Searching for Authentic Italian Experience? Day Trip from Rome to Sabina Hills
Rome certainly offers more than enough to explore for a lifetime. But once you've ticked off the must-see landmarks and sipped your Aperol Spritz among the crowds in Piazza Navona, it might be time to step back and discover what lies just beyond the city. After all, the surrounding areas of Rome offer a quieter, more authentic experience where you can escape mass tourism and enjoy a laid-back afternoon in a charming village piazza. You might even find your Aperol Spritz costs half the price compared to its touristy counterpart in Navona!
The beauty of Rome’s countryside is that it provides a completely different experience compared to the historical and cultural attractions within the city. From rolling hills and peaceful mountain retreats to stunning coastlines, these areas offer rich landscapes and ancient history that complement the capital. I highly recommend renting a car and venturing into these regions, as it gives you the chance to explore Italy's authentic, slower-paced life.
As someone who has found a deep connection to the Sabina Hills, it might not be a surprise if I share a few travel tips from this perspective, although I admit I may be slightly biased!
The Sabina Hills are part of the ancient Latium region and are home to early Roman settlements. Here, you can still find traces of both Sabine and Roman history. One fascinating site is Trebula Mutuesca, an ancient settlement built by the Sabines in honor of their goddess Feronia around 400 BCE. The Romans later conquered it in 290 BCE due to its strategic location along the important Via Salaria, a route you can still travel along while exploring Sabina today.
The region has long been under the influence of the Vatican, and as such, there are many medieval castles and monasteries to visit. Among them, the Farfa Monastery stands out as one of the most renowned and historically significant.
Sabina’s natural beauty is equally impressive. The hills are dotted with charming villages, and the olive groves that grow along the mountain slopes create postcard-perfect views. The region’s local olive oil has earned the prestigious DOP certification, and its taste is something you should definitely try. Each small village is beautifully preserved, and the ancient town centers are well worth a visit.
Outdoor Adventures and Hidden Delights
In the heart of Italy's "boot," the Terminillo mountain offers winter sports like skiing from December to April. During the summer months, hiking is popular, with trails leading to the summit of the 2100-meter-high mountain. For water sports enthusiasts, Lake Turano is the perfect spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, and you can enjoy a relaxing lakeside picnic or lunch at one of the many charming lakeside restaurants.
While exploring Sabina, you may encounter herds of cows or sheep being herded along winding country roads, with vigilant shepherd dogs guarding the flocks. It’s all part of the pastoral charm of the region.
Sabina is located about an hour's drive from Rome, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. You could spend the morning enjoying scenic drives along narrow roads, then stop for lunch in a quaint village like Farfa, before heading to Lake Turano or the village of Castel di Tora. For those seeking more adventure, the journey could continue up to Collalto Sabino or even Terminillo.
Savoring Authentic Italian Cuisine in Sabina
At the end of a day spent exploring the Sabina Hills, it’s time to enjoy some of the best food Italy has to offer. The countryside offers a wealth of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy osterias. No matter where you choose to dine, you can be sure that the ingredients are fresh, local, and prepared with love.
These prices are significantly more affordable than dining in central Rome, and the quality of the food is exceptional. The dishes are made with ingredients sourced locally, and the intimate, authentic atmosphere adds to the charm of the experience.