General  The mountain peaks of Abruzzo tower to nearly 10,000 feet, making them the highest in peninsular Italy. This ensures that the temperature is always pleasantly warm, even in the height of summer. Bears, eagles and chamois thrive in the protected parkland, and the natural beauty of both the countryside and sandy coastline give this region a unique quality. For what Abruzzo lacks in great artistic centers, it more than makes up for in its natural attractions: the Gran Sasso d’Italia is the highest point in the Appennines and is reached by cable car, at the awe-inspiring top is a hotel and restaurant built for Mussolini. In some of the higher villages, now only inhabited by a handful of older people, it is often possible get a fascinating insight into a bygone way of life. Complementing this spectacularly attractive interior, Abruzzo’s beaches are safe, secluded and great for the kids: there are over 120 kilometers of splendid unspoilt sandy beach and rocky coves, washed by a clear blue Adriatic, between the classic resorts of Alba Adriatica, Roseto degli Abruzzi, montesilvano, Pescara and Vasto, to name but a few. Visit the Museo Pelino del Confetto in Sulmonato see how they make sugar almonds - if you’re there during the last weekend in July don’t miss the incredible ’Giostra Cavalleresca’ horse racing in Piazza Maggiore.
Shopping  As well as the typical Italian outdoor food markets, you can also enjoy shopping for superb handicrafts in this region. Taranta Peligna, Fara San Martino, Pescocostanzo, Sulmona, Arischia and Castel del Monte specialize in hand-made blankets and carpets; go to Rapino for hand-painted ceramics and to Casoli, Lanciano, Vasto and L’Aquila for copperware. There is also a thriving industry in lace-making, embroidery and linen-weaving in towns such as Bucchianico and Scanno
Local Food  Abruzzo is famous for its home-made regional dishes, and you will certainly not be disappointed! Look out for a huge variety of unusual pasta dishes, including Maccheroni all Chitarra, Rigatoni alla Cafona and Gnocchi alla Polenta, which is made from maize or chestnut flour. Most restaurants will serve fresh fish from the Adriatic, as well as many local meats. For those with a sweet tooth, the range of desserts is awesome! Try Cassata Abruzzese, a creamy concoction, or Scrippelle M’Busse pancakes. The other speciality of the region is cheese, Scamorza, Mozzarella and Pecorino are all made locally.
Local Wine  For real wine buffs, a trip to Ortona is essential: this is the home of the regional wine center of abbuzzo. The center is open from 10am till 1 pm then again in the evenings except Mondays. The most common white is the fruity dry DOC Trebbiano d’Abruzzo. The main grape of Abruzzo is the Montepulciano (not to be confused with the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano of Tuscany) and produces rich, robust, soft yet quite dry red wines - look for the labels Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
If you are considering renting a villa in Abruzzo, Cottages to Castles are pleased to offer a selection of privately owned and superbly presented properties. Choose your dream holiday home in Abruzzo here.
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