Hike, Bike and Canoe in Abruzzo

Meet your host at the airport and enjoy the scenic drive to Roccamorice, an ancient stone village nestled within the picturesque Maiella National Park in Abruzzo. Still largely undiscovered, the region of Abruzzo undoubtedly deserves the title of 'Europe’s green lung' thanks to its three national parks and 37 nature reserves. Check into your ecolodge and meet up with your guide, who will brief you on the adventure to come. Then head out for an easy afternoon hike to get your first taste of Abruzzo's natural beauty, walking through the scenic Giumentina Valley and amongst ancient sacred hermitages carved into the rock.

Fuel up on breakfast ready for a challenging trek along the rocky peaks of Maiella National Park. Starting from Pomilio Refuge, you'll climb to Anfiteatro Murelle (2596m), hiking through dense pine scrub and the endemic plant species which miraculously survive in this lunar landscape. If you’re lucky you may even spot the endangered Marsican bear, wolves, Apennine chamois, deer or golden eagles as you look out over the peaks. Reach the imposing rocky amphitheatre of Murelle and enjoy jaw-dropping views over a barren, desolate, moon-like environment. On a clear day, the sea is even visible in the distance. Head back down to the valley, where a beer and a well-earned meal awaits.

Drive to Capestrano where you'll find the azure waters of the Tirino, Europe’s clearest river. In canoes, paddle gently upstream toward the source of this peaceful and serene river, then tuck into lunch at a local agriturismo. In the afternoon, head to Gran Sasso – one of the largest protected areas in Europe – where you'll set out on a sunset e-bike ride across the remote Campo Imperatore plateau. This boundless karst plain, surrounded by mighty peaks, is nicknamed Italy's 'Little Tibet'. Afterwards, enjoy a tasty dinner and get some rest ready for tomorrow's epic summit hike.

After breakfast, drive to the trailhead for the hike to summit Corno Grande (2912 m) - the highest mountain in the Apennines. Setting off from Campo Imperatore, the path quickly climbs up towards the saddle of Monte Aquila with views of the karst plateau and the peak's limestone walls in the distance. Tackle some steep exposed sections and scramble closer to the top of Corno Grande for a view of Europe's southernmost glacier down below. Once at the summit, enjoy the feeling of accomplishment and views of a lifetime. Descend steeply into the valley and celebrate your achievement with a hearty meal. You made it!

Spend your last morning in Abruzzo on a leisurely hike to the fortified hamlet of Rocca Calascio, exploring the ruins of the castle (which featured in the fantasy film Ladyhawke) and passing the octagonal church of Santa Maria della Pietà, surrounded by fields of colourful crops. Savour a last local lunch in the picturesque village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio before bidding farewell to Abruzzo and heading back to Rome. Arrivederci!