Abruzzo - Destination Someplace

Why an Abruzzo Holiday is Always a Good Idea

SSomewhere — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 14:49:29 +0000

Imagine a place where time slows down and relaxation takes over. A place where you are forced (in the nicest possible way) to reconnect with nature. If that place you imagine had a name, it might very well be called ‘Abruzzo’, a hidden European gem nested in the heart of Italy.

With high mountain plateaus, rolling hills, hidden forests and pristine beaches, the region is the (almost) undiscovered secret known by just a lucky few, and perfect for the ultimate relaxing Abruzzo holiday.

This post may contain affiliate links to things like hotels, tours or products. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you and help keep the lights on at Destination Someplace.

RESOURCES – ITALY

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Viator

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Where is Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of the twenty regions of Italy and is located centrally, approximately 70 miles to the east of Rome. Its eastern border is curtailed by the Adriatic Sea, and if Italy is ‘boot-shaped’, then Abruzzo is located near the back of the ’knee’. The historic city of L’Aquila is the regional capital of Abruzzo.

Although located roughly in the middle of the Italian peninsula, Abruzzo counts itself as one of Southern Italy’s main geographical regions. With a relatively modest population, the region is divided into four regional provinces and has a rich culture profoundly influenced by other surrounding states, including Marche, Lazio, and Molise.

Landscape and Wildlife

Facing the Adriatic Sea, Abruzzo boasts a beautiful coastline dotted with cool, stylish beach resorts. The region’s unique geographical location within Italy allows for a remarkably diverse environment.

In Abruzzo you will not only find stunning shorelines but also charming mountain landscapes, glaciers (Abruzzo is home to Europe’s southernmost glaciers) hills and countryside.

Given that the Apennine mountain range cuts through the heart of Abruzzo it is no surprise that nearly two-thirds of the region is mountainous and encompasses the tallest peak of the Italian peninsula – the Corno Grande at 2912m. This rugged landscape makes it a magnet for skiing, climbing and hiking enthusiasts.

Sprinkled amongst the breathtaking hills and mountains of Abruzzo are dozens of medieval castles, ancient villages and monasteries. If you are planning a visit to Abruzzo, you will find can search for accommodation here.

In addition to this amazing blend of environmental features, Abruzzo is known as the greenest region in Europe. Over a third of its territory is in fact occupied by protected areas and national parks, turning the region into a true wildlife sanctuary, home to rare species of lynx, wild boar, wolves and bears with massive importance on a European and global level.

It has been reported that the region hosts a whopping 75% of Europe’s living species, and many of them are indigenous to this particular area, and only found in the region.

The Culture of Abruzzo

Abruzzo might be roughly located slightly below the central Italian belt, but its identity is strongly considered southern, and, like in many other southern regions, family identity is very strong…and great local cuisine is an absolute must-try!

Many influential people have expressed their awe and appreciation when faced with the charming natural beauty of the region, but perhaps nobody managed to describe its unique soul better than notorious Italian journalist Primo Levi, who described the region as “Strong and Gentle”. These two apparently discordant adjectives fully represent the spirit of Abruzzo, a region where beautiful contrasts coexist and thrive in a spectacular way.

The Regions of Abruzzo

The Abruzzo region is divided into four distinct provinces (provincie): L’Aquila, Teramo, Chieti and Pescara (the capitals of these provinces being the towns of the same names). These four provinces are further divided into 305 communes (or municipalities). Here’s the lowdown for when you are planning your Abruzzo holiday.

L’Aquila: Nestled in between the mountains, L’Aquila is the least densely populated of all provinces in Abruzzo, but it is also the largest, occupying roughly half of the land of the region, particularly its western part. The province is perhaps the most attractive for tourists looking to dive deep into the history and culture of Abruzzo. There are many stunning buildings and remnants of other eras, including castles, fortresses, hill towns and beautiful churches that are extremely well-preserved. In the year 2009, the capital city of the province suffered from a devastating earthquake of 6.3 magnitude, which had a ripple effect throughout central Italy.

