Gran Sasso & Monti della Laga National Park
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 6 January 2024
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The Gran Sasso & Monti della Laga National Park is situated in the Provinces of Teramo, l'Aquila and Pescara.
It covers a total area of 1,413 km² with Campo Imperatore at the centre of the park around 36 km north east of l'Aquila. If planning a trip to the park, hotels can be found in Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Assergi, l'Aquila or Teramo among others. |
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Profile
Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, also known as Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, is a magnificent protected area located in the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Marche regions of central Italy.
Encompassing the imposing Gran Sasso d'Italia mountain and the Monti della Laga mountain range, the park offers a breathtaking landscape of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and ancient forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Encompassing the imposing Gran Sasso d'Italia mountain and the Monti della Laga mountain range, the park offers a breathtaking landscape of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and ancient forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
History
The history of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park is deeply connected to its geological and cultural significance. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient human settlements and the presence of ancient Roman and medieval communities.
In more recent history, the area played a significant role during World War II as a refuge for Italian partisans and Allied escapees due to its rugged and remote terrain.
The park was established in 1991 to preserve and protect its exceptional natural and cultural heritage. It covers an area of over 1,400 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in Italy.
In more recent history, the area played a significant role during World War II as a refuge for Italian partisans and Allied escapees due to its rugged and remote terrain.
The park was established in 1991 to preserve and protect its exceptional natural and cultural heritage. It covers an area of over 1,400 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in Italy.
Key features
Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park offer visitors a chance to explore the untamed beauty of the Apennine Mountains.
Hiking is one of the main attractions in the park, with an extensive network of well-marked trails that cater to all levels of experience. From easy walks through beech and fir forests to challenging ascents to the highest peaks, such as Corno Grande, the park offers a variety of routes to experience its stunning landscapes and enjoy panoramic views.
The park's diverse flora and fauna make it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of animal species, including the endangered Apennine chamois, Marsican brown bear, wolves, and golden eagles.
Visitors can explore the fascinating Grotta del Vento (Wind Cave), a series of underground caverns with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Rock climbing and mountaineering are popular activities in the park, attracting adventure seekers to its challenging cliffs and peaks.
The park is dotted with picturesque medieval villages, ancient castles, and hermitages, providing opportunities for cultural exploration and traditional local cuisine.
Visitor centers and information points are available throughout the park, providing valuable resources and educational materials for tourists interested in learning more about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park is accessible from various towns and villages in the region, including L'Aquila, Teramo, and Ascoli Piceno. Visitors can reach the park by car or public transportation, and there are various accommodations available for those who wish to stay overnight.
The best time to visit the park depends on your interests. Spring and early summer are ideal for hiking and enjoying the blooming wildflowers, while fall offers beautiful foliage colors. Winter provides opportunities for snow sports and unique snowy landscapes.
Hiking is one of the main attractions in the park, with an extensive network of well-marked trails that cater to all levels of experience. From easy walks through beech and fir forests to challenging ascents to the highest peaks, such as Corno Grande, the park offers a variety of routes to experience its stunning landscapes and enjoy panoramic views.
The park's diverse flora and fauna make it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of animal species, including the endangered Apennine chamois, Marsican brown bear, wolves, and golden eagles.
Visitors can explore the fascinating Grotta del Vento (Wind Cave), a series of underground caverns with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Rock climbing and mountaineering are popular activities in the park, attracting adventure seekers to its challenging cliffs and peaks.
The park is dotted with picturesque medieval villages, ancient castles, and hermitages, providing opportunities for cultural exploration and traditional local cuisine.
Visitor centers and information points are available throughout the park, providing valuable resources and educational materials for tourists interested in learning more about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park is accessible from various towns and villages in the region, including L'Aquila, Teramo, and Ascoli Piceno. Visitors can reach the park by car or public transportation, and there are various accommodations available for those who wish to stay overnight.
The best time to visit the park depends on your interests. Spring and early summer are ideal for hiking and enjoying the blooming wildflowers, while fall offers beautiful foliage colors. Winter provides opportunities for snow sports and unique snowy landscapes.
Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga
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Provinces: Teramo, L'Aquila, Pescara
Region: Abruzzo Size: 1,413 km² Established: 1991 By car from Campo Imperatore: L'Aquila - 45 min, Teramo - 59 min Fly to: Pescara Abruzzo International Airport - 1 hr 36 min (97 km) Recommended hotel: Sextantio Albergo Diffuso |
