Montepiano

A well-kept secret among off-the-main-road travelers is the countryside north of Rome known as “Sabina” after the mountain range. It is unusual that agritourism has not developed close to Rome compared to what has occurred around Florence, but locals are beginning to wake up. Ancestors of the Gabbuti family came from this area and the principal palazzos in both medieval towns of Casperia and Montasola, plus a large farm with olive groves, have been in the family for generations. One of the daughters, Letizia, decided to leave a law career in Rome to work on restoration of these properties and offer hospitality in the form of apartments and one bedroom within her home. Spacious apartments include one to three bedrooms, living room, kitchen, and bathrooms, all warmly decorated with the family’s own antiques. Characteristic architectural features have been preserved, and three apartments have terraces with a breathtaking panoramic view (our favorite is the one in the medieval tower). There is something very special about being a “resident” of a medieval village with its narrow stone alleyways. Lounge under the shady trees of a stone-walled garden, dine at the characteristic osteria in the village, or take 2-3 day cooking lessons. Other charming villages dot the area, Umbria is nearby, and Rome is just a 45-minute train ride away. Suitable for independent explorers.