Scanno and Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo
Bike Adventure through Historic Villages, Breathtaking Landscapes and Ancient Beech Forests – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Your journey begins in the picturesque village of Scanno (AQ). Famous for its historic centre steeped in authenticity and charm, it was immortalised by some of the greatest photographers of the 20th century. Cycle through the narrow alleyways and quaint little squares of this enchanting mountain village and soak up its timeless atmosphere.
Continue on to the impressive natural canyon of the Gole del Sagittario, following the scenic road to Anversa degli Abruzzi (AQ). Before reaching your destination, it is well worth stopping in Castrovalva (AQ), a small village perched on a cliff, seemingly suspended between sky and earth. This unique spot was made famous by the Dutch artist M. C. Escher, who captured its almost surreal beauty in his etchings.
The route then takes you to Cocullo (AQ), best known for the centuries-old Festa dei Serpari. Every year on 1 May, the statue of Saint Dominic is carried in procession, entwined with live snakes – a fascinating and unique ritual unlike any other. This village offers a captivating cultural interlude before you take on the more demanding climbs ahead.
Next, you will reach Ortona dei Marsi (AQ), one of the northern gateways to the Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise. Pause here to admire the ancient fortified tower overlooking the Valle del Giovenco – a symbol of history and resilience.
Once inside the National Park, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Abruzzo’s ancient beech forests, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for their outstanding ecological value. Along the route, you can explore three of the five most significant beech forests: Val Cervara (Villavallelonga), Selva Moricento (Lecce nei Marsi) and Coppo del Morto (Pescasseroli and Scanno). Continue towards Coppo del Principe (another ancient beech forest in Pescasseroli) and conclude your adventure in the Val Fondillo (Opi and Civitella Alfedena), where the forests of Cacciagrande and Valle Jancino bring your journey to a perfect close.
Seamlessly blending unspoilt nature, history and culture, this itinerary takes you through ancient villages and breathtaking landscapes, where you will discover the true soul of Abruzzo – an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
