I Stayed In The Italian Villa from Normal People and Eat Pray Love—And You Can Too

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If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Normal People or Eat Pray Love, let me introduce you to Il Casale—a stunning Airbnb that played a role in both. But beyond its cinematic history, this stay offers something even better: warm hospitality, stunning countryside views, and an authentic taste of Italian farm life.

Here’s everything you need to know before booking your own stay.

The Location: A Dreamy Italian Escape

Perched in the rolling hills of the Italian countryside, this villa is straight out of a storybook. Rustic beauty surrounds you in every direction, with lush foliage, sprawling farmland, and plenty of cats roaming the property. To my understanding, this is also a working farm, so expect to be greeted by friendly faces, fresh air, and a sense of slow, simple living.

The Cost

For six nights and seven days, I paid just under $300 USD, which comes out to roughly $50 per night. Considering what you get—two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, a pool, and an outdoor dining area—this is a steal for a stay in the Italian countryside.

Bonus: You can also walk or rent a bike to tour the grounds, adding to the charm of the experience.

Things to Note

• You won’t have the entire villa to yourself—you’ll be staying in the upstairs portion, while the owners live downstairs. But don’t worry—they were incredibly welcoming, never intrusive, and even brought me espresso whenever I sat outside to read.

• Renting a car is a must. I was hesitant at first, but upon the host's recommendation, I went for it—and I’m so glad I did. Getting to the villa from Rome is an easy drive (less than an hour), and having a car makes it much easier to explore nearby towns and countryside.

• Bugs exist. As dreamy as this place is, it is the countryside—so nature is part of the experience. I was not prepared for the scorpion I found in the kitchen, so consider this your official warning.

Final Thoughts

This stay was unforgettable—from the warm hospitality to the sheer beauty of the location, every moment felt special. If you’re looking for a charming, peaceful, and uniquely cinematic experience, this villa is absolutely worth booking.