Majella Panoramic Road

The Majella Panoramic Road is a 118km road trip that starts in Sulmona, Italy and ends in Casoli, Italy. This road trip is best experienced in the warmer months of the year, when the rolling hills and lush valleys of the Abruzzo region are in full bloom. Along the route, travelers will get to experience the breathtaking views of the Majella National Park, and the quaint towns of Pescocostanzo, Introdacqua, and Casoli. The roads are generally in good condition, but there are some parts that are curvy and narrow. Please be aware that there may be seasonal road closures due to weather conditions. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and offers an incredible level of experience and memories at a fair budget. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a full day excursion, the Majella Panoramic Road is sure to provide an unforgettable journey.

Sulmona is a charming Italian town located in the Abruzzo region of Central Italy. It is the perfect starting point for the Majella Panoramic Road, a scenic drive through the Apennine Mountains. Sulmona is a great spot to explore and get acquainted with the area before you start your road trip. The town is filled with historical monuments, such as the Church of Santa Maria della Tomba, the Ponte della Pietra, and the Fontana di Collemaggio. The local cuisine is also worth trying, with its delicious pastries, such as confetti and the traditional biscotti di Sulmona. The closest international airport to Sulmona is the Abruzzo International Airport (IATA: PSR). A number of car rental companies are available at the airport. This makes it easy to get to Sulmona and start your journey along the Majella Panoramic Road. Sulmona is the perfect start to the Majella Panoramic Road and a great spot to explore the Abruzzo region. With its historical monuments, delicious cuisine, and car rental services at the airport, Sulmona is an ideal base for your road trip.

Start your journey in Sulmona, Italy and drive 37km to Pettorano su Gizio. Enjoy the scenic road and take in the beautiful views of the Apennine Mountains. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and there will be steep ramps and winding roads in some sections. The road will be narrow in some sections, so be extra careful when driving. On the way, make sure to visit the historic castle of Pettorano su Gizio and the nearby church of San Marco. After a pleasant drive of less than one hour, you will reach Pescocostanzo. Here, you can explore the medieval streets of the old town and visit the D’Avalos Palace and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Experience the beauty of Abruzzo on this 81km road trip from Pescocostanzo to Casoli! This journey will take you through the picturesque towns of Pizzoferrato and Casoli and will be sure to leave an unforgettable impression. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the rolling hills and lush greenery of the region. Make sure to keep an eye out for the steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections that make this route so exciting. As you travel, take a moment to explore the historical sites and monuments that line the way. From Pescocostanzo, visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore before heading to Pizzoferrato. Here, you'll find the Church of Santa Maria della Neve and the ruins of the Pizzoferrato Castle. Finally, make your way to Casoli, where you can explore the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà and the Church of San Domenico. With all this to explore, you'll be able to complete the journey in just under three hours. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Casoli is a charming town situated in the Abruzzo region of Italy, located at the northern end of the Majella Panoramic Road. This winding road takes travelers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, from the rolling hills of the Apennines to the picturesque towns in the foothills. Casoli is renowned for its unique mountain scenery, as well as its historical sights. The town is home to the Church of San Giovanni, a 13th century Romanesque church with beautiful frescoes, and the County Palace, a baroque palace built in the mid-1700s. The town also has a historical center with narrow, cobbled streets and old-fashioned shops. For those traveling by car, the journey to Casoli is a great way to explore the countryside. The Majella Panoramic Road winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the countryside and the Apennine Mountains. Along the way, there are numerous stops where travelers can take in the scenery and explore the small towns and villages that dot the landscape. At the end of the journey, Casoli awaits. This quaint little town is the perfect place to end your road trip and soak up the atmosphere of Abruzzo. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a cultural experience, Casoli has something for everyone. The closest international airport is Pescara Airport (PSR), located just an hour away. So, if you are looking for a unique road trip experience, the Majella Panoramic Road should be at the top of your list. Make sure to end your journey in Casoli, a charming Italian town that promises a memorable experience.

Before you set off

The Majella Panoramic Road, also known as `La Strada Panoramica della Majella`, is a breathtaking 118km journey through the heart of Italy's Abruzzo region, commencing in the historic city of Sulmona and concluding in the picturesque town of Casoli. This route not only provides awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Majella National Park but also weaves through an array of enchanting towns, each brimming with cultural heritage and unique attractions.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Majella National Park: This park is a sanctuary of biodiversity, housing a rich variety of flora and fauna, including the Apennine wolf, the Marsican brown bear, and the chamois. Its rugged terrain, comprising mountains and deep gorges, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
• Sulmona: A city steeped in history, Sulmona is not only renowned for its production of confetti (sugared almonds), a traditional Italian wedding favor but also for its impressive medieval aqueduct and the birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid.
• Pescocostanzo: Nestled at an elevation of 1,395 meters, this quaint mountain village is celebrated for its exquisite architecture, such as the late-Renaissance Santa Maria del Colle church, and its flourishing artisanal crafts, including intricate goldsmithing and lace-making.
• Introdacqua: A visit to Introdacqua provides a profound sense of traditional Italian village life, with its well-preserved stone houses and serene ambiance.
• Casoli: Dominated by the imposing medieval structure of Castello Masciantonio, Casoli is a treasure trove of history, featuring stunning frescoes and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal period for embarking on this Scenic Drive is between late spring and early autumn when the landscape is rich with color, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather conditions are ideal for exploring the outdoors.

Potential Risks:

Navigating the Majella Panoramic Road requires attentive driving due to its curvaceous and at times narrow passages. Additionally, certain stretches may be subject to closure during the winter months on account of snow or landslides, so travelers should verify the route's accessibility in advance.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route is part of the larger `Trabocchi Coast` Road network, named after the unique fishing structures along the Adriatic coast.
• En route, travelers can indulge in local gastronomy, including Abruzzo's famous lamb dishes, artisan cheeses, and the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine.
• Historical landmarks along the way include hermitages, such as the Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio, carved directly into the mountain rock.
• The journey offers numerous outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter months at Roccaraso to summer kayaking in the Aventino River.

A good choice for:

Traversing the Majella Panoramic Road is an enchanting experience, perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the serene Italian countryside. Whether you're planning a leisurely weekend getaway or a comprehensive day Trip, this Scenic Drive is sure to etch unforgettable memories of Italy's natural beauty and rich heritage.