Driving toward Orvieto (from any direction) causes your heart to skip a beat. It truly is amore a prima vista! Orvieto sits 1000’ perched above the Umbrian valley like a crown, filled with jewels of church steeples.

“Much more than a mix between an agritourism and a charming hotel, the Altarocca Wine Resort is an unforgettable journey in harmony, tranquility and well-being for the mind and body, dedicated to a total wellness experience at 360°.”
Altarocca Wine Resort & Spa

After our 8 hour flight to Rome and 1 hour drive, we arrived at Heaven’s Gate – it’s called Altarocca Wine Resort. Offering panoramic views, king size beds with ergonomic mattresses and pillows layered in luxury linens, we felt immediately rejuvenated. After a dip in the pool and a glass of wine, we were set to savor a fabulous meal in their Michelin restaurant awarded 2 forks!

Altarocca Dining Experience
Chef’s Plate – small bed of potatoes with marinated octopus and seasonal sprouts

Insalata caprese con mozzarella di bufala, pomodori e basilico
“Caprese” salad with buffalo’s milk mozzarella

Battuta di manzo al coltello, Olio EVO dell’Altarocca e pane tostato
Chopped raw beef with Altarocca extra virgin olive oil and toasted bread

Tagliatelle tirate a mano con ragù di anatra e timo
Home made tagliatelle with duck ragout and thyme

Burrata di bufala, insalata di spinacini, cannella, e semi di zucca
Buffalo’s milk “burrata”, fresh spinach, cinnamon and pumpkin seeds

Tonno al pane aromatico, guacamole e cialda di riso croccante
Fried tuna fillet with aromatic bread, avocado sauce

Fiori di zucca gratinati, farciti di ricotta e verdure con pomodorini ed olive nere
Zucchini blossom stuffed with ricotta cheese and vegetable served with cherry tomatoes and black olives

As soon as you hit the streets in Orvieto, you experience what it feels like to live like an authentic Italian in a small town. Strolling the streets, you stop for a coffee, gelato or a long lunch sitting under the shadow of the Duomo. Shopping fresh and local in the Thursday or Saturday market adds a note of excitement to your visit.