The Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park represents a jewel of biodiversity and natural beauty, located in the heart of the central Apennines. The southern part of the park is characterized by the striking scenery created by the Melfa River, which feeds the picturesque Grottacampanaro Lake, and the Rio Torto, which forms the split mountain lake.
The waters of the Mainarde give life to the serene lake of Castel San Vincenzo, nestled between plateaus and lush vegetation. In high-altitude glacial basins, small lakes formed by melted snow are hidden among young flora and the first spring blooms.
Beech forests cover about 60% of the park territory
They are the predominant feature of the mountain landscape, extending over valleys such as Val Fondillo, Camosciara, Vallelonga, and many others. Above the forests, high-altitude grasslands and rock formations offer breathtaking sights, especially during spring snowmelt, when the flora glows with vivid colors. These landscapes lead to peaks and ridges that dominate the valleys, offering views of extraordinary beauty. This unique ecosystem has been protected for over ninety years, allowing nature to evolve undisturbed.
The park is a haven for rich and diverse wildlife, including some of the rarest and most fascinating species in Europe. The Abruzzo Chamois, agile and elegant, moves with ease in the high-altitude grasslands. The Marsican Brown Bear, symbol of the park and guardian of its biodiversity, survives in these unspoiled lands, representing a vital link between nature and man. The forests are also the realm of Apennine wolves, deer, roe deer and more elusive animals such as badgers and martens.
A shelter for the Rare Fauna
The park's skies are enlivened by the presence of majestic raptors such as the golden eagle and peregrine falcon, and rare birds such as the white-backed woodpecker, which lives in the oldest beech forests. The banks of streams and lakes are populated by grebes, mallards and other aquatic species, while the cool, shady undergrowth is home to rare flowers such as the Venus's slipper orchid and amphibians such as the spotted salamander and the rare yellow-bellied howler.
Each season offers a unique experience: from the explosion of spring colors to the cool greens of summer, from the golden and auburn tones of autumn to winter, when the Park is cloaked in snow and silence. Outdoor activities include hiking, horseback riding and biking along marked trails. It is important to respect the environment by not picking flowers or damaging vegetation.
Visit the Park with our guides
To best enjoy the unique experience of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, we invite you to contact our certified environmental guides. With their in-depth knowledge of the area, the guides will lead you through fascinating trails, telling you stories and trivia about the local flora, fauna and traditions. Thanks to their preparation, you can safely explore the most enchanting and remote places in the Park, immersing yourself completely in its extraordinary beauty. A guided hike enriches the experience with details and information that only those who live and love this area can convey.
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