Exploring Pescara & Abruzzo
Discover the beauty, history, and adventure of our region
Abruzzo is a region of incredible diversity - from medieval castles perched on hilltops to pristine beaches and islands, from mountain villages to coastal adventures. Whether you're interested in history, nature, food, or outdoor activities, there's something magical waiting to be discovered.
Featured Experience
Canoe Tour on the Tirino River
Water Activity - Canoe & Kayak
Immerse yourself in an enchanted environment in the heart of Gran Sasso National Park and navigate the crystal-clear waters of the Tirino, Italy's cleanest river. Enjoy a canoe excursion, discover a territory rich in natural surprises, and relax in close contact with nature.
Duration: 2 hours | Difficulty: Easy | Group Size: 1-15 people
What's Included: Qualified canoe guide, canoe, paddle, life jacket, waterproof bag
Price: From €70 per canoe | Location: Capestrano, L'Aquila
Cancellation Policy: Flexible - Full refund up to 5 days before, 50% refund 3-4 days before
Must-See Attractions & Experiences
Castel del Monte
Historic Castle & Mountain Village
A stunning medieval castle perched dramatically on a hilltop, Castel del Monte offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Abruzzo landscape. The historic village below is charming and authentic, with narrow cobblestone streets, local shops, and traditional architecture. It's a perfect day trip for history lovers and photographers.
What to do: Explore the castle ruins, wander through the village streets, enjoy panoramic views, visit local artisan shops, dine at traditional restaurants
Why we love it: Stunning views, rich history, authentic village atmosphere, excellent local restaurants
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Pescara | Best time: Spring or fall for pleasant weather | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Ristoro Mucciante
Mountain Restaurant & Agriturismo
Located in the heart of Castel del Monte, Ristoro Mucciante is a wonderful mountain restaurant serving authentic Abruzzo cuisine in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect place to experience traditional mountain cooking with locally-sourced ingredients and recipes passed down through generations.
What to order: Arrosticini, handmade pasta, local cheeses, mountain game dishes, traditional Abruzzo specialties
Why we love it: Authentic mountain cuisine, warm hospitality, stunning location, genuine local experience
Price: €€ | Location: Castel del Monte | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Isole Tremiti (Tremiti Islands)
Island Paradise & Water Activities
A stunning archipelago off the coast of Puglia, the Tremiti Islands are a paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. Crystal-clear waters, pristine sandy beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities make this an unforgettable day trip. The islands offer a perfect escape for swimming, diving, and exploring marine life.
What to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, sunbathing, boat tours, explore the islands, enjoy fresh seafood
Why we love it: Crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, island atmosphere, perfect for a full day adventure
Distance: About 2 hours from Pescara | Best time: June to September for warm water and sunny weather | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Bominaco - The Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo
Historic Church & Oratory
The Oratory of San Pellegrino in Bominaco is often called "the Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo" for its breathtaking medieval frescoes. This hidden gem features stunning 13th-century paintings that cover the walls and ceiling, depicting biblical scenes and a unique medieval calendar. The church and oratory are part of an ancient monastery complex in this small mountain village.
What to see: Medieval frescoes, ancient monastery, Romanesque architecture, peaceful mountain village
Why we love it: Incredible medieval art, peaceful atmosphere, off-the-beaten-path location, knowledgeable local guides
Distance: About 1 hour from Pescara | Best time: Year-round | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Lago Sinizzo
Lake & Recreation Area
A beautiful lake in the Sirente Velino Regional Park, Lago Sinizzo is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. The lake offers fishing opportunities, picnic areas with BBQ facilities, and a children's play area. It's a popular spot for locals who come to enjoy the natural setting, cook outdoors, and spend quality time with family and friends.
