Abruzzo as a Local – From the beach to the peaks of “Gran Sasso”

Arrival at your airport and private transfer to “Trabocchi” Coast. Accommodation at 4 star hotel (also winner of Italian TV show “4 hotels”), in a wonderful setting with sea view, B&B, in San Vito Chietino town. Dinner in the hotel’s terrace facing the coast.

Breakfast at the hotel. Meeting with your guide at the hotel to discover with an easy walk the mesmerizing “Trabocchi” coast from your hotel to Punta Cavalluccio. It comprises a number of coves and reefs below the hills that end at the Adriatic Sea marked by the spread of the “TRABOCCHI” - FISHING MACHINES ON WOODEN PILES. Many of the towns on the Coast maintain their own characteristics and fishing traditions. You will admire this panoramic and unique coast, while also experiencing the local life with a LUNCH ON A TYPICAL “TRABOCCO”, surrounded by fishing nets and wooden architectures literally above the sea. In the afternoon your bus will take you to a local winery to enjoy a wine tasting of local delicious wine, paired with traditional products. Free dinner and overnight at San Vito Chietino.

Breakfast at the hotel and check out. A private car will lead you towards the mountains of Abruzzo region, the Gran Sasso. An expert guide will lead you in the discovery of the stunning ROCCA CALASCIO, set of famous movies such as Ladyhawk and The Name of the Rose. This castle of the XII century is an iconic symbol of the whole region with its dramatic position on the top of a cliff. With a walk uphill of around 300 meters of altitude you will conquer the peak with the castle on top. You will have the unique privilege to enjoy a picnic with the view of the imposing castle. With a bus ride you will then reach Santo Stefano di Sessanio. This is a lovely town with medieval alleys made by local stones. Enjoy the experience of the “ALBERGO DIFFUSO”, an innovative concept of hospitality, launched in Italy in the early 1980s as a means of reviving small, historic Italian villages and town centres off the usual tourist track. You will stay at a luxury 4 star hotel, in fantastic rooms that follow the traditional furniture and design.

Your private transfer will take you to discover Abruzzo region and its most iconic city, L’Aquila. Sadly known for the earthquake that struck the city in 2009, today it is possible to visit all the main monuments, such as the Cathedral, Collemaggio and San Bernardino churches and the Fountain of the Rivera with its characteristic 93 stone masks: legends say it is impossible to count them all correctly, you might accept the challenge with the help of your private guide. After unveiling L’Aquila you will head back to Santo Stefano di Sessanio. The town’s breadmaker is going to open his shop for you, revealing century-old secrets about the making of the outstanding regional bread. The “Panettiere” will disclose his art in a fun and entertaining way, where you will directly take part into the making of some local delicacies, such as the Ferratelle desserts! Overnight in Santo Stefano di Sessanio.

With your private car you will reach a winery near Loreto Aprutino. The story of the family owning the winery is going to be a fascinating moment of your day, such as the superb wines you will taste. When you will start to feel a bit hungry, you will move to Farindola to savor tastings of the local Pecorino cheese, coming from sheep milk. You will learn how this cheese is produced and why sheep are especially “venerated” in this part of Italy and savor a light lunch from the local farmers. You will also have the unique chance to enjoy a cheese making experience, hands on to live first-hand the production of the Abruzzese’s white gold! Drive back to the hotel and relax time in the afternoon.

Breakfast at the hotel and check out; transfer back to your departing airport.