Abruzzo: Gran Sasso & Trabocchi Coast
A short self-drive loop from Pescara, spending one day on the Trabocchi Coast and two days exploring the villages and high plains of Gran Sasso.
A short route connecting coast and mountains: first explore the Trabocchi Coast from Ortona to Fossacesia, then take the highway into the mountains. Stay in Calascio and Santo Stefano to see the castle and Campo Imperatore, and return via Sulmona. The mountain roads are winding but the pace is relaxed. Perfect for returning visitors to Italy who love hiking and medieval villages. Does not include Scanno or Maiella, but extra days can be added.
The road to Campo Imperatore is closed in winter and does not fully reopen until mid-May 2026; check road conditions in advance.
Day by day
Day 1 · Ortona & the Trabocchi Coast
Pescara & Abruzzo（Aragonese Castle of Ortona、Costa dei Trabocchi、Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere）
Pick up your car at the airport and drive south to Ortona (about 30 minutes). Follow the coast to Fossacesia before returning to Pescara.
Most trabocco restaurants require reservations, and some close during the low season.
Stay: Lungomare Seafront
Day 2 · Into the Mountains to Rocca Calascio
Pescara & Abruzzo（Abbey of San Clemente a Casauria、Rocca Calascio）
Take the A25 highway to San Clemente a Casauria Abbey (about 45 minutes), then drive up the mountain to Calascio (about 1 hour).
The final stretch has many hairpin bends. The castle requires an uphill walk; wear sturdy shoes.
Stay: Calascio
Day 3 · Campo Imperatore & Medieval Villages
Pescara & Abruzzo（Santo Stefano di Sessanio、Campo Imperatore）
Drive from Calascio through Santo Stefano di Sessanio up to Campo Imperatore (about 1 hour each way), returning to the village for the night.
Temperatures on the high plain can drop significantly; bring a jacket even in summer. Check for road closures before setting off.
Stay: Santo Stefano di Sessanio
Day 4 · Sulmona & Return to the Coast
Drive from the mountain village to Sulmona in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, then take the A25 back to Pescara in about 1 hour.