Olive Tree Hill

We first stayed here 9 years ago. We were driving through Italy and wanted a place to see Rome from without dealing with the car. This was perfect. By the time we left we felt as if Ivano & Tehri were old friends and hoped to return just to see them. This visit (without the car) was all we hoped for and more. After ticking all the "must see" sights on previous trips, Ivano managed to open new windows through which to see and enjoy Italy. History discussed over breakfast, local wine tastings organized, exploring the center of Zagarolo and meeting the people who live there, enjoying a midday beer together - it all added up to more than a stay, it was an experience. And on our last day Ivano introduced us to an amazing restaurant, and owner Guilio, that surpassed all expectations. As seasoned travelers it is rare to be surprised by genuine hospitality like this. Thanks, Ivano and Terhi, for once again extending your insights, knowledge and warm hospitality to us. We plan to return!

Ivano and Terhi were very welcoming and lovely hosts. We had a wonderful time staying with them. The room we stayed in was very clean and inviting. Ivano took time out of his day to help us plan our Rome trip and even the hidden gems on the outskirts of Rome. We had a car which we were able to park at the property with no hassle. Ivano took us to the train station when ever we were ready to go and sorted out getting our tickets for us. The train in to Rome is so simple and only takes 30 mins. Ivano then picked us up when ever we were ready to return. The only regret would be we didn’t stay long enough! We would definitely recommend staying with Ivano and Terhi.

This is a rustic gem in the heart of the Roman country side and yet only 20 minutes by train to Rome central. Zagarola center and the train station are both a ramble from the premises for those of us who like a walk. Getting a lift to and from the station is never a problem. I had a double room which was simple but very clean and comfortable. Although I was sick for my stay, chopped and changed things accordingly, Ivano and Terhi were so patient and kind. The tour and lunch we did was local and amazing. Different to an experience of Rome and the joy here is being able to have both, pop into Rome in 20 mins and live like a local in the beautiful countryside, overlooking Rome. Even the train out is a joy, scenerywise. But it’s the kind hospitality that makes Olive Tree Hill different. Warm and gentle hospitality in abundance. Amazing food and lovely company, with other guests or with Terhi and Ivano, it is always full of comradery and fun. As a solo traveller, it was serenity when I needed and fun company when I needed that too. I learned loads cookingwise. If you book the excursions with Ivano, they are not just interesting and knowable but they are passionate, local and sometimes places where you would otherwise never have found yourself. It was a joy. I was only sorry I couldn’t participate more and so I have to go back for my night tour of Rome and my big cooking class. Ivano, the list of cooking wishes can only get longer with time! Marco, couldn’t write this without saying what a pleasure it was and how kind of you to facilitate our tour at a moment’s notice. Just a lovely, warm family extending their unique hospitality in their idyllic country setting.