Area

Abruzzo is a region rich in art, history, and lush nature: green parks, ancient ruins, Bourbon bastions, archaeological excavations, museums and open-air museums. Last but not least, the most fascinating part of the Abruzzo coastline is the “Trabocchi Coast"

Must-see attractions during your vacation in Ortona

Visit to the ARAGONESE CASTLE OF ORTONA: you can get there by taking a 20-minute walk along the brand new shared-use path currently being completed (which runs from the campsite to Ortona's historic center and marina, continuing on to Vasto) and passing through CIAVOCCO PARK. You can also visit the CATHEDRAL OF ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE.

Tour along the TRABOCCHI COAST (ancient fishing machines similar to stilts): starting with a quick visit to San Vito's marina, where you can check out some trabocchi, you can head south on the SS 16 and stop by the EREMO D'ANNUNZIANO, then keep going towards Fossacesia for a little peek at the awesome abbey of SAN GIOVANNI IN VENERE (www.sangiovanniinvenere.it). And to top it all off... an unforgettable dinner at one of the many Trabocchi restaurants located on the various coves between San Vito and Vasto. You can also take a boat tour of the coast from the port of Ortona, where you can board fishing boats dedicated to fishing tourism (www.pescaturismoabruzzo.it) if you have the whole day at your disposal.

Be sure to visit ROCCASCALEGNA CASTLE (CH), built on a spur with ravine sides overlooking the Riosecco valley, shrouded in countless legends.

Visit the town of GUARDIAGRELE (CH), known for its artistic crafts, and the MAJELLA NATIONAL PARK. If you're feeling adventurous, treat yourself to a day of rafting down the Aventino River near Castiglione Messer Ramondo (www.abruzzorafting.com) or try the MAJELLA ADVENTURE PARK, Italy's largest, near Piana delle mele. Your children will love it (www.parconaturalemajella.it)

Still in the mood for the beach and have a whole day to spare? Consider heading to TERMOLI and catching the first ferry to the TREMITI ISLANDS. In just over an hour, you’ll reach this authentic paradise. Between diving into crystal-clear waters and sunbathing in one of the many romantic coves, there’s plenty to choose from (www.lecinqueisole.it)