Travel Guide to Abruzzo

Abruzzo: Why go

The Abruzzo is one of Italy's hidden gems. Just a couple of hours from Rome, and 1 hour from Pescara on the east coast, you find yourself in a wild mountainous landscapes dotted with hilltop hamlets, deep forests, turquoise lakes, semi-Alpine peaks and wild flowers which persist right through the summer.

But it's not just the scenery which impresses: the people are among the friendliest in Italy. The food is the kind of hearty, rustic fare - almost always grown within a few miles - that tastes wonderfully wholesome and sets you up for an energetic day of sightseeing.

Linger for half a day in the main towns of L'Aquila (now restored after the 2009 earthquake) or Teramo (a provincial capital) and you'll find Renaissance-style palazzi and pretty piazzas with open-air sculptures and bustling markets. The perfect place to try a local speciality like spaghetti alla chitarra (square strands of pasta served with a tomato sauce) or baked scamorza cheese.

Abruzzo has some of the most evocative castles and Roman ruins in Italy. A favourite is Rocca di Calascio, considered to be one of the finest castles in the Apennines. Often the setting for historical films, the watchtower perched on a hill has some of the best views of the region and is a must for history buffs interested in Renaissance architecture. We would recommend hiring a car, though, as there’s little public transport available.
After exploring the interior, head to the Adriatic coast - known for its stretch of alluring beaches, crystal clear blue waters, and shingle coves.

With thanks to Giovanni Di Gregorio for his photos