Stretching along the southern coast of Abruzzo, the Costa dei Trabocchi is one of Italy’s most authentic and lesser-known seaside destinations. With its iconic wooden fishing platforms perched over the Adriatic, quiet cycling paths, and unspoiled villages, this stretch of coast offers a slower, more intimate way to experience Italy.
Perfect for a spring escape or a long weekend, especially around public holidays, the Costa dei Trabocchi blends nature, food, and tradition into a memorable journey.
Why Visit Costa dei Trabocchi
Unlike the crowded beaches of northern Italy, this area remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Here’s why it stands out:
- Authenticity: Small towns and family-run restaurants dominate the landscape
- Scenic beauty: A mix of rocky coves, golden beaches, and lush Mediterranean vegetation
- Slow travel vibe: Ideal for cycling, walking, and relaxed exploration
- Unique heritage: The trabocchi—ancient fishing machines—are found nowhere else in the world
If you’re looking for a destination that feels genuinely local, this is it.
Things to Do in Costa dei Trabocchi
Cycle the Via Verde
One of the best ways to explore the coast is along the Via Verde, a scenic cycling and walking path built on a former railway line. It runs for kilometers along the sea, offering uninterrupted views and easy access to beaches and villages.
Swim and Relax by the Sea
The coastline alternates between pebble coves and sandy stretches. Some of the best spots include:
- Fossacesia Marina
- San Vito Chietino
- Rocca San Giovanni
Crystal-clear water and a peaceful atmosphere make it perfect for unwinding.
Dine on a Trabocco
Many historic trabocchi have been converted into small seafood restaurants. Dining here is not just about food—it’s an experience suspended over the sea.
What to See in Costa dei Trabocchi, Italy
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Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere
Overlooking the coast, this medieval abbey offers sweeping views and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the area.
San Vito Chietino
A charming seaside village known for its literary connections and panoramic terraces.
Rocca San Giovanni
Listed among Italy’s most beautiful villages, it’s a maze of stone alleys, flower-filled corners, and scenic viewpoints.
Ortona
A lively coastal town with a historic center, a castle, and a picturesque harbor.
Local Food to Try
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Food is a highlight of any trip here, especially for seafood lovers.
- Brodetto (fish stew): A rich, traditional dish made with freshly caught fish
- Grilled seafood: Simple, fresh, and full of flavor
- Arrosticini: Skewers of lamb, typical of Abruzzo’s inland cuisine
- Local wine: Try a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo or Trebbiano
Eating on a trabocco at sunset is an experience you won’t forget.
How to Get to Costa dei Trabocchi
The Costa dei Trabocchi is easily accessible yet feels off the beaten path.
- By car: The most flexible option, especially for exploring small villages
- By train: The railway runs along the coast, with stops in towns like Ortona and Fossacesia
- By plane: The nearest airport is in Pescara, about 30–40 minutes away
Once there, renting a bike is highly recommended to fully enjoy the coastline.
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from boutique B&Bs to countryside agriturismi and seaside apartments. For the best experience:
- Stay near Fossacesia for easy access to the Via Verde
- Choose San Vito Chietino for views and atmosphere
- Opt for rural stays inland if you prefer tranquility and nature
Final Thoughts
The Costa dei Trabocchi is one of those rare places in Italy where tradition, landscape, and lifestyle remain beautifully intact. It’s not about ticking off famous landmarks—it’s about slowing down, enjoying the sea breeze, and discovering a more genuine side of the country.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy and want something different from the usual hotspots, this stretch of Abruzzo coastline might just become your favorite discovery.
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