Like the idea of Glastonbury but can�t face camping, queuing for toilets and having every meal at a burger van? Then why not wait a week and head to the region of Umbria, Central Italy? During the first two weeks of July, the neighbouring towns of Perugia and Spoleto each hold internationally acclaimed music festivals. Italian festivals are decidedly more civilised than their British counterparts with concerts often scheduled in open air restaurants, so you can listen whilst you dine. Or they�re in historical sites such as Roman theatres, medieval fortresses and cathedral squares � so there�s no danger of a mud bath! And of course, the chance of your favourite artist being rained off during an Italian summer festival is unlikely!

Spoleto�s 3-week long music, dance, drama and cinema festival is now its in 47th year. In 2005 it starts on the 2nd July with an inaugural concert by the Belgium Philharmonic Orchestra. There�ll also be performances of Handel�s Oreste led by world-class conductor, Daniel Beckwith, and a series of concerts ranging from classical to jazz performed by the Juillard School of Music from New York.

Perugia�s renowned Umbria Jazz Festival begins on the 8th July. Head-lining the bill this year is Elton John, who plays here on the 12th July. But if the budget doesn�t quite stretch to seeing him, then there�s a daily programme of free concerts including performances by Algiers Brass Band of New Orleans and the Nashville Super Choir.

Customers departing on Headwater�s Perugia to Assisi Cycling holiday between July 2nd and 14th are ideally placed to experience both these festivals for free as their cycling route includes 2 night stops in both towns. With performances daily, they can cycle in for a lazy lunch, soak up the festival atmosphere, then return for a relaxing dip at their hotel pool � beats a leaking tent any day!

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In July, this 8-night cycling tour is priced at �1029 per person and includes return air travel, 8 nights accommodation on a half board basis, local transfers, bike hire, cycling route notes and maps, services of a local rep, bags moving service. To book call 01606 720199 or visit www.headwater.com

For more information contact Rachel Kirkaldy, Director of PR & Business Development on 01606 720042, email: rachel.kirkaldy@headwater.com or Clare Redhead 01606 720021, email: clare.redhead@headwater.com