Roccaraso

Exploring Roccaraso: the perfect destination for mountain enthusiasts

Roccaraso is a small town located in Abruzzo, Italy, and is considered one of the most famous mountain resort towns in the Italian Apennines. With its stunning ski slopes and rich historical and cultural heritage, Roccaraso is the ideal destination for those seeking a mountain vacation.

Roccaraso's location

Roccaraso is situated on the southern edge of the Cinquemiglia Plateau. The town center sits at an altitude of 1236 meters and is surrounded by mountains that reach up to 2285 meters. Thanks to its geographical position, Roccaraso enjoys one of the best mountain climates in central Italy.

Roccaraso: Mountains, Skiing and Abruzzese Culture

Roccaraso's climate and weather

Roccaraso's climate is influenced by its altitude, continental weather patterns, and proximity to high mountain massifs. In winter, temperatures can drop well below freezing at night and sometimes do not even reach zero during the day. However, snow is guaranteed throughout the winter. In spring and autumn, temperatures are refreshingly cool and rainfalls are frequent. In summer, the weather is mild and sunny, with temperatures not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

Roccaraso's history

Roccaraso has ancient roots: the village was established around the year 1000. It developed as an agricultural, pastoral, and artisanal community, allowing its population to live a happy and prosperous life. In 1698, the Angeloni Theater was erected, considered the oldest civil theater in Abruzzo. In 1813, Salvatore Tommasi, a famous pathologist, was born, and his name is linked to the Provincial Library of L'Aquila.

Roccaraso's ski resort

Roccaraso is famous for its ski resorts, which belong to the Alto Sangro skiing area. This ski area stretches for 120 km of slopes and has 36 lifts. The slopes of Roccaraso are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals, and are equipped with modern lift systems. Additionally, the ski resorts offer a wide range of services, including equipment rental, skiing and snowboarding schools, and restaurants.

Things to do in Roccaraso

Apart from skiing, Roccaraso offers many other activities for winter or summer vacations.

Winter activities

During winter, Roccaraso becomes the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Here, you can ski, snowboard, cross-country ski, snowshoe hike, and sled.

Summer activities

During summer, there are many activities available, such as mountain hikes, biking excursions, trekking, and horseback riding. Furthermore, Roccaraso has golf courses, tennis courts, soccer pitches, basketball courts, and beach volleyball courts.

What to eat in Roccaraso

Roccaraso's cuisine is a combination of Abruzzo flavors and typical mountain dishes. A local specialty is "pappardelle alla sangiovannese", handmade egg pasta dressed with sausage and tomato sauce. Another delicacy to try is pecorino cheese, produced in the pastures of the surrounding mountains.

Where to stay in Roccaraso

Roccaraso offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Here, you can find hotels, apartments, and vacation homes. Many accommodations are located near ski slopes, so you can have an unforgettable stay immersed in nature.

Conclusion

In summary, Roccaraso is the perfect destination for mountain vacations. Thanks to its ski resorts, outdoor activities, and delicious local cuisine, Roccaraso welcomes tourists from all over the world every year.

Simone Costa
Wrote by Simone Costa
Updated Friday, Oct 21, 2022