Abruzzo: Where Mountains, Castles, and Cold Nights Meet

Mountains, Castles, and Everything In Between

Abruzzo is all about the mountains. They dominate the landscape, stretching as far as the eye can see, with winding roads that test both your driving skills and your nerves. We parked our van in some of the most breathtaking spots, surrounded by peaks that seemed to touch the sky. It’s the kind of place where every view feels like a reward for making the journey.

One of our most memorable hikes took us to the tallest castle in the region. The trail wasn’t easy, but the payoff was more than worth it. Standing at the top, with the castle’s ancient stones beneath our feet and the valley sprawled out below, we felt like we’d stepped into a different century. Abruzzo’s history is as rugged as its landscape, and this castle was a testament to the strength and endurance of those who came before us.

A Chilling Revelation

Despite visiting in late spring, Abruzzo’s mountains surprised us with their chill. The high altitude meant that even as the days grew longer, the mornings were crisp, and the evenings brisk, leaving us reaching for every blanket we had. After a few nights of shivering under the stars, we realized that maybe, just maybe, we weren’t cut out for this mountain life. As much as we loved the dramatic scenery, we longed for the warmth of the south. So, after one too many cold nights, we made the decision to head back to more temperate climates. Sometimes, even the most beautiful places can’t compete with the lure of a sunny beach.

The Caves of Stiffe: A Journey Underground

Before leaving Abruzzo, we took a detour underground to explore the Stiffe Caves. The name alone had us giggling like schoolkids—because, let’s be honest, it sounds a bit rude. But the guided tour quickly took our minds off the name and plunged us into a world of towering stalactites, echoing chambers, and an eerie sense of timelessness. The weather outside wasn’t exactly scorching, but stepping into the cool air of the caves felt like entering another world entirely. The darkness had a way of playing tricks on the mind—definitely not a place to be left alone!

Lago di Scanno: A Serene Interlude

Our journey also took us to Lago di Scanno, a picturesque lake nestled among the mountains. The still waters reflected the surrounding peaks like a mirror, creating a scene so tranquil it was hard to believe we were still in the same region that had us clinging to our brakes just a few days earlier. It was a moment of calm in a week that had been anything but, and we took our time soaking it all in.

The Great Brake Fade Incident

Speaking of brakes, no trip to Abruzzo would be complete without a little bit of terror on the mountain roads. One of our more “memorable” experiences involved a steep climb, a narrow road, and the sudden realization that our brakes were fading fast. It’s the kind of moment that makes your heart race and your knuckles turn white as you pray that the road flattens out sooner rather than later. Thankfully, we made it back down in one piece, but it was a stark reminder that Abruzzo’s beauty comes with its own set of challenges.

The One That Got Away

It wasn’t until we were back in Puglia, warming our bones in the southern sun, that we heard about the wine fountain in Abruzzo. Yes, you read that right—a fountain that dispenses free wine! We couldn’t believe we’d missed it. Talk about a missed opportunity. But hey, if there’s ever a reason to return to Abruzzo, it’s for that elusive wine fountain. We’ll definitely be back, bottles at the ready.

Abruzzo: A Place Like No Other

Abruzzo may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Italy, but it’s a region that leaves a lasting impression. From towering mountains and ancient castles to serene lakes and chilling nights, it’s a place of contrasts and surprises. We may have headed back south in search of warmth, but we left a piece of our hearts in those rugged peaks. Abruzzo, you tested us, thrilled us, and showed us a side of Italy we’ll never forget.