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Abruzzo is one of the most historically fascinating areas of Italy, with much archaeological evidence dating back to pre-roman times. Its earliest inhabitants were the Picenians, who along with the Sanitti, the Vestinians, the Marsians, Equians and Praetutions were ruthlessly overcome by the might of the Roman invaders and forced into submission in 90BC. Their hilltop settlements are still to be seen in Abruzzo’s many villages and towns, from L’Aquila and Sulmona in the Abruzzan uplands to Guardiagrele, Casoli and Roccascalegna facing the Adriatic sea over the littoral plains. The poet Ovid and Historian Sallust were both Abruzzan, as was, much later, Gabriele d’Annunzio, poet, playwright and hero of the Italian Risorgimento. The countryside is stunning in its’ magnificence – on the west the Apennines and the huge National Parks of the Gran Sasso, the Maiella and the Sirente Velino. Here are vast tracts of forest (oak, beech and chestnut) populated with golden eagles, chamois, lynxes, deer and wild boar. There are wolves and even bears to be found in these silent glades. Above them the mountains, almost lunar in their bare splendour. There is much here for the keen hiker or climber, with huts and refuges for overnight use. Skiing has also developed into a major sport, with over 22 resorts round Aquila in the north alone, and also Roccaraso, the southernmost resort of the Apennines, much favoured by Neapolitans and Romans alike. To the east, miles of fabulous beaches on the Adriatic, ranging from the sophistication of Pescara to the untamed Vasto peninsula, reminiscent of the wilder reaches of the North Cornish coast. The proximity of the increasingly popular Croatian coastline and archipelago, easily accessible from Ancona, Pscara, Ortona, provides an added attraction, especially for recreational sailors. Lastly, but possibly most importantly, Abruzzan cuisine is one of the most gastronomically prized in Italy. The huge diversity of excellent ingredients, from the fresh fish of the Adriatic to the air-dried hams and cheeses of the mountains, enable the visitor to enjoy fantastic meals throughout his stay. The wines of the region, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo ( a robust but in many cases sophisticated red), Cerasuolo, the rosè made with the same grape, and the Trebbiano whites preclude any further searching of the wine-list. Connections to Abruzzo, considering its ‘remote’ and ‘off the beaten track’ feel, are surprisingly good. The A14 motorway ( Bologna/ Bari) races down the Adriatic coast towards Puglia. The A1 to Rome is accessible via the A24 and A25 in an east/west curve. The A1 then continues north towards Florence. There are of course daily Ryanair flights throughout the year to both Ancona and Pescara. |
