An autumn tour in Abruzzo

Not all Italian regions are lucky enough to showcase such an apparent difference among the seasons. Abruzzo, however, is one of these: snow in winter that whitens the whole landscape, colorful flowers in spring, beaches lit by the sun in summer. But above all, during the autumn in Abruzzo, the colors of nature are shown in all their beauty. The trees take on warm and iridescent shades, ranging from yellow to brown, and through all the shades of red and orange.

In the world, there are many famous places to admire the foliage, such as New York, the regions of Canada, New England, Massachusetts. One of the areas that most represents the foliage in Italy is indeed Abruzzo, although the phenomenon in its maximum expression does not last very long. Generally, it extends between the end of October and mid-November. Our itinerary to enjoy the foliage in Abruzzo starts in the woods of Sant'Antonio in Pescocostanzo.

The woods of Sant’Antonio in Pescocostanzo

On the road that leads from Rivisondoli to Pescocostanzo, there are indications to reach the woods of Sant’Antonio. It will not be impossible to meet cattle of cows crossing the road to return to the stables. The forest of Sant’Antonio is the most famous place in Abruzzo in autumn. In this period of the year, it adopts shades of yellow, orange, red, and gold, with infinite nuances, which come in stark contrast to the green of the lawns. An impressionist painting appears before the eyes of many visitors. Immediately after the foliage phenomenon, we witness the fall of the leaves, which form a red and rustling carpet, equally suggestive.

Woods of Sant'Antonio Pescocostanzo

Bosco di Sant'Antonio, 67033 Pescocostanzo AQ, Italia

From Alfedena to Villetta Barrea

Alfedena is an elegant town, enriched by the presence of the ruins of its castle. Here too, autumn creates a magic show for the eyes. In the municipal gardens, the benches are attacked by leaves, while the ivy on the walls of the houses turns red.

From here, continue the road towards Barrea. Entering Barrea, you pass over the dam of the artificial lake of Barrea, which offers an impressive view. In the background, you can see the villages of Villetta Barrea and Civitella Alfedena, reachable in a few minutes. Along the way, it is very likely to come across deer or other wild animals. Bears are spotted when they are looking for food.

Castle of Alfedena

Via Luigi de Amicis, 67030 Alfedena AQ, Italia

Civitella Alfedena

The road that leads from Villetta Barrea to Civitella Alfedena is 2 kilometers long, and it is very suggestive walking along with it. There are not only trees changing color, but also evergreens, which create an enchanting double contrast. From the viewpoint of the Church of Santa Lucia, the village opens up to the eye and shows off. From the same terrace, it is possible to admire the wolves in freedom, which live in the Wolf Wildlife Area.

Church of Santa Lucia Civitella Alfedena

Via Santa Lucia, 67030 Civitella Alfedena AQ, Italia

Wolf Wildlife Area and Museum Civitella Alfedena

Via Santa Lucia, 67030 Civitella Alfedena AQ, Italia

The road to Opi

Return to Villetta Barrea and head towards Opi. Here the thick foliage of the trees creates a natural cover on the road. Everything becomes yellow and orange; it is a fantastic show of nature, so you definitely have to stop to take a photo. Here, it is easy to encounter wild foxes that, sometimes, wait for something to eat.

Forca d'Acero

Arriving near Opi, we recommend climbing towards Forca dʻAcero, the final stop on this autumn tour, to admire the foliage in Abruzzo. Opi is a town on the border between Lazio and Abruzzo, between the provinces of L'Aquila and Frosinone. Here the entire wood takes on a red-orange color in the autumn months and is perfect for photographs. The area of larger interest is about 3 kilometers long and is divided into a zig-zag path, made of curves that follow the course of the hill. Forca d’Acero is one of the most beautiful places to visit in autumn, and its colorful forest is stormed during this period, especially by lovers of nature and photography.

These are just some of the places that can make autumn in Abruzzo an unforgettable experience. After a trip to these magical places, you will go back home with the colors left in your eyes and the scents of autumn in mind. Abruzzo, with its parks and its nature, is waiting for you.