A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Abruzzo
The town of L'Aquila is tucked into a narrow valley in the Italian region of Abruzzo. Surrounded by medieval walls and lined with Baroque and Renaissance buildings, it's an elegant and relatively quiet town, with a vibrant arts scene. It also sits in close proximity to several well-known ski resorts.
In the heart of the town you'll find Dimora Fortebraccio, a small hotel with a real sense of history. The hotel is named after Braccio Fortebraccio da Montone, a famous Perugian nobleman and condottiero who was defeated during a siege in the town in 1424, and it's said he passed away on this very street.
The majesty of the building's high ceilings, grand windows, stone arches and stairways has been preserved, but the space has been extensively updated, with simple contemporary design features.
There are four suites and three apartments to choose from, and it's worth noting that two of the suites (Puttino and Liberty) have ornate ceiling frescoes. The loggia of the hotel overlooks the Basilica of San Bernardino, with views to the mountains beyond.
This is a great small hotel in Italy for travelers wanting to stray off the well-beaten tourist paths.
This small luxury hotel in Italy has four suites and three apartments, each sleeping 2-4 guests, with a total of 22 guests.
AROUND
L'Aquila is located in central Italy and is capital of the Abruzzo region. The town sits on a hill in the narrow valley of the Aterno River, surrounded by the Apennine Mountains. Within its medieval walls is a maze of narrow streets with Baroque and Renaissance buildings, elegant piazzas, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Although this is not a touristy town, there is plenty to see, including a castle that houses the National Museum of the Abruzzi, and the Basilica of San Bernardino, only one of the 99 churches to be found nearby. The Duomo dell'Aquila, dedicated to Saint Maximus of Aveia, sits in the central piazza, and its bells tome 99 times. The owners of the hotel say the number 99 is a recurring numerology for a city with a "mystical soul".
In winter, this is a great location for ski resorts. The region boasts 204km of slopes, including Roccaraso, Rivisondoli, Ovindoli, Campo di Giove, and Campo Imperatore. It's also very close to some of Italy's most beautiful nature reserves, including Gran Sasso Park and the Monte Velino Natural Park. Don't miss the Grotte di Stiffe Caverns, with their stalactite and stalagmite formations and gushing waterfall, or canoeing on the Tirino River.
LOCATION
L'Aguila, Abruzzo, Italy. Nearest airport: Abruzzo (PSR, 40 miles). L'Aquila is about a 90-minute drive from Rome.