Teramo: The province of Teramo boasts a fascinating history and a stunning landscape, located between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains, with some beautiful hills and valleys, often renowned for the production of highly prized local wines and extra virgin olive oil. People looking to experience the best of local food and tour the vineyards will have a wonderful time sampling great products, such as wines from the Montepulciano and Trebbiano grapes.

Pescara: This province of Abruzzo was an absolutely vital trading haven between the Romans and the Balkans, due to its strategic position on the Adriatic Sea. However, barbarian hordes nearly destroyed the province’s capital city, which slowly came back to life in a much humbler form. Originally known as Aternum, the town was later renamed Pescara, due to its rebirth as a fishermen village. It did not take long before Pescara became an important strategic location yet again, seeing numerous invasions throughout history – which brought cultural influences from various sources. The city also experienced another downfall, as bombers managed to destroy large areas of the city during WWII.

The province of Pescara remains interesting for its many historical centres (Penne, Loreto Aprutino, Sant’Angelo) and its proximity to many national parks, such as the Majella, which makes it one of the key regions of Abruzzo.

Chieti: This is the easternmost province in Abruzzo, and it touches the Adriatic Sea to the northeast. The area was largely rural during the 50s and in later decades, but much of the agricultural work has fallen steadily over the years, offset, to a degree by the growth of the service sectors. In the main city of the province, Chieti, you will find stunning examples of Gothic architecture, such as the local cathedral. This province is also well known for Vasto, a beach town with a rich and interesting historical centre, showcasing the vast and diverse history of this land.

Where to stay on an Abruzzo Holiday

Here are a few accommodation options for an Abruzzo holiday.

If the beach is your thing then a couple of places worth considering are the Aurum Suites which is a five-minute walk from the beach in the resort town of Pescara, or close to the castle in the town of Ortona there is Angolo 54.

For stays in the national parks, you might try something like an Agriturismo (farm or county house stay) such as the Agriturismo Poggio Alle Serre, or in the south of the region, the Agriturismo Maneggio Vallecupa.

Getting to Abruzzo

Abruzzo is fairly easy to reach via the major public transport systems.

By Air: The city of Pescara is home to Abruzzo International Airport, which is a great way to fly directly into the region. This is a fairly low-key airport, and the advantage is that it is served by low-cost carriers and airlines that offer direct flights from major European destinations, including Barcelona, London, Paris, Oslo, Prague and many more. Abruzzo International Airport is particularly easy to reach from London, UK, thanks to regular flights from Stansted Airport to the region. You can also to get to Abruzzo by flying into one of the Rome airports and accessing one of the regular buses into the region direct from the airport or, of course, hiring a car.

We would recommend using Skyscanner to find flights into Abruzzo and if you are flexible when you go/return using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the most economical flights.

By Train: Main cities and towns in the region are comfortably reachable by train from main hubs such as Rome, Naples, Milan and many other cities around Italy. Italy has a fast and efficient railway network, and Abruzzo is easily accessible from most parts of Italy as well as the rest of Europe. Check out trains to Abruzzo here.

By Bus: Abruzzo is also easy to reach by bus, we would recommend Flixbus, a European company serving the vast majority of mainland Europe that offers cost-effective options to get to Abruzzo.

