking with guests. Did you get to do this? S

Alas, I found out too late that it's possible to take a one-day class with Maria. You help prepare the night's dinner. I sat next to a woman at dinner who had done this and she was quite pleased with the experience. She was the only student that day. I'll be sure to do it next time. Ask when you check in.