Monthly Archives: December 2018

Christmas in Italy

Italy a magical place at Christmas. Our local town of Ascoli Piceno is known for it's fine Renaissance Travertine Squares. It is a wonderful location for a 'passeggiata' (a stroll) in the afternoon and evenings in the run-up to Christmas. Not only are the shops decorated beautifully but the public buildings and squares are…

Hunting the infamous white gold - the Italian White Truffle From The Retreat, nestled in beautiful rolling hill-side of the southern Piceno, we follow along the paths of our local trifolao Filippo (truffle hunter) and his keen dog. Having hunted for truffles in ourlocal woods surrounding The Retreat since his childhood, he…

Snow and Panettone delights

Lots of snow in Le Marche now. A good excuse to enjoy all those sweet delights Jana has been making for all the family. I especially love the mini panettones. Yum!Why not try out her recipe yourself. They make special presents or party gifts too, if wrapped up in baking paper. They are so easy…