Gran Sasso,Maiella and Abruzzo National Parks and Sirento-Velino Regional Park
Essential guidebook for walking in the Abruzzo, a wild region of Italy incorporating the Abruzzo, Maiella, and Gran Sasso national parks and the Sirente-Velino regional park. 30 day-walks are described including an ascent of Como Grande, the highest point in Italy outside the Alps. The area is easily reached from the airport at Pescara.
Seasons:
Most routes are accessible from May until October; summer can be hot but late snows may extend the season till November; spring can be perfect for the lower routes.
Centres:
Sulmona is central and well located for all parks; L’Aquila is in the north and Castel di Sangro the south.
Difficulty:
Walks are graded – 1 is a straightforward wander that may involve a climb, 2 is suitable for a fit walker with reasonable experience of the hills and 3 is for those comfortable with mountain conditions, exposure and route finding.
Must See:
The highest and most remote part of the Apennine mountains of central Italy; rare wildlife; beautiful hilltop villages; tranquil forested valleys; rugged peaks; memorable eating and wonderful walking!