Family Adventure in Abruzzo National Park

Nature's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of pure, unadulterated natural beauty. We ventured deep into the heart of Abruzzo National Park, seeking out hidden gems and immersing ourselves in the tranquility that only nature can provide. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water and the awe-inspiring vistas of a valley carved by time.

Our day began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO” [the hotel restaurant]. Fuelled up with Italian pastries and strong coffee, we set off early, eager to explore the wonders that awaited us. Sophie was particularly excited, her little eyes sparkling with anticipation of the day's adventures. David, ever the planner, had meticulously mapped out our route, ensuring we wouldn't miss a single highlight. I grabbed my camera, ready to capture every moment of this family escapade into the wild.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO”, where local ingredients meet culinary tradition in the heart of Pescasseroli.

Our first destination was the enchanting Cascata delle Ninfe. The drive there was scenic in itself, winding through lush landscapes that painted a vivid picture of Abruzzo's natural splendor. As we approached, the air grew cooler, carrying with it the refreshing mist of the falls. The short walk from the parking area was a treat, with the trail neatly bordered by wooden fences, making it safe and easy to navigate. Even Sophie could manage it without a fuss.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascata delle Ninfe, a stunning waterfall in the scenic Province of L'Aquila, Italy, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

And then, we saw it. Cascata delle Ninfe wasn't just a waterfall; it was a series of delicate cascades, each tier a testament to nature's artistry. The water, crystal clear and inviting, tumbled over dolomite rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of light and sound. The surrounding Camosciara reserve, the heart of Abruzzo National Park, was a vibrant green, teeming with life. We spent a good hour simply absorbing the scene, taking photos, and letting the cool mist wash over us. Sophie, of course, was in her element, splashing in the shallow pools and chasing butterflies.

From the Cascata delle Ninfe, we journeyed onward to the legendary Valle dell'Orfento. This valley, carved by the Orfento River, is a realm of dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and serene river valleys. As we drove closer, the landscape transformed, becoming wilder and more untamed. I could feel the anticipation building within me; this was a place I had long dreamt of visiting.


Explore Valle dell'Orfento, a stunning national park in Italy, brimming with natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable hiking adventures.

We decided to take one of the many hiking trails that crisscross the valley. The path we chose was well-marked, but still offered a sense of adventure, winding through the forest and occasionally crossing the Orfento River via charming wooden bridges. The views were simply breathtaking. Every turn revealed a new vista, a new perspective on the valley's rugged beauty.

The beauty of Abruzzo lies not just in its landscapes, but in the sense of peace and connection it fosters within us.

The hike itself was invigorating. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. We spotted various birds and other wildlife, a testament to the park's rich biodiversity. Sophie, surprisingly, kept up with remarkable enthusiasm, her little legs carrying her through the trails with determination. David and I took turns pointing out interesting flora and fauna, turning the hike into an impromptu nature lesson.

As we hiked deeper into the Valle dell'Orfento, I felt a sense of profound connection to nature. The towering cliffs, the rushing river, the ancient trees – all spoke of a world far removed from the hustle and bustle of Toronto. It was a reminder of the simple, essential beauty that exists all around us, if only we take the time to see it. I thought back to my childhood in Sarnen, Switzerland, surrounded by similar landscapes, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me. It felt good to share this kind of experience with my own family, to pass on my love for the natural world to Sophie.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We drove to Abruzzo Wild Braceria, a local eatery known for its authentic Abruzzese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the surrounding landscape. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers) and handmade pasta. The food was simple, honest, and incredibly delicious. Sophie, who can be a picky eater, devoured her pasta with gusto, a sure sign of its quality. David and I savored every bite, appreciating the fresh, local ingredients and the traditional flavors of Abruzzo.


Experience authentic Abruzzese cuisine in Rocca Pia's charming eatery, where tradition meets flavor for an unforgettable dining adventure.

After lunch, feeling content and energized, we continued our exploration of Pescasseroli. We strolled through the town's charming streets, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking in the local atmosphere. Pescasseroli is a town steeped in history, and every corner seemed to whisper tales of times gone by. We stopped at a local gelateria for a sweet treat, indulging in creamy gelato that was the perfect ending to our midday meal.

As evening approached, we made our way to La Grotta dei Raselli in Guardiagrele for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its innovative approach to Abruzzese cuisine, blending traditional recipes with contemporary techniques. The setting itself was magical, with part of the restaurant nestled inside a natural cave. The ambiance was romantic and intimate, perfect for a special evening.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Grotta dei Raselli, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality in beautiful Guardiagrele.

We started with a selection of local appetizers, including stuffed anchovies and a raw mushroom salad. For the main course, David opted for the barbecued lamb from Maeiella, while I chose the seppia squid filled with mushrooms and truffles. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The service was impeccable, with the staff attentive and knowledgeable about the menu and local wines. The chef clearly commits to sourcing quality ingredients locally and works with local artisans, farmers and foragers to source the best of the best. The chef is pushing the barriers of the cuisine of Abruzzo by contemporizing regional recipes yet maintaining a strong base in tradition.

After such a fulfilling day, we decided to unwind at Ninkasi Pub&Cucina in Pescasseroli. The pub had a welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed some local drinks while reflecting on our adventures. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover the culinary delights of Ninkasi Pub&Cucina in Pescasseroli, where traditional flavors meet a vibrant pub atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we plan to venture further afield, exploring the Stiffe Caves and the Nature Reserve Pineta Dannunziana. I am particularly excited about the Stiffe Caves, having read about their unique geological formations and underground river. I'm sure Sophie will love them.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. Abruzzo National Park is a truly special place, a sanctuary of natural beauty and tranquility. It is a place where you can reconnect with nature, with your loved ones, and with yourself. And as a Swiss-born woman, I appreciate those dramatic landscapes!

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm also planning a stop at La Bifora Antichità [from tomorrow's itinerary], a shop that sounds like it could hold some interesting treasures. I'm always on the lookout for unique souvenirs to remind me of our travels. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in Abruzzo. I'm so glad we decided to take this trip as a family. It's moments like these that create memories that will last a lifetime.