The Top 10 things to see and do on a Abruzzo Holiday

Visit the city of L’Aquila: This town is renowned for its stunning architecture and historic sites including the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio, the Fontana delle 99 Cannelle (the fountain of the 99 spouts) and the Castillo di L’Aquila(aka The Spanish Fortress). A beautiful town with a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Eat like a local: Food (like the rest of Italy) is at the heart of Abruzzo’s culture. So whatever your preference take the time to become acquainted with the diverse range of culinary weights available, including arrosticini (snack-sized kebabs of mutton), pecorino cheese (sheep cheese in various delicious forms), and a whole world of regional pasta dishes to temp the taste buds.
Gran Sasso National Park: Also known as Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, and located in the heart of the Appenine Mountains, this vast area is a haven for nature lovers. Breathtaking landscapes abound, featuring breathtaking valleys, lakes and picturesque villages. Ideal for wildlife spotting and hiking in a pristine environment.
Visit the medieval town of Sulmona: With its picturesque old town, Sulmona is a charming destination in Abruzzo. Explore the well-preserved buildings including the famous medieval aqueduct. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous confetti, sugar-coated almonds that are a local speciality and come in a mind-boggling number of varieties.
Rocca Calascio: Located in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, Rocca Calascio is an iconic medieval fortress and one of the highest castles in Italy. The castle’s stunning location offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which makes it a popular spot for photographers and history buffs. Fun fact: Scenes for the movie Ladyhawke were filmed here.
Pescara: If it’s a beach destination you are looking for, Pescara could be the place to go in Abruzzo. This vibrant coastal city offers beautiful sandy beaches, a lively promenade (great for an evening stroll), and a range of entertainment options (including regular music festivals in the Summer months). Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and even water sports, or explore the city’s cultural attractions such as the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo and the Cathedral of San Cetteo.
Step back in time at Scanno: Nestled in the heart of the Apennine Mountains, Scanno is a charming medieval village known for its traditional architecture and scenic lake. Wander the narrow streets lined with stone houses, or visit the Church of Santa Maria della Valle, and take a stroll (or hire a bicycle) along the edge of Lake Scanno, known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.
Visit Ortona: This coastal town is famous for its historic landmarks and beautiful beaches. Explore the Aragonese Castle, visit the Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, and walk along the picturesque promenade. Ortona is also known for its wine production, so make sure to try some of the local wines while you’re there.
Don’t forget about the wine: Abruzzo has a long history of wine-making, and it produces some great and distinctive wines.
The most notable type of red wine you will see in the region is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is made with the Montepulciano grape, (not be confused with the Tuscan wine Vino Nobile di Montepulciano). Also produced throughout the region is Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, produced from the Trebbiano d’Abruzzo grape (Often locally known as Bombino Bianco). There is also the very well-respected rosé wine Cerasuolo from the Montepulciano grape.
Visit the Trabocchi Coast: The famous Trabocchi, are ungainly wooden platforms designed to fish the sometimes turbulent Adriatic waters. Favouring practicality over style, they traditionally lowered nets into the water and raised them back up when they were full of fish, all done with complex rigging and baffling arrays of pulleys and winches. The 18th Century was the heyday of the trabocchi and, some can still be seen operating today, although many are now restaurants that cater to tourists and seafood lovers.

Top Tips – Abruzzo

Abruzzo is a diverse region, and many of the best places to see are sometimes difficult to get to on the public transport systems. Whenever we travel around Abruzzo we tend to use a car and usually find the best deal via AutoEurope which compares a range of providers to find the best deal.

For public transport, we use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

And for accommodation, including self-catering apartments, we use Booking.com, where you can filter by review score and many properties have a pay later/late cancellation policy should your plans suddenly change.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

Staying Safe

Abruzzo is a generally safe region, and crimes of violence against visitors are rare, but if you do have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Of course, the key thing is to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage to protect against, cancellations, theft, illness etc. For this, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

The post Why an Abruzzo Holiday is Always a Good Idea appeared first on Destination Someplace.

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo

SSomewhere — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:44:45 +0000

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking vistas, Abruzzo holds a special place in the hearts of travellers seeking coastal bliss. From sun-drenched sandy shores to hidden coves embraced by rugged cliffs, the beaches of Abruzzo offer a haven of tranquillity and natural splendour. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the best beaches in Abruzzo, immersing ourselves in the beauty and allure of the region’s coastal treasures.

The Coastline of Abruzzo

Abruzzo’s coastline stretches along the Adriatic Sea in central Italy, offering a picturesque and captivating landscape. It spans approximately 129 kilometres (80 miles), encompassing a blend of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and charming fishing villages. With its strategic location, Abruzzo’s coastline acts as a gateway to the region’s stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The diversity of beaches in Abruzzo is a remarkable feature that caters to various preferences. Along the coastline, one can find long stretches of golden sand, perfect for leisurely walks and sunbathing. Additionally, pebble beaches provide a unique charm and are popular among visitors seeking a more rugged coastal experience. Some areas offer secluded coves nestled between cliffs, providing privacy and tranquillity. The range of beach types in Abruzzo ensures there is something for everyone.