What to do: Fishing, BBQ and picnics, children's playground, nature walks, relaxing by the water
Why we love it: Family-friendly, BBQ facilities, peaceful natural setting, great for a full day outdoors
Distance: About 45 minutes from Pescara | Best time: Spring through fall | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Sulmona - The City of Confetti
Historic Town & Confetti Capital
Sulmona is famous throughout Italy as the birthplace of confetti (sugar-coated almonds) and is home to renowned confetti makers like Pelino and Rapone. The town's artisans create elaborate confetti bouquets and arrangements that are works of art. Beyond confetti, Sulmona is a beautiful medieval town with stunning architecture, charming piazzas, and a rich history as the birthplace of the poet Ovid.
What to do: Visit Confetti Pelino Museum, shop for artisan confetti, explore the historic center, visit local markets, enjoy traditional Abruzzese cuisine
Why we love it: Unique confetti tradition, beautiful historic center, excellent shopping, authentic Italian town atmosphere
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Pescara | Best time: Year-round | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Rocca Calascio
Mountain Fortress
Perched at 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) on a Gran Sasso mountainside, Rocca Calascio is one of the highest castles in Europe. This stunning medieval fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The castle has been featured in several films including "The Name of the Rose" and "Ladyhawke." The nearby village of Calascio and the church of Santa Maria della Pietà add to the magical atmosphere.
What to do: Explore the castle ruins, enjoy spectacular mountain views, visit Santa Maria della Pietà church, photography, hiking
Why we love it: Stunning mountain location, incredible views, historic significance, film location, peaceful atmosphere
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Pescara | Best time: Spring through fall (can be snowy in winter) | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Grotte di Stiffe (Stiffe Caves)
Underground Caves & Natural Wonder
The Grotte di Stiffe are spectacular underground caves formed by an active underground river. Located near San Demetrio nei Vestini, these caves feature stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and underground pools. Guided tours take you through illuminated passages where you can witness the power of water sculpting the limestone over millennia. The caves maintain a constant cool temperature year-round.
What to do: Guided cave tour, see underground waterfalls, explore rock formations, learn about geology
Why we love it: Unique underground experience, active river inside, knowledgeable guides, impressive natural formations, great for all ages
Distance: About 45 minutes from Pescara | Best time: Year-round | TripAdvisor: View Reviews
Lago di Capodacqua (Capodacqua Lake)
Diving & Snorkeling Lake
This small, crystal-clear lake near Ofena is one of the three sources of the Tirino River and is famous for its incredibly clean, transparent water. The lake is a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. Underwater, you can see submerged windmills and explore the unique aquatic environment. The lake is managed by ATLANTIDE diving school and offers a unique freshwater diving experience.
What to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, underwater photography, see submerged windmills, enjoy crystal-clear water
Why we love it: Exceptional water clarity, unique underwater features, perfect for diving enthusiasts, peaceful natural setting
Distance: About 1 hour from Pescara | Best time: Late spring through early fall | Info: ATLANTIDE Diving School
Plan Your Abruzzo Adventure
Il Bosso - Experiential Tourism in Abruzzo
Il Bosso specializes in "Turismo Esperienziale" (Experiential Tourism) in Abruzzo, offering a comprehensive guide to planning and scheduling authentic experiences throughout the region. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, food tours, or nature activities, Il Bosso provides curated recommendations and planning resources to help you discover the heart of Abruzzo.
What you'll find: Guided experiences, outdoor activities, cultural tours, local events, seasonal activities, and detailed planning information for exploring Abruzzo authentically.
Freedome - Book Outdoor Experiences Across Italy
Freedome is Italy's leading platform for booking outdoor experiences and adventures. With over 1,200 curated activities and 400+ professional operators throughout Italy, Freedome makes it easy to discover and book everything from water sports and mountain activities to unique experiences and gift ideas.
What you'll find: Water activities (snorkeling, diving, sailing), mountain adventures (hiking, climbing, skiing), air sports, land activities, and unique experiences. You can also purchase gift cards for outdoor enthusiasts.
Categories: Water, Air, Fire, Snow, and Earth activities - something for every adventure seeker!