The vast wilderness of central Italy
Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga is one of the most spectacular protected landscapes in Europe. Covering over 140,000 hectares, it combines rugged peaks, alpine plateaus, and tranquil valleys. Its centerpiece, the mighty Gran Sasso d’Italia, rises proudly above the Abruzzo region, creating a panorama that evokes both Alpine majesty and Mediterranean warmth. Hikers come here not only for the exercise but for the extraordinary sense of space, silence, and purity that defines this part of Italy.
The park stretches across three regions – Abruzzo, Lazio, and Marche – yet its heart lies firmly in Abruzzo, where old shepherd trails and ancient villages cling to the mountainsides. Visitors quickly sense how the landscape has shaped the character of local life: resilient, humble, and deeply tied to nature.
Campo Imperatore, the plateau of the sky
A high-altitude wonderland
Known affectionately as “Little Tibet,” Campo Imperatore is a vast plateau sitting between 1,500 and 2,100 meters. In summer it transforms into a golden meadow dotted with grazing horses, while in winter it becomes a silent world of snow and wind. Walking here feels almost dreamlike – a landscape of light, where clouds sweep low across the grasslands and eagles circle overhead.
Easy trails radiate from the Campo Imperatore cable car station, leading to panoramic viewpoints and rifugi (mountain huts). Longer routes traverse the entire plateau, connecting villages like Castel del Monte and Santo Stefano di Sessanio, each preserving centuries of transhumance culture. Along the way, you’ll find wildflowers, shepherd shelters, and perhaps the sound of distant cowbells echoing in the wind.
Climbing Corno Grande, the highest summit of the Apennines
A mountain for serious hikers
At 2,912 meters, Corno Grande is the highest peak in the entire Apennine Range. The most accessible route begins from Campo Imperatore and follows a well-marked trail through rocky slopes and alpine scree. While it requires stamina and good footwear, it rewards climbers with a commanding view over the Gran Sasso massif and even, on clear days, a glimpse of the Adriatic Sea far below.
Those with more experience can explore the Calderone Glacier, one of Europe’s southernmost glaciers. Although retreating due to climate change, it remains a geological curiosity. The experience of standing above Italy’s central spine, surrounded by silence and wind, is something hikers never forget.
Wildlife, flora, and traditional culture
The park’s biodiversity is remarkable. Apennine wolves, golden eagles, and chamois inhabit its forests and cliffs, while high pastures bloom with gentians and edelweiss. The landscape has long supported pastoral life, and visitors often encounter shepherds tending flocks of sheep producing the famous pecorino cheese. The rhythm of this life – slow, authentic, rooted in the seasons – is what makes hiking here feel timeless.
Small stone villages scattered along the foothills offer cozy inns and local dishes such as lentils from Santo Stefano di Sessanio, roasted lamb, and honey from mountain hives. These simple meals are an essential part of the Gran Sasso hiking experience.
When to hike and practical advice
The best hiking season runs from late May to October. In early summer, meadows explode with wildflowers, while September offers crisp air and quiet trails. July and August bring more visitors, so early starts help you enjoy solitude. Always carry water, layered clothing, and sun protection – the high plateau has little shade.
For multi-day treks, rifugi and small agriturismi provide accommodation. Maps and weather checks are essential, as storms can develop quickly. Respecting nature is central here – leave nothing behind except footprints and take home only the memory of vast skies and ancient mountains.
