Abruzzo Outdoor Activities: Top 5 Adventures

You know, planning a trip can be a bit much, very much when you’re looking at all the places claiming to be “the next big thing”. Abruzzo in Italy? It’s almost a hidden gem, that actually delivers without the crazy crowds. It’s like your favorite independent band, actually, before everyone else finds them and ruins your spot. I mean this region is smack-dab in the middle of Italy, and what you find is, in some respects, more like raw, untamed nature combined with ridiculously charming small towns.

1. Hiking in Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park

Now, if walking is your thing, like truly walking, not just around the block, Gran Sasso should be where it’s at. It’s so big. The trails are clearly just spectacular. That means we are talking views that stretch on seemingly forever. Picture this. You’re going up to Corno Grande, that just happens to be the park’s apex. When you get there, you’ll feel the altitude. What that translates to are bragging rights alongside those panoramic shots for your Instagram. In fact, that park is home to Campo Imperatore, arguably the “Little Tibet” of Italy.

I would say if you’re not quite ready for peak bagging, in a way, there are loads of gentle trails that wander through wildflower meadows and past old shepherd huts. Like those postcards you see, actually, but way better in real life. This particular spot isn’t always as famous, but just take the time to slow down, very much breathe in the fresh air, and listen to nothing but nature. So basically, you might find a kind of peace that big cities just can’t offer. It tends to be almost magical, you see.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding at Roccaraso

Let’s say hiking boots feel like a punishment; perhaps snow gear feels more exciting to you. In fact, Roccaraso will serve you really well. You could probably say, the Abruzzo Apennines have a network of ski resorts, which are really good. It’s a lot of them, which means you may find some that really tickle your fancy. Very famous is Roccaraso, often offering many slopes for every skill imaginable, basically, from beginner slopes to black diamonds that would actually scare your pants off. Anyway it’s generally awesome because the lift lines are shorter, too.

The region offers cross-country skiing if downhill isn’t what you’re really aiming for. It does not need too much equipment, which is great. Or better still, you could go for some snowshoeing trails around Pescocostanzo. It tends to be this beautiful village not far from the slopes that are very good, offering what might be this amazing combo of activity with super old-world charm. You could take photos that look very Italian.

3. Horseback Riding in the Majella National Park

What if you are imagining a Western, minus all of the gun fighting, and located in Italy? Well, then horseback riding should probably happen in the Majella National Park. In fact, picture going through hills, old forests, and that raw landscape with a very trustworthy steed, very much unlike being cooped up in some noisy tour bus. In a way it’s a relaxing change of pace.

Various farms supply guided tours suitable for all skill levels. Or perhaps you need a bit of tutoring? The guide will point out that fascinating spot where you could get a view. While you’re experiencing some tranquility with your animal companion. Anyway it gets you a bit off the beaten track, seemingly much closer to Abruzzo’s soul.

4. Lakes and Water Activities at Scanno Lake

Maybe mountains just feel like too much effort, well then what? Arguably, the Scanno Lake offers this lovely chill scene when you could basically switch gears. In that case, it’s the type of spot ideal for people looking to cool off while not being surrounded by hordes. This one will definitely leave the hordes to flock to some coastal area which probably is what they do anyway.

It’s like what you would see in the photos that depict picturesque swimming, kayaking and canoeing adventures, so all without the craziness. The surrounding town’s so beautiful, that even doing nothing while savoring gelato becomes one good plan. This particular spot is very much less intense but could be super satisfying. You will probably be happy about that.

5. Cycling Adventures Along the Trabocchi Coast

Do you have interest in mixing outdoor adventure and unique architecture, in fact, the Trabocchi Coast has got you completely covered. Like, where else could you bike alongside old fishing platforms built on stilts over the water, with that pretty backdrop, seemingly making the experience like few others? So what that equates to are scenes, definitely fit for movies.

Anyway these “trabocchi” aren’t what one encounters everywhere. I mean these fishing contraptions are basically scattered all over the coast of Abruzzo. Arguably, cycling makes these sites accessible, also very Instagrammable. The roads here are a bit quiet, so actually making your adventure rather pleasant and very safe. Then top the adventure with a tasty seafood meal and local wine in Fossacesia. So, there you have your reward.