After the Gran Sasso, Maiella massif is the most important of the Apennine Mountains. In this area is the nature to act as a mistress, between mountain peaks, valleys and forests, although there are plenty of opportunities to visit cultural and artistic activities.
The beauties of the Maiella not to be missed
The Maiella massif is dominated by the summit of Mount Amaro, which reaches almost 2800 meters above sea level. This mountainous area is located between the provinces of Pescara, L'Aquila and Chieti, and is home to one of the most important natural parks of central Italy. The Maiella National Park was established in 1991 and within its boundaries are more than 2,100 plant
species which, by themselves, account for about a third of the surveyed plants in Italy.Among the places of interest in the Maiella you are the summit of Mount Amaro and numerous road routes that penetrate right into the valleys of the massif. In winter there is also the chance to enjoy their sport on the snow in three different ski resorts, or Passolanciano-Maielletta Campo di Giove and Passo San Leonardo. The valley of Pennapiedimonte, in the province of Chieti, is instead a place well known to fans of climbing along the walls of Pizzoferrato and San Domenico. At the area of the Maiella is no shortage of ideas for a cultural visit. Among the most significant are, for example, the hermitage of the Holy Spirit and the ancient Abbey of San Liberatore.
Discovering the Maiella
The area of the Maiella, due to its mountainous nature, lends itself very well to be explored in the saddle of a mountain bike or on foot along the many paths that reach the highest peaks of the park. For a holiday of freedom, however, is essential to rely on a means of transport independent, since many of the mountain areas are poorly (or not) connected with public transport. Those coming from afar, if without a car can rent one from several agencies located throughout the area.
Photo: Stas Perov - Fotolia