Family Adventure in Abruzzo National Park

A Final Embrace of Abruzzo

As our family adventure in Abruzzo National Park draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of its breathtaking beauty. Today was dedicated to exploring Parco Nazionale della Maiella and the famed Sentiero del Cuore, a fitting farewell to this stunning Italian landscape. I was excited to share these final moments with David and Sophie, creating memories that we would cherish long after we returned to Toronto.

Our final day in Abruzzo began, as always, with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO”. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the rich, dark roast of Italian coffee filled the air, setting a cozy, familial tone for our last day in Pescasseroli. Sophie was particularly fond of the local pastries, and David always enjoyed the strong coffee to get his day started. I savored the simple pleasure of the morning, knowing I would miss these quiet moments together. Refueled, we were ready to immerse ourselves in the natural wonders that awaited us.

We set off towards Parco Nazionale della Maiella, a drive that offered stunning views. The rolling hills, dotted with quaint villages, painted a picture of timeless beauty. The drive itself was a reminder of how much we had explored in our rental car, a trusty steed that had carried us through winding mountain roads and past landscapes that seemed straight out of a Renaissance painting. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey, feeling grateful for the experiences we'd shared and the memories we'd created. I was especially thankful that we hadn't forgotten the camera, as I was determined to capture every moment of our final day.

Arriving at Parco Nazionale della Maiella, we were immediately struck by its grandeur. The mountain air was crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the humid Toronto summer we had left behind. The park was teeming with life, and I wished we had remembered to pack our binoculars to better spot the local wildlife. The park, known as the 'Mother Mountain' of Abruzzo, is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. As we prepared for our hike, I felt a surge of anticipation. I knew that the Sentiero del Cuore, or 'Path of the Heart,' would be a fitting culmination to our Abruzzo adventure.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The Sentiero del Cuore promised a panoramic vista of a heart-shaped lake, a view I knew Sophie would adore. We chose the trail that started near the lake, knowing it would be a bit more challenging but also more rewarding. The path was indeed a continuous climb, but the shade provided by the trees made it manageable. As we ascended, Sophie peppered us with questions about the forest, the animals, and the history of the area. David, ever the patient father, answered each one with enthusiasm, often adding interesting facts he had picked up from our guidebook.

Reaching the panoramic viewpoint was nothing short of magical. The heart-shaped lake lay before us, shimmering in the sunlight, a testament to nature's artistry. Sophie gasped, declaring it the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. David and I exchanged a knowing glance, our hearts full of joy. We spent a long time at the belvedere, taking photos and simply soaking in the view. I felt a sense of accomplishment, not just for completing the hike, but for creating this shared experience with my family.

After descending from the Sentiero del Cuore, our stomachs started to rumble. It was time for lunch, and we headed to Ristorante L'Angolo D'Abruzzo. This restaurant, recommended by a local we met earlier in the week, promised authentic Abruzzese cuisine. We were not disappointed. The antipasto was a delightful assortment of local cured meats and cheeses. David and I shared a bottle of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, while Sophie enjoyed a refreshing lemonade. The pasta dishes were hearty and flavorful, a true taste of the region. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, laughing and sharing stories. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making us feel like part of the family.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to make a stop at RRTrek Outdoor in Pescasseroli. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time in Abruzzo, and David needed a new hat to protect himself from the sun. RRTrek was a treasure trove of outdoor gear and local products. We browsed the shelves, admiring the quality of the merchandise. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate depicting the Maiella mountains, while David chose a stylish sun hat made from sustainable materials. Sophie, of course, gravitated towards the toys, and we ended up buying her a small wooden wolf, a symbol of the park's rich wildlife.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to La Bandiera B&B for our farewell dinner. This restaurant, known for its farm-to-table dining experience, was the perfect place to celebrate our final evening in Abruzzo. The setting was idyllic, with views of the rolling hills and the distant Majella mountains. The atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed, and the staff treated us like royalty. We opted for the chef's tasting menu, a culinary journey through the flavors of Abruzzo. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The wine pairings were exquisite, enhancing the dining experience. Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed every course, even the more adventurous ones. As we savored the last bite of dessert, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This trip had been everything I had hoped for and more.

As we walked back to LH Albergo il Picchio, under a canopy of stars, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Our Abruzzo adventure was coming to an end. Yet, I knew that we were taking home something far more valuable than souvenirs: memories that would last a lifetime. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the joy of shared experiences had woven a tapestry of unforgettable moments. As we packed our bags, I knew that a part of me would always remain in Abruzzo.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Toronto, filled with stories to tell and photos to share. While there are no specific itinerary items for tomorrow, I know the memories of Parco Nazionale della Maiella and the Sentiero del Cuore will stay with us, reminding us of the beauty and tranquility we found in this corner of Italy. It’s funny, I almost forgot to pack a portable phone charger, but I’m glad I remembered the camera so I could capture all these memories! I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us. For now, I will cherish the memories of our family adventure in Abruzzo National Park. Goodnight from Italy!


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Parco Nazionale della Maiella, a national park in Italy offering outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity.


Explore the serene beauty of Sentiero del Cuore, a picturesque hiking area in Scanno, Italy, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.


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


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante L'Angolo D'Abruzzo in Carsoli - a true culinary delight in Italy's beautiful Abruzzo region.


Explore Pescasseroli in style with RRTrek Outdoor's high-quality clothing and gear for every adventure.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Bandiera B&B in Civitella Casanova, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.


Experience the serene beauty of Abruzzo at LH Albergo il Picchio, your perfect getaway within a stone's throw of nature's wonders.