After weeks of driving through mountains, lakes, cities and cuckoo clocks, we decided it was time to hit pause. Cue: Hold Fast to Dreams, a horse sanctuary tucked away in the quiet heart of rural Italy.
We parked the van under a canopy and immediately exhaled. No traffic, no timelines - just warm air, distant whinnies, and the occasional curious donkey peeking around a corner. Bonnie was curious and began adjusting to life as a farm dog.
And yes - there were puppies! We spent a good portion of our five days here chasing, cuddling, and being chased by an energetic crew of small, waggy-tailed pups. Bonnie decided to be the adult in the room, and observed the fun from a distance.
The sanctuary itself is run by kind, down-to-earth people who truly love their animals. We got to groom horses, and even go for a gentle ride through the surrounding hills. My horse was calm and steady; and it was magical. We took rolling hills up towards the medieval town of Pareto, through golden landscapes and finally turned back towards the farm. This really was one of those “wow” moments, it finally sunk in that my little van I slaved over had driven us to Italy!
Most of our days were slow: lazy mornings, countryside walks, long lunches, reading in the shade. Evenings were golden hours stretched out over rolling fields, the smell of hay and home-cooked food drifting through the air, and the occasional distant snort of a horse settling in for the night.
It wasn’t a sightseeing stop. It wasn’t about ticking off must-sees or collecting souvenirs. It was about rest, reconnecting, and remembering why we hit the road in the first place. Just us, the van, a handful of horses, and enough puppy kisses to last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts: A Dream Worth Holding Fast To
Hold Fast to Dreams lived up to its name. It reminded us that travel isn’t always about movement—sometimes it’s about stillness, softness, and letting yourself just be. It was exactly what we needed.
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🐴 Getting There & Tips for Visiting
Hold Fast to Dreams Horse Sanctuary
📍 Location:
Hold Fast to Dreams is nestled in rural Italy, about an hour north of Savona along the coast. The drive is peaceful and scenic, winding through olive groves and sleepy villages. Be prepared for a few narrow country roads—nothing the yellow van couldn’t handle!
Park4night: #547091
What3words: ///tailed.misreads.enchanting
🛻 Parking:
Campervans are welcome, and there’s space to park comfortably on-site. It’s basic, rustic, and quiet—just how we like it. There’s no stress, no noise, and no city chaos. You can book ahead via their website!
🐶 Dog-Friendly:
Absolutely! Bonnie was treated like one of the pack—welcomed with tail wags and happy chaos from the resident puppies. It’s a great spot for well-socialised dogs who enjoy space, animals, and rolling in hay. But do note, it is a farm and there are free-roaming animals! They also have livestock guardian dogs roaming in the evening, they recommend your dog being away from 8pm to 8am.
🐴 Activities:
Horse riding is available, even for beginners—gentle treks through the countryside with calm, rescued horses.
Chill time is very much part of the experience. Bring a book, a hammock, or nothing at all.
Puppy cuddles are compulsory. You’ve been warned.
If you stay for more than 6 nights, you can stay for FREE and help out on the farm.
🧘♀️ Vibe:
It’s slow, rustic, and beautifully imperfect. Come here if you’re craving rest, connection with animals, and a break from the fast lane. Don’t come expecting luxury—it’s not about five-star stays; it’s about fresh air, kindness, and the kind of sleep that only happens after a day outdoors. You will get out what you put in here!
💡 Top Tip:
Stock up on groceries before you arrive—shops are few and far between in the surrounding countryside. And bring snacks. Especially if you’re the type who gets “hangry” mid-afternoon. (Me)