The Best Way To Experience Abruzzo’s Italian Mountain Charm Is With This Scenic Road Trip
A visit to Italy is not complete without driving through its stunning scenic mountains, indulging in delicious handmade pasta, and immersing yourself in a culture steeped in traditions passed on through generations. While tourists typically make their way to Rome, Venice, and Florence to get a taste of the country, the best way to skip tourist traps in Italy is to experience a scenic road trip through the charming mountainous Abruzzo region.
While there are things tourists should never do when visiting Italy, such as ordering a latte, renting a vehicle to embark on a road trip surely isn’t one of them. Italy is full of stunning crowd-free destinations, such as the Abruzzo region and can be reached as a day trip from Rome in just over an hour. Although easily accessible from Italy’s largest city, the true beauty of Abruzzo should be discovered by spending more than a few days slowly making your way through historic villages, such as Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Sulmona, and L’Aquila, while taking in the gorgeous scenery and sites along the way.
Abruzzo has the best of both worlds when it comes to beauty. It has what is considered the backbone of Italy, referring to the approximately 870 mile long range of the Apennines Mountains that stretch along the peninsular portion of Italy. Beach lovers will love that the Abruzzo region is home to stretches of stunning beaches along the Adriatic, making it the perfect area for hiking and relaxing.
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Timeless towns and scenic drives
A scenic photo of a viewpoint looking down onto a lake, mountains and trees – riccardo livorni/Shutterstock
While most road trips through the region tend to start in Rome, Abruzzo has its own airport (it’s an under-four hour train ride Rome for about $21, too), and flying there could allow you more time to explore the entire region. From the airport, you can rent a car and make your first stop to the seaside town of Pescara, located just under four miles away. Spend a full day here exploring the sandy shores of Spiaggia di Pescara, spend some time relaxing in the peaceful Nature Reserve Pineta Dannunziana, and strolling along the impressive bridge Ponte del Mare, which spans over 1,500 feet.
After Pescarra, drive to Sulmona, which is located just 44 miles away along the E80 and SS17 highways and is considered one of the most stunning places in Abruzzo. Surrounded by mountains and featuring quaint streets steeped in history, this was home to the ancient Roman poet Ovid. Treat yourself to some candy-coated almonds called “confetti,” which come in a variety of flavors. Grab some lunch at Hostaria dell’ Arco and enjoy the traditional Italian dishes along with the cozy interior.
After lunch, drive 19 miles along SR479 for stunning mountain views. Stop at the Riserva Naturale Gole del Sagittario for scenic hikes with waterfalls and gorges, then visit Eremo di San Domenico before checking into the Park Hotel, overlooking the stunning Lago di Scanno. Hike to the Sentiero del Cuore viewpoint for a heart-shaped lake view from above, then enjoy a traditional and affordable Italian dinner at Il Rifugio del Lupo, before exploring the picturesque village.
Mountain views, epic scenery, and unforgettable Italian charm
Italian village surrounded by snow peaked mountains – Angelo D’amico/Getty Images
Wake up nice and early the next day and make the 29 mile journey from Scanno towards Parco Naturale Regionale Sirente-Velino, which takes just over an hour. You’ll be treated to curvy roads with stunning views. For a quick pitstop, turn onto SP60 to enjoy a panoramic photo opportunity at Punto Panoramico Olmo di Bobbi, before continuing along the curvy route 38 miles along the A25 & E80 highways towards Chieti.
Chieti is commonly referred to as one of the oldest cities in Italy. It boasts an impressive mountain backdrop with Majella and Gran Sasso in particular feeling straight out of a postcard. Take in the views of the cliffside Castle of Roccascalegna, visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, stroll along the historic streets of Centro Storico di Chieti, then grab dinner at La Tavernetta. Stay the night in Chieti before making the 10-mile drive in the morning back to the Abruzzo Airport in Pescara.
Thrill seekers looking to snake along the curvaceous mountain roads on two wheels will be happy to know that you can rent a motorcycle just a short two miles from the Abruzzo Airport with Riderly Rentals. Ride along the Adriatic Sea towards Vasto and stop for lunch at Trabocco Punta Isolata, which is a traditional trabocco, a fishing platform turned restaurant that serves fresh seafood. Ride the easy 31-mile long Trabocchi Coast, or head to the twisties on the Chieti route, which offers curves galore. Stop off during the ride in Casoli for some breakfast, Barrea for a quick bite, and Pacentro for a coffee before making your way back towards Chieti and returning the bike back to the rental agency.
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