Giano dell'Umbria, an 11th century town of about 3,500 residents, is located off the beaten path and a perfect place to spend a Saturday.  We meandered through it's cobblestone streets and absorbed the views of the vast valley below.

We then drove to the top of Monte Martano.  At 3,589 ft. we were above it all.  It was brisk but breathtaking.  Part of a massive mountain range that runs through the heart of Umbria, we both agreed it would be the place for hikes in the summer time and hot chocolate in the winter.

Giano dell'Umbria is a quaint town that makes one think of a "true" Italian village.  A story book written long ago but still worth reading.