
Hike, E-Bike and Canoe in Abruzzo
- Italy
- 4 nights
Head to Italy to adventure your way through the lunar landscapes, mountain meadows and wooded riverbanks of the Central Apennines
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Hotel & Lodge2 nights in an eco-lodge, 2 nights in a hotel
- MealsAll breakfasts and 4 dinners
- TransfersTo and from the airport, and everything in between
- GearFathom Giant e-bike and helmet plus all canoeing gear including life jacket, paddles and a waterproof bag
- Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From…excluding flights
Highlights
Hike through the imposing peaks of Italy's great wilderness, known as the 'green lung' of Europe
Scramble to the teetering summit of Corno Grande (9,554 ft), the highest mountain in the Apennines
Canoe the crystalline Tirino River and pedal across the remote Campo Imperatore plateau on e-bikes
Itinerary
Day 1
Into the wild
Driving3hrsHiking3hrs · 4mi · 1148ft up · 1148ft downLodgeTwin shareDinner includedShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Meet your host at the airport and enjoy the scenic drive to Roccamorice, an ancient stone village nestled within the picturesque Maiella National Park in Abruzzo. Still largely undiscovered, the region of Abruzzo undoubtedly deserves the title of 'Europe’s green lung' thanks to its three national parks and 37 nature reserves. Check into your ecolodge and meet up with your guide, who will brief you on the adventure to come. Then head out for an easy afternoon hike to get your first taste of Abruzzo's natural beauty, walking through the scenic Giumentina Valley and amongst ancient sacred hermitages carved into the rock.
Day 2
Walking on the moon
Hiking8hrs · 10mi · 2789ft up · 2789ft downLodgeTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Fuel up on breakfast ready for a challenging trek along the rocky peaks of Maiella National Park. Starting from Pomilio Refuge, you'll climb to Anfiteatro Murelle (8,517 ft), hiking through dense pine scrub and the endemic plant species which miraculously survive in this lunar landscape. If you’re lucky you may even spot the endangered Marsican bear, wolves, Apennine chamois, deer or golden eagles as you look out over the peaks. Reach the imposing rocky amphitheater of Murelle and enjoy jaw-dropping views over a barren, desolate, moon-like environment. On a clear day, the sea is even visible in the distance. Head back down to the valley, where a beer and a well-earned meal awaits.
Day 3
Italy's 'Little Tibet'
Canoeing2hrs · 3miE-bike3hrs · 16mi · 984ft up · 984ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Drive to Capestrano where you'll find the azure waters of the Tirino, Europe’s clearest river. In canoes, paddle gently upstream toward the source of this peaceful and serene river, then tuck into lunch at a local agriturismo. In the afternoon, head to Gran Sasso – one of the largest protected areas in Europe – where you'll set out on a sunset e-bike ride across the remote Campo Imperatore plateau. This boundless karst plain, surrounded by mighty peaks, is nicknamed Italy's 'Little Tibet'. Afterwards, enjoy a tasty dinner and get some rest ready for tomorrow's epic summit hike.
Day 4
Summit Corno Grande
Hiking8hrs · 7mi · 3150ft up · 3150ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
After breakfast, drive to the trailhead for the hike to summit Corno Grande (9,554 ft) - the highest mountain in the Apennines. Setting off from Campo Imperatore, the path quickly climbs up towards the saddle of Monte Aquila with views of the karst plateau and the peak's limestone walls in the distance. Tackle some steep exposed sections and scramble closer to the top of Corno Grande for a view of Europe's southernmost glacier down below. Once at the summit, enjoy the feeling of accomplishment and views of a lifetime. Descend steeply into the valley and celebrate your achievement with a hearty meal. You made it!
Day 5
Calascio and the fortified stronghold
Hiking3hrs · 4mi · 820ft up · 820ft downDriving3hrsBreakfast includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Spend your last morning in Abruzzo on a leisurely hike to the fortified hamlet of Rocca Calascio, exploring the ruins of the castle (which featured in the fantasy film Ladyhawke) and passing the octagonal church of Santa Maria della Pietà, surrounded by fields of colorful crops. Savor a last local lunch in the picturesque village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio before bidding farewell to Abruzzo and heading back to Rome. Arrivederci!
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
- Pick up
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, Rome
11:00 on Day 1 - Drop off
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, Rome
16:00 on Day 5
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided hike through the Giumentina Valley
- Guided hike in the Maiella National Park
- Guided canoeing along the Tirino River
- Guided e-bike ride across the Campo Imperatore plateau
- Guided hike to summit Corno Grande (9,554 ft) - the highest mountain in the Apennines
- Guided hike to the fortified hamlet of Rocca Calascio
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- 2 nights in an ecolodge in the Maiella National Park
- 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in the beautiful hamlet of Castel del Monte
- 4 delicious breakfasts
- 4 traditional Italian dinners
- Group arrival transfer from Rome Fiumicino Airport on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport on Day 5
- All transfers during the trip
- Fathom Giant e-bike and helmet
- All canoeing gear including life jacket, paddles, and waterproof bag
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost; these are entirely at your discretion. If you would like to tip, the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (opens in new tab) (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield (opens in new tab), both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
Breakfasts will be a classic international affair with cereals, bread, pastries, and regional products. Lunches are not included. On Day 2 and Day 4 you will be able to buy packed lunches from either the guesthouse or local shops to take with you on…
Optional Extras
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade - From.
- …/per person
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge (subject to availability). See Optional Extras for the price.
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
This Trip is Graded Level 4
Ratings & Reviews
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Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 5.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
Latest Reviews
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Departure dates
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What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
Who at Much Better Adventures designed this trip?
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamed of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
What do I need to know about e-bikes?
Your e-bike will assist with about 25% of the effort on an average ride, meaning you'll provide about 75% of the effort. There will be moments when you'll need to switch to Boost mode for short bursts of power, especially on challenging terrain or steep sections. However, most of your ride will be in Eco and Trail modes, with Eco mode often being your go-to on climbs to conserve battery life throughout the day. This balance ensures a smooth, enjoyable ride while still giving you the thrill of exploration on two wheels.
In terms of speed, the power assistance on e-bikes is typically capped at around 15mph. If you want to go faster, you'll need to pedal harder! You can adjust the power levels to match your pace and terrain. Your cycling guide will brief you on how to use the different modes to optimize your ride and make the battery last:
Eco Mode: Low power for energy efficiency, giving you longer battery life on flat terrain.
Auto Mode: Automatically adjusts the power based on terrain and your pedaling effort for a more balanced ride.
Sport Mode: Provides mid-range power, ideal for moderate hills and faster cruising.
Turbo Mode: Delivers maximum power, perfect for steep hills or when you want to ride fast.
When it comes to battery power, the e-bike batteries are typically charged overnight, usually at your accommodation. There will be a couple of spare batteries in the support vehicle just in case. However, if you manage your battery usage throughout the day (for example, by avoiding using turbo mode all the time), you’ll find that the battery lasts long enough for most rides without any issues.
What should I do about drinking water?
The tap water in this part of Italy is safe to drink. Please bring along a reusable bottle or two to take with you on the wildlife tracking excursions.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
Temperatures in the Abruzzo Mountains during the summer months average 68°F. May and October will be cooler, with averages around 59°F. Rainfall is lowest in July and highest in May and October, so be sure to pack a rain jacket, though the region gets a lot of unbroken sunshine in the summer. When high up in the Apennines, especially in early and late season, the weather can be rapidly changeable and cold mountain conditions are possible. Before you arrive, feel free to ask your host what to expect for your specific trip dates.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 123kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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