Leaving the hustle and bustle of Rome behind, we followed Stewart’s directions and were soon surrounded by the stunning scenery of Abruzzo.
We arrived at their delightful village home to stocked food cupboards, fridge and wine rack, all they ask is for you to consider future guests, so what you use, please replace, which makes sound sense. Cleaning materials, bathing & hair products are also available, in fact it's one of the best equipped houses we have ever visited.
It is situated in the lovely friendly village of Corfinio, occupying a prime location, the Juliet balconies are ideal for people watching in the street below. The house has been tastefully decorated, and has everything you will need, including an eclectic collection of books and DVD's. The owners know the area well and are only too willing to offer advice and help in any way they can.
Corfinio is a wonderful place from which to explore Abruzzo, close by is Sulmona, a beautiful City of the Arts, where everywhere you turn, you experience wonderful views of the stunning mountains. We also visited L'Aquila - Abruzzo's capital, which was devastated by an earthquake in 2009, the city is a building site, but is a must for a visit, very moving experience to witness the devastation, but also to see the dedication of the Abruzzan people who are rebuilding their damaged city. The friendly lady in the Tourist office in Sulmona, suggested we visit Pescocostanzo and Scanno, both beautiful mountain villages. We decided to visit Pescocostanzo coupled with a visit to the ski resort of Roccaraso, which is a wonderful place to have a coffee and pastry and watch the world go by. From there we went on to Pescocostanzo, Sunday is not the best day to visit this very popular village, it seemed like the whole of Italy was there. After 6 circuits of the village we aborted our visit - moral of story, either go early or avoid visiting on a Sunday!!
We were luckier with our visit to Scanno- wonderful mountain village - like going back in time, well worth a visit.
In terms of eating - certainly worth visiting Corfinio's 2 restaurants -Excelsior & Il Barbaro. If you are staying between June and September, Piazza Corfinio comes alive from 9pm-3am (children inc) it’s both fantastic & amazing.
Lo Chalet in Raiano is worth visiting, lovely garden setting. However, the icing on the cake has to be Da Gianni also in Raiano a fantastic seafood restaurant
I could go on about this wonderful part of Italy but you need to visit & experience it for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
CIAO
All bookings are direct with the owner 