Abruzzo Highlands
Italy
Italy's most underrated region, the SS17 and mountain roads through the Apennine backbone past medieval hill towns, the wolf-and-bear wilderness of Gran Sasso, and a coastline that the Adriatic sun turns an extraordinary turquoise.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- L'Aquila
A city of 99 churches and 99 fountains, still bearing the scars of the 2009 earthquake and still magnificently beautiful.
- Campo Imperatore
A vast plateau at 2,000m called Italy's Little Tibet. Mussolini was imprisoned at the hotel here in 1943.
- Santo Stefano di Sessanio
A perfectly preserved Medici village at 1,250m where stone houses are being restored one by one as artisan hotels.
- Sulmona
An elegant medieval town famous for confetti, sugar-coated almonds sold in every colour from shops lining the old corso.
- Scanno
One of Italy's most beautiful mountain villages, with a wolf-shaped lake, traditional costumes, and handmade jewellery.
- Pescasseroli
Heart of Italy's oldest national park, home to Apennine wolves, Marsican bears, and golden eagles in deep forest.
Where to Eat
- Ristorante La Locanda sul LagoItalian
Enjoy traditional Abruzzese dishes with a view of the lake, featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional wines.
- Trattoria del LeoneItalian
Savor homemade pasta and local specialties in a cozy, rustic setting in the heart of Sulmona.
- Ristorante Il Vecchio MulinoItalian
Dine in a restored old mill offering authentic regional cuisine and a selection of fine wines.
- Ristorante A CavutItalian
Experience traditional mountain cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients.
Things to Do
- Rocca CalascioHistoric Site
Explore one of the highest fortresses in Europe, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Sulmona CathedralHistoric Site
Visit the impressive cathedral dedicated to Saint Panfilo, showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Lake ScannoNature
Relax by the heart-shaped lake, ideal for swimming, boating, and enjoying scenic mountain views.
- Parco Nazionale d'AbruzzoNational Park
Discover diverse wildlife and hiking trails in one of Italy's oldest national parks.
Travel advisory
Apennine mountain roads through Gran Sasso can be narrow, winding, and icy from November through March; snow chains or winter tyres are legally required in those months. Some higher connecting roads close seasonally, so verify conditions before heading into the interior.