Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga is a breathtaking natural reserve located in the heart of the Apennines. The park covers more than 150,000 hectares and offers a unique mix of mountains, lakes, forests, and valleys. But Gran Sasso Mountains has more to offer than just natural beauty. The park is also home to countless fascinating cultural sites and traditions.
Visit the Most Beautiful Places of Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga
If it is a few hours for lunch time head toward the imposing fortress of Rocca Calascio. Get out of your car and climb the mountain and build up an appetite. Back in the car, head toward the medieval town of Castel del Monte, and follow Strada 17bis out of town — toward Campo Imperatore — until you find yourself on an expansive plain surrounded by grand mountains.
Driving to Campo Imperatore you will see something unusual: an American style log cabin on the side of the road with hot smoking BBQ’s waiting for you to enjoy the best meat and atmosphere. People from all directions come with their cars, campers and motorcycles. You must stop, because your best lunch experience with barbeques.
Visit to the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park
When visiting the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, there are many places not to be missed. For example, the Campo Imperatore plateau is one of the largest and most spectacular in Europe. Here you have an impressive view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This makes it a wonderful retreat in hot summers and a great starting point for mountain trekking. Since the Middle Ages Campo Imperatore has been a gigantic summer pasture for the herds of cattle, horses and sheep from the surrounding villages and not much has changed in this sense. Even today, one has to stop regularly for cattle crossing the road and it is usually crowded at the watering points.
Discover the local culture
The Gran Sasso National Park and Monti della Laga also have a rich cultural history and traditions dating back to ancient times. The region, for example, is home to the Apennine wolf, an animal that has traditionally played an important role in local folklore and legends. You can also learn about local cuisine and traditional crafts. For example, taste the delicious local cheeses and salamis or visit one of the many artisan shops where local artisans show off their skills.
Another must-see place is the Stiffe Caves, a spectacular underground river that flows through the mountains. You can take a guided tour here and learn more about the geology and history of this unique place.
Explore the majestic Majella mountains
The “Parco Nazionale Della Majella” is a natural park in Abruzzo, Italy. The Majella is a limestone massif full of caverns and caves. There are 60 mountain peaks, 30 of which are over 2,000 metres. The highest mountain peaks (2,793 m) of Italy, outside the Alps, are found in this buttress of the Apennines in the park is “La Majella”. The “Parco Nazionale Della Majella” is frequented all year round by hikers and nature lovers.
Majella Park is one of the last pieces of true untouched nature in Europe where animals can be seen like almost nowhere else in Europe. Wolves, bears, eagles, chamois, Italian foxes and the European otter are the main attractions of the Majella. There is also a very rich flora with more than 2,000 species.
If you go to the park, also visit the caves “Grotta del Cavallone”, one of the largest and deepest caves in Europe. The address is Lama dei Peligni, Largo del Mercato, 9. There are other caves in the area. The closest hotel is the excellent “Hotel Villa Danilo” in a splendid position in the heart of Majella.
Pescocostanzo is one of the places from which you can take beautiful walks. Pescocostanzo is a jewel to be discovered and a show in itself.
Discover the Local Culture
The Mountains in Abruzzo also have a rich cultural history and traditions that date back to ancient times. The region, for example, is home to the Apennine wolf, an animal that traditionally played an important role in local folklore and legends. You can also get acquainted with the local cuisine and traditional crafts. For example, taste the delicious local cheese and salami or visit one of the many artisan workshops where local craftsmen showcase their skills.
Tips and recommendations
If you want to visit the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, there are a few things to keep in mind. The park is best visited between the months of May and September, when the weather is more pleasant. Also, remember that some parts of the park are only accessible with a guide or special permit.
To make the most of your trip to Abruzzo, it’s important to plan ahead. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is mild and the towns and villages are bustling with activity. If you’re planning to explore the region’s natural landscapes, be sure to bring sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water. And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and charming towns.
For more information about Gran Sasso Mountains, visit this website. Here, you will find more tips and recommendations for an unforgettable trip to the Gran Sasso Mountains.
