Abruzzo

Abruzzo is a region which boasts beaches, ski fields, great hiking and villages that were once abandoned and now being revitalised. L’Aquila was damaged in the most recent earthquake to hit the the region in 2009 but is being reconstructed along with other smaller towns and villages which were affected. We stayed in Sulmona. A great sized city - small enough to cover by foot but with all the services you need. It is famous for hosting the Giostra. A medieval jousting competition which is preceded by a street parade with people in costume entering the tournament arena. We were lucky enough to be there for this years event.

Local specialties are the sugar coated almonds of Sulmona, pecorino cheese, lentils from Santo Stefano Di Sessanio and local honey. Wines to try include the Monepulciano and Trebbiano and the and yummy Ratafia liqueur.

A stay at the Sextantio santo Stefano Di Sessanio takes you back in time.