Europe
Discover Abruzzo
Between the Sea and the Mountains
Discover the beauty of Abruzzo, from Pescara’s beaches and the spectacular Gran Sasso mountains to historic towns full of charm. A journey combining nature, culture and devotion, with visits to the Stiffe Caves, the Sanctuary of San Gabriele and the beautiful gardens of Villa d’Este in Tivoli.
Group A: 24–29 May
Group B: 4–9 July
Group C: 30 August–4 September
Day 1 – Sulmona & Pescara
We meet at Malta International Airport for our direct KM Malta Airlines flight KM612 to Rome Fiumicino, departing at 07:00 and arriving at 08:30, local time. After collecting our luggage, we travel by coach to Sulmona, a beautiful historic town in the heart of Abruzzo. The town is famous for producing confetti, sugar-coated almonds traditionally served at weddings and special celebrations. During our short visit, we explore the historic centre, with its elegant squares, picturesque streets and medieval aqueduct beside Piazza Garibaldi. We then continue to Pescara, on the Adriatic coast, where we check in at the Hotel Esplanade Pescara 4★. The hotel enjoys a central location beside the beach, close to shops, cafés and restaurants.
Day 2 – Pescara & Giulianova
After breakfast, we depart for Giulianova Alta, the historic hilltop part of Giulianova, offering lovely views towards the Adriatic coast. We visit the Belvedere along Viale dello Splendore and enjoy free time to explore the streets and squares. We then descend to the fishing harbour and Giulianova Lido, the modern seaside area known for its long beaches and promenade. Free time for Lunch or to enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. We return to Pescara, with free time and the opportunity for a stroll along the lungomare.
Day 3 – L’Aquila & Stiffe Caves
We depart for L’Aquila, the capital of Abruzzo, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Apennine Mountains. We explore its historic centre, known for its squares, churches and elegant buildings, and see how the city is coming back to life through restoration following the 2009 earthquake. Free time to enjoy the city and for Lunch. In the afternoon, we continue to the Stiffe Caves (entrance fee extra), an impressive natural attraction formed over thousands of years by water carving through the rock. Inside, we discover stalactites and stalagmites, together with an underground river and waterfalls that make this a memorable experience. Afterwards, we return to the hotel.
Day 4 – Lanciano, Shopping & Chieti
Today’s excursion takes us to Lanciano, a historic town set among the hills of Abruzzo. We walk through its old centre, with narrow streets, squares and historic buildings. Lanciano is also known for the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle, located within the Church of San Francesco, which attracts pilgrims from many countries. In the afternoon, we stop at a shopping centre, with free time for shopping. We then continue to Chieti, one of Italy’s oldest cities, situated on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. During our walk, we discover the historic centre, Corso Marrucino and Piazza San Giustino, where the cathedral stands. Afterwards, we return to the hotel.
Day 5 – Sanctuary of San Gabriele & Gran Sasso
After breakfast, we begin our day with a visit to the Sanctuary of San Gabriele dell’Addolorata, situated at the foot of the Gran Sasso mountains. This important pilgrimage site is dedicated to Saint Gabriel, who is deeply revered throughout Abruzzo. We have time to visit the sanctuary and for personal prayer. We then continue towards Gran Sasso, one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Apennines, with towering peaks, valleys and wide stretches of unspoilt countryside. There will be the opportunity to take the cable car (extra charge) to enjoy further views of the mountains.
Day 6 – Tivoli & Villa d’Este
After breakfast, we leave Pescara and travel to Tivoli, a historic hilltop town near Rome. Here, we have the opportunity to visit Villa d’Este (entrance fee extra), famous for its magnificent Renaissance gardens. We discover terraces, pathways and numerous fountains, where flowing water and lush greenery create a wonderful atmosphere.We also enjoy some free time before continuing to Rome Fiumicino Airport for flight KM615, departing at 21:00 and arriving in Malta at 22:30.
Price per Person
Excursions & Taxes Included
| Room Type | Discounted Price |
|---|---|
| Triple Room | €930 |
| Twin Room | €935 |
| Single Room | €1,060 |
| Child up to 11 years sharing with two adults | €835 |
| Group C Supplement | €25 |
Price Includes
Price Does Not Include
Please Note: Minor changes to the programme may be necessary due to circumstances beyond our control.
Please ask for our General Conditions.
