I’m so excited to share my latest travel experience with you—I recently visited the Abruzzo region in Italy! When people think of Italy, they often first imagine cities like Rome, Florence, or Venice. However, today I’m taking you to a less well-known but equally captivating destination: Abruzzo. Located in central Italy, this region is home to majestic mountains, charming beaches, historic towns, and rich natural landscapes. Here, you’ll find many stunning attractions while also experiencing the authentic beauty of Italy. I’ll walk you through some must-see spots and explain the unique allure of Abruzzo.
1. Abruzzo’s Natural Wonders: Step into the Abruzzo National Park
One of the highlights of my trip to Abruzzo was definitely the natural beauty of the region. The Abruzzo National Park (Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo) is one of Italy’s oldest national parks and boasts unparalleled natural beauty. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, lakes, streams, waterfalls, and unique geological formations, it’s a paradise for hiking and nature lovers.
I highly recommend visiting Rocca di Campana, a mountain that has an air of mystery. Legend says this area was once a military fortress. Standing at the mountain’s peak, you can gaze out at breathtaking views of the park—distant peaks, lush forests, and serene lakes all in one panoramic scene. For photographers, this place is a treasure.
In Abruzzo National Park, you’ll also encounter various wildlife, such as the Italian gray wolf, wild goats, and brown bears. The park has done an excellent job of preserving its natural habitat, making it a prime destination for animal lovers and ecotourism. If you’re interested in getting up close to these rare species, I suggest booking a guided wildlife tour within the park for a more intimate experience.
2. The Charming L’Aquila: A Perfect Blend of Ancient and Modern
If you’re a history enthusiast, you must visit L’Aquila, the capital of Abruzzo, one of Italy’s oldest cities. L’Aquila’s history dates back to around 300 B.C. While it suffered a devastating earthquake in 2009, the city still retains much of its cultural heritage and historical sites.
One landmark that shouldn’t be missed in L’Aquila is San Bernardino Church (Chiesa di San Bernardino). This Gothic structure is rich in religious art, offering a striking visual experience. Standing in front of the church, I was not only in awe of its grandeur but also the serene atmosphere that invites quiet contemplation.
Another must-see is The Castle of L’Aquila (Castello Cinquecentesco), which dates back to the 16th century. This imposing castle is a key symbol of L’Aquila and houses a museum showcasing local history, artifacts, and artwork. It’s a perfect spot to learn more about the city’s fascinating past.
Although L’Aquila was hit hard by the earthquake, both the locals and government have been working tirelessly to restore the city. Many areas have now been refurbished, blending old-world charm with modern elements, and creating a beautiful fusion of history and contemporary life.
3. Mediterranean Gem: The Italian Coast of Abruzzo
Abruzzo isn’t just about mountains—it also has a stunning coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. The Costa dei Trabocchi, or the Trabocchi Coast, is one of Italy’s most enchanting coastal regions, offering crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. As you walk along the coastline, you’ll see traditional wooden fishing structures called trabocchi, which have become iconic landmarks of the area.
I spent some of my most relaxing moments here. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or exploring the quaint fishing villages, it’s a peaceful and picturesque retreat. I also had the opportunity to savor fresh seafood, particularly the local seafood pasta, which was absolutely delicious. If you want to experience life in an authentic Italian fishing village, I highly recommend visiting Porto di Vasto or Giulianova Beach. These places not only offer beautiful beaches but also a range of restaurants and seafood markets for shopping and dining.
4. Time Travel in Sulmona: The Charm of the Middle Ages
Sulmona is a small town in Abruzzo known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and sweet treats. The town’s Piazza Garibaldi is a typical Italian square surrounded by ancient buildings, with a beautiful fountain at its center. Walking through the streets of Sulmona, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, with vibrant houses and a palpable sense of history.
But what makes Sulmona even more special is its world-famous confetti (sugared almonds). This traditional candy is made from almonds, sugar, and chocolate, and its shape and delicate flavor make it a unique local treat. If you visit Sulmona, you definitely need to try these candies. You can even visit local confectioneries to see how they are made and sample them fresh.
5. Hidden Castles of Abruzzo: Explore the Ancient Rocca Calascio
In the countryside of Abruzzo, many places are home to ancient fortresses and castles, often hidden among the mountains, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. Rocca Calascio, a castle located in the Gran Sasso mountains, is one of Italy’s most breathtakingly beautiful castles.
The history of Rocca Calascio dates back to the 11th century. Its location is truly unique, perched high on a mountain where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While the castle is now in ruins, its haunting beauty has inspired filmmakers, including the creators of The Lord of the Rings. Visiting this castle feels like stepping into a fairy tale, and the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular.
6. Abruzzo’s Food and Wine: A Taste of Italy’s Tradition
No trip to Italy is complete without savoring the local cuisine, and Abruzzo certainly did not disappoint in this regard. The region is known for its traditional dishes and excellent wines. If you’re a food lover, Abruzzo will definitely satisfy your cravings.
One of the region’s specialties is lamb. Local restaurants serve lamb-based dishes that are absolutely delicious, cooked with local herbs and spices to bring out its rich flavors. Another must-try is torcetti, a traditional cookie made with butter, sugar, and vanilla. It’s crispy and light, perfect with a cup of coffee.
The wines of Abruzzo are also highly acclaimed. Local varieties such as Montepulciano and Trebbiano are famous worldwide. During my trip, I visited some local vineyards, where I got the chance to tour the wine cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and taste fresh, locally produced wines. For wine enthusiasts, this is an experience you can’t miss.
7. Festivals and Cultural Events in Abruzzo
Abruzzo is also home to a wide range of festivals and cultural events throughout the year, and they’re a great way to immerse yourself in local traditions. The L’Aquila Music Festival is one of the most famous, attracting music lovers and artists from around the world. Every summer, L’Aquila’s streets come alive with music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Besides music festivals, Abruzzo is home to many traditional village festivals and fairs, where locals dress in traditional costumes to celebrate their heritage. These festivals offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the culture of Abruzzo firsthand and interact with the friendly locals.
Abruzzo is a truly unique region in Italy, offering a blend of stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re hiking in national parks, exploring ancient castles, relaxing on Mediterranean beaches, or indulging in the region’s culinary delights, there’s something for every traveler here.
If you’re planning to visit Abruzzo, I recommend doing thorough planning ahead of time—choose the right accommodations, transportation, and activities to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. I’m confident that you’ll find your own special moments in Abruzzo and create unforgettable memories. I hope this guide helps you in exploring this magnificent Italian region!
