VASTO
Vasto (Lù Uàštë in latin abruzzese, Histonium in latino e Ἱστόνιον, in ancient greek) has very ancient origins, dating back to Frentani people, which in the 12th century BC founded Histonium, an important fishing village and Adriatic port. Destroyed by Lombards,
it was rebuilt becoming an important stronghold during Caldora’s lordship, until the proclamation of Vastese Republic in 1799,
at the end of the domination of D’Avalos family over the city .
Nowadays Vasto historical center is represented by Caldoresco Castle, the Cathedral and Palazzo D’Avalos in particular, which
hosts the ancient museum, the museum of modern art and the Neapolitan Garden. Among Vasto’s historical wonders, we
mention the Cathedral of San Giuseppe, the Santa Maria’s Church and , which offers one of the most beautiful walks along Abruzzo coast. A visit to Lighthouse and The Nature Reserve of is a must.
In the summertime Vasto is full of people until late and there are many events: great concerts, dancing evenings, festivals of typical products and the traditional parade of Toson D’Oro. Also 3 km away from the center there is Aqualand del Vasto, the largest waterpark estate in Abruzzo.
Vasto coast is the largest one in Abruzzo with sandy and pebble seabeds. Visiting Vasto Marina don’t forget about La Sirenetta,
Il Pontile and I Trabocchi.
In addition to the historical richness of the place, a visit to the Punta Penna lighthouse, the second highest in Italy, