Easter with Wolves and Bears

A journey into nature in the Abruzzo National Park, following the tracks of large mammals

Join Paolo Iannicca on an ORMA Guides journey into the heart of the Abruzzo National Park to discover the Apennine wolf and the Marsican brown bear, following their tracks and learning to interpret nature through its most iconic inhabitants.Guided hikes, wildlife observation, and full immersion in the springtime natural environment.

Highlights

• From ancient forests to the first signs of wolves and bears:
  The journey begins in Pescasseroli with an immersion in the Bosco della Difesa, among centuries-old beech trees with twisted shapes and rich biodiversity. A first walk designed to get in tune with the territory, followed by dinner and an introductory meeting to learn about the program and the spirit of the experience.
• Among beech forests and large mammals:
  The central days lead us into the Cicerana Valley and the ancient beech forest of Selva Moricento, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will walk through remote and silent environments, with observation moments dedicated to the Marsican brown bear and the Apennine wolf, and to understanding the natural dynamics that govern life in the Park.
• Dawn, silence, and waiting:
  Early-morning outings and hikes in the Valle dell’Atessa, Coppo della Polinella, and Valle del Giovenco are devoted to attempts to observe wolves in the wild. An experience shaped by patience and attentive listening, embracing and respecting the unpredictability of wildlife as an essential part of the journey.

TRIP PURPOSE

An exploration centered on discovering the Abruzzo National Park and its inhabitants, among flora and fauna, rediscovering the slow rhythms of forests and animals. A different kind of Easter, following the tracks of large predators often misunderstood in their majesty. With this journey, we hope to spark awareness and responsibility toward the biodiversity that surrounds us, through the approach of attentive and curious observers reflecting on the necessary coexistence between humans and nature.

The journey thus becomes an experience of awareness-raising, bringing participants closer to the deep value of mountain ecosystems, the importance of protected areas, and the essential role that wolves and bears play in maintaining natural balance. Walking through their territories means observing the mountains with a new perspective, questioning our way of being in nature, and understanding that its protection is born from listening, respect, and knowledge of those who have inhabited and safeguarded these places for millennia.

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This trip is for you if you want to learn more about:

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• Environmental and social education
• Sustainable mobility
• Biodiversity

ACCOMODATION

During our journey, we will stay at Albergo Gemma, in San Sebastiano dei Marsi, a tiny village of just 150 inhabitants nestled in the upper Valle del Giovenco, at the edge of the Abruzzo National Park. Situated at 1,120 meters above sea level and surrounded by forests and silence, it is the perfect base for our excursions into the wilderness.

The available rooms are double rooms, only 6 of which have separate single beds, all with private bathrooms. They are simple, welcoming, and authentic. For those who prefer greater privacy, it is possible to book a single room with a total supplement of €60 (€20 extra per night).

The in-house restaurant, La Taverna, continues a culinary tradition passed down from mother to daughter, offering typical Abruzzese dishes prepared with seasonal local ingredients. It is a place where you truly feel at home, where nature can be tasted in every dish.

IMPORTANT INFO

The difficulty level is medium/easy, suitable for those who enjoy walking in nature.
The meeting point is in Pescasseroli at 3:00 pm, at the Ecotur office on Via Piave 9. This is where the activities of the journey will begin. Pescasseroli can be reached by car via the A24 Rome–Pescara highway, exiting at Pescina and continuing toward Pescasseroli. It is also possible to arrive by train to Avezzano on the Rome–Pescara line and continue by bus, or reach Pescasseroli directly by coach from Rome. For those arriving from southern Italy, the reference station is Castel di Sangro, followed by a bus connection to Pescasseroli.

The hikes involve moderate distances and limited elevation gain (an average of 200–300 meters of elevation gain per day), but a basic level of fitness and comfort with walking in natural environments is required. Proper equipment is essential, including hiking boots, waterproof and windproof clothing, a backpack, water bottle, headlamp, hat and gloves, and binoculars. Temperatures can be low during excursions, so dressing in layers is strongly recommended.

The program may be subject to changes due to weather conditions or specific group needs.

What's included

• Food: half-board accommodation
• Accommodation: 3 nights in a hotel
• Other: guidance and support throughout the entire journey

What's not included

• Food: all meals not specified
• Transport: travel to and from the meeting point
• Other: trip cancellation insurance
• Anything not specified under “What is included”

Payment Terms

30% down payment at the time of booking and the remaining 70% due 30 days prior to departure.
If the booking is made within 30 days of departure, the full amount is due at checkout.
Bank transfers or credit cards can be used to make payments.