La Sabbiona: Experience the authentic Emilia-Romagna, nestled among the vineyards

Just an hour’s drive from Bologna and 45 minutes from Ravenna and the Adriatic coast, you’ll find La Sabbiona: in the morning, when you open the windows of your room, your gaze drifts over rows of grapevines and rolling hills. And, on clear days, the faint silhouettes of the coast in the distance.

This is the daily view at La Sabbiona, an authentic agriturismo and winery just 6 kilometers from Faenza, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna. More than just a place to stay. An experience of the countryside and life itself.

Agriturismo for generations

La Sabbiona traces its roots back to the late sixteenth century. In the 1970s, the Altini family—who have always had farming in their blood—decided to move from the plains to the hills and build something special there.

Since 1993, Mauro and his parents have been working side by side to welcome guests, guided by the wisdom of his grandfather Quinto and a deep love for the land. The result: a place where tradition and comfort come together in a way you rarely find anywhere else.

Sleeping Among the Vineyards

La Sabbiona offers 5 rooms and 4 apartments (studios and larger units). All are decorated in a style that harmonizes with the past while offering modern comforts, such as air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. The apartments feature a kitchenette for when you want to cook for yourself.

The outdoor pool with its panoramic whirlpool is the centerpiece of lazy afternoons. Surrounding it are lounge chairs, a volleyball court, and a play area for children.

Wine, olive oil, and the flavors of Emilia-Romagna

The estate covers 32 (!) hectares, 18 of which are planted with vineyards. Approximately 55,000 bottles are produced annually, ranging from IGT to DOC and DOCG, with a special focus on rare indigenous grape varieties such as Centesimino (formerly known as Savinòn rosso), Albana, Sangiovese, and Famoso.

A visit to the wine cellar is simply part of the experience. You’ll taste the wines, learn about the grapes and the soil, and hopefully take a few bottles home with you. In addition to wine, La Sabbiona also produces, among other things, extra virgin olive oil, spelt, jam, fruit juices, and products made with their own lavender.

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner year-round. The menu features traditional Romagna recipes that Mother Serena and her team cherish as a precious heritage. Cooking classes are offered to ensure these traditions are not lost. Accompanied by a glass of the restaurant’s own wine, of course.

Nature, art, and medieval villages right on your doorstep

La Sabbiona is strategically located if you want to explore and relax. Hiking and biking trails through the Parco delle Ginestre start right at the entrance; the agriturismo is surrounded by two nature parks, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying a 360-degree panorama. At the nearby riding stable (5 km away), you can explore the countryside on horseback.

The area also offers an impressive cultural program:

• Faenza (6 km): world-famous for its artistic ceramics and the International Ceramics Museum
• Brisighella (15 km): a charming medieval village with the Via degli Asini
• Castrocaro Terme (15 min.): thermal waters, a medieval village, and a well-preserved castle
• Forlì (10 km): home to the renowned exhibitions at the Museo San Domenico
• Ravenna (39 km): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with its golden mosaics
• Dozza and Bertinoro: two picturesque borgos you won’t want to miss
• Bologna (55 km): known not only for its culture but also for Eataly, which offers everything related to food and wine
• Ferrara (85 km): a beautiful city to explore by bike

And Florence? Faenza has a direct train connection through the green Apennines: you can reach this beautiful Renaissance city in under 2 hours.

Who is La Sabbiona suitable for?

If you see an agriturismo not just as a place to sleep, but as the heart of your vacation itself. If you want to start the morning with a savory-and-sweet breakfast buffet, spend the afternoon in the vineyard or by the pool, and end the evening with a plate of homemade pasta and a glass of Centesimino.

La Sabbiona is a place you’ll never forget. And, like so many guests before you, you’ll find yourself returning there.