
Majella National Park
Majella National Park: A vast wilderness of high peaks, dramatic canyons, ancient hermitages, and diverse wildlife in Abruzzo, Italy.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Majella National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majella National Park: A vast wilderness of high peaks, dramatic canyons, ancient hermitages, and diverse wildlife in Abruzzo, Italy.
"Stunningly beautiful scenery at every twist and turn of the road!"

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be rugged. Invest in good hiking boots for comfort and safety on varied terrain.
🚗 Embrace the Scenic Drives
The roads offer stunning views. Enjoy the journey, and don't be surprised if you encounter few other cars.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Valle dell'Orfento
Caramanico Terme
A spectacular canyon with ancient forests, waterfalls, and suspended trails. A true natural paradise.

Grotte del Cavallone
Taranta Peligna/Lama dei Peligni
Impressive caves offering a unique underground adventure with stunning rock formations.

Bosco di Sant'Antonio
Near Pescocostanzo
An enchanting ancient forest, particularly magical in autumn with its vibrant colors.

Monte Amaro Summit
Majella Massif
The highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views for experienced hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Majestic Nature
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be rugged. Invest in good hiking boots for comfort and safety on varied terrain.
🚗 Embrace the Scenic Drives
The roads offer stunning views. Enjoy the journey, and don't be surprised if you encounter few other cars.
🎒 Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection, even in summer.
🐻 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of wildlife like bears and wolves. Keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be rugged. Invest in good hiking boots for comfort and safety on varied terrain.
🚗 Embrace the Scenic Drives
The roads offer stunning views. Enjoy the journey, and don't be surprised if you encounter few other cars.
🎒 Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection, even in summer.
🐻 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of wildlife like bears and wolves. Keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes. Refill stations are not always available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Majella National Park for its breathtaking natural beauty and vast, unspoiled landscapes. The abundance of walking trails and the opportunity to explore remote areas are major highlights. While the park's sheer size and wildness are appreciated, some visitors note the limited public transport and the need for careful planning.
"Stunningly beautiful scenery at every twist and turn of the road - and believe me there are many! We drove for hours without seeing another car !"
Catherine Shawarby
"Magnificent scenery of nature. So many walking trails and vast variety of plants. A place to come back."
N C
"Beautiful national park, with magnificent hikes!"
Rowena Griffiths
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Majella National Park is best accessed by car, offering flexibility to explore its various points of interest. Major entry towns include Caramanico Terme, Taranta Peligna, and Sulmona. The 'Transiberiana Italiana' train route from Sulmona offers a scenic alternative for reaching some areas like Campo di Giove.
Public transport options within the park are limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for independent exploration. Some local buses may connect towns near the park entrances, but internal park transit is minimal.
Key access points include Caramanico Terme for the Orfento Valley, Taranta Peligna for the Grotte del Cavallone, and Sulmona as a gateway for the 'Transiberiana Italiana' and access to higher peaks.
While roads lead to higher elevations, reaching the absolute highest peaks like Monte Amaro requires hiking. Be prepared for winding mountain roads with many turns.
Yes, guided tours are available for various activities like hiking and exploring specific areas. Checking local tourism offices or online providers is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, specific attractions within the park, such as the Grotte del Cavallone, require admission fees.
The Grotte del Cavallone are typically open until mid-September. It's crucial to check their official website or social media for exact opening hours and dates, as they can vary.
Admission fees for Grotte del Cavallone are around €27 for adults and €22 for children aged 5-12. Children under 5 usually enter for free.
For popular attractions like the Grotte del Cavallone, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season. For general hiking, no booking is required.
The Valle dell'Orfento itself does not typically have an entrance fee, but specific trails or facilities within it might have associated costs or require permits depending on the season or specific regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park offers a wide range of trails, from easy walks in the Valle dell'Orfento to challenging ascents like Monte Amaro. The Bosco di Sant'Antonio offers beautiful, less strenuous options.
Yes, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and chamois. Keep an eye out, but maintain a safe distance and be prepared.
This is a unique hermitage built into the cliffs of the Orfento Valley, accessible via a challenging path. It's a testament to ancient monastic life.
Absolutely! The summit of Monte Amaro offers incredible 'golden hour' views. Many scenic drives and hiking trails provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, you can walk your dogs in the park, but it's strongly suggested to keep them on a leash to ensure their safety and respect for wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find wonderful rustic and authentic Abruzzese restaurants in the towns surrounding the park, offering local specialties.
Dining options are primarily located in the villages and towns bordering the park. It's advisable to plan your meals in advance, especially if you're deep in the wilderness.
Look for regional specialties like arrosticini (lamb skewers), pasta alla chitarra, and local cheeses. Abruzzo is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine.
Yes, many hiking trails and scenic areas offer opportunities for picnics. Pack your own food and enjoy the natural surroundings.
While traditional Abruzzese cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian dishes. It's always a good idea to inquire about options.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Monte Amaro, especially during golden hour, offers spectacular panoramic views. The Valle dell'Orfento and the Bosco di Sant'Antonio are also incredibly photogenic.
Early morning and late afternoon ('golden hour') provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Yes, but always from a safe distance using a telephoto lens. Respect the animals' space and avoid disturbing them.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions and long exposures.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific signage regarding photography in certain locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children, focus on shorter, well-maintained paths. The Grotte del Cavallone can be an exciting adventure, but consider if your children are comfortable in enclosed spaces. Always ensure children are supervised, wear appropriate footwear, and carry plenty of snacks and water. The park's natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting can make for an unforgettable family trip.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For solo hikers, prioritizing safety is key. Inform someone of your itinerary, carry a fully charged phone, and be aware of your surroundings. The park's vastness means you can often find trails with fewer people, offering a true sense of immersion in nature. Consider joining guided hikes for added safety and local insights.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Key routes include those leading to Caramanico Terme and the higher elevations towards Monte Amaro. Stop at designated viewpoints to soak in the scenery and capture stunning photographs. The journey itself is a significant part of the Majella experience, connecting you with the dramatic landscapes of Abruzzo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking and Hiking Adventures
When planning your hikes, always check trail conditions, especially after adverse weather. It's advisable to carry a map, compass, or GPS device, along with plenty of water and snacks. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. The park's diverse terrain means you can experience everything from lush valleys to rugged, rocky landscapes.
Some unique hiking experiences include reaching the Eremo di San Giovanni all'Orfento, a hermitage carved into the cliff face, which requires a bit of scrambling. The Bosco di Sant'Antonio offers a more serene experience, particularly stunning in autumn with its vibrant foliage.
Exploring the Park's Unique Hermitages
These hermitages are not just historical sites; they are also testaments to human resilience and connection with nature. Reaching them often involves a hike, adding an element of adventure to the cultural exploration. The serene atmosphere surrounding these sites provides a unique opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the park's natural and historical heritage.
While some hermitages are more accessible than others, the journey to each is often as rewarding as the destination itself. Always be prepared for uneven terrain and wear appropriate footwear. Respect the sanctity of these sites and leave them as you found them.
Wildlife Encounters in Majella
To increase your chances of seeing wildlife, consider visiting during the early morning or late evening hours when animals are most active. Stick to designated trails and maintain a safe distance. Never attempt to feed or approach wild animals, as this can be dangerous for both you and the animals. Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens are highly recommended for observing wildlife from afar.
Remember that the park is a protected area, and its wildlife is a precious resource. Your responsible behavior contributes to the conservation efforts. Be aware of your surroundings and listen for any sounds that might indicate the presence of animals.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit