Abruzzo

The mountain peaks of Abruzzo tower to nearly 10,000 feet, making them the highest in peninsular Italy. This ensures that the temperature is always pleasantly warm, even in the height of summer.

Bears, eagles and chamois thrive in the protected parkland, and the natural beauty of both the countryside and sandy coastline give this region a unique quality. For what Abruzzo lacks in great artistic centers, it more than makes up for in its natural attractions: the Gran Sasso d’Italia is the highest point in the Appennines and is reached by cable car, at the awe-inspiring top is a hotel and restaurant built for Mussolini.

In some of the higher villages, now only inhabited by a handful of older people, it is often possible get a fascinating insight into a bygone way of life.
Complementing this spectacularly attractive interior, Abruzzo’s beaches are safe, secluded and great for the kids: there are over 120 kilometers of splendid unspoilt sandy beach and rocky coves, washed by a clear blue Adriatic, between the classic resorts of Alba Adriatica, Roseto degli Abruzzi, montesilvano, Pescara and Vasto, to name but a few.

Visit the Museo Pelino del Confetto in Sulmonato see how they make sugar almonds - if you’re there during the last weekend in July don’t miss the incredible "Giostra Cavalleresca" horse racing in Piazza Maggiore.