Mountains, Silence & Stone Castles

Campo Imperatore & Rocca Calascio

This full-day itinerary leads into the vast and cinematic landscapes of the Gran Sasso mountains, through panoramic roads, high plateaus, ancient stone villages, and medieval fortresses suspended above the clouds. From the open horizons of Campo Imperatore to the timeless atmosphere of Rocca Calascio, discover one of the wildest and most iconic sides of Abruzzo.

A journey designed for guests seeking mountain scenery, silence, slow exploration, and unforgettable landscapes far from conventional tourism.

Open the itinerary in Google Maps and begin your journey directly from UMA Casanatura.

Start the itinerary

Duration

Full day · 8–10 hours

Distance

120–170 km

Departure

UMA Casanatura

Stop 1

Campo Imperatore: the little Tibet of Italy

Stretching beneath the peaks of the Gran Sasso, Campo Imperatore is one of Italy’s most extraordinary mountain landscapes. Endless plateaus, winding roads, dramatic skies, and wide-open horizons create a scenery unlike anywhere else in the country.

The atmosphere changes constantly with the light and seasons — from green summer fields to golden autumn tones and snow-covered winter landscapes.

UMA tip
Stop at a local ristoro to taste authentic arrosticini grilled over an open flame — an essential ritual for anyone visiting these lands..

Stop 2

Rocca Calascio: the castle above the clouds

Perched at high altitude among the mountains, Rocca Calascio is one of the most iconic castles in Italy. Surrounded by stone ruins, quiet paths, and panoramic views over the Apennines, the fortress feels suspended outside time.

The nearby village and the small church of Santa Maria della Pietà add to the atmosphere, creating one of Abruzzo’s most photogenic and emotional landscapes.

UMA tip
On the return journey, stop briefly in Santo Stefano di Sessanio — a beautifully preserved stone village where narrow alleys, quiet archways, and mountain views reveal one of the most authentic atmospheres in Abruzzo.

Return slowly to UMA

After the road, return to the quiet rhythm of the hills — sunset aperitifs, organic wines, relaxing massages, slow evenings, and the stillness of nature surrounding UMA Casanatura.

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