The Costa dei Trabocchi: A Unique Heritage

Vasto is one of the jewels of the famous Costa dei Trabocchi, a stretch of coastline that extends between Ortona and San Salvo. The trabocchi, ancient wooden fishing machines built on stilts, are the symbol of this coast. Some of them have been transformed into charming restaurants where you can taste fresh fish dishes with the sea just a few steps away.

Among the most beautiful beaches in the area is Punta Penna Beach, located in the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve. This reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, with trails that cross cliffs, meadows, and pristine beaches. Other beaches, such as Vasto Marina, offer comfort and services for families and tourists.

Cycling enthusiasts can explore the Via Verde dei Trabocchi, a pedestrian and cycling path that runs along the coast, offering panoramic views and the opportunity to discover hidden beaches. The Via Verde dei Trabocchi is one of the most fascinating and scenic attractions in Abruzzo, a cycling path that stretches along the Adriatic coast, passing through the area known as Costa dei Trabocchi, between Ortona and Vasto/San Salvo. This unique route was created from the old Adriatic railway line, decommissioned in the 2000s, and transformed into a panoramic path offering breathtaking views of the sea and the characteristic coastal landscape.

The Via Verde extends for about 42 kilometers, connecting towns and locations along the coastline, including Ortona, San Vito Chietino, Fossacesia, Torino di Sangro, Casalbordino, and Vasto. The route is mostly flat and suitable for everyone: cyclists, families with children, and trekking enthusiasts.

Along the way, sandy beaches, rocky coves, and cliffs alternate, often interspersed with trabocchi, the ancient wooden fishing machines that give the coast its name. Many of these trabocchi have now been restored, and some host charming restaurants where you can enjoy seafood specialties in a unique atmosphere.

Points of Interest

• Trabocchi: The true protagonists of the route are these wooden structures suspended over the sea, once used for fishing and now symbols of the Abruzzese maritime tradition.

• Punta Aderci Nature Reserve: One of the most scenic spots along the path, featuring breathtaking views, wild beaches like Punta Penna, and rich biodiversity.

• Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere: Located in Fossacesia, on a promontory overlooking the sea, this ancient abbey offers a delightful view of the coastline and is an important historical and cultural landmark.

• Torino di Sangro and the Lecceta Nature Reserve: A protected area that preserves one of the rare examples of coastal holm oak forest, perfect for those who enjoy combining nature and relaxation.

What to do along the Via Verde

• Cycling: The Via Verde is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, with its paved and well-marked path that offers an enjoyable ride along the coast.

• Trekking: Hikers can explore the Via Verde on foot, enjoying pristine nature and the fresh scent of the sea.

• Food and Wine: Stopping at one of the trabocchi transformed into restaurants or in nearby villages is a must for tasting the traditional Abruzzese dishes.

• Relax and Sea: The beaches along the route provide the perfect opportunity for a refreshing break during the summer.

The Via Verde dei Trabocchi is easily accessible from the main coastal towns. The train stations in Ortona, San Vito Chietino, and Vasto-San Salvo are close to the path, making it conveniently reachable even by public transport. It is not just a cycling route but a complete experience that blends nature, history, and tradition. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the authentic beauty of the Abruzzese coastline. A must-do journey for those seeking a deep connection with the land and its sea.