Cosa vedere in Abruzzo?

I luoghi più visitati dell’Abruzzo includono i parchi nazionali, la Costa dei Trabocchi, borghi come Scanno e Santo Stefano di Sessanio, e città come L’Aquila e Sulmona.

Dove sciare in Abruzzo?

Le principali località sciistiche dell’Abruzzo sono Campo Imperatore, Roccaraso, Ovindoli e Campo Felice.

Qual è il periodo migliore per visitare l’Abruzzo?

Primavera e autunno sono ideali per trekking e borghi; l’inverno è perfetto per lo sci e le attività sulla neve.

Abruzzo – Complete Guide: Parks, Villages, Sea and Outdoor Activities

Abruzzo Nature

Parks and Protected Areas of Abruzzo

The “Green Region of Europe”, ideal for nature and outdoor activities.

Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park: bears, wolves, chamois and villages such as Pescasseroli and Barrea.
Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park: Campo Imperatore, Corno Grande, high plateaus and stone villages.
Majella National Park: hermitages, canyons and exceptionally rich wildlife.
Sirente–Velino Regional Park: Stiffe Caves, high plateaus and villages such as Rocca di Mezzo.

Visit the dedicated section

Abruzzo Villages

Villages and Cities to Visit in Abruzzo

The most beautiful villages for cultural itineraries and weekend trips.

L’Aquila: Collemaggio, the 99 Fountains, and a reborn historic centre.
Sulmona: medieval aqueduct and traditional sugared almonds.
Scanno: heart-shaped lake and photogenic alleys.
Santo Stefano di Sessanio: iconic village of the Gran Sasso.
Castelli: capital of ceramics.
Civitella del Tronto: spectacular Bourbon fortress.

Visit the dedicated section

Abruzzo Coast

Abruzzo Adriatic Coast

Beaches, trabocchi and scenic cycling routes.

Costa dei Trabocchi: cycle path, coves, restaurants on traditional trabocchi.
Vasto: Punta Aderci and historic centre.
Pineto: pine forest and calm sea.
Pescara: seafront promenade, museums and nightlife.

Visit the dedicated section

Cuisine

Typical Flavours of Abruzzo

Arrosticini
Spaghetti alla chitarra
Pecora alla callara (sheep stew)
Fish brodetto
Sulmona sugared almonds
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
Pecorino & Trebbiano wines

Visit the dedicated section

Outdoor Abruzzo

Outdoor Activities in Abruzzo

Trekking, skiing, MTB and adventure all year round.

Trekking (Gran Sasso, Majella, Sirente-Velino) - Visit the dedicated section
Snowshoeing (Campo Imperatore, Rocca di Mezzo, Pescocostanzo) - Visit the dedicated section
MTB & Gravel (Costa dei Trabocchi, inland plateaus)
Skiing (Roccaraso, Ovindoli, Campo Felice, Campo Imperatore) - Visit the dedicated section
Speleology (Stiffe Caves) - Visit the dedicated section
Climbing (Gran Sasso crags)

Mountain Bike

Mountain Biking in Abruzzo

Abruzzo is an ideal destination for mountain biking: plateaus, single tracks, panoramic dirt roads and routes suitable for every level.

Appennino Bike & Tour: a network of MTB and gravel routes connecting villages, plateaus and natural parks across Abruzzo. It offers mapped itineraries, biker services, points of interest and links between the main outdoor areas.
Costa dei Trabocchi – Adriatic Cycle Route: a smooth and panoramic route along the sea, perfect for MTB, gravel and touring bikes.
Rocche Plateau (Ovindoli – Rocca di Mezzo): dirt loops, gentle climbs and forest single tracks, ideal for intermediate MTB riders.
Campo Imperatore – Gran Sasso: high‑altitude routes among pastures and ridges, with spectacular views over the Apennines. Perfect for expert bikers.
Majella – Orfento Valley and Caramanico: technical and wild routes, with rocky sections and demanding descents.
PNALM – Barrea, Civitella Alfedena, Villetta Barrea: loops immersed in the Park’s nature, among forests, lakes and steady climbs.
Monti della Laga: long and flowing dirt roads, perfect for MTB and e‑MTB, with open panoramas and dense forests.

Tip: many routes are perfect for e‑MTB, especially those with significant elevation gain such as Campo Imperatore and Majella.

