Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park is one of the oldest and most striking protected areas in Italy. Founded in 1923, it holds a unique natural and cultural heritage: towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, authentic villages and a rare fauna that includes the Apennine chamois and the Marsican bear.
If you are wondering what to see in Abruzzo National Park, here are 5 places and experiences that cannot be missed on your itinerary.
Lake Barrea: walking and relaxing in nature
In the heart of the Abruzzo National Park lies the striking Lake Barrea, nestled among the peaks of the Apennines.
This artificial reservoir, created in 1950 by damming the Sangro River, stretches for about 5 km, with an average width of 500 meters. Three picturesque villages overlook its banks: Barrea, Villetta Barrea and Civitella Alfedena.
The lake is an ideal destination in every season. In summer you can stroll along the pedestrian and bicycle paths that surround it, relax in the picnic areas or stop at the small bathing beaches where you can swim, sunbathe or rent a pedalo. In autumn, the warm colors of the surrounding forests create a unique atmosphere for trekking lovers, while in winter it becomes a picture-postcard scenery.
Scanno and its famous heart-shaped lake
Among the things to see in the Abruzzo National Park, the village of Scanno cannot be missed.
It is known as the "photographers' village," as it featured the works of many renowned artists such as Mario Giacomelli, Maurits C. Escher and Pietro Di Rienzo.
The village of Scanno attracts hundreds of tourists every year for its timeless charm and the "slow life" of the old town, made up of stone alleys, churches and architectural elements such as arches and cimmoses.
Not far from the village is Lake Scanno, with its characteristic heart shape, one of the most romantic destinations in the entire Abruzzo National Park. One of the most renowned trekking routes is precisely the heart path, which allows you to reach the famous belvedere from which to observe the heart shape of the lake.
Camosciara Reserve: the wild heart of the Park
Called the "wild heart" of the park, Camosciara is a nature reserve characterized by white dolomite ridges and spires reminiscent of the Dolomites. The name derives from the presence of the Apennine chamois, which finds its ideal habitat here.
The area is under strict protection and can be explored only on foot or by ecological means, leaving the car in the parking lots downstream.
The most popular route leads up to Nymph and Three Cinnamon Falls, through beech forests and enchanting views. Along the way there are picnic areas, opportunities for horseback riding, tourist train and mountain bike trails. It is a perfect stop for those who want to experience the unspoiled nature of the park in a sustainable way.
Pescasseroli, capital of the Abruzzo National Park
Located at an altitude of 1,167 meters, Pescasseroli is the historic headquarters of the Abruzzo National Park Authority and the ideal starting point for hiking and outdoor activities.
The historic center, with its small squares, quaint alleys and Palazzo Sipari-the birthplace of philosopher Benedetto Croce-tells the history and culture of the area. In summer Pescasseroli is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, while in winter it turns into a renowned ski resort with more than 20 km of slopes.
Not to be missed is the Park Visitor Center, which houses specimens of local wildlife such as deer, porcupine and roe deer. Also inside the Visitor Center is the Apennine Garden, where plant species typical of the Park's various environments are cultivated.
Lake San Domenico, an unmissable stop in the Abruzzo National Park
If you are looking for special things to see in Abruzzo National Park, Lake San Domenico is a must-see.
Despite its natural appearance, the lake is actually an artificial reservoir, created in 1929 with the construction of a dam built by the State Railways for the electrification of the Rome-Sulmona railway line. Its waters still feed the Sagittario hydroelectric power plant today.
The stone bridge across the lake provides picturesque views and is one of the most iconic images of Abruzzo. The main attraction, however, remains the small hermitage of San Domenico, which is reflected in the green waters of the lake. According to tradition, it was here, inside a natural cave, that the Benedictine monk St. Dominic found refuge around the year 1000.
The building, transformed over the centuries, contains Baroque and neo-Gothic elements, as well as valuable works of art. Today it is a destination for pilgrims and visitors, a place that combines spirituality, history and nature. During dry periods it is still possible to glimpse the remains of the old bridge that once led to the hermitage, half-submerged by the waters.
Conclusion
Visiting Abruzzo National Park means immersing oneself in unspoiled nature, discovering authentic villages and having experiences that leave their mark.
Whether it's a walk through the alleys of Scanno, a stop in front of the emerald waters of Lake San Domenico or a hike in the Camosciara, each stop tells a story made up of landscapes, traditions and culture.
There are so many things to see in Abruzzo National Park-these five are just a taste, the starting point for a journey that will surprise you in every season.
