Family Adventure in Abruzzo National Park

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful dance between the man-made marvels of history and the untouched serenity of nature. We set out to explore two distinct yet equally captivating destinations within Abruzzo National Park, each leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. It's amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day!

Our day began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO” [our hotel restaurant]. Fuelled up with Italian coffee and pastries, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures. Sophie was especially excited, having heard tales of a real-life castle.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO”, where local ingredients meet culinary tradition in the heart of Pescasseroli.
First on our itinerary was Rocca Calascio, a medieval fortress perched high in the mountains. The drive there was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Abruzzo landscape. As we climbed higher, the air grew cooler, and the anticipation mounted. I couldn’t help but think of my childhood in Sarnen, Switzerland, where castles and mountains were also a part of everyday life.


Explore the breathtaking Rocca Calascio, a historic castle in the heart of Abruzzo, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Italy's medieval past.
Arriving at Rocca Calascio, it felt like stepping back in time. The fortress, with its imposing stone walls and towers, stands as a silent sentinel overlooking the valley below. The August sun beat down, but a gentle breeze kept us comfortable as we explored the ruins. Sophie was immediately captivated, running around and pretending to be a princess defending her castle. David, ever the architect, was fascinated by the structural design and the ingenuity of the medieval builders. I found myself drawn to the history, imagining the lives of those who once called this fortress home. It was easy to picture knights and noblemen defending their land from atop the ancient walls. We learned that the fortress dates back to the 10th century and was once an important strategic point. Though partially ruined by earthquakes, its skeletal remains still evoke a sense of awe and wonder. [We even saw signs for Rifugio della Rocca, which hosts musical events; perhaps we’ll catch one someday!]

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet echoes of history and the gentle whispers of nature.

After exploring every nook and cranny of Rocca Calascio, we descended to the nearby village of Calascio for lunch. We chose Al Metrò, a charming restaurant with outdoor seating. The menu featured traditional Abruzzese cuisine, and we opted for a selection of local specialties. Sophie, surprisingly, loved the arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), while David and I savored the pasta with truffle sauce. With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: Riserva Naturale Regionale Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio.


Discover Al Metrò in San Salvo for an unforgettable fine dining experience that blends traditional Italian flavors with contemporary elegance.
The drive to the nature reserve was equally picturesque, taking us through rolling hills and dense forests. As we entered the reserve, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of green, with towering trees and lush vegetation. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers. This was a stark contrast to the stark, rocky landscape of Rocca Calascio, yet both were equally beautiful in their own way. I had forgotten to pack our binoculars, something I noted to myself that I need to remember for our next trip.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio, a hidden gem in the heart of Italy's Abruzzo region.
Riserva Naturale Regionale Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio is the largest nature reserve in Abruzzo, a haven for biodiversity and a crucial ecological corridor between Abruzzo National Park and Majella National Park. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, choosing a path that was suitable for Sophie. As we walked, we were surrounded by the sounds of nature – birds singing, insects buzzing, and the gentle rustling of leaves. I tried to identify some of the local flora, remembering my gardening hobby back in Toronto. David, meanwhile, was busy snapping photos of the stunning scenery. Sophie, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by every bug and flower she encountered. We learned that the reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, wolves and even the elusive Marsican brown bear.

The trails in Riserva Naturale Regionale Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio cater to all levels of experience, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. We opted for a moderate path, enjoying the diverse ecosystems that ranged from dense forests to open meadows. The views of the surrounding mountains and valleys were breathtaking, offering countless opportunities for photography. We even spotted a few deer grazing in the distance, a magical moment that Sophie will surely remember forever.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Pescasseroli, tired but content. Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped at Bar Stella Alpina for a quick refreshment. It was a cozy little place, and Sophie enjoyed a scoop of gelato while David and I sipped on Aperol spritzes. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the warmth of Abruzzo at Bar Stella Alpina, where every sip tells a story in the heart of Pescasseroli.
For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante alle vecchie arcate, a local favorite known for its traditional Abruzzese dishes. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with stone walls and wooden beams creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a selection of regional specialties, including pasta alla chitarra and lamb ragu. The food was hearty and delicious, a true taste of Abruzzo. It was interesting to note that Riserva Naturale Regionale Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio actually has a village within it, Pettorano sul Gizio, which is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The day reminded me a little bit of the contrast between city life in Toronto and the quiet beauty of my hometown in Switzerland.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante alle vecchie arcate in Pescasseroli, a must-visit for food lovers seeking traditional flavors.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. From the medieval majesty of Rocca Calascio to the natural wonders of Riserva Naturale Regionale Monte Genzana e Alto Gizio, Abruzzo has once again exceeded our expectations. It’s amazing how much history and nature can be packed into a single day. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Abruzzo National Park. We plan to visit Parco Nazionale della Maiella and hike the Sentiero del Cuore. We will also have breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO”, lunch at Ristorante L'Angolo D'Abruzzo, and dinner at La Bandiera B&B. Before heading to the airport, we will stop by RRTrek Outdoor to pick up some souvenirs. I am excited to see what the final day of our trip holds, but also a little sad that it is coming to an end. This trip has been an incredible experience, and I am already looking forward to our next adventure. I am sure it will be just as memorable as this one.