Budget B&B in the rural heart of Italy

We first found Piandangelo whilst searching the internet for a suitable place to stay overnight after a late arrival at Forli airport. I expected there would be no possibility of food as we were arriving well after 11pm local time, but this was no big deal. However, to our surprise, after finding the small collection of farm buildings hidden away up a remote track, stopping to let a wild boar and her family cross our path yards from the entrance, the place was buzzing with guests still enjoying an evening of eating and drinking with friends and family.

We were immediately seated and presented with the most fantastic (and welcome) spread of antipasti we had ever seen and a carafe of wine and wished "buon appetito".

The bedrooms are simple, comfortable and tastefully furnished with en-suite bathrooms, T.V. and telephones. A traditional rustic breakfast can be served on a covered terrace or al fresco if desired.

Their website speaks for itself, giving details of their rooms, faclities and tarrifs. However, this is my personal recommendation for a stress-free and thoroughly genuine Italian welcome at any time of the year. Full-board is a tempting option at around 60 Euros a night, but everything is very flexible, and you only pay for what you have. No forfeits for getting back too late for dinner!

The surroundings are enchanting, yet very 'real'. Sheep, chickens, dogs, the odd cat and even rabbits and doves seem to co-exist quite happily in a rural paradise, the air scented with honey and resonant with the sounds of the countryside. Behind the main building is a stunning swimming pool built just two years ago, with a small bar and showering facilities.

You have to pinch yourself to remember that all this is just five minutes drive from the main E45 highway from Ravenna to Rome! This location gives you access to the whole of Italy to the East of the Appenini, with Cesenatico and the Adriatic coast to the North, Le Marche to the East and Tuscany and Umbria just a half-hour drive to the South.

As well as being a place to stay and eat, Piandangelo is a working farm and a family home. It is run tirelessly and enthusistically by a young couple with previous exerience in hotel management and a passion for hospitality. With it's combination of handy location and rural charm, this delightful agriturismo is a lot more than just a perfect place to stay overnight after a late arrival at Forli airport.