Abruzzo’s beaches are renowned for their natural beauty and pristine condition. Many of the coastal areas in Abruzzo have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation, which signifies their commitment to environmental sustainability, cleanliness, and high-water quality. The beaches are well-maintained and often surrounded by unspoiled nature, including pine forests and dunes. Visitors can bask in the region’s clear turquoise waters, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and revel in the peaceful atmosphere. Abruzzo’s commitment to preserving its coastal treasures ensures that its beaches remain a haven of beauty and serenity for locals and tourists alike.

Tips For Visiting The Beach in Italy

Here are a few tips when visiting a beach in Abruzzo, or Italy in general.

Clean beaches: In Italy during the summer season you’ll generally find the beaches very, very clean, especially in the larger resorts.

Two types of beaches: Many of the beaches in Italy are private (stabilimenti) and essentially an extension of a beach bar or a beachside hotel, with neat rows of beach beds and beach parasols lined up in colour-coded rows. If the beach is not ‘attached’ to a hotel or bar, then it is probably a public beach, which are easily recognisable as there are no neat rows of parasols on them and everyone using them will either be sun-worshippers with no shade at all or will have brought their own parasols, beach beds etc.

Costs: Public beaches, as above, you will see dotted everywhere in Abruzzo amongst the private (hotel/bar) beaches. There is no cost for using the public beaches, but remember the public beaches have no facilities.

On the other hand, you have to pay to use the private (bar/hotel) beaches. If you are from the UK this can be a bit of a shock (but try not to let it show).

The costs of ‘renting’ space on private beaches vary, depending on how popular the beach is, what time in the season it is, where your parasol is going to be located and indeed what time of day it is. Sounds complicated, but it’s not.

For example, let’s say you are a couple and you turn up at one of the beach bars dotted along the coast near Pescara/Francavilla.

Just asked one of the staff how much it costs to hire an umbrella and sunbeds (the standard charge is usually for one parasol and two sunbeds/chairs). If you like the price then, pay your money and a staff member will generally show you to your place on the beach. If you don’t like the price, you’ve got a couple of options, you can go try another bar/hotel – their prices may be cheaper. Or, you may be able to negotiate a better price especially if it is towards the end of the season, and the beaches aren’t full, or if you just want to stay on the beach for half the day just ask for a half day.

Note: In the height of summer during the Italian holidays, the main resorts will all be very busy, and you may have trouble finding a spot on the private beaches so don’t try and negotiate then as it won’t work.

Facilities: Private beaches offer all the facilities you would expect toilets, changing cubicles, showers, a bar and usually snacks and food, and their patch of beach is usually pristine – that is what you are paying for. They often have a lifeguard too. It is worth the price.

Mistakes we’ve made: We’ve spent some time on beaches in Italy, and the first error we made was not asking for a better price when we could have done (ie at the end of the season).

Another mistake we made on our first visit to the beach was just plonking down on a couple of beach beds under a parasol and thinking that someone would come along from the bar and charge us for them, as sometimes happens in other countries around the Med. However we failed to notice the little ticket fluttering under the parasol with a name on it, and we were soon very apologetically informed that this particular parasol /sunbed combo was rented for the entire season by an Italian family (a season pass), and they could turn up any minute. This occurs a lot in the larger and busier resorts. We swallowed our mild embarrassment and allowed ourselves to be shuffled to another area.

USEFUL RESOURCES – ITALY

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Further more helpful stuff see our resources page.

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo: Punta Penna, Francavilla and Punta Aderci

Punta Penna Beach: Punta Penna Beach is nestled along the picturesque coastline of Abruzzo, and located near the town of Vasto, it offers easy accessibility for both locals and tourists. This stunning beach is characterized by its magnificent cliffs that frame the shoreline and create a breathtaking backdrop.

The crystal-clear turquoise waters further enhance the beauty of Punta Penna, making it a true paradise for swimmers and water enthusiasts. Moreover, the beach boasts soft, golden sand, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for beachgoers.

The cleanliness of Punta Penna Beach is of utmost importance, with regular maintenance and efforts to preserve its pristine condition. Visitors can also find convenient facilities such as beach umbrellas and bars, allowing them to relax and indulge in refreshments.

