Discovering Authentic Abruzzo

Reach the Ecoluxury retreat Sextantio, located in the charming village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, in the heart of Abruzzo. Check in and enjoy some free time to take advantage of the hotel’s amenities.

Welcome dinner in one of the village restaurants and overnight stay.

After breakfast, head to the medieval village of Rocca Calascio. From there, enjoy a 30–40-minute walk to reach the Rocca Calascio castle, one of the highest castles in Italy.

A visit to Rocca Calascio is a journey through history and stunning views. Located at 1,460 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Gran Sasso National Park with spectacular vistas. The silence and grandeur of this medieval fortress are captivating. Famous films such as Ladyhawke and The Name of the Rose were filmed here, enhancing its timeless charm.

Continue to Bominaco and Navelli, two gems of Abruzzo nestled in the quiet beauty of the L’Aquila plateau. Bominaco enchants with its monastic complex, featuring the Oratory of San Pellegrino—called the “Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo” for its magnificent 13th-century frescoes—and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. (Guided tours are free, donations for local volunteers are appreciated.)

A few kilometres away, Navelli impresses with its well-preserved medieval core and is renowned for producing saffron, Abruzzo’s “red gold.”

Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

Head to the nearby city of L’Aquila for an immersive experience in history, art, and the rebirth of a remarkable city.

With a local guide, begin at the majestic Basilica of Collemaggio—an architectural and spiritual symbol founded by Celestine V, where the Celestinian Forgiveness is celebrated annually. Continue through the historic center, with noble palaces, elegant piazzas, and charming alleys, reaching the Fountain of the 99 Spouts, linked to the legendary origins of the city. Along the way, the guide will share stories of the 2009 earthquake and the impressive restoration that brought the city back to life. The visit ends in Piazza Duomo, the city’s beating heart where history and everyday life meet in an authentic, lively atmosphere.

Return to the hotel, where you may take part in optional activities offered by the retreat, such as gastronomy or traditional crafts workshops.

Overnight stay.

Get ready for a relaxing, scenic e-bike ride led by expert local guides through one of the most picturesque corners of Abruzzo: the beautiful Tirino Valley. Starting from the heart of the valley, the route follows peaceful nature trails, showcasing the valley’s most enchanting views. Visit the village of Capestrano and its striking Piccolomini Castle, then ride through the vineyards of Ofena, in the upper valley, with the majestic Gran Sasso peaks in the background.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time for additional activities in the valleys at the foot of Gran Sasso or relax with a massage in the hotel’s wellness area.

Overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out and departure.