Warning: in summer some areas are very exposed to the sun. Bring plenty of water and plan rides during the cooler hours.

Lakes

Lakes of Abruzzo

Abruzzo is home to natural and artificial lakes set in mountain landscapes, perfect for trekking, photography and relaxation.

Lake Scanno: the most famous lake in Abruzzo, known for its heart shape. Ideal for panoramic trekking, photography and lakeside walks. – Scanno/">Visit the dedicated section
Lake Barrea (PNALM): an artificial lake surrounded by villages such as Barrea, Civitella Alfedena and Villetta Barrea. Perfect for hikes and wildlife watching.
Lake Campotosto: one of the largest artificial lakes in Italy, at the foot of the Gran Sasso. Excellent for MTB, trekking and photography, especially at sunset. – Visit the dedicated section
Lake Pietranzoni – Campo Imperatore: a small seasonal lake famous for the “mirror of the Gran Sasso”, one of the most iconic photographic spots in the Apennines.
Lake Vivo (PNALM): a natural lake reached via a scenic hike from Barrea. Its shape and size change with the seasons.
Lake Sinizzo (San Demetrio ne’ Vestini): a swimmable lake, perfect for families, relaxation and picnics. – Visit the dedicated section
Lake Penne: a WWF oasis with nature trails, birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Lake San Domenico: a WWF oasis with nature trails and crystal‑clear waters, where you can visit the Hermitage of San Domenico. – Visit the dedicated section

Tip: mountain lakes such as Pietranzoni and Vivo are perfect at sunrise and sunset for spectacular photography.

Note: some lakes are subject to seasonal water‑level variations. Always check conditions before planning hikes.

Useful Numbers

Useful Numbers in Abruzzo

Essential contacts for emergencies, tourist information and regional services.

Emergencies (EU single number): 112
Alpine and Speleological Rescue Abruzzo: 118
Fire Brigade: 115
Carabinieri: 112
State Police: 113
Finance Police: 117
Forestry Corps / Environmental emergencies: 1515
Sea Rescue – Coast Guard: 1530
Abruzzo Region – Information: 0862 363267 - 085 9181128 - 0862 363304
Abruzzo Civil Protection: 800 860 146
Abruzzo Tourism (tourist info): info@abruzzoturismo.it
ANAS – Road conditions: 800 841 148
Highways A24/A25 – Strada dei Parchi: 803 111

Tip: save these numbers before heading out for hikes, trekking or outdoor activities.

Info

Practical Information

How to get there: A24, A25, Pescara airport.
Climate: mountain climate inland, Mediterranean along the coast.
Best time to visit: spring–autumn; winter for skiing.
Emergencies: 112.

Provinces

Comparison of the Provinces of Abruzzo

A concise overview of the four provinces of Abruzzo: territory, strengths and main features.

City	Type	Strengths	Iconic Places
L’Aquila	Mountainous, national parks, historic villages	Gran Sasso, Majella, trekking, skiing, villages	Campo Imperatore, Rocca Calascio, Stiffe Caves
Teramo	Sea + mountains, cliffs, historic villages	Prati di Tivo, Laga Mountains, sandy beaches	Civitella del Tronto, Campli, Alba Adriatica
Pescara	Coast, modern city, gateway to the Majella	Sea, cycle paths, thermal baths, canyons	Pescara, Orfento Valley, Caramanico Terme
Chieti	Most diverse province: sea, hills, villages	Costa dei Trabocchi, nature reserves	Vasto, Punta Aderci, Ortona, Guardiagrele

Geography

Geographical Information about Abruzzo

A unique region: imposing mountains, high plateaus, rolling hills and over 130 km of coastline.

Location: Central Italy, facing the Adriatic Sea and crossed by the central Apennines.
Area: about 10,800 km².
Borders: Marche to the north, Lazio to the west, Molise to the south, Adriatic Sea to the east.
Main mountains: Gran Sasso d’Italia (Corno Grande 2912 m), Majella (Monte Amaro 2793 m), Sirente–Velino.
Plateaus: Campo Imperatore, Altopiano delle Rocche, Piani di Pezza, Campo Felice.
Main rivers: Aterno–Pescara, Sangro, Tronto, Tordino, Vomano.
Main lakes: Scanno, Barrea, Campotosto, Pietranzoni, Sinizzo.
Coastline: over 130 km of shoreline with sandy beaches, coves and the famous Costa dei Trabocchi.
Parks and protected areas: 3 National Parks, 1 Regional Park, 38 nature reserves.
Climate: mountain climate inland, Mediterranean along the coast, with strong seasonal variations.

