Abruzzo stretches across central Italy, neighbours to the Lazio region and Rome, but also to the Adriatic, and the Apennine mountains. Between the mountains and sea are fertile fields, vast plains, and a landscape so beautiful almost half of the region is protected with the boundaries of national parks or nature reserves. Many know the region for its ski season, and there are certainly a number of fantastic ski hotels on our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Abruzzo, but the list also proposes great beach resorts, charmingly converted castles and palazzos, idyllically repurposed farmhouses, plus a Michelin-starred restaurant with rooms, and a couple of yurts.
Some of our Abruzzo Collections:
If that brief run down of what to expect on the list of the best places to stay in Abruzzo isn’t enough to convince you that this region has something for everyone, then just check out a menu! Abruzzo’s cuisine spans seafood from the ocean, to beans and legumes of all sorts in the rich interior, and pork and mutton as you head into the mountains. All of which make this is a fantastically varied destination for foodies; wine lovers will not be left wanting either.
As well as its Adriatic coastline, Abruzzo also has a beautiful lake region, with seven lakes, some of them within the boundaries of Abruzzo’s three national parks (the Abruzzo National Park, the Gran Sasso National Park, and the Monti della Laga National Park), and many natural reserves — these are all wonderful areas to explore on foot, on two wheels, or by boat. While Roccaraso, Castle di Sangro and Campo Felice are well loved by skiers.
For visitors seeking signs of Italy’s incredible culture or history there will be plenty to find too: wonderful medieval towns and castles, but without the crowds of Siena or San Gimignano. Try Rocca Calascio, Pescasseroli, Tagliacozzo and Santo Stefano di Sessanio. And that’s before anyone mentions the treasures and pleasures of L’Aquila and Pescara.
Use our guide to the best places to stay in Abruzzo and start to plan your trip to this magical region.