In the Abruzzo region L’Aquila and the Apennine mountains are only an hour from Rome.
Central Italy for winter sports enthusiasts
In the central Abruzzo Apennines, L’Aquila and the Apennine mountains offer numerous outdoor opportunities for a day in the mountains, and they are also ideal for extended stays. In the Velino-Sirente Regional Park, Campo Felice and the better known Ovindoli, are popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts, and together with Campo Imperatore and Grotte di Stiffe, they are part of the Skipass dei Parchi ski area.
Away from the crowds
For an experience without crowds in Campo Felice, Centomonti is a cross-country skiing complex consisting of 12 miles of tracks for the classic and skating techniques, and suitable for all types of skiers. There is also a reserved area for snowshoeing with ski-hiking itineraries and a track dedicated to dog sledding which is particularly popular.
Instructors and equipment can he hired
It is possible to enjoy these activities accompanied by an expert instructor and hire all the necessary equipment on site. Reachable exclusively on skis or snowshoes the Tana del Fondista, is a great choice for an unusual and refreshing break. On the Altopiano delle Rocche - Piani di Pezza plateau, in the territory of Rocca di Mezzo the Nordic skiing slopes are among the longest in the centre-south of Italy.
Exciting activities all year round
In Ovindoli it is possible to find facilities equipped for all kinds of sports such as paragliding, archery and free climbing. The Gole di Celano is one of the most beautiful canyons in Italy, located between the municipalities of Celano, Aielli and Ovindoli. Halfway between Rome and Pescara, it is the ideal place for walking, trekking and outdoor excursions. Horseback riding is another popular passtime in the Val D'Arano, while there are numerous mountain bike trails throughout the area.
Events throughout the year
Among Ovindoli's many annual events CioccOvindoli is the chocolate festival held in December. Ovindoliamo, held every August, celebrates wine with an eno-gastronomic itinerary in the little town of Ovindoli. The Ovindoli Mountain Festival celebrates the mountains in January with outdoor sports activities on the snow and excursions along the local trails.