Fun fact: Abruzzo is one of the greenest regions in Europe, with over one third of its territory protected.

Nature

Flora and Fauna of Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of the richest regions in Italy for biodiversity, with ecosystems ranging from the coast to the 2900‑metre peaks of the Gran Sasso.

Fauna

Apennine brown bear (Marsican bear): symbol of the Abruzzo National Park, one of the rarest species in Europe.
Apennine wolf: present across all major mountain ranges, essential for ecosystem balance.
Abruzzo chamois: an endemic species, mainly observed in PNALM and the Majella.
Red deer and roe deer: widespread in the forested areas of PNALM and Sirente–Velino.
Golden eagle: queen of the Abruzzo skies, nesting on the rocky walls of the Gran Sasso and Majella.
Lake wildlife: herons, grebes, coots and birds of prey around Barrea, Scanno and Penne.

Flora

Ancient beech forests: found in the Majella, PNALM and Sirente–Velino, some recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Black pines and larches: common in mountain areas and on cooler slopes.
Junipers and Mediterranean shrubs: typical of the coast and hilly areas.
High‑altitude flowers: gentians, Apennine edelweiss, saxifrages and rare species between 2000–2800 m.
Campo Imperatore grasslands: a unique habitat with endemic species and spectacular spring blooms.
Oases and wetlands: reeds, water lilies and riparian vegetation around the lakes of Penne, Barrea and Sinizzo.

Fun fact: Abruzzo hosts over 75% of all animal species found in Italy and more than 2,000 plant species.

Respect nature: keep your distance from wildlife, do not leave waste behind and always follow marked trails.

Abruzzo Nature

Nature Reserves & WWF Oases in Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of the Italian regions with the highest number of protected areas: nature reserves, WWF oases, wetlands and unique habitats that safeguard biodiversity and extraordinary landscapes.

Regional Nature Reserves

Zompo lo Schioppo Regional Nature Reserve (Morino): spectacular waterfall, trails and wildlife area.
Gole del Sagittario Nature Reserve (Anversa degli Abruzzi): canyon, protected wildlife and historic village.
Sorgenti del Pescara Nature Reserve (Popoli): turquoise waters, birdwatching and nature trails.
Lake Penne Nature Reserve: WWF oasis, visitor centre, educational trails and wildlife observation.
Punta Aderci Nature Reserve (Vasto): one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, perfect for coastal trekking.
Bosco di Sant’Antonio Nature Reserve (Pescocostanzo): monumental beech forest, ideal for trekking and snowshoeing.
Monte Genzana – Alto Gizio Nature Reserve: wildlife corridor of the Marsican brown bear.

WWF Oases of Abruzzo

WWF Lake Penne Oasis: environmental education centre, nature trails, wildlife observation points.
WWF Calanchi di Atri Oasis: unique lunar landscape, trails and visitor centre.
WWF Rio Verde Waterfalls Oasis (Borrello): the highest natural waterfalls in the Apennines.
WWF Gole del Sagittario Oasis: protected area rich in biodiversity, home to the Otter Centre.
WWF Lake Serranella Oasis: wetland area, birdwatching and nature trails.

Useful Numbers & Contacts

WWF Abruzzo: wwf.it
WWF Oases Abruzzo – General info: abruzzo@wwf.it
Zompo lo Schioppo Nature Reserve: 0863 978809
Gole del Sagittario Nature Reserve: 0864 49587
Punta Aderci Nature Reserve: 345 337 8575
Lake Penne Nature Reserve (WWF Oasis): 085 827 0862
Sorgenti del Pescara Nature Reserve: tel. (+39) 085 987 0506, (+39) 085 987 0513 – fax (+39) 085 987 0534

Tip: many reserves offer guided tours, educational activities and themed trails. Always check opening hours and seasonal access.

Note: some protected areas host sensitive species such as the Marsican bear and the Apennine wolf. Keep your distance and follow marked trails.

