🍁 Autumn in Sabina: A Feast for the Senses

The Sabina hills are known for their olive groves, chestnut forests, and fertile lands, and autumn is when the region comes alive. Markets fill with the best seasonal products: fresh figs, wild mushrooms, truffles, chestnuts, khaki (persimmons), hazelnuts, pomegranates, and the first bottles of new olive oil.

Walking through the nearby countryside in September, October, and November, you’ll breathe in crisp air scented with wood smoke, olives, and grapes - a perfect backdrop to enjoy “la dolce vita.”

🫒 November at Dolce Villa – Hands-On Traditions

At Dolce Villa, autumn isn’t just about observing - it’s about participating. November is a special month for us because it’s olive oil season!

Guests who wish to join can:

• Help with the olive harvest in our nearby groves

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• Watch (or take part in) the cold-pressing process at the mill

• Taste freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil straight from the source

But that’s not all - November is also the time for:

• Khaki (persimmon) picking from our trees

• Chestnut gathering in our forests

• Hazelnut harvesting

• Preparing homemade apple cider vinegar together in the villa’s kitchen

These activities are perfect for anyone who wants a truly immersive Italian countryside experience - where food, land, and people connect.

🎃 Halloween – October 31st

While Halloween isn’t a traditional Italian celebration, it has become increasingly popular in recent years. Nearby towns often host themed parties, night tours, and cultural events, especially around historical sites. Children go “dolcetto o scherzetto” (trick-or-treating), and restaurants sometimes offer creative autumn-inspired menus.

At Dolce Villa, we’ll celebrate with pumpkin carving, cozy fires, mulled wine, and a relaxed movie night - a sweet and simple way to enjoy the evening.

🦃 A Special Thanksgiving at Dolce Villa

Even though Italy doesn’t traditionally celebrate Thanksgiving, we believe it’s a wonderful opportunity to gather as a community and express gratitude for the beautiful life we share here.

At Dolce Villa, we’ll prepare a festive Thanksgiving dinner with:

• A table filled with seasonal Italian dishes alongside traditional favorites

• Local wines from the Sabina hills

• A dessert table where pumpkin pie meets tiramisù

• Stories, laughter, and heartfelt toasts under the autumn sky

It’s a day to slow down, share good food, and create new memories together.

🍷 “Il Giorno di Bacco” - The Day of Bacchus

📍 Palombara Sabina | Mid-November | Castello Savelli

One of the highlights of the season! The historic Castello Savelli opens its gates for a celebration dedicated to wine, gastronomy, and music. You’ll find:

• Guided tastings of the region’s best wines

• Gourmet food pairings and local specialties

• Live music, cultural performances, and artisan stalls

• A vibrant, authentic atmosphere inside the castle walls

This event perfectly captures the essence of autumn in Sabina - indulgence, tradition, and joy.

🎶 Festivals, Food & Culture Around Dolce Villa

Autumn is full of local events, music, and culinary festivals. Some highlights:

🍇 September – October Highlights

• Lazio Musica Sacra Festival Over 150 sacred music concerts in historic churches across the region - most free or under €5.

• Romaeuropa Festival A multidisciplinary arts festival featuring contemporary dance, theater, visual arts, and live performances.

🌰 November Highlights

• Chestnut Festivals (Sagre della Castagna)Vallerano, Riofreddo, and Marcetelli - taste roasted chestnuts, local wines, and enjoy lively folk music.

• Fara Music Festival – Autumn Edition Jazz concerts, olive oil tastings, and cultural workshops at Castelnuovo di Farfa and Abbazia di Farfa.

• Festival della Cucina Romana – Guidonia (Late November)A street food paradise featuring amatriciana, carbonara, and Roman specialties, plus live DJs and entertainment.

🏛️ Exploring Tivoli, Guidonia & Sant'Angelo Romano

Nearby towns offer even more autumn magic:

• Tivoli: Stroll through Villa d’Este during special night openings and explore its illuminated gardens.

• Guidonia: Enjoy culinary festivals and traditional Roman food celebrations.

• Sant'Angelo Romano: Discover charming streets, historic sites, and local events that capture the essence of autumn in the Sabina hills.

Villa d’Este by night

🌿 Dolce Vita Moments

At the end of each day, return to the peaceful charm of Dolce Villa Italy. Share a glass of wine on the terrace, enjoy homemade olive oil on freshly baked bread, or relax with friends by the fireplace.

Autumn here is about living in harmony with the land, embracing local traditions, and creating new memories together.