Whoever said the only great countryside in Italy is in Umbria and Tuscany surely hasn’t been to Sabina. I’m talking about the little known countryside retreat in the Northern Lazio region, just a 50-minute drive from Rome. Vast stretches of rolling hills dotted by olive groves and vineyards, horses roaming the countryside, jaw-dropping views of the bordering Umbrian towns and sunsets you will never forget.

If you’re thinking off-the-beaten path destinations in Italy, the Sabina countryside has to be on your bucket list. But don’t spread the word too much, this is a local’s secret and it hasn’t been overrun by tourist crowds, yet. Not in love already? Here are five more reasons you need to visit the Sabina countryside and tips on where to stay in Sabina.