How could I find the right words to describe this magnificent castle!
Rocca Calascio is definitely one of those places that steal your heart. It stole mine 20 years ago and, since then, I'm so in love with this castle which is the highest fortification in Italy.
Despite its stunning beauty, the castle has always been a hidden gem in Italy, and it partly still is an underrated destination. With its height (1460 mt asl) it isn't a place you can easily reach by public transport, even for a day tour.
From being an almost unknown place, over the years Calascio has gained popularity for two main reasons.
Firstly, It has been chosen as a set for several famous movies. Lady Hawke (1985, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Rutger Hauer and Matthew Broderick), In the Name of the Rose (1986, starring Sean Connery), and the most recent The American (2010, starring George Clooney).
Last but not least, it is one of the 15 most beautiful castles in the world according to National Geographic which has defined it as a fairy tale castle.
In the middle of nowhere, where time seems to stand still
A short hiking trail from the tiny village of Calascio leads to the castle, built in the year 1000 AC as a defensive tower. As you walk towards the castle, you will really feel like you are "in the middle of nowhere". As soon as you spot the fortification and the octagonal church of Santa Maria della Pietà, you really feel like you are out of this world. The castle appears with all its magnificence. The atmosphere is one of those that inspire relaxation and meditation. The castle is not the only feast for your eyes. The view of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking at each time of the day and in every season. Needless to say that sunrise and sunsets are special moments for visiting this castle, Not only if you are a passionate photographer but also if you just want to fill your eyes with endless beauty.
How to turn a day trip into a memorable travel experience
Most of my customers ask me for more information about this place. Due to its proximity to Rome (160 km), Calascio makes the perfect day tour from the Eternal city. With a private transfer from central Rome, it is possible to reach Calascio in about 2 hours. Leaving the capital and driving to Abruzzo, you will enjoy amazing views of mountains and tiny picturesque villages.
I always recommend as a first stop, the Medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, with its perfectly restored buildings and its timeless atmosphere.
Once in Calascio, I recommend a visit to the tiny village and then, why limiting yourself to a mere visit when we can turn your day tour into a memorable experience?
You will be delighted with a picnic lunch or aperitif at sunset with some special friends, a master falconer and his beautiful birds of prey and, as it wouldn't be enough, live harp music will make your picnic even more romantic and special.
A unique treat for you and your family or friends! A great way to surprise your loved ones, with lots of photography/video opportunities for truly long-lasting memories.
And…as one of my customers from NYC said during this experience at sunset "Now, I can even die"!
A visit of Calascio is also included in our Foodies' Getaway in Rome and Abruzzo, an 8 days/7 nights tour with pick-up and drop-off in Rome, charming accommodations in Rome and Abruzzo, and lots of unique travel experiences designed to treat your tastebuds and make you discover Italy's hidden gems.
To plan your private day tour or multi-day tour in Calascio and the surrounding areas, you can contact me for a free consultancy.
Whatsapp +39 392 0861814
Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found your inspiration for your next Italian tour.
See you to the next blog post!
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