Points of Interest between Avezzano, Abruzzo to Cosenza, Calabria

picture of Avezzano, Abruzzo

From Abruzzo to Calabria: Best Places to See on a Road Trip

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in Italy, the route from Avezzano, Abruzzo to Cosenza, Calabria is one of the best options. You can enjoy the stunning views of the Apennine Mountains, stop by charming Italian towns, and explore ancient historic sites. Whether you have just one day or a couple of weeks to spare, there’s plenty to see and do along the way. Here is our list of the top places to see when driving from Avezzano to Cosenza.

Stunning Scenery Along the Route

The drive from Avezzano to Cosenza is around 200 km long via the A25 and A3 highways, and it takes roughly three hours to complete. But the journey is well worth it, as you’ll pass through gorgeous landscapes at every turn.

  1. National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise – The national park is one of Italy’s most beautiful nature reserves, covering a vast area of mountains, valleys, forests, and lakes. You can hike the trails, go skiing in winter, and spot rare wildlife like wolves, bears, deer, and eagles.
  2. Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park – This is another unmissable park located near the Apennine Mountains, covering an area of over 150,000 hectares. The park has stunning glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, and forests, as well as medieval mountain villages and castles.
  3. Silano Lake and the Sila Mountains – Sila is a charming rural area with pristine lakes, soaring peaks, and picturesque hamlets. You can drive along the scenic Route 107 that passes through the heart of the Sila National Park and enjoy the refreshing air and lush vegetation.

Historic Sites and Charming Towns to Explore

Aside from nature, the route from Abruzzo to Calabria also features numerous historic sites that date back to the Roman Empire and the Middle Ages. Plus, you can stop by some of the region’s most charming towns and eat delicious local food.

  1. Amantea – This coastal town in Calabria is famous for its stunning beaches, Roman ruins, and medieval castle. You can taste the local fish and seafood specialties, such as swordfish, anchovies, and red prawns.
  2. Pescocostanzo – This medieval village in Abruzzo has a unique character, with narrow alleys, arches, and churches of the 16th and 17th centuries. The town is also famous for its craft shops, where you can buy handmade woolen clothes and pottery.
  3. Morano Calabro – This hilltop village in Calabria is a maze of ancient houses, cobbled streets, and panoramic views over the surrounding valleys. You can visit the Norman Castle, the Mother Church, and the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the local traditions.
  4. Santo Stefano di Sessanio – This is another picturesque town in Abruzzo, located on a ridge at 1,250 meters. The town has an intact medieval center, with stone houses, towers, and arches. You can enjoy the views of the Gran Sasso range and try the local cheese and salami.

Conclusion

The road trip from Avezzano to Cosenza is a great way to discover the hidden gems of central and southern Italy. From the stunning natural parks to the historic villages and towns, you have plenty of options to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re driving with friends or family, pack a camera, and your appetite, as this trip promises unforgettable memories.