From Majelletta to Blockhaus: The Most Scenic Road in the Maiella

An extraordinary route through the heart of the Majella National Park, one of the most scenic areas in the Central Apennines. The route begins in Pretoro, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, and winds its way up Provincial Road 47 toward Passo Lanciano (1,306 m), a crossroads between valleys and beech forests offering the first breathtaking views of the Pescara Valley and the Adriatic Sea. Continuing on, you reach Maielletta (about 1,650 m), an open plateau offering 360° panoramic views of the Majella peaks and the sea. The road, with excellent pavement along almost the entire route, continues to climb toward the Bruno Pomilio Mountain Hut (1,885 m), the end of the line for cars, where the final ridge begins. The route also passes through Caramanico Terme, a charming spa town in the Orfento Valley, perfect for a culinary stop featuring authentic Abruzzese cuisine. A recommended itinerary for motorcycles and sports cars, made famous by the 2022 Giro d’Italia, which will finish at Maielletta.