Family Adventure in Abruzzo National Park

A Day of Discovery in Abruzzo's Embrace

Today was a day where the beauty of Abruzzo National Park truly unfolded before my eyes. From the moment we stepped into the Camosciara Natural Reserve, I knew we were in for something special. The crisp mountain air, the stunning landscapes, and the promise of encountering unique wildlife made it an adventure I won't soon forget. Sophie was particularly excited, her little eyes wide with anticipation of spotting a bear or a chamois. David, ever the pragmatist, made sure we were well-prepared with our hiking boots and plenty of water.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of The Natural Reserve Camosciara, a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in Abruzzo, Italy.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante “IL PICCHIO” in our hotel [itinerary]. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. After breakfast, we packed our essentials and set off towards the Natural Reserve Camosciara [itinerary].


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

The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the park. As we approached Camosciara, the landscape transformed into a dramatic amphitheater of limestone and dolomite, reminiscent of the Swiss Alps back home. The jagged ridges and gray-white spiers created a breathtaking backdrop. I could see why this area is considered the heart of Abruzzo National Park.

We parked the car and began our hike, following one of the many well-maintained trails. The reserve is an integral part of the Abruzzo National Park, and it's clear that conservation is a priority. The paths were well-marked, and we made sure to stick to them, respecting the delicate ecosystem.

The air was filled with the scent of pine and the sound of rushing water. Sophie skipped ahead, her laughter echoing through the trees. David and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the stunning scenery. We opted for a trail that led to the waterfalls, which are active year-round. The course of the Scerto stream guided us, its gentle murmur a constant companion.

As we walked deeper into the reserve, the landscape became even more enchanting. Beech and black pine forests surrounded us, creating a sense of tranquility and seclusion. We paused to admire the diverse flora, spotting various wildflowers and unique plant species. I tried to identify them using our guidebook, feeling a sense of connection to the natural world.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

The highlight of our time in Camosciara was undoubtedly the waterfalls. The Cascate delle Ninfe sparkled in the sunlight as the crystal-clear water cascaded over the rocks, creating a refreshing mist. Sophie was mesmerized, reaching out to touch the cool water. We took some photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment, but no image could truly do it justice.

After spending a few hours exploring Camosciara, we decided to head towards Lago Vivo [itinerary]. The lake is located in the municipal territory of Barrea, at about 1590 meters above sea level. It’s nestled within the Abruzzo National Park and dominated by the peaks of Iamiccio, Tartaro, Altare and Petroso. The drive to Lago Vivo was as scenic as ever, with each turn revealing new vistas of the park. We passed through charming villages and rolling hills, feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of Toronto.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lago Vivo in the Province of L'Aquila, a serene lake perfect for hiking, photography, and reconnecting with nature.

The hike to Lago Vivo was a bit more challenging than our walk in Camosciara, but the reward was well worth the effort. The trail wound through a beautiful beech forest, with dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. As we climbed higher, the trees began to thin, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Finally, we reached Lago Vivo, and the sight that greeted us was simply breathtaking. The lake shimmered in the afternoon sun, surrounded by the majestic peaks of Monte Petroso, Monte Tartaro, and Monte Altare. The water levels change drastically throughout the year. The name Lago Vivo, meaning “Living Lake,” is quite fitting.

We found a spot by the shore and sat down to enjoy a picnic lunch from La Locanda sul Lago [itinerary]. The simple meal of bread, cheese, and fruit tasted extraordinary in the fresh mountain air. Sophie, of course, devoured her sandwich in record time, eager to explore the lake.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Locanda sul Lago, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking scenery in Abruzzo.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll around the lake, admiring the stunning reflections of the mountains in the water. We spotted some local wildlife, including grazing deer, which added to the magic of the place. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling that's so rare to find in our busy modern lives.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Pescasseroli, feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared. Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by Bistrò del Parco for a refreshing drink [itinerary]. This cozy bar offered a wide selection of local wines and snacks. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Experience the flavors of Abruzzo at Bistrò del Parco, where traditional Italian cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.

For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante Parco Nazionale D'Abruzzo Di Torella M [itinerary]. This restaurant is known for its traditional Abruzzese cuisine, and we were eager to sample some local specialties. The meal was a delicious celebration of regional flavors, with hearty pasta dishes and succulent meat dishes.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Parco Nazionale D'Abruzzo Di Torella M., where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today was a reminder of the power of nature to heal and inspire. Abruzzo National Park has captured my heart with its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, where we plan to visit the Area faunistica del Lupo and Val Fondillo [itinerary]. I am particularly interested in seeing the wolves and exploring the beautiful valley. Hopefully, we'll have more exciting stories to share then!

Before drifting off to sleep, I checked the weather forecast for tomorrow. It seems we can expect partly cloudy skies and a chance of showers. I made a mental note to pack our rain gear, just in case. Being prepared is essential when exploring the great outdoors.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that one thing I would have loved to have with me was my binoculars. Spotting the deer at Lago Vivo would have been even more magical with a closer look. Oh well, lesson learned! I’ll be sure to pack them for future hikes. Good night from Abruzzo!