Family Adventure in Abruzzo National Park

A Day of History and Serenity

Today was a delightful journey through time, exploring the historical and spiritual heart of Abruzzo National Park. David, Sophie, and I set out to discover ancient castles and peaceful hermitages, immersing ourselves in the rich heritage of this beautiful region. It’s days like these that remind me why we chose Abruzzo for our family adventure – a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO”. I must admit, the Ristorante “IL PICCHIO” has become a firm favorite – the panoramic veranda overlooking the Sangro river is the perfect way to start the day. We enjoyed some curatissimi pappardelle, pizza and antipasto. Sophie was particularly thrilled with her little pizza, and David and I savored the local cheeses and cured meats. Fully energized, we set off for our first destination: Castello Monumentale.


Explore the historic Castello Monumentale in Barrea, Italy, and enjoy breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Abruzzo.
The drive to Barrea was stunning. The winding roads offered breathtaking views of the park's rolling hills and lush forests. As we approached the town, the imposing Castello Monumentale came into view, perched proudly on a hilltop. The castle's ancient stones seemed to whisper stories of battles and bygone eras.

Exploring the Castello Monumentale was like stepping back in time. The castle, with its well-preserved structure, offered a glimpse into the medieval history of the region. Sophie was fascinated by the towers and walls, imagining knights and princesses of old. David, ever the architect, was captivated by the castle's design and the strategic placement of its fortifications. We learned that the castle dates back centuries and has been a key defensive structure throughout its history. The views from the top were simply spectacular, overlooking the town of Barrea and the surrounding valley.

To walk through these ancient stones is to feel the pulse of history beneath your feet.

After our historical immersion, it was time for lunch. We drove back towards Pescasseroli and stopped at Ristorante Il Parco Dei Poeti.


Discover the elegance and flavor at Ristorante Il Parco Dei Poeti – your ideal venue for unforgettable events and exquisite Italian cuisine.
The restaurant is nestled in the Teramane hills, offering an oasis of elegance and style. The setting was beautiful, surrounded by greenery, which created a tranquil atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local Abruzzese cuisine. David and I shared a pasta dish with truffles, while Sophie opted for a simple but tasty tomato pasta. The food was excellent, and the service was impeccable.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our journey to the Hermitage of Sant'Egidio.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual history of the Hermitage of Sant'Egidio in Scanno, a hidden gem in the heart of Italy.
The hermitage is located in the hills of Scanno, a short and scenic drive from Pescasseroli. As we approached the site, a sense of serenity washed over us. The Hermitage of Sant'Egidio is a small Catholic church with a rich history and a peaceful ambiance.

The walk to the hermitage was gentle and pleasant, along the Sentiero del Cuore. The path meandered through lush greenery, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant sound of a flowing stream creating a soothing backdrop. Sophie loved collecting little stones and flowers along the way, her laughter echoing through the trees.

The Hermitage of Sant'Egidio itself was a place of quiet contemplation. The simple yet profound architecture reflected the humble lifestyle of the monks who once inhabited the area. Inside, we admired the religious art and artifacts, which told stories of devotion and faith. The peaceful silence was broken only by our soft whispers and the occasional chirping of birds outside. It was a perfect spot for reflection and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Before heading back to Pescasseroli, we made a stop at Emporio Donatella 1931.


Discover unique local treasures at Emporio Donatella 1931 in Pescasseroli, a delightful store filled with artisanal goods and souvenirs.
I had read about this charming shop, and I was eager to see what treasures it held. Located in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele III, the store was easy to find.

Emporio Donatella 1931 is a delightful store filled with artisanal goods and souvenirs. The shop has a long family history, dating back to 1931 when it was opened by Donatella Di Febo. Today, it is run by Cesidia Berardini and her nephew Romano Grassi. The store offers a variety of local products, from clothing and accessories to home goods and souvenirs. I purchased a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate as a memento of our trip, while Sophie picked out a small wooden toy. David found a stylish scarf made from local wool.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to Pescasseroli, tired but content. For dinner, we decided to try Piccolo Abruzzo.


Experience authentic Abruzzese flavors at Piccolo Abruzzo - where tradition meets taste in the heart of Rome.
This restaurant came highly recommended, and we were excited to experience its traditional Abruzzese cuisine.

Piccolo Abruzzo was cozy and inviting, with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The menu featured a range of local specialties, and we decided to try a few different dishes. David and I shared a hearty meat stew, while Sophie enjoyed a simple pasta dish. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and adventure.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Cascata delle Ninfe and Valle dell'Orfento []. I am particularly excited about visiting Valle dell'Orfento, as I have heard it is a stunning natural paradise []. We will also have lunch at Abruzzo Wild Braceria and dinner at La Grotta dei Raselli []. It promises to be another day filled with natural beauty and delicious food.

As I sit here writing, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we’ve had today. Abruzzo National Park is truly a special place, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. I am so glad we chose to spend our family holiday here, creating memories that will last a lifetime.