Francavilla al Mare Beach: Francavilla al Mare Beach is situated along the Adriatic coast in the town of Francavilla al Mare, locacated just south of the city of Pescara (where you’ll find Abruzzo’s regional airport). This beautiful beach offers visitors a delightful coastal experience. It is distinguished by its long stretch of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing or taking leisurely strolls along the shore.

Francavilla al Mare Beach provides a range of amenities that enhance the beachgoers’ experience. Beachfront restaurants offer delectable seafood and other culinary delights, allowing visitors to savour delicious meals while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Moreover, the beach’s family-friendly nature and accessible facilities make it an ideal destination for families with children. Francavilla al Mare Beach truly offers a memorable and enjoyable coastal retreat for all.

Punta Aderci Nature Reserve: The Punta Aderci Nature Reserve is located along the Adriatic coast in the region of Abruzzo, Italy. This reserve holds great significance as it preserves a pristine coastal ecosystem and protects the biodiversity of the area.

The reserve encompasses a diverse coastal landscape, offering a blend of sandy shores, pebble beaches, and majestic rocky cliffs. Visitors to Punta Aderci are treated to breathtaking natural surroundings, including expansive views of the sea, rolling hills, and picturesque sunsets.

Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts can take advantage of the reserve’s trails and paths, providing opportunities for exploration and immersion in the region’s unique flora and fauna. Punta Aderci Nature Reserve serves as a tranquil haven, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty of this coastal gem.

Find Accommodation Along The Coast

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo: Torre del Cerrano, Lido Riccio and Punta Le Morge

Torre del Cerrano Beach

Torre del Cerrano Beach is located in the charming town of Pineto, along the Adriatic coast of Italy. Situated in the Abruzzo region, this beach is renowned for its natural beauty. It features a long stretch of sandy shoreline, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the sun.

What sets Torre del Cerrano Beach apart is its picturesque setting, as it is surrounded by a thriving pine forest, providing a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. The beach offers a range of amenities to enhance the visitor experience, including beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports activities.

Whether one seeks a leisurely day by the sea or an adventurous experience, Torre del Cerrano caters to various preferences. Its popularity among locals and tourists alike speaks to its appeal, while its family-friendly atmosphere and accessibility make it suitable for all types of visitors seeking a memorable beach getaway.

Lido Riccio

Lido Riccio is a vibrant beach located near the town of Ortona. This beach is known for its lively atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists. It offers a unique combination of sandy and pebble shores, adding diversity to the coastal landscape.

Along the beach, visitors can find a variety of beach clubs, bars, and restaurants, providing a vibrant social scene and culinary delights. Whether one seeks a refreshing drink, a delicious meal, or a place to socialize, Lido Riccio has something to offer.

Additionally, during the summer season, the beach often hosts various activities and events to entertain visitors, such as live music performances, beach parties, and sports tournaments. Lido Riccio is a destination where sun, sea, and entertainment blend together to create an unforgettable beach experience.

Punta Le Morge

Punta Le Morge Beach is located near the town of Torino di Sangro. This beach is characterized by its rugged and unspoiled beauty, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Its rocky cliffs create a dramatic and picturesque setting, adding a sense of adventure to the coastal landscape. Punta Le Morge boasts clear turquoise waters, perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. What sets this beach apart is its peaceful and secluded nature.

Visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, enjoying an undisturbed experience. Punta Le Morge offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and indulge in the untouched beauty of the coastline.

Staying Safe

Italy is a generally safe country, and crimes of violence against visitors are rare, but like many major cities petty theft and pickpocketing do occur especially in crowded tourist spots or busy public transport. So keep your valuables safe and out of sight.

If you have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The post The Best Beaches in Abruzzo appeared first on Destination Someplace.

Festivals in Abruzzo, Italy

SSomewhere — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 13:38:39 +0000

The beautiful region of Abruzzo, like all the regions of Italy loves festivals, and in Abruzzo there are dozens of festivals taking place every year. This article explores some of the main festivals in Abruzzo and provides you with a calendar of some of the main festivals by month and location. Dates are approximate so always confirm dates and timings with the local tourist office before you make your plans.

The majority of annual festivals in Abruzzo are in the spring or the summer months to coincide with good weather. Mostly they revolve around the twin Italian passions of religion and food. This is just a small selection, there are many, many more throughout the year.

