I know that those that have stayed here have loved it. My daughter (24) and I are thinking about spending a week there in May. My concern is the driving to and from when we visit other towns. The road on the map looks very twisting. I did read that it is not easily traveled after dark..

What are your opinions ?

Would it be a lot easier with an automatic (although they do cost more than manual).

Thanks

We stayed there in March, based mainly on recommendations from this board, and just loved it.

The road is a little twisty but honestly not any more than most of the other roads in the region. We really had no problems at all. The road from Case Gialle down to Bevagna is a little creepy at night, but its a side road and from what I understand there are other ways to get there if you are nervous.

From Case Gialle it was easy to visit Montefalco, Bevagna, Spello, Assisi, Deruta, Trevi, Todi, etc.

You can find more information on my trip report if you are interested. The link is http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgMessa...t=0&screen

Tracy

I guess I've stayed there a half dozen times (in fact, I'm Mauro's olive oil agent in the USA, although I've never been called on to do anything except fill out a federal form).

As above, the roads are a little tricky but not worse than many others I've driven on in Italy. I normally lunch out and prepare dinner in. There are very good food stores in Bevagna.

I know you'll enjoy LCG.

Thanks for the info Tracy. I have read most of your trip report and have bookmarked it. Good info. sounds like you had a great time !!

I'm not a nervous driver, but if if I have to drive a stick, I might be a dangerous driver !

Are the roads steep and winding or JUST winding ??

Thanks DRJ. where can I buy Mauro's olive oil in the U.S. ?

susiedq, to be honest my husband was the one driving so I can't give first-hand advice, but as a passenger I don't remember any of the roads being that bad. This area of Umbria is more "hilly" than "mountainy" so there wasn't as much climbing. They were definitely more winding. Hubby said that its the Italian drivers you have to watch out for because they tend to be fast and rather impatient, but they will pass you, even if there really isn't room for them too, so just maintain your speed and don't let it bother you too much and you'll be fine.

Overall the roads in the area are in good condition, not too steep, and there are road signs everywhere pointing you in the right direction of the towns.

We had a great time and loved the area. You will be very happy there!

Tracy