Introduction to the region: Abruzzo
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Half of the territory of the Abruzzo region has been designated “national parks and protected nature reserves.” The long stretch of mountains that runs for 750 miles are the Apennines, and they extend from Liguria all the way down to Calabria.
Road views in Abruzzo
The highest peak in the Apennine mountains is the Corno Grande which is a part of the massif (mountainous group) known as Gran Sasso d'Italia, throughout the Abruzzo region. The elevation of the ‘big horn’ is close to 10,000 feet and you can see this looming presence (much higher than any cranes) from the city of L’Aquila. The drive through the region of Abruzzo is particularly scenic and memorable.
Requiem for Calderone
There is even a glacier, Europe’s southernmost glacier, at the foot of the Corno Grande; however, unfortunately, the entry on Wikipedia and mentions in Encyclopedia Britannica are outdated. Within the context of climate change the ghiacciaio del Calderone (Calderone glacier) is at risk of disappearing. In fact, an Italian environmentalist association called legambiente has already produced a ‘requiem’ for the dying glacier.
Turning to happier ice, Abruzzo is a popular region for winter sports, and specifically, a ski destination, especially for enthusiasts in Rome who want to profit from the proximity and take a weekend or even day trip during the winter months. I have friends who will spend a ‘Sunday Funday’ by catching a bus from Tiburtina in the morning and returning in the evening; popular destinations are Ovindoli and Campo Felice. Both destinations take just over 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach. A bit further away at just over 2 hours is the ski area of Roccaraso. If you are looking for a few days or more on your ski vacation, I would recommend this area. The price is right as well (for now) as is detailed in this article published in The Guardian. Although this article was published in 2010, there have not been radical changes, that is, increases in price and tourism. The ski areas in Abruzzo are not undiscovered per se, but they are not overcrowded either. You can enjoy a full day of skiing punctuated by a delicious mountain lunch at a fair price point. Make it a day trip or a longer getaway. Perhaps the only thing you will not have is the linguistic power of the word ‘Alps.’ I encourage you to give the Apennines a try, however.
In milder climates, Abruzzo is also a popular region for hiking. The Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo (National park of Abruzzo) has mountain views, river views, lake views, wild life and even cute towns and museums located within the confines of the park.