Hidden Gems of Abruzzo: Castles, Plateaus and a Coast of Trabocchi (2026)

The hidden gems of Abruzzo sit between the highest peaks of the Apennines and a quiet stretch of the Adriatic. Yet most travelers speed past on the way to Rome or Puglia. However, those who stop find mountain castles, wide plateaus, fortress towns and wooden fishing platforms over the sea. Below, this guide explains what each place offers and how to link them on a road trip.

Last updated: September 25, 2026

Hidden gems of Abruzzo at a glance

Rocca Calascio, the castle above the clouds

Rocca Calascio is the most photographed of the hidden gems of Abruzzo. According to Wikipedia, at about 1,460 meters it is the highest fortress in the Apennines (checked September 2026). In fact, filmmakers used it for Ladyhawke and The Name of the Rose. First, the castle began as a watchtower in the 10th century. Later, the 1461 earthquake damaged it, and nobody repaired it. Meanwhile, just below stands Santa Maria della Pietà, an octagonal 17th-century church. For the best light, go at sunrise or sunset. Also, bring a jacket, because the wind is strong even in September.

Nearby, the stone village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio makes a good base; we cover it in our guide to hidden villages in Italy in the fall.

Campo Imperatore, Italy’s “Little Tibet”

Above Rocca Calascio, the road climbs onto Campo Imperatore. This vast grassy plateau lies under Corno Grande, the highest peak of the Apennines. According to Wikipedia, it is about 27 km long and lies between 1,500 and 1,900 meters (checked September 2026). In addition, the hotel at the top held Mussolini prisoner in 1943, until German commandos freed him. Today, people come for hiking, wildlife and wide skies. However, the high road may close with the first snow, so check conditions from late fall onward. For hiking ideas, see our guide to outdoor adventures in Abruzzo.

Lake Scanno and Sulmona

South of L’Aquila, the road follows the Sagittario gorges to Lake Scanno. Seen from the path above, in fact, the lake has the shape of a heart, as Wikipedia notes (checked September 2026). The village of Scanno, meanwhile, stands on its southern side, with steep lanes and stone houses. Also, it sits just north of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, so wildlife trips are easy from here.

On the way, however, stop in Sulmona. It is the birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid. Also, a 12th-century aqueduct still crosses Piazza Garibaldi. Above all, though, Sulmona is the home of confetti, sugared almonds that Italians give at weddings. For the region’s dishes and wines, read our guide to Abruzzo food.

Civitella del Tronto, the last stand of a kingdom

By contrast, in the north of the region, near Teramo, Civitella del Tronto hides one of the largest fortresses in Italy. According to Wikipedia, the fortress is about 500 meters long (checked September 2026). It was the last stronghold of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. In fact, it surrendered on March 20, 1861, after the king had already given up at Gaeta. As a result, a visit here tells the story of Italian unification from the losing side.

The Costa dei Trabocchi

Finally, head to the coast. South of Ortona, in the province of Chieti, trabocchi line the shore. These are wooden fishing platforms on stilts, with huge nets hanging from long arms. Today, some have become seafood restaurants, so book a table for lunch or dinner, especially on weekends. Our list of the best places to visit in Abruzzo covers the coastal towns in more detail.

How to plan a road trip to the hidden gems of Abruzzo

• Rent a car. Public transport to the mountain villages is rare. Read our guide to driving in Italy first.
• Allow four to five days to combine the mountains and the coast without rushing.
• Go in late summer or fall. September and October bring mild days, harvest food and fewer crowds, although high roads can close with early snow.
• Book beds early in the small villages, since rooms are few.

For more of the region, see our Abruzzo travel guide and the hidden villages and towns hub.

Hidden gems of Abruzzo: frequently asked questions

What are the hidden gems of Abruzzo?

Rocca Calascio, Campo Imperatore, Lake Scanno, Sulmona, Civitella del Tronto and the Costa dei Trabocchi are among the most rewarding.

Can I visit Abruzzo without a car?

You can reach L’Aquila, Pescara and Sulmona by public transport, but the mountain villages and the castle need a car.

Why is Campo Imperatore called Little Tibet?

Because of its vast, treeless high plateau between about 1,500 and 1,900 meters, under the highest peak of the Apennines.

What is a trabocco?

A wooden fishing platform on stilts, with large nets hanging from long arms. Some on the Abruzzo coast now serve as seafood restaurants.

When is the best time to visit Abruzzo?

Late summer and fall are ideal for mild weather and harvest food. In winter, snow can close the high roads.