Departure from L'Aquila (Terminal Bus Station) where a private minibus
will be waiting for you to drive you through the Tratturo Magno and
the ancient shepherds' routes. Arrive in Campo Imperatore, called
little Tibet for it’s moon landscape. Reach the top where the cable car
of the Gran Sasso d'Italia arrives (at 2.115 mt asl) to enjoy the stunning
view and take a picture of the historical hotel in which Mussolini was
imprisoned during the Second World War. There you also find a
botanical garden and an Astronomical Observatory besides the well
known National Institute of Nuclear Physics which is located just
under your feet. Departure to cross the highlands of Campo Imperatore and stop
for a tasting of local products.
Arrival at Rocca Calascio, one of the highest castle in Italy, and
visit the ruins of the norman castle dating back to 1380 and the set of
a number of movies including the popular Ladyhawke. Free time for
lunch in a typical restaurant.
Departure for Santo Stefano di Sessanio, one of the most beautiful
villages in Italy now greatly renovated, where reigns supreme the
picturesque Medici family tower. Walking tour through traditional
craft shops where you can buy the DOP saffron made in L’Aquila,
slow food presidium known as “red gold” the purest in the world,
DOP lentils and many local cheeses, honey, jam and other handcraft
products made by fine wool.
Return to the Terminal Bus Station in L'Aquila to get the bus
back to Rome.