DISCOUNT on the July 18 departure
YOUR RATING
last year's survey score
There are many sights to see in Abruzzo, but don’t stress—just leave your worries at home: you can depart comfortably from Rome, and transportation will be provided for the entire duration of your vacation! We’ll take you on a journey to discover the wonders of this magnificent region, on a vacation that combines hiking, nature, and enchanting villages. The small village of Sulmona will be our starting point for hikes in the stunning setting of the Gran Sasso National Park: from the Campo Imperatore plateau, passing through nestled villages like Castrovalva and Santo Stefano di Sessanio and evocative sites like Rocca Calascio, all the way to the picturesque Costa dei Trabocchi. As you hike up streams, explore caves, and take a dip under a waterfall, you’ll enjoy the wonders nature has to offer and experience Abruzzo in all its marvelous uniqueness.
WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Program
First day
Our trip begins at Roma Tiburtina, where we’ll meet up late in the morning to depart together aboard a private transfer. A pleasant road trip takes us toAbruzzo, with our first stop at the fascinating Pescara Springs in Popoli. Here, in addition to a brief tour, our tour guide will give a short introductory briefing on the week full of discoveries and adventures that awaits us. For those not departing from Rome, it’s possible to join the group directly at the springs. After this first immersion in Abruzzo’s natural beauty, we’ll head to Sulmona, our base for the entire trip. Once we arrive, we’ll check into the hotel and enjoy a convivial dinner, savoring the delicious culinary specialties of Abruzzo. A perfect day to begin discovering the authentic heart of Abruzzo!
Second day
Gorges, Villages, and Inspiration
Today we’ll immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Sagittario Gorges, a natural canyon carved by millennia of erosion by the Sagittario River. This rewarding hike will take us past imposing rock faces and spectacular views, allowing us to discover one of Abruzzo’s most fascinating places. We’ll then head to the village of Anversa degli Abruzzi, a gem of culture and tradition overlooking the gorges. We’ll continue on to the picturesque village of Castrovalva, perched high on a cliff, famous for having inspired the renowned artist Maurits Cornelis Escher. A perfect blend of nature and culture that will make this day unforgettable!
Third day
On the Roof of the Apennines
Todaywe’re heading to Campo Imperatore (2,120 meters), the heart of the Gran Sasso d’Italia Massif. An exciting hike will take us to the summit of Monte Aquila (2,494 meters), where we’ll be rewarded with spectacular views: to the south, the vast plain of Campo Imperatore, and to the east, the picturesque Castellana Valley. An experience that combines nature and adventure in one of Abruzzo’s most iconic locations. On the way back, we’ll stop at Capestrano Castle for a guided tour, discovering its history and connection to the famous Warrior of Capestrano, a masterpiece of Italic art. Return to Sulmona.
Fourth day
A Journey Through Time in Abruzzo
A day combining caving, culture, and hiking awaits us. We’ll start with a guided tour of the Stiffe Caves, a fascinating underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. We’ll continue on to the majestic Rocca Calascio Castle—known as the castle from *Ladyhawke* or *The Name of the Rose*—for a short hike. The day concludes with a visit to the village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, an extraordinary example of architectural restoration, made famous by the initiative of Daniel Kihlgren, a young Swedish entrepreneur who renovated the village while preserving its architectural character. The village offers a unique atmosphere, as if frozen in time.
Fifth day
Where the Journey Slows Down
After the adventures of the past few days, it’s time to relax and recharge. Today we’re heading to the stunning Costa dei Trabocchi, where everyone can set their own pace. For those who love to stay active, we suggest a pleasant bike ride along the Costa dei Trabocchi bike path—a route that winds through the sea and nature, offering unforgettable views and the chance to discover these ancient fishing structures, a symbol of the Abruzzo coast. If, on the other hand, you prefer to relax, you can spend the day under a beach umbrella, lulled by the sea breeze and the colors of the ocean. Whatever you choose, it will be a rejuvenating day—perfect for experiencing the charm of the coast!
Sixth day
In the green heart of the Majella
Areyou readyto immerse yourself in nature at its most authentic with a hike through the Orfento Gorges, one of the most evocative and unspoiled corners of the Majella National Park? This natural paradise has been shaped over the centuries by water, creating deep canyons that seem to be the work of a visionary artist. We’ll walk along shaded trails, accompanied by the sound of the river and the cool greenery, in an environment rich in biodiversity. Our packed lunch will be the perfect time to relax amid this unique scenery, before returning to the starting point and then to Sulmona—perhaps for a bit of relaxation in the hotel pool?
Seventh day
It’s time to head back to Rome, but not before one last unforgettable experience. On the border with Lazio, we’ll stop at the spectacular Lacerno River Gorges in the Abruzzo National Park, where we can try our hand at river trekking: a cool and pleasant walk in the river—safe and requiring no special equipment—perfect for wrapping up this vacation on a refreshing note. Alternatively, we’ll visit Bominaco, known as the “Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo,” a place rich in history and art that will captivate you with its medieval frescoes of extraordinary beauty. Once we arrive in Rome, we’ll say our goodbyes with hearts full of memories and a desire to set off again. Where will your next vacation take you, Jonas?
accommodation in double/triple rooms in a 4-star hotel
transfer Rome-Sulmona-Rome and local transportation by minibus
half-board accommodation with water at the table and house wine
chauffeur/driver
health and baggage insurancetravel, any admission fees and/or beach access fees, tourist tax, fuel, and tolls (covered by a shared fund), and anything not listed under "Includes."
Single-occupancy room: starting at €200.
4-Star Hotel in Sulmona - AQ.
Located at the entrance to Sulmona, across from the Hermitage of Celestine V, this is a welcoming and relaxing hotel surrounded by greenery. A swimming pool with a sun deck, a well-maintained garden, and a restaurant with panoramic views enhance your stay. An ideal base for exploring Sulmona, with its history, culture, and the landscapes of Abruzzo.
All you need to do is arrive at Roma Tiburtina on Saturday morning, where your tour guide will be waiting for you to join the road trip. We’ll provide the meeting details once you’ve registered. Transportation from Sulmona to Rome will also be provided at the end of the trip. Local transportation will also be provided by minibus with a driver. Fuel and toll costs will be covered by a shared fund among the participants.
If you want to get around on your own by car: Sulmona is accessible via the A25 highway (the “Sulmona-Pratola Peligna” exit), which connects it to Rome (2 hours) and Pescara (45 minutes). Another expressway is State Road 17, which connects Sulmona to Naples and L’Aquila. You can reach Sulmona by train directly from the Pescara or Chieti station and request a transfer from the Sulmona station to the hotel.
Do you need more information?
The soundtrack to this Jonas experience
Listen on Spotify
You may also be interested in
Everyone experiences travel in their own way: whether riding a bike, sailing a boat, exploring on foot, or riding a horse.
