The central Italian region of Abruzzo is bordered by the Adriatic ocean to the east, Le Marche to the north, Lazio to the west and Molise to the south. The capital is L'Aquila, with other towns including Chieti, Giulianova, Vasto, Sulmona, Teramo, Avezzano, Pescara, Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano, Roseto Lanciano, Penne, Pescasseroli, Tortoreto, Collelongo, Alba Adriatica, Gissi and Villavallelonga.
This is a land of wild terrain, soaring mountains, deserted valleys and quite beautiful landscapes. Large parts of Abruzzo (or Abruzzi) are covered by the Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, and check out the Corno Grande, the highest peak in the stunning Gran Sasso Massif. L'Aquila itself is dominated by the Gran Sasso behind the city, other must-sees include the hill town of Atri, the spectacular yearly bull race trough the streets of Ururi, and the archeological museum at Chieti.
There are 22 ski resorts on the Teramo side of the Gran Sasso, in the Apennines. There are fine beaches and resort towns including Pescara and Vasto Marina. The menu of Abruzzo is heavy on roasted baby lamb, pecorino cheese, and plenty of seafood, including squid and anchovies. The best-known red wine is Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, while Teramo makes good whites.
To the left you'll find a selection of hotels, just to whet your appetite,
as well as links to individual towns in Abruzzo (top left);
See also Abruzzo hotels (full listings) and our Abruzzo hotel map.
