Cortona is a beautiful hill town in the region of Tuscany. It is located in the Arezzo province, high on a hilltop, over looking the magnificent lake Trasimeno. Cortona retains its medieval fortified walls and is perfect for exploring on foot. The area has been made famous in the books of American author, Frances Mayes, such as "Under the Tuscan Sun", which was also made into a very popular movie. Cortona and the area around Lake Trasimeno was first settled by the Etruscans, and it is not difficult to find Etruscan tombs and other remnants of their civilisation, such as those in Camucia, Il Sodo and the Tanella di Pittagora, near Camucia. For lovers of art history, a Cortona villa holiday is a chance to see Fra Angelico's "Annunciation" and "Madonna and Child with Saints" in the Diocesan Museum in Cortona.

Lake Trasimeno is the largest lake on the Italian peninsular and is vitally important to local agriculture. The lake contains three islands, one of which is inhabited, and has a number of small towns and castles located on its shoreline. Take a boat out to Isola Maggiore and buy some handmade lace from its respected lace makers or visit the castle ruins at Castiglione del Lago. Go swimming, sailing or windsurfing or just take in the view of the Lake as you try out the local cuisine in the medieval village of Castel Rigone.

A Typical Tuscan meal begins with Crostini - large pieces of toasted Italian bread, served with dip or with assorted toppings. This is usually followed by pasta, such as ravioli or tortellini, or soup, such as Ribollita. Try the lasagnes or pasta flavoured with game. Tomatoes, leafy greens, beans and Chestnuts grow abundantly in this region and can be tasted frequently in the regional cuisine. Roasted or pan-fried beef, pork and chicken, flavoured with local herbs, are popular for main courses. Many cafes and restaurants will also offer a wonderful assortment of salamis and cheeses, delicious with the local mild-tasting (salt less) breads. Tuscan Pecorino cheese, served with fruit and wine, is a wonderful way to finish your meal.

Festivals and Events in Tuscany - Cortona Trasimeno
Cortona - Archidado Joust Festival (May)
Chiusi - Historical Horse Race and Pageant (June)
Ronzano di Cortona - Folklore Festival (July)
Piazzano - Flower Festival (July)
Cortona - Fiera di Cortona (October)