If you’re searching for a destination that offers a perfect balance of untouched nature, adventure, and culinary tradition, travel to Abruzzo for an authentic Italian experience. Located less than 2 hours from Rome, this captivating region allows you to enjoy both the mountains and the sea, making it perfect for every season: in summer, it offers hiking and crystal-clear beaches, while in winter, it’s a haven for skiing and snowshoeing.
Why Travel to Abruzzo? An Unforgettable and Authentic Italian Experience
Abruzzo is a region that is deeply and authentically Italian, with breathtaking landscapes and medieval villages that demonstrate Italy’s expansive history. It is also a region that showcases Italy’s natural wonders. Here, nature reigns supreme: the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, and the Sirente-Velino Regional Park offer extraordinary settings for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Abruzzo is also a land of tradition, with a local cuisine that is full of intense flavors and artisans that offer authentic local products.
Beyond its more iconic destinations, the region also boasts hidden corners and lesser-known paths, perfect for those who love to explore locations that are off the beaten path. Among ancient forests, wild valleys, and endless plateaus, Abruzzo stands as one of the best destinations for those looking to reconnect with nature in its purest form.
My Two-Day Journey Between Castel del Monte and Campo Imperatore
I had the opportunity to explore this region more deeply on a two-day trip between Castel del Monte and Campo Imperatore, a journey that left me with truly beautiful and unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Castel del Monte and the Nighttime Snowshoeing at Piana di Campo Imperatore
I dedicated the first day to exploring Castel del Monte, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, nestled in the heart of the Gran Sasso National Park. Strolling through its medieval streets felt like stepping back in time. The surrounding views offered breathtaking panoramas of the mountains, ideal for photography and hiking enthusiasts.
At sunset, the experience became even more magical with a nighttime snowshoe trek at Piana di Campo Imperatore. The silence of the snow, the moonlight, and the starry sky created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the mountain in its most authentic form. The path wound through pristine landscapes, far from any sign of urbanization, offering a full immersion into nature.
Day 2: Campo Imperatore, Italy’s Little Tibet
The second day was spent at Campo Imperatore, the highest plateau in the Apennines, often referred to as “Little Tibet” for its lunar and boundless landscapes. In summer, it’s a paradise for hikers, with trails leading to the summit of Corno Grande, the highest peak of Gran Sasso. In winter, it turns into one of Central Italy’s most charming ski resorts, perfect for hitting the slopes and snowshoeing.
Far from the bustle of more crowded destinations, Campo Imperatore offers adventurous routes for those seeking offbeat experiences like hiking through rocky canyons, trekking paths into remote landscapes, and even mountaineering along steep slopes for those wanting to test themselves. The landscape here is extraordinary, with vast grassy expanses in summer and an endless white blanket in winter.
After a day outdoors, a must-stop was the Rifugio di Campo Imperatore to savor local cheeses, including Pecorino di Farindola and Caciocavallo Abruzzese, paired with homemade bread and mountain honey.
Authentic Italian Flavors: A Culinary Journey Through Abruzzo
No trip to Abruzzo would be complete without diving into the cuisine of the region. Some must-try delicacies include:
- Pecorino di Farindola: A strong sheep’s cheese made with pig rennet.
- Caciocavallo Abruzzese: A mature, stretched-curd cheese with an intense taste.
- Mountain Ricotta: Perfect both fresh and aged.
- Arrosticini: Skewered lamb cooked on the grill.
- Confetti di Sulmona: Delicious candy made according to a centuries-old tradition.
Abruzzo is also home to numerous small artisan dairies where you can purchase authentic products and witness the cheese-making process up close.
Adventure and Untouched Nature
One of the most surprising aspects of Abruzzo is its ability to offer pure adventure and natural beauty. In addition to the more well-known trails, this region hides some extraordinary gems for outdoor enthusiasts:
- The Gole del Sagittario: A spectacular canyon with a fantastic network of trails.
- The Valle dell’Orfento: A paradise for forest hiking and picturesque waterfalls.
- Lake Scanno: A magical spot, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
- Monte Amaro: For those who love challenges, a hike up the second highest peak of the Apennines is perfect.
- Parco della Majella: A vast natural park offering rugged mountains, ancient hermitages, and stunning wildlife, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
In every corner of Abruzzo, there’s an opportunity to experience nature authentically, far from mass tourism. It’s a region that surprises and captivates, ideal for those who love to be immersed in the localland and its pristine wonders.
Why Choose Abruzzo?
Our team is dedicated to sharing the unparalleled beauty of Abruzzo with travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience. It’s the ideal destination for anyone eager to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in Italy’s hidden treasures. This region offers not only a journey through stunning landscapes but also an opportunity to connect with local traditions, culture, and cuisine, creating a travel experience that enriches both the visitor and the places they explore. This exchange of experiences is at the heart of what we do.
To create your own authentic Italian experience in Abruzzo, reach out to us today and let one of our travel designers curate a personalized itinerary just for you!
About the Author:
Jonathan, is a professional photographer and videographer with a passion for storytelling through images. Born in Switzerland to Swiss and Italian parents, Jonathan speaks French, Italian, and English. Over the past 10 years, he has traveled through every region of Italy, gaining a deep connection with the land and its culture. Now based in Rome, he channels his creative vision as a Creative Director, specializing in authentic travel experiences and capturing the beauty of Italy.
