Great ideas Sandra. Will consider them and continue planning. Thanks.

So my plans are developing and it looks like we will train to Bologna from Milano and spend 3 days there without a car. Then we will pick up a car (anyone know the best place to do that do we do not get too involved in big city traffic and the streets that we are not allowed to drive on?).

We will spend about 3-4 nights in or around Castelvetro and then we want our last few nights to be closer to Ravenna and are looking around Brisighella.

Anyone with specific small towns and/or specific B&B's, agriturismos, small hotels they can recommend would be wonderful.

Thanks !!

Anyone have any ideas or opinions please?

After two perfect stays in Bologna the past year or so, I wholeheartedly recommend that you go on booking.com and look at Residence Petronio. Keyless entry, new elevator, two units per floor and across the street from the twin towers. Couldn't be better.

Thanks. Not looking for Bologna hotel suggestions. Need ideas for countryside areas.

This place may or may not fit your needs, but it is high on my list places to stay in E.R. It is outside of Manaro sul Panaro. Great reviews from friends who have been lucky enough to stay and eat there.

http://www.podereprasiano.it/

A few years ago we stayed at Locanda del Feudo in Caselvetro do Modena. It was charming as is the walled town. There's also an excellent restaurant at the inn.

Thank you wekewoody and flerjen. I am pretty set by now on the place we will stay in Castelvetro. Any ideas on the Ravenna/Brisighella area? I have not found anything in the Brisighella area which is both quaint, not terribly expensive (up to 100 Euros per night for two), and in a good area.

saving this great info

Saving, too. Like a little Christmas present.

Glad you are all saving this info for your future trips. I am still asking whether anyone knows of a place for up to 100 Euros per night per couple in the Ravenna/Brisighella area? Thanks.