To stay at Il Castello di Poreta, email castellodiporeta@tin.it. Il Castello di Poreta Loc. Poreta, 06049, Spoleto (PG) tel +39-0743-275810 fax +39-0743-270175

nown as the Green Heart of Italy, Umbria boasts beautiful landscapes, charming hilltop towns, quality wines often called "Super Umbrians," and a restored country house between Spoleto and Foligno called Il Castello di Poreta. A consortium of young people include a charming American, Pam Moskow, who is married to a Roman composer, manages this treasure. It offers comfortable lodging and a great base for exploring Umbria. Pam arranges truffle hunts, wine and cheese tastings, visits to olive presses, and other Umbrian treats. A restored church with 16th century frescoes hosts seminars and concerts. There are eight double rooms, and breakfast is included. The kitchen produces incredible Umbrian cuisine using local produce and homemade breads, pastas, and desserts. On my last visit, Chef Donatella Lauteri, the young wizard in the kitchen, shared this incredible recipe with me -- warm truffled farro (spelt) salad. Try it today! READ ABOUT David Lebovitz Kate Hill Paulette Mitchell Benita Leo Piazzesi Gianni Migliorini Germana Conti Gabriele Ferron Osteria Luchin Federico Bacci Gastronomia Perini Romeo Colzi Dario Cecchini Mimmo Baldi Donatella Lauteri Giovanni Cappelli Fabio Picchi Andrea Francini WATCH FOR FUTURE PROFILES! Click here to find Donatella's Chicchi recipe!