Useful Contacts

Abruzzo Region: regione.abruzzo.it
Abruzzo Tourism: abruzzoturismo.it
Parks: parks.it

Weather

Always check the weather before hikes and outdoor activities. – Visit the dedicated section

Transport

Highways A24 and A25
Main stations: L’Aquila, Pescara, Sulmona
Abruzzo Airport (Pescara)

Ski Mountaineering

Ski Mountaineering in Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of the best destinations in the Apennines for ski mountaineering, offering panoramic routes and significant elevation gains. – Visit the dedicated section

Gran Sasso – Campo Imperatore: classic routes such as Monte Aquila, Monte Portella and Vallone delle Cornacchie. High‑altitude environment and unique views. – Visit the dedicated section
Majella – Monte Amaro: one of the most iconic ascents in the Apennines, with couloirs and technical slopes for expert skiers. – Visit the dedicated section
Sirente – North Face: wilder and less frequented routes, perfect for those seeking silence and powder snow. – Sirente/">Visit the dedicated section
Velino – Majelama Valley: a long and rewarding ascent, ideal for well‑trained skiers. – Visit the dedicated section
Monti della Laga: wide slopes and snowy forests, perfect for days of fresh snow.

Important note: always check the avalanche bulletin, weather conditions and mandatory equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe). – Visit the dedicated section

Trekking

Trekking in Abruzzo

Abruzzo offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the Apennines, among plateaus, peaks, hermitages and stone villages. – Visit the dedicated section

Gran Sasso – Campo Imperatore: iconic routes such as the Sentiero del Centenario, Monte Aquila, Monte Portella and Corno Grande (normal route). – Visit the dedicated section
Majella – Hermitages and peaks: panoramic hikes to the Hermitage of San Bartolomeo, the Orfento Valley and the ascent to Monte Amaro. – Visit the dedicated section
Sirente‑Velino – Plateaus and ridges: wild routes such as the Sirente ridge, Lupara Valley and the Rocche plateaus. – Sirentevelino/">Visit the dedicated section
PNALM – Villages and wildlife: routes between Pescasseroli, Opi, Civitella Alfedena and Lake Barrea, with chances to spot protected wildlife. – Visit the dedicated section
Monti della Laga: trails through forests, waterfalls and open panoramas, ideal for medium‑difficulty trekking. – Visit the dedicated section

Tip: many routes are exposed to the sun or at high altitude: start early, bring water and always check the weather.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing in Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of the best regions in the Apennines for snowshoeing: snowy plateaus, silent forests and high‑altitude panoramas. – Visit the dedicated section

Campo Imperatore – Gran Sasso: one of the most iconic places for snowshoeing, with routes to Monte Aquila, Sella di Monte Aquila and the Campo Imperatore plain.
Rocche Plateau (Rocca di Mezzo – Ovindoli): easy and panoramic routes, perfect for families and beginners.
Pescocostanzo – Sant’Antonio Forest: one of the most enchanting forests in Italy, ideal for fairy‑tale snowshoeing.
Majella – Orfento Valley and Colle della Civita: more technical and wild routes, with spectacular views of the Majella.
PNALM – Opi, Civitella Alfedena, Barrea: routes immersed in the nature of the Park, with chances to spot wildlife.

Suggestion: snowshoeing at sunset is wonderful, but a headlamp and GPS track are essential.

Safety: always check the avalanche bulletin and bring proper equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe) on high‑altitude routes.

Climbing

Climbing in Abruzzo

Abruzzo offers historic crags, high‑altitude walls and sectors suitable for climbers of all levels, from bouldering to multi‑pitch routes.

Gran Sasso – Corno Piccolo Crags: one of the temples of Apennine climbing, with multi‑pitch routes, technical slabs and spectacular views.
Pennapiedimonte – Majella Walls: vertical and overhanging sectors, ideal for athletic routes and compact rock.
Rocca Calascio – Historic routes: panoramic climbing on limestone, perfect for medium‑difficulty multi‑pitch routes.
Roccamorice Crags: one of the most famous climbing sites in Abruzzo, with technical routes on sculpted limestone and sectors for all levels.
Monti della Laga: sandstone climbing, with unique routes and a wild environment.
PNALM – Barrea Crags: well‑equipped sectors, ideal for sport climbing immersed in nature.

Tip: many crags are sun‑exposed; mid‑seasons are the best time to climb in Abruzzo.

Safety: always check the condition of fixed gear and consult local guides or associations before attempting multi‑pitch routes.

