History, nature, leisure and relaxation

The Tirino valley, including the municipalities of Bussi sul Tirino, Capestrano and Ofena, located half an hour by car from Sessanio, takes its name from the river Tirino, one of the cleanest and bluest rivers of Italy.

This natural gem also includes notable artistic and historic beauties – so much so that it is part of the land of the Gran Sasso National Park.

It is set against the important backdrop of massifs of calcareous origin: the heights of Rocca Calascio and Castel del Monte, the Serra di Navelli, Monte Cornacchi and Monte Le Scuncole, the backbone of the Gran Sasso.
The river Tirino runs for 16km from its origins in three springs, and has clean and crystalline waters, luckily unpolluted, which allow the rays of the sun to penetrate them and give the river a splendid blue-green emerald hue. The vegetation on the banks of the river grows luxuriantly, and is characterised by centuries-old white willows, grey willows, black poplars, and common reeds.

Thanks to the low temperatures of the river, native species such as trout and river shrimp, which now exist only in small pockets, can live here. Among the rich rushes and grey willows, notable types of bird nest and live: pochards, grebes, coots, little grebes, wigeons and grey herons.
For lovers of outdoor sports, the Tirino valley is surely one of the best destinations for exploring aboard a Canadian canoe. Paddling on the Tirino, at a relaxing and safe speed, allows one to fully enjoy the marvels of the countryside and to observe animals and vegetation from a different perspective. In some less deep places, it is even possible – in good weather – to take a quick dip, before continuing with the canoe. If you are tired of the usual hiking, horse-back rides are also organised along guided trails, or you can rent a mountain bike for a marvellous and relaxing excursion. Fun is guaranteed for everyone.

Non mancano le bellezze storico-artistiche nella Valle del Tirino, che ci testimonia una storia millenaria: il Castello dei Duchi di Cantelmo di Bussi, il castello Piccolomini e la zona archeologica di Capestrano dov’è stato rinvenuto il “Guerriero di Capestrano”, la statua che raffigura un guerriero dell’antico popolo dei Vestini, tra i più importanti emblemi dell’ Abruzzo, le chiese romaniche di San Pietro ad Oratorium e della Madonna di Cartignano.

The valley also offers a variety of food and drink cultivations and productions, such as expanses of saffron, the famous vineyards of Ofena in the high Tirino Valley, typical places along the river called “padure” and “cannavine”, with their canals which draw their waters from the river Tirino.
The Tirino valley will certainly enrich your stay with new experiences. We are waiting for you!