Welcome to Abruzzo, the unknown ‘green heart of Italy’ where one can still live the genuine Italian lifestyle at incredibly reasonable prices.
Both our rental properties Casa Marrucina and Il Fienile have been restored, renovated and refurbished to an extremely high standard. Set in terraced grounds, in the middle of centuries old olive groves, with panoramic views of both mountains and sea, they provide a truly ‘away from it all’ experience at any time of year.
The Local Area
History
Abruzzo is one of the most historically fascinating areas of Italy, with much archaeological evidence dating back to pre-roman times. Its earliest inhabitants were the Picenians, who along with the Sanitti, the Vestinians, the Marsians, Equians and Praetutions were ruthlessly overcome by the might of the Roman invaders and forced into submission in 90BC. Their hilltop settlements are still to be seen in Abruzzo’s many villages and towns, from L’Aquila and Sulmona in the Abruzzan uplands to Guardiagrele, Casoli and Roccascalegna facing the Adriatic sea over the littoral plains. The poet Ovid and Historian Sallust were both Abruzzan, as was, much later, Gabriele d’Annunzio, poet, playwright and hero of the Italian Risorgimento.
The Countryside
The countryside is stunning in its’ magnificence – on the west the Apennines and the huge National Parks of the Gran Sasso, the Maiella and the Sirente Velino. Here are vast tracts of forest (oak, beech and chestnut) populated with golden eagles, chamois, lynxes, deer and wild boar. There are wolves and even bears to be found in these silent glades. Above them the mountains, almost lunar in their bare splendour. There is much here for the keen hiker or climber, with huts and refuges for overnight use. Skiing has also developed into a major sport, with over 22 resorts round Aquila in the north alone, and also Roccaraso, the southernmost resort of the Apennines, much favoured by Neapolitans and Romans alike.
The Beaches
To the east, miles of fabulous beaches on the Adriatic, ranging from the sophistication of Pescara to the untamed Vasto peninsula, reminiscent of the wilder reaches of the North Cornish coast. The proximity of the increasingly popular Croatian coastline and archipelago, easily accessible from Ancona, Pscara, Ortona, provides an added attraction, especially for recreational sailors.
Olive Picking Holidays
Come and join us for the Olive Harvest! Experience the centuries old method of hand-picking (using rakes and nets) in the stunning tranquillity of the Abruzzan countryside with its crystal clear air and long views. The more adventurous (and fit!) can climb into the trees, otherwise long ladders reach into upper branches – another world , a million miles away from urban England! The less hardy can do as much (or little) as they like, and just enjoy being in the Italian countryside. Accompany us to the olive mill and see the whole process of cold-pressing taking place – take home your own extra virgin olive oil!
We will provide full board, all wine included, using delicious local produce and also include a dinner at a charming local restaurant. Local sight-seeing is well worth it (possibly hire a car at the airport if you want to be independent), with the National Park on our doorstep and the sea only 20 minutes away.
Accommodation is in our own well-appointed guest-rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. The house itself has been featured in ‘Italia!’ magazine and there is ample room to relax in the Drawing room, Study, the large kitchen or more privately in the bedrooms themselves. We will be welcoming you at Casa Marrucina, but larger parties can also be accommodated by using the barn, Il Fienile, which has been equally beautifully done up.
Prices: £650.00 per week per person – to include airport pickup if required. If a shorter break is taken, then £95.00 per person per day.
Terms: Payment on booking.