January

Picciano – The Traditional Befana Festival: Celebrated all over Italy (not just in Picciano) and coinciding with the Feast of the Epiphany. Befana is the witch who delivers gifts to good children all over Italy on the eve of the 5^th January.

Rivisondoli – Living Nativity: A ‘living nativity’ featuring hundreds of costumed characters re-enacting the Three Kings arriving at the birthplace of the baby Jesus.

Fara Filorum Petri – The Farchie Festival: This festival celebrates the folklore around St. Anthony who transformed an oak wood into a defending army and saved the village from invading French troops back in 1799. Like a lot of Italian festivals, the celebrations conclude with an extravagant firework display. This festival usually takes place on the 16th January.

RESOURCES – ABRUZZO

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Viator

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

February

Francavilla al Mare – Carnival: Every February the resort town of Francavilla al Mare plays host to a typical Italian carnival featuring a host of unlikely characters and flamboyant floats. All the shenanigans are overseen by the leader of the carnival King Patanello. Great fun.

Citta Sant’Angelo – Carnival: Another carnival featuring a parade of amazing floats.

Festivals in Abruzzo: Where to stay in Abruzzo

Abruzzo is another diverse region of Italy, so you have plenty of options when booking accommodation.

If you decide you want to be near the beach and maybe explore the resorts along the Adriatic and the Trobocchi coast then La Chiave dei Trabocchi could be a great option.

Or if you want to explore inland amongst the national parks then the lakeside Hotel Don Luis is certainly worth consideration.

Also, Agriturismi (usually farm-based accommodation) is also a popular option for stays in this region, such as the Agriturismo di Charme erbadoro.

March/April

Easter is a big deal throughout the whole of Italy, and usually when festival season really takes off. Here are some more festivals in the Abruzzo region of Italy:

Chieti – Procession of the Body of Christ: This sombre procession commences on Good Friday at the cathedral of San Giustino in the hilltop town of Chieti. An atmospheric and solemn event with musicians and hooded, lantern bearers weaving their way slowly through the streets of old Chieti. Many other towns in Abruzzo follow a similar ritual including L’Aquila and Sulmona.

Orsogna – I Talami: The village of Orsogna plays host to a procession with performances of some of the key biblical scenes over the Easter period.

Sulmona – Madonna che scappa in Piazza: This Easter festival featuring ‘The Running Madonna’, takes place in Sulmona, and marks the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, culminating with a statue of the Madonna, carried by eight very fit locals, ‘running’ to meet the newly resurrected Christ. The spectacle takes on Easter Sunday in Piazza Garibaldi. Be there early, as there are always hundreds of onlookers and the spectacle is often televised on the local TV networks.

San Valentino – Frittata Festival: Celebrating that staple of Italian cuisine, the frittata, this festival usually takes place on Good Friday.

May

Cocullo – Snake festival: The venue for this festival is a small town nestled amongst the hills of Abruzzo. The festival traditionally happens every year usually on the first Thursday in May. The festival honours Cocullo’s patron saint, San Domenico, whose effigy is draped in dozens of live snakes and paraded through the streets of the town. Again it is a small town, that is generally quiet, but on this day can be very crowded.

Rocca di Mezzo – Daffodil Festival: Celebrating the beginning of Spring, this pagan inspired festival.

Pratola Peligna – Festival of the Madonna della Libera: This festival usually takes place in early May, and stretches over ten days of entertainment, music and food. A spectacular firework display is the finale on the evening of the festival.

After the first flush of festivals in the Abruzzo region of Italy take place over the Easter period, more festivals take place throughout the whole of the summer.

Getting to Abruzzo

Fly: At the last look at flights started from £16 from destinations including the UK to the main airport in Abruzzo – Pescara. We generally check with Skyscanner for flights and if you are flexible with your travel dates, use the ‘search by month tool’ to find the cheapest flights.

Train: Train connections, like the rest of Italy, are generally good, especially between the major hubs. However given that the country is pretty rugged, getting to the smaller, out-of-the-way towns may not always be possible on trains. Use Rail Europe to search for trains in Abruzzo.

