The road running along the south-eastern part of the Majella and connecting Lama dei Peligni to Rivisondoli is the unique and magnificent state highway (strada statale) no. 84. If you go to Lama dei Peligni (70 kilometres away from Pescara), take the opportunity to explore the wonderful Umberto I square. It features the Church dedicated to the Baby Jesus, originally named for Saints Nicola and Clemente, dating back to XVI century and characterized by an incredibly beautiful six-bay portico with round archways. You can then descend towards Taranta Peligna to visit the sources of the Aventino river and take the cable car which leads to the Cavallone Caves (Grotte del Cavallone).
The lower station is located in Pian di Valle, along the S.S. Frentana, at 750 metres above sea level and the cable car climbs slowly through the deep Valley of Taranta Peligna, reaching a height of 1,300 metres. The route takes about twenty minutes and the Caves are then within a ten-minute walk. After 174 steps, you arrive at the karst Cavallone Caves, stretching for more than two kilometres and divided into a main tunnel and three secondary branches. After that, you can go down and stop in the lively village of Palena to have a snack and visit the wonderful Ducal Castle, situated at the highest point of the village. Don’t forget to taste the specialties of the local bakeries. Leave again and head to the Cinquemiglia plateau.
The state highway climbs up between woods and clearings and leads to the pass overlooking the meadows of Pescocostanzo, on the border between the Majella National Park and the National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise. A very evocative place, both in winter and summer. All villages are lovely and well maintained. You are spoilt for choice, even for places to eat and sleep. Pescocostanzo is a charming village with a fascinating historic centre that has never lost its sense of tradition: walking, eating and drinking there, especially in the summer when the air is always fresh, is a pleasure.
Neighbouring Rivisondoli, although livelier, has retained the authenticity of Abruzzo. In the summer, you can even sample the cuisine produced by the protégés of Abruzzo’s most Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito, who serves up gourmet specialties at an affordable price in the refined environment of his “Spazio”. Trattorias offering traditional cuisine are everywhere in the parks, as well as cultural events and activities. Follow the road and once passed Mount Calvario, you overlook the National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise: you can visit Roccaraso, a famous ski resort, and Castel di Sangro, the biggest village in the surrounding area. Here, you can’t miss visiting the Patiniana Art Gallery, which exhibits a significant number of paintings licensed by Teofilo Patini. Hotels and B&Bs in the centre stand out for their beauty and hospitality.
The Casadonna estate, home of Niko Romito’s hotel and multi-starred restaurant, is simply magnificent. Many cultural initiatives take place in July and August. For adrenalin junkies, there is even a fully equipped “Adventure Park”.
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