Abruzzo is one of Italy’s most diverse regions, combining dramatic mountains, medieval hill towns, pristine beaches, and excellent cuisine. It’s often called “the green heart of Europe” because nearly a third of the region is protected by national and regional parks.
Explore the Mountains
• Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park – Hike, drive across the spectacular Campo Imperatore plateau, or take the cable car to higher elevations.
• Campo Imperatore – Known as “Little Tibet” for its vast high-altitude landscape.
• Majella National Park – Offers beautiful hiking trails, caves, waterfalls, and traditional mountain villages.
Visit Historic Villages
• Rocca Calascio – One of Italy’s highest and most photogenic medieval castles.
• Scanno – Famous for its stone houses, traditional jewelry, and heart-shaped lake nearby.
• Santo Stefano di Sessanio – A beautifully restored medieval village.
• Sulmona – Birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid and renowned for its colorful sugar-coated almonds (confetti).
• Costa dei Trabocchi – Ride a bicycle along the scenic coastal path and dine on traditional fishing platforms called trabocchi.
• Vasto – Historic center overlooking beautiful sandy beaches.
• Punta Aderci Nature Reserve – One of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of unspoiled coastline.
Experience Nature
• Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park – Home to the rare Marsican brown bear, Apennine wolf, and chamois.
• Visit during spring or autumn for ideal hiking and wildlife spotting.
Taste Local Specialties
• Arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers)
• Maccheroni alla chitarra
• Saffron from Navelli
• Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine
• Pecorino cheeses and local olive oi
Abruzzo is especially rewarding if you enjoy authentic Italy with fewer crowds than regions like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.
Alessandro Colao 