Italian Easter Experience in Abruzzo

Your Italian adventure begins with a pick-up from Rome Fiumicino airport at 2:30 pm. We'll journey to the ancient Roman town of Vasto, nestled on the Adriatic Coast. After settling into the charming Hotel dei 7 (or similar), we'll explore the historical downtown and indulge in a welcome group dinner at a traditional restaurant. The day concludes with the captivating 'Sepolcri Night', a unique Holy Week tradition in Italy.

After a leisurely traditional breakfast, we'll drive along the famous Trabocchi coast and visit a trabocco, a unique fishing platform. We'll then head to a local farmhouse for an immersive slow food experience, including milking a sheep and preparing ricotta cheese. In the afternoon, we'll explore Vasto's historic center and partake in the Holy Friday procession. The evening is yours to enjoy dinner at your leisure in Vasto.

Day three begins with a visit to Vasto's colorful market to gather fresh, seasonal products. We'll then head to the countryside for an exclusive cooking class with Fabrizio's family, where we'll learn to make fresh pasta and traditional Abruzzo sauces. After savoring a lunch of our homemade dishes, the afternoon is yours to explore Vasto at your leisure. You may choose to visit museums, art galleries, or simply soak in the relaxing Easter atmosphere.

On day four, we'll journey through the stunning Abruzzo mountains to Sulmona, the hometown of the Roman poet Ovid. Here, we'll witness the emotional 'Running Madonna' event, a narrative evocation of the encounter between Mary and the risen Christ. After a traditional Easter lunch, you'll have free time to explore Sulmona and taste its world-famous Confetti (sugar-coated almonds). We'll return to Vasto for the evening.

Day five takes us to the enchanting village of Roccascalegna, where we'll explore a medieval castle and enjoy a festival featuring demonstrations of medieval fights and hunting with falconry. After a street food lunch featuring traditional Abruzzo dishes, we'll take a leisurely walk in the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, one of Italy's most beautiful beaches. We'll return to Vasto for a group dinner in a traditional restaurant.

On day six, we'll visit the village of Orsogna to experience the 'Talami', a breathtaking parade of floats carrying sacred images inspired by the Bible. After a traditional lunch in the main square, we'll head to the hilltop village of Lentella. Here, we'll visit an 'Art Farm' and enjoy an artistic experience with a local artist, creating our own Christmas gift. We'll conclude the day with an aperitif and traditional lunch before returning to Vasto.