Pescasseroli

Regarded as the main hub of the Abruzzo National Park, Pescasseroli is an attractive and lively town that offers a stay rich in history, nature and relaxation. Known for being a highly versatile destination that draws visitors throughout the year, Pescasseroli sits at 1,167 metres altitude at the foot of Monte delle Vitelle.

The environment and climate of Pescasseroli make the town an ideal destination in winter when you can ski at the ski area here, which is also connected to the Alto Sangro resort. Its historical, cultural and natural heritage, meanwhile, in summer captivates all those who love outdoor activities.

In 2017, five clusters of ancient beech forests spanning over 1,000 hectares across the municipalities of Pescasseroli, Lecce nei Marsi, Opi and Villavallelonga were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town’s historic centre is a place of considerable charm, characterised by narrow lanes, stately mansions and artisan shops producing local traditional goods. Many buildings are constructed from local stone, also known as “pietra gentile” after one of the mountains surrounding the village.

Skiing in Pescasseroli

Pescasseroli’s ski area offers approximately 20 km of ski runs of varying lengths and difficulty levels, along with modern ski lifts that reach 1,945 metres at Monte Vitelle. More experienced and adventurous skiers can tackle the black run Direttissima, which starts right from the summit of Monte Vitelle. There are three ski schools, a nursery slope for beginners and a year-round snowtubing facility.

Pescasseroli offers not only numerous opportunities for both ski touring and cross-country skiing, but also several trails for snowshoe enthusiasts. Both at altitude and lower down, there are several mountain huts that serve as excellent refreshment stops.

Ski passes for Pescasseroli

Pescasseroli ski resort allows skiers to purchase various types of ski passes. From seasonal to daily passes, multi-day tickets to hourly cards, Pescasseroli lets you buy the ski pass that best suits your needs.

This ski resort is also part of the Alto Sangro resort, which includes the towns of Barrea, Pescocostanzo, Rivisondoli and Roccaraso. By purchasing the Alto Sangro Ski Pass you’ll have access to 150 km of downhill runs and 60 km of cross-country trails.

What to do in summer in Pescasseroli

Pescasseroli is truly a versatile destination that attracts visitors and tourists in every season of the year. Whilst many come here in winter for its beautiful ski area, in summer Pescasseroli is the ideal destination to escape the heat and hustle of the city. Here you can spend either a weekend or longer stays and enjoy experiences immersed in greenery and nature.

This town is a true paradise for those who love hiking not only on foot or mountain biking, but also on horseback, with riding centres offering special programmes for children and young people. At the ski resort there is also a new Bike Park for mountain bike enthusiasts who can enjoy various specially designed trails.

Many other activities are available in town thanks to sports centres that host tennis courts, football pitches and volleyball courts, as well as an equestrian centre, an ice skating rink and an archery range.

Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Abruzzo National Park Wildlife Area where you can observe specimens of various animal species found in the Park. The animals in this facility were found injured or with conditions that prevent them from being self-sufficient.

The village of Pescasseroli

The historic centre of Pescasseroli is where you can admire the calm and peaceful life of this Abruzzo village. Among the points of interest to visit is definitely the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which, built in the 12th century, was rebuilt in Gothic style following an earthquake. Inside, the church houses a wooden statue of the “Madonna and Child” dating to around the 13th century.

Another unmissable location is Palazzo Sipari, a 19th-century palace where the philosopher Benedetto Croce was born in February 1866. The palace, built in 1839 by Pietrantonio Sipari, has hosted over the years important figures such as Victor Emmanuel III, Duke Amedeo of Aosta and other members of both the Royal House and government. The building, constructed in late Renaissance style, covers an area of approximately 1,000 m², is arranged over four storeys and is decorated with neo-classical ornaments and features.

Finally, one of the most beautiful excursions is to Castel Mancino, where the remains of an ancient fortress built between the 9th and 10th centuries for defensive purposes are preserved. The walk, which is less than two kilometres long, is suitable for everyone and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the entire valley and the peaks surrounding it.

Where to stay in Pescasseroli

Pescasseroli has several good quality accommodation options with all the services needed to satisfy visitors’ requirements. All the available accommodation offers excellent value for money, making this Abruzzo town one of the best destinations to stay in.

In Pescasseroli there are no hotels located at the base of the ski lifts, but many facilities offer a free shuttle service connecting the lifts to town. In addition to hotels and B&Bs, Pescasseroli also has a campsite located halfway between the ski lifts and the town centre.

Recommended hotels in Pescasseroli

How to get to Pescasseroli

Car is certainly the most convenient way to reach Pescasseroli. Those coming from Ancona can take the A14 first and then the A25 to the Pescina exit and then continue on the SS 83 Marsicana for about 40 km towards Pescasseroli.

Coming from Rome you should first take the A24 motorway, then the A25, exit at Celano or Pescina and then continue on the SS 83 Marsicana. Those coming from Naples should take the A1 motorway to the Cassino exit and then continue first along the SR630 and then along the SR509.

Pescasseroli does not have a railway station; the nearest train stations are at Castel di Sangro (Sulmona–Castel di Sangro line) about 42 km away and Avezzano (Rome-Pescara line) about 55 km away. From these towns you can then reach Pescasseroli by buses operated by the Abruzzo company TUA.

In summer, the “Pullman dei Parchi” line offers bus connections between Rome and various towns in the Abruzzo National Park, including Pescasseroli.

Pescasseroli Weather