Skip to Content
Travel

Come Savor Umbria with Cookbook Author Anna Francese Gass

Learn about a culinary and cultural tour in Italy's region of Umbria with cookbook author Anna Francese Gass.

The vibrant Umbrian city of Perugia.

The vibrant Umbrian city of Perugia.

Editor's Note: When we heard that Anna Francese Gass would be hosting a culinary adventure through Umbria, we wanted to share the news with our readers since Anna is a contributor to the magazine and we highly encourage travel to less traversed regions of Italy (with Umbria being of particular appeal for its food, beauty and culture). The following is a guest post from Regina Tingle, founder of Duende Retreats, who is organizing the tour.

Join cookbook author and culinary influencer Anna Francese Gass on an unforgettable culinary adventure through the beloved Italian region of Umbria.

Designed to be a celebration of the region's flavors and picturesque landscapes, together we'll experience hands-on cooking classes with Anna herself, enjoy soil-to-fork meals, have exclusive wine tastings in top wineries, and sample Umbrian dishes prepared with local ingredients.

We'll be based in the lively, medieval and cosmopolitan gem of Perugia. With a thriving international language school and one of the oldest universities in the world, Perugia is vibrant, multicultural and brimming with people. Despite having pre-Roman, Etruscan roots and the architecture to prove it, it's a city that's young-at-heart and offers the very best of what Italy has to offer: culture, architecture, history, a vibrant nightlife, and of course, cuisine.

Cookbook author and food influencer Anna Francese Gass.
Cookbook author and food influencer Anna Francese Gass.

We'll stay in a four-star boutique hotel located on Perugia's gorgeous main street, Corso Vannucci, only a few steps away from all the attractions of the town and several masterpieces of Italian art. Located in one of the most beautiful old palazzi of Perugia, the hotel showcases elements that date back to the 1700s.

We'll visit medieval hilltop villages, like Todi and Orvieto; we’ll enjoy truffle hunting with a local, taste robust, red Sagrantino wine in Montefalco and have plenty of time to soak up the best of what Italy has to offer in like-minded, fun-loving company!

Fontana Maggiore on Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, Umbria, Italy.
Fontana Maggiore on Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, Umbria, Italy.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a passionate foodie, this trip promises to ignite your senses and deepen your appreciation for the art of Italian cuisine. Limited spots are available—don’t miss this unforgettable Italian getaway!

Duende Retreats offers transformative experiences that combine creativity, personal growth, local cultures and cuisines. Set in stunning surroundings, our itineraries provide the perfect opportunity to reconnect with yourself and awaken your creative spirit—while also savoring the authentic flavors of the world’s finest cuisines.

Learn more and book your spot at Duende Retreats.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Appetito

Bad Ass Bolognese and a Super Charcuterie Board for the Big Game

Our Editor-in-Chief shares a Big Game menu complete with an elaborate charcuterie board and a muscular Bolognese ragu.

February 6, 2026

L’Appetito Vien Mangiando: Why Appetite Comes With Eating

Italian scholar and New York-based educator Samuel Ghelli launches a new Appetito series exploring how Italian sayings shape ideas about food, language and life.

February 6, 2026

Nogroni from Fluère Offers NA Negroni Bliss

A mindful sip inspired by an Italian classic.

February 5, 2026

V-Day Treat: Ricotta Hearts with Raspberry–Rose Compote & Pistachios

Joanna Moeller shares a sumptuous Valentine's Day dessert that features heart-shaped ricotta topped with a sweet compote and salty pistachios.

February 5, 2026

For Your Honey: Buffalo Mozzarella with Honey Bomb Tomato Confit & Basil Oil

Joanna Moeller shares a recipe for the ultimate Valentine's Day appetizer featuring fresh Buffalo Mozzarella.

February 4, 2026

Romantic New York Italian Restaurants for Valentine’s Day

Candlelit trattorias and stylish dining rooms set the tone for an intimate date night.

February 4, 2026
See all posts