Magical Abruzzo with Friends: Easy Hikes for Epiphany or Easter

First day

We’ll meet at Roma Tiburtina and leave by minibus around 11 a.m., ready to kick off our vacation. The first stop is Alba Fucens, an ancient Roman city at the foot of Mount Velino: as we walk among the archaeological ruins, we discover an important chapter in the history of this region and visit the charming church of San Pietro. We then head to thehotel in Sulmona to check in, and set out again to explore the town, famous for its confetti. We’ll stroll through squares, alleyways, and shops, letting ourselves be charmed by the atmosphere of the historic center. It’s the perfect time to get to know each other, share our first impressions, and maybe stop for a tasty treat. We’ll return to the hotel for dinner.

Second day

Today, some of the most beautiful landscapes in Abruzzo, including crystal-clear lakes, mountains, and small villages. We’ll walk through the the area around Scanno, one of the region’s most picturesque villages, also famous for its traditional jewelry. We’ll then head to Lake San Domenico, with its emerald-green waters and the hermitage overlooking the shore.
We continue on toward Villalago, a village where you might happen to encounter deer strolling peacefully among the houses: a curious sight that makes this place truly special! If time and trail conditions permit, we can also visit the San Venanzio Gorges and its hermitage, nestled in the rock. Alternatively, we’ll explore other corners of the area, such as Castrovalva and the Sagittario Gorges. A day to be savored step by step, with the pleasure of sharing views, taking photos, and enjoying a few well-deserved breaks together.

Third day

Let's get our hiking boots ready: today we're heading to Rocca Calascio, one of Italy’s most picturesque castles, perched in a panoramic spot high in the Abruzzo mountains. Weather and trail conditions permitting, we’ll hike up to the fortress. The view makes the walk well worth it and offers the perfect opportunity for a great group photo—the kind that captures a vacation far better than a thousand words ever could. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a small medieval stone village with narrow streets, arches, and postcard-perfect views. Here, the pleasure also lies in strolling at a leisurely pace, observing the details of the houses, and letting yourself be surprised by the history of a place that retains a charm all its own. Alternatively, if the trail is difficult to navigate, we can spend part of the day at the Stiffe Caves, a striking karst complex traversed by an underground stream, and to visiting other picturesque villages. The destination may change, but the joy of discovering new places together.

Fourth day

After days of beauty and nature, it’s time to head home. We begin our journey back to Roma Tiburtina, where we’ll arrive in the early afternoon. But first, Abruzzo treats us to one last, wonderful surprise: a a visit to the Oratory of San Pellegrino in Bominaco, a medieval gem known as the “Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo” because of its extraordinarily well-preserved frescoes. A small masterpiece that will leave us speechless. We’ll also make a quick stop in L’Aquila, a city rich in history and architectural treasures. We’ll explore the Basilica of Collemaggio and stroll through the historic center, among squares, palaces, and views that reveal the city’s identity. In the afternoon, we’ll head back toward Roma Tiburtina. We’ll return home with our eyes full of landscapes and a few more insights into theAbruzzo , and—who knows— new friends to plan our next vacation with.