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S till relatively undiscovered, Abruzzo is a stunning region boasting thousands of acres of protected national parks. The 150,000 acre Abruzzo National Park is one of the most important in all of Europe, covered with huge forests of beech, pine, fir, oak, yew, ash, maple, wild oak and more and is home to such formerly endangered species as the Apennine wolf, Marsican bear, mountain goat and Apennine lynx. For centuries, local shepherds have practiced the custom of `transhumance`, moving their flocks down to the warmer pastures of Apulia in the Autumn and back in spring (I will be arranging trips to the villages to witness this fascinating event). There are beautiful mountains and glorious sandy beaches; Abruzzo is the only region in Italy where it is possible to water ski and snow ski on the same day. On a clear winter`s day you can see the Adriatic from the top of the mountains as you ski! There are exquisite hill towns, fairytale castles, old convents and monasteries, Roman ruins, interesting museums and art-filled churches. There are caves and underground rivers with amazing stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean waterfall. Castelli is home to some of the most talented and respected ceramicists in all of Italy, their work is famous throughout the country. Pescara is a vivacious town with a lively beach offering sports such as beach football and basketball and water sports, great shopping, cafes and restaurants. It was the birthplace of the great poet and dramatist Gabriele D`Annunzio and plays host to a world famous Jazz festival every July. There are festivals and pageants to join in and enjoy all year round, from the local Talami celebrations in my little village, to the huge parades for carnevale in the seaside towns. For those who prefer not to drive, the Treno della Vallee (valley train) is a great way to see the countryside. There is so much to see and do and so many wonderful sights to see, it comes as no surprise that the travel press are hailing Abruzzo as the `new undiscovered Tuscany` Copyright Liz Franklin 2008. All rights reserved |
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