Welcome to the second part of this chapter. Where were we? Ah yes, from Bertinoro, we set off again (not too far this time) heading north towards Bologna.
We make a short stop at Castel San Pietro, founded in the 1200s by the commune of Bologna. This medieval town is full of charm, with narrow streets, historic buildings and towers. After a short walk and a coffee at a small café in the centre, it’s time to get back on the road to our final destination. Just under 10 km away lies Santa Maria Maddalena, where an unparalleled stay and experience await. As unique as the villa itself and its exceptional setting. But let’s take it step by step.
SANTA MARIA MADDALENA: THE EXPERIENCE OF AN EXCLUSIVE ESTATE
Santa Maria Maddalena is located within Palazzo di Varignana, a resort nestled in the hills of Bologna near Bertinoro. The soul of the resort is Palazzo Bentivoglio, a villa dating back to 1705. At Palazzo di Varignana, you can stroll and enjoy the scenery for hours, exploring 30 hectares of parkland, small streams, pathways and underground corridors.
Fun Fact: The history of Varignana dates back to Roman times (2nd century BC) with the Roman city of Claterna. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Claterna was abandoned and its inhabitants moved to Varignana, where, centuries later, the Castle of Varignana was founded.
We continue our walk, surrounded by the green hills and the various wellness facilities of Palazzo di Varignana, until we spot our destination in all its beauty and uniqueness: Santa Maria Maddalena. The villa is named after the nearby medieval church, Santa Maria Assunta alla Cappella, dating back to 1366, which was deconsecrated in the 1980s. Inside, you can still admire the original frescoes. It’s a timeless elegance where ancient and modern coexist in perfect harmony.
As evening falls, we decide to gift two special friends in our group, celebrating their anniversary, with a candlelit dinner in the villa’s garden, organised in every detail by our chosen chef.
A perfect summer evening for them and a beautiful, shared experience for us – a night to treasure, filled with the joy of friendship and the shared emotions of a journey we will remember forever.
For more information, contact our booking team by clicking here or calling us here.
One chapter of this journey has ended, but another is about to begin in the region where it all started… Can you guess where?
Suitcases always ready, let’s go!
