There’s something undeniably magical about “rolling south” when spring begins to awaken the senses. That’s exactly what Maddalena M., a traveler from our community, experienced. For her Easter holiday, she chose to step off the beaten path and pause in Penne—a village steeped in history and rich with the earthy scent of clay.
Known as the “City of Bricks,” Penne welcomed her with the warmth that defines the inland areas of the Pescara province. If you’re searching for a destination that blends slow travel, Easter traditions, and family-friendly experiences, here’s a heartfelt guide inspired by locals who truly know and love this place.
Penne: a hidden gem where art meets nature
The moment you arrive in Penne, your eyes are drawn to the warm red tones of its historic buildings. As Erminia Di Carlo describes it, Penne is an enchanting maze of narrow streets and monumental churches. For travelers like Maddalena, seeking meaning, spirituality, and history, this town is pure gold.
If you’re visiting on Good Friday, don’t miss the deeply moving local procession. It’s one of those moments that hits differently—an authentic expression of faith and tradition that resonates on a deeply emotional level.
But Penne isn’t just about history and architecture. Families traveling with kids will love the Regional Nature Reserve of Lake Penne, a protected WWF oasis where nature truly takes center stage. According to Cinzia Abruzzocasacampagna, the visitor center is a must-see, offering children the chance to encounter wildlife and discover traditional weaving workshops.
Feeling active? Take Patrizio Marozzi’s advice and rent a bike. The scenic trails surrounding the lake offer a relaxing yet immersive ride through lush greenery—perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.
Fairytale surroundings: from the Adriatic Sea to the Gran Sasso peaks
Spending two or three days in Penne opens the door to an incredibly diverse landscape.
- Loreto Aprutino and Atri: Just a short drive away, these historic towns are absolutely worth exploring. Atri is famous for its stunning cathedral and its historic licorice factory, while Loreto Aprutino charms visitors with its castle and photogenic medieval streets.
- Chasing the sky on Gran Sasso: If you’re craving jaw-dropping mountain scenery, follow Pierluigi Trave’s suggested route toward Campo Imperatore via Rigopiano. From there, step into history by visiting Santo Stefano di Sessanio and the legendary Rocca Calascio—the highest castle in Italy, and honestly, it feels like stepping onto a fantasy movie set.
- A breath of Adriatic air: On warmer spring days, Torre del Cerrano offers the perfect coastal escape. Picture yourself walking along the beach with sea breeze in your hair and centuries of history rising behind you.
Taste experiences and world-class craftsmanship
No trip to Abruzzo is complete without indulging in its incredible food culture.
Patrizio Marozzi challenges food lovers to visit Farindola and taste its legendary pecorino cheese. It’s one of a kind—made using pork rennet and crafted exclusively by women, preserving a tradition passed down through generations. Every bite tells a story.
Penne also boasts a prestigious textile heritage. This is where luxury fashion giants like Brioni and Brunello Cucinelli have their manufacturing roots. It’s a unique contrast: world-class craftsmanship thriving in a peaceful rural setting.
Easter traditions you shouldn’t miss
If your stay falls during Easter weekend, you’re in for something truly special. Abruzzo is home to some of Italy’s most powerful and emotional Easter rituals.
Beyond Penne’s Good Friday procession, you can witness the famous “Madonna che Scappa” in Sulmona—a dramatic and emotional celebration—or listen to the haunting Miserere chant in Chieti, one of the oldest and most moving religious processions in the country.
Penne and its surroundings offer the perfect balance: a family-friendly destination filled with meaningful cultural experiences for adults. It’s a place where time slows down, where every sunset feels personal, and where you’re welcomed with a glass of Montepulciano wine and the timeless beauty of red brick architecture.
This isn’t just a stopover. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after the journey ends.
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