Abruzzo: High Mountains, Coastal Trails and Culture

Two-thirds of Abruzzo lies above 750 metres, while the Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi runs entirely along the sea. This makes the region appealing to travelers with very different interests. When choosing a hotel, you can first decide whether national parks and mountain landscapes, coastal trails or cultural sights will be the focus of your trip. The protected areas, activities and places show how these interests can be combined in many different ways during a stay in Abruzzo.

Landscapes and protected areas

One-third of the region is protected by three national parks, one regional park and more than thirty nature reserves. Lago di Campotosto lies at an altitude of 1,313 metres and is the largest artificial lake in Abruzzo. The Abruzzo National Park protects, among other species, wolves, Apennine chamois and Marsican brown bears.

The landscape of Maiella National Park also has many different facets: its extensive network of trails is complemented by small villages and hermitages nestled in the cliffs. Those looking to combine nature experiences with historic buildings and settlements will find a variety of themes within this national park.

Trails and activities in the national parks

An extensive network of trails runs throughout Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. In Abruzzo National Park, you can go hiking, horseback riding, cycling and birdwatching, as well as downhill and cross-country skiing. Which activities suit your trip will also depend on the season and local conditions.

Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park offers numerous hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty, as well as climbing routes on rock, snow or ice. The range of lengths and difficulty levels makes it easier to choose suitable routes for your plans. Check local trail conditions before setting out. For a change from land to water, nighttime canoe trips are also organized on the Tirino River.

Coastal trails and the Adriatic coast

The Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi is a cycling and walking trail along a former railway line that runs entirely beside the sea. The Bike to Coast route follows the Adriatic Green Road through 19 municipalities in Abruzzo. Both routes make the coast a natural focus of your trip.

At Punta Aderci Regional Nature Reserve, sandy beaches meet natural cliffs, adding a different kind of landscape to the coastal trails. If trails and coastal scenery are a priority for your stay, you can consider this combination as one possible focus for your trip.

Cultural sites and traditions

The Holy Door is located on the left side façade of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio and is opened for the Perdonanza Celestiniana. In L’Aquila, the Perdonanza is celebrated every year with religious rites. Cultural events are also part of the celebrations in certain historical periods.

At 1,460 metres, Rocca Calascio is one of the highest fortifications in Italy. The fortress and surrounding area are relatively well preserved and open to visitors. A visit to the site is included in routes through Gran Sasso-Laga National Park.

Regional products

Regional products also reflect the landscape and where they come from. Canestrato di Castel del Monte is made from the milk of animals that graze on the pastures on Gran Sasso’s southern slopes. L’Aquila saffron is a product with protected designation of origin (PDO) status. The area of Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park also has a “Butchers’ Zone” with snack stops serving cured meats, cheese, fresh meat and regional products. As individual businesses may change, it is advisable to check the current situation before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Chieti, L-Aquila, Pescara, Teramo, Marche, Umbria, Molise, Sicily.

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