The fishermen's huts of Abruzzo, the Campo Imperatore plateau and Lake Scanno Photos: stock.adobe.com/ Luca Lorenzell; patrick; Jesse
From our editorial team
L'Aquila - Abruzzo is one of the last insider tips in Italy. This region, located on the "lower calf" of the Italian boot, is so far off the beaten track of mass tourism that it is still a paradise for nature lovers, culture vultures and explorers. With a combination of mountains, hills and coastal landscapes, the region offers the full programme of sights and experiences. Our top 10 for Abruzzo.
1. the fishermen's huts on the Trabocchi coast
Photo by Francesco Simeone on Pexels.com
The "Costa dei Trabocchi" is one of the most fascinating coastal landscapes in Italy. The trabocchi, old wooden fishing platforms, protrude far into the sea and bear witness to the region's traditional fishing industry. Many of these trabocchi have been converted into charming restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish accompanied by the soothing sound of the waves.
2nd Vasto: Historical flair and sea views
Photo: stock.adobe.com/ermess
Vasto is a picturesque town situated on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The old town centre is full of narrow streets, historic buildings and a lively market square. Enjoy a cappuccino in one of the cafés or visit the Palazzo d'Avalos, an impressive museum with art collections and a botanical garden. The nearby beaches make Vasto a perfect destination for a day trip.
3rd Lago di Scanno and Lago di San Domenico: unspoilt mountain lakes
Photo: stock.adobe.com/ValerioMei
The two mountain lakes, Lago di Scanno and Lago di San Domenico, will delight nature lovers. Lago di Scanno, shaped like a heart, is a romantic place for hikes or boat trips. Lago di San Domenico, on the other hand, is enchanting with its crystal-clear water and the Eremo di San Domenico hermitage, a cave carved into the limestone rock. The Benedictine monk San Domenico di Sora, who has since been canonised, is said to have lived there around the year 1000 and is the subject of many legends to this day. Both lakes are surrounded by charming villages that invite you to discover their history and culture.
Photo: stock.adobe.com/vanessaginger
4 Sulmona: The city of confetti
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Angelo D'Amico
Sulmona, the birthplace of the ancient poet Ovid, is set against a spectacular mountain backdrop. The town is famous for its confetti - ornately decorated sugared almonds that are often given as gifts at weddings. A stroll through the old town centre leads to impressive squares such as Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi and the magnificent Cathedral of San Panfilo. Here you can feel the combination of history, tradition and modern lifestyle.
5th Valle Peligna: hiking paradise and wine culture
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Claudio Colombo
Valle Peligna is a hidden gem for hikers and connoisseurs. With its rolling hills, picturesque mountain villages and endless vineyards, the valley offers incredible variety. Taste the local Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, one of the best red wines in Italy, and explore the unspoilt nature on foot or by bike.
6 Majella National Park: pure nature
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Valerio Mei
The Majella National Park is a dream come true for anyone who wants to experience the wild side of Italy. Here you can hike through impressive gorges, observe rare animal species such as the Italian wolf or the golden eagle and enjoy the tranquillity of unspoilt nature. The landscape ranges from dense forests to barren peaks and offers an unrivalled experience. The mountain massif contains high plateaus up to 2500 metres above sea level and deep valleys carved by rivers such as the Orfento. The ice waterfall Il Principiante at 1600 metres plunges down 25 metres.
7th Lago di Barrea: an idyllic lake in the mountains
Photo: stock.adobe.com/freesurf
Lago di Barrea is located in the centre of the Parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Not only can you swim and camp here, but you can also explore the surrounding mountains on numerous hiking trails. The lake offers a spectacular backdrop, especially in the evening when the sun sets behind the peaks. You can go swimming at Spiaggia La Gravara - the water is almost 27 degrees in summer.
8th Campo Imperatore: The "Little Tibet" of Italy
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Stefano Gandini
The Campo Imperatore high plateau is often referred to as "Little Tibet" and is one of the most impressive landscapes in Abruzzo. Surrounded by the highest peaks of the Gran Sasso massif, the plain offers unusual scenery reminiscent of distant steppes. In winter, the region becomes a ski resort, while in summer it is a hotspot for hikers and photographers.
9th Rocca Calascio: fortress with panoramic views
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Gennaro Leonardi
The medieval fortress Rocca Calascio sits at 1,460 metres above sea level and is one of the landmarks of Abruzzo. It has already been used as a backdrop in films such as "The Name of the Rose" and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. The climb up to the castle is worthwhile for anyone who loves history and spectacular views.
10th Murals by Aielli: Street art meets history
The small village of Aielli has made a name for itself with its fascinating street art. The "Murales of Aielli" adorn the walls of the village and tell stories of art, culture and local traditions. Take a stroll through the alleyways and experience a unique combination of history and modernity.
