In a recent article, Travel Writers On Their Best and Worst Travel Moments, I wrote about visiting Lago di Orta as my best travel experience of 2013. To be honest, it was one of many, but I couldn’t list them all in that article! I’ve been wanting write about Castrum Sagliani for some time now, as it definitely stands out as one of my best travel moments from last year.
A former castello and church, Castrum Sagliani is located near the town of Cesena in the province of Emilia Romagna, Italy. It has all the rustic charm of many such places I’ve seen in Italy, but what makes it unique is the owner – who is living his dream of owning a castle and turning it into an agriturismo.
Maybe it was the fact that I was there on the last day of my October press trip, in which I’d made new friends and met so many lovely people and I was feeling a bit sentimental? But I think the pictures tell the story – how could I not like this place?
interior of the old church
It was easy to see from his body language and expressions and the way he thoughtfully answered any questions that he was truly a happy man, and wanted to share his dream with everyone.
After a brief tour and history of the church and grounds, we sat down to gorgeous views and a delicious meal of local meats, cheeses, bread, olives, fruit, and of course wine, all prepared by the lady of the castle. The food was arranged on long table so tastefully, it was like a work of art itself.
The rooms were not quite complete at the time we were there, but by spring this year they should be. If you like nature, good food, and nice people then you will love Castrum Sagliani.
Sitting in the dining area looking out over this tranquil landscape of rolling hills and vineyards, I really didn’t want to leave. I was so sad that this was the last day of my trip to Emilia Romagna and that I couldn’t stay on a few days and just relax into the hospitality and serenity of the location and the owners. If you go, please say hello for me.
To visit Agriturismo Castrum Sagliani you will need to call as they don’t yet have a website. The owner does speak English. Tel. 0547/326381 Cell. 346/6026728
“This post was a part of Buonvivere Blog Tour, organized by Settimana del Buonvivere in collaboration with 21Grammy.