Bus: The Flixbus service covers the main towns and also can get you from/return you to Rome. Otherwise, the local bus services are also very good and inexpensive.

How to get around Abruzzo

Because of the wild and rugged nature of Abruzzo, we often find the best way to travel is by car. That way you have the option of travelling to the less well-known spots in Abruzzo such as appear in this guide. If we hire a car we tend to use AutoEurope in the first instance as this website compares car rentals across Europe and further afield.

If you planning to visit the main towns then local buses or trains as above will likely suffice.

June

Cherry Festival: This festival takes place in Raiano every year for one day only. A treat for cherry lovers.

July

Pescara – International Jazz Festival: This annual event takes place in the resort town of Pescara on the Adriatic coast, and each year features some of the greatest best-known names in the jazz world and those on the periphery (We’ve seen Brian May of Queen play there!).

Villa Magna – Festa of Santa Margherita: This festival celebrates the miracle of Santa Margherita, when the Saint as a young girl saved the town from marauding Saracen invaders.

Sulmona – Giostra Cavalleresca: This festival sees the main square of Piazza Garibaldi in the medieval town of Sulmona transformed into a giant open-air arena, where brightly dressed horsemen compete in a jousting tournament featuring games of skill and accuracy. The festival also features parades in traditional costumes and armour and incredible displays of flag-throwing.

August

Popoli – Trout & Shrimp Festival: Another Abruzzo celebration of food, this time with a fishy twist taking place in August.

Cappelli Sul Tavo – Palio del Pupo: Colourful costumed races are the centrepiece of this festival.

Cepagatti _ Historical Parade: Celebrations in honour of the local saints, Rocco and Lucia featuring floats, medieval re-enactment “Palio dei Saraceni” . There are, of course, lots of fireworks. Usually takes place around the 13th-16th of August.

Top Tips – Abruzzo

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

For Hotels including self-catering apartments we use Booking.com, where you can filter by review score and many properties have a pay later/late cancellation policy should your plans suddenly change.

For travel insurance, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

October

Casoli – Festival of Santa Reparata and San Gilberto: This 2-3 day Festa Patronale honours two local saints of the Casoli region, featuring, of course, the best in wine and food, local costumes, floats, and, a tractor parade! Usually takes place every year from October the 7^thto 8^th. As always check with the local tourist office.

September

Lanciano – Mediaeval Week: The highlight of the many activities taking place in this town during this week-long festival is the Mastogiurato re-enactment. It takes place around the first week in September.

Pacentro – Festival of the Madonna of Loreto: In celebration of the Madonna di Loreto, the brave and the fit partake in a gruelling barefoot race, known as the Corsa Degli Zingari or the ‘Gypsy Race’.

Santo Stefano di Sessanio – Sagra delle Lenticchie: A food festival featuring the humble lentil.

November

Vittorito – Sagra delle Castagne e del Vino Novello: Chestnut and wine festival.

Whenever and whichever festivals in Abruzzo you decide to visit, remember to check dates and times with the local tourist boards before your visit. I do my best to keep this list current and accurate, but there can be changes so always best to check before setting off for a festival in Abruzzo.

The post Festivals in Abruzzo, Italy appeared first on Destination Someplace.

Abruzzo - Destination Someplace

Why an Abruzzo Holiday is Always a Good Idea

Where is Abruzzo

Landscape and Wildlife

The Culture of Abruzzo

The Regions of Abruzzo

Where to stay on an Abruzzo Holiday

Getting to Abruzzo

The Top 10 things to see and do on a Abruzzo Holiday

Top Tips – Abruzzo

Other Articles of Interest

Staying Safe

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo

The Coastline of Abruzzo

Tips For Visiting The Beach in Italy

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo: Punta Penna, Francavilla and Punta Aderci

Find Accommodation Along The Coast

The Best Beaches in Abruzzo: Torre del Cerrano, Lido Riccio and Punta Le Morge

Staying Safe

Festivals in Abruzzo, Italy

January

February

Festivals in Abruzzo: Where to stay in Abruzzo

March/April

May

Getting to Abruzzo

How to get around Abruzzo

June

July

August

Top Tips – Abruzzo

October

September

November