Penne is one of the most important towns in the province of Pescara, a reference point for the Vestina area. It is the ideal place for all types of stays: both in the summer and the winter since, with a drive of just 40 minutes, it is possible to reach the mountains where, in the summer, there are beautiful walks and, in the winter, equipped ski slopes on the peaks. In addition to this, there are also the sunny seaside resorts just a 35 min drive away with their crystal clear waters for bathing.
The town of Penne is defined as the ‘town of bricks’ due to its having been built almost entirely in cotto terracotta (which was also used for paving the narrow streets) on the tops of four hills. On two of which the medieval centre still rises between the valleys of the Tavo and Fino rivers, amid a landscape of green hills and oak woods. To the west, the mountain ridge of the Apennines are visible just a few kilometres away.
The ancient town centre is well preserved, a maze of narrow, cobbled, alleys, surrounded by 15th century walls. The main access to the town is particularly picturesque, through the S. Francesco gate with its decorated frontispiece, and is the work of De Sio. Penne's churches include the 12th century Santa Maria, and the Duomo, which now houses the Diocese Museum including a crypt dating from the 8th century.
You will find that the town has a warm and very friendly atmosphere. During summer months Penne, is full of cultural events and entertainment's.....including "White Night" on the 4th August when everything in the town stays open over night with festivities going on. Previous guests have also enjoyed The Palio festival which takes place over 3 days in August. The town is transported back to medieval times, with the locals in colourful costumes, fire-eaters, dancers, donkey racing, jugglers, stilt-walkers and re-enacted duels all add to the magical atmosphere.
Penne represents a point of access to the Gran Sasso National Park through the Lake of Penne Nature Reserve, a WWF oasis where it is possible to participate in guided visits. This oasis includes a centre for injured animals, a nature trail with observation huts, a handicraft shop, a botanical garden, a naturalistic museum, two aquariums, picnic areas, marked walking trails and a centre where otters are bred. It is home to 160 speices of birds. The Lake is just outside the town, about 20 mins walk from the house or it is possible to drive.
Penne is close to the Gran Sasso National Park, and as soon as you leave the town you are into wonderful countryside, which is ideal for those who enjoy walking. An enjoyable way to spend a day (or half day) is to join one of the guided walks from Penne. Some of the walks available are: The Calderone Glacier, The Monastery of San Bartolomeo, "Little Tibet", A Fairy Tale Castle, Monks Valley, Ruined taverns and ancient mule tracks, Spectacular Majella Gorges & The Legends and Museums of Penne. It's also possible to book a week’s package of three full day walks, and two half day walks.
The nearby resort of Pescara has fantastic shopping, nightlife and seafood restaurants. A 35 minute drive takes you to Montesilvano with its clean beach. There is also Pineto, a resort known for its pine woods. The Passo Lanciano ski resort is approx 45 mins drive, and an excellent 18 hole golf course is approx 40 mins drive away. Children will love the Onda Blu Water Park, with pools, slides and green picnic areas, which can be reached in about an hour. Rome is approx 2.5 hours away, and is a wonderful drive through the mountains. It's also possible to travel to Rome by coach from Pescara.....perfect for a day trip.
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