Gudmundstjärn, located 30 km west of Sundsvall, is one of Sweden's last preserved self-sufficient settlements. Between 1779 and 1944 the fields here were farmed by five generations. No roads connected the homestead to the outside world. The 22 preserved buildings have been declared historical monuments, and the area is now a nature reserve.

The 11th century church of San Severo (Cappella di San Severo) was built on the site of a pagan temple. Rebuilt in the 18th century, it is noteworthy for the fresco in its 14th century chapel: the upper part is by the great Renaissance painter Raphael, the lower part by Perugino.

A range of treks is available for those keen to explore the jungle in depth. Temperatures can drop to 13°C at night, so bring your own sleeping bag and warm clothing. Proper shoes for varied terrain are essential. Mosquito nets are usually provided. Some treks offer porters to carry your backpack. Consider what you want to experience: options include fish massages, forest reserves, monkey sanctuaries, and white water rafting through the jungle.

This is a beautiful medieval structure, first built at the end of the 13th century, and the subject of many additions and alterations over the years. Head up the stairs in Piazza IV Novembre and into the Sala dei Notari – completely covered in allegorical and biblical frescoes that date from the 13th century. Entering the palazzo from Corso Vannucci takes you to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria and to two further rooms: the Collegio della Mercanzia and the Collegio del Cambio. The Collegio della Mercanzia is beautifully panelled in wood, probably done by German craftsmen in the 15th century. The Collegio del Cambio has two rooms, the second with stunning late 15th century frescoes by Perugino.