Abruzzo Coast

Activities on the Abruzzo Coast

The Abruzzo coast offers sea, nature, sports and panoramic routes perfect for families, athletes and travellers.

Adriatic Cycle Route – Costa dei Trabocchi: one of the most beautiful cycling routes in Italy, ideal for bikes, e‑bikes, running and sunset walks.
Kayak and SUP: perfect activities in the coves of the Costa dei Trabocchi, with calm waters and unique scenery beneath the trabocchi.
Snorkelling and swimming: clear waters at Punta Aderci, Ripari di Giobbe, Torre Cerrano and Pineto.
Boat excursions: tours along the coast with the possibility to visit hidden bays and viewpoints.
Beach trekking: walks along the shoreline between Vasto, San Vito Chietino and Ortona, perfect in mid‑season.
Visit the Trabocchi: ancient fishing machines transformed into panoramic restaurants, ideal for a seaside culinary experience.
Relax on the beach: equipped beaches and free areas in Pineto, Silvi, Montesilvano, Francavilla and Vasto Marina.

Tip: the Costa dei Trabocchi is perfect at sunrise for photography and outdoor activities with little crowding.

Note: in high season some beaches may be crowded. The coves between Ortona and San Vito Chietino are quieter.

Province

Province of L’Aquila

The largest and most mountainous province of Abruzzo: heart of the Gran Sasso, Majella and Sirente‑Velino.

L’Aquila: art city with Collemaggio, the 99 Fountains and a reborn historic centre. – Visit the dedicated section
Gran Sasso – Campo Imperatore: plateaus, trekking, skiing and iconic landscapes. – Visit the dedicated section
Castles and villages: Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Calascio, Castel del Monte. – Visit the dedicated section
Stiffe Caves: one of the most visited speleological sites in Italy. – Visit the dedicated section
PNALM – L’Aquila area: Opi, Barrea, Civitella Alfedena, Villetta Barrea. – Visit the dedicated section
Madonna d’Appari: sanctuary carved into the rock in Paganica. – Visit the dedicated section

Province

Province of Teramo

Between sea and mountains: from the Gran Sasso to the beaches of the Teramo coast.

Teramo: cathedral, historic centre and culinary traditions.
Monti della Laga: waterfalls, forests and wild trekking.
Prati di Tivo: perfect base for climbing Corno Piccolo and for climbing activities. – Visit the dedicated section
Giulianova, Tortoreto, Alba Adriatica: wide and well‑equipped beaches.
Campli: historic village with the Holy Stairs.
Civitella del Tronto: one of the largest Bourbon fortresses in Europe.

Province

Province of Pescara

Sea, modern city and gateway to the Majella.

Pescara: seafront, museums, nightlife and tourist harbour.
Caramanico Terme: one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, perfect for trekking and thermal baths.
Orfento Valley: one of the most spectacular canyons in the Apennines.
Abbey of San Clemente a Casauria: Romanesque masterpiece.
Montesilvano: equipped beaches and cycle paths.
Majella: hermitages, peaks and outdoor routes. – Visit the dedicated section

Province

Province of Chieti

The most diverse province: sea, hills, historic villages and the Costa dei Trabocchi.

Chieti: ancient city with museums and a panoramic historic centre.
Costa dei Trabocchi: cycle path, coves and restaurants on the trabocchi.
Vasto: Punta Aderci, historic centre and crystal‑clear sea.
Ortona: Aragonese castle and tourist harbour.
Guardiagrele: capital of craftsmanship and gateway to the Majella.
Fara San Martino: spectacular gorges and home of De Cecco pasta. – Visit the dedicated section

Abruzzo – Complete Guide: Parks, Villages, Sea and Outdoor Activities

Abruzzo – Nature, Villages and Traditions

Quick Facts Abruzzo

Parks and Protected Areas of Abruzzo

Villages and Cities to Visit in Abruzzo

Abruzzo Adriatic Coast

Typical Flavours of Abruzzo

Outdoor Activities in Abruzzo

Mountain Biking in Abruzzo

Lakes of Abruzzo

Useful Numbers in Abruzzo

Practical Information

Comparison of the Provinces of Abruzzo

Geographical Information about Abruzzo

Flora and Fauna of Abruzzo

Fauna

Flora

Nature Reserves & WWF Oases in Abruzzo

Regional Nature Reserves

WWF Oases of Abruzzo

Useful Numbers & Contacts