Driving to Villa Rosa: travel tips for holidaymakers

Route and stopovers

Pick your destination and worthwhile stopovers. Compare routes by distance, driving time and sights — and factor in seasonal traffic and road conditions.

Avoiding the crowds

Leave early in the morning or late at night, and time your arrival outside rush hour. Track local events to dodge holiday jams.

Driving safely and comfortably

Before you leave, check tyres, oil and lights. Pack water, snacks and a paperback — and take a short break every two hours.

Into the Wild Heart of Abruzzo: Gran Sasso National Park

Once you have settled into the seaside serenity of Villa Rosa, the call of the mountains is hard to ignore. A day trip to the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park offers a dramatic contrast to the Adriatic coastline and is an essential Abruzzo experience. This vast protected area is one of Europe’s greenest regions, a realm of soaring limestone peaks, ancient beech forests, and meadows carpeted with wildflowers in spring. The park’s highest peak, the Corno Grande, is the tallest in the Apennines, creating a formidable and breathtaking skyline. For active holidaymakers, the park is a paradise. Hiking trails cater to all abilities, from gentle walks through wooded valleys to challenging ascents for seasoned mountaineers. Keep an eye out for the region’s protected wildlife, including the elusive Apennine wolf, the Abruzzo chamois clinging to rocky outcrops, and golden eagles soaring overhead. A drive across the Campo Imperatore, a vast high-altitude plateau often nicknamed 'Italy's Little Tibet', is an unforgettable experience, offering immense landscapes that have served as a backdrop for numerous films. The park is also dotted with enchanting medieval villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Castel del Monte, where time seems to stand still. Getting there from your apartment at Via Procida 1 is most practical by car. The journey involves taking the A14 motorway south before heading inland on the A24 towards L'Aquila. Various exits lead into different parts of the park, so planning your specific destination within it is key. The drive itself is spectacular, transitioning from coastal plains to rolling hills and finally to majestic mountain scenery. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, with pleasant temperatures for hiking amid nature’s vibrant colours. Summer offers a cool escape from the coastal heat, particularly at higher altitudes like Campo Imperatore. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, though access to some areas can be restricted, so always check local conditions before you travel.

Historic Hilltop Towns: The Fortress of Civitella del Tronto

Abruzzo’s history is etched into its stunning hilltop towns, and few are as impressive as Civitella del Tronto. Perched on a travertine ridge overlooking the Vibrata valley, the town is dominated by its formidable Bourbon fortress, one of the largest and most significant works of military engineering in Italy. A visit here is a journey through centuries of conflict and strategic importance, offering a glimpse into the region’s past as a borderland between the Papal States and the Kingdom of Naples. The main attraction is, of course, the fortress. Spend a few hours exploring its ramparts, barracks, and parade grounds, and be rewarded with jaw-dropping panoramic views that stretch from the Gran Sasso mountains to the Adriatic Sea. Afterwards, lose yourself in the town’s charming 'borgo'. Wander through a labyrinth of narrow, flower-lined alleyways, including the intriguing 'Ruetta d'Italia', famously claimed to be the narrowest street in Italy. The town’s atmosphere is one of authentic, unspoilt charm, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling coast. Civitella del Tronto is an easy and rewarding excursion by car from Villa Rosa. The drive inland takes you through the rolling agricultural landscape of the Teramo province. Following the SS16 Adriatica briefly before taking local provincial roads towards the hills is a straightforward route that is well-signposted as you approach the interior. Visit during the spring or autumn months to enjoy comfortable temperatures for exploring the expansive fortress grounds. Summer mornings are also a good option before the midday sun becomes too intense. An evening visit can be particularly magical, as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the fortress and surrounding landscape.

Exploring the 'Riviera of the Palms'

While Villa Rosa provides the perfect base for relaxation, the surrounding coastline, known as the 'Riviera of the Palms', beckons with its own unique attractions. This stretch of the Adriatic is famed for its long, sandy beaches, vibrant promenades, and a fantastic network of cycle paths that make exploring a true pleasure. You don’t need to venture far from Via Procida 1 to discover a different seaside atmosphere, with each neighbouring town offering its own distinct character. From your apartment, a stroll or cycle along the lungomare (seafront promenade) is a must. The well-maintained coastal cycle path, part of the larger 'Ciclovia Adriatica' project, is a highlight of the region and passes right by your doorstep. Head north to Martinsicuro and beyond into the Marche region to visit San Benedetto del Tronto, with its seemingly endless promenade lined with thousands of palm trees and a bustling fishing port. Alternatively, travel south to explore the lively resort of Alba Adriatica or the elegant town of Giulianova, which features a charming historic upper town ('paese') set back from its popular modern lido. This is where you can truly leave the car behind. Hopping between coastal resorts is most enjoyable on foot or by bicycle along the seafront path. For slightly longer journeys, the SS16 Adriatica road runs parallel to the coast if you prefer to drive. Furthermore, the coastal railway line provides an excellent, stress-free alternative, with stations in most major towns, allowing you to cover more ground and enjoy the scenic ride. The summer months are peak season, perfect for those who love the buzz of Italian beach life. For a more tranquil experience with weather ideal for cycling and walking, plan your visit for late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September).

Book your stay

Want to experience this from an apartment right on the beach? Check live availability and book on the La Prima Spiaggia homepage.

Frequently asked questions