There’s a stretch of coastline in Italy where the Adriatic isn’t just about sand and umbrellas — it becomes pure poetry. This is the Costa dei Trabocchi, a land suspended between lush citrus gardens and the golden glow of sea lilies. Recently, one of our readers posed a sweet dilemma: “Where to spend a long Easter weekend along the Costa dei Trabocchi?” The travel community didn’t hesitate to chime in, turning their answers into a heartfelt guide. If you’re hunting inspiration for your next long escape, here’s the best of Abruzzo, told by the people who live it.
Ortona & San Vito: History Meets Sea Breeze
Local contributors Maria Diodato and Miriana Console agree: your trip should start with the northern gems of the coast.
Imagine taking an evening stroll with the salty wind in your hair, gazing up at the Aragonese Castle perched proudly above the water, and stepping inside the stately cathedral in Ortona. For the outdoorsy traveler, La Via Verde — the cycling and walking trail hugging the coast — delivers postcard-perfect views as it winds southward through secluded coves.
And here’s a fun tip: Cristina Iudicone also suggests a visit to the zoo in San Vito Chietino, a hit with little explorers and animal lovers alike.
Vasto: The “Landscape of Enchantment”
Head a bit further south and the chorus of local recommendations gets unanimous: Vasto is a must-see.
Michele Molino simply calls it “the most beautiful,” while Giuseppe Franco Pollutri loves its dual personality. There’s Vasto Città with its elevated historic center and elegant palaces, and Vasto Marina with its wide, sandy beaches. As Giuseppe puts it in no uncertain terms:
“Beach and enchanting landscape, not just at Easter… try it and see for yourself!”
Just outside town, the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve is one of Abruzzo’s most iconic natural settings. Here, unspoiled scenery reigns supreme, and the trabocchi — the region’s legendary wooden fishing platforms — stand out on the horizon like giant dream-catchers ready to reel in your memories.
Beyond the Coast: Villages & Spiritual Detours
Three days here also means you can look beyond the deep blue sea and explore inland treasures. The community recommends three unforgettable detours:
- Lanciano – Dive into centuries of medieval history and spiritual heritage.
- Abbazia di San Giovanni in Venere – A terrace above the Gulf of Venus, where views stretch to forever.
- Castello di Roccascalegna – A dramatic castle perched atop a rocky spire, like something out of an epic fairytale.
Where to Stay: Authentic Abruzzo Hospitality
Easter is also about warm hospitality and genuine encounters. Locals like Paolo Cotugno recommend the Casale Costa dei Trabocchi in San Vito Chietino — close to the fascinating Grotta delle Farfalle — while others point to cozy lodgings like A Casa Di Sandra, conveniently placed between Ortona and Vasto. Whether you choose a private apartment or a B&B nestled among greenery, the hospitality here tastes like traditional Easter sweets such as pupe and cavalli.
Travel Blogger Tip: How to Spend Three Days
If you’ve got three days to make the most of it, here’s a smart split:
- Day 1: Explore Ortona and cycle along La Via Verde.
- Day 2: Discover San Vito Chietino, the D’Annunzio Promontory, and the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere.
- Day 3: Head to the Punta Aderci Reserve and soak in the timeless charm of Vasto.
The Costa dei Trabocchi at Easter isn’t just a destination — it’s an emotion scented with broom flowers and sea salt that lingers long after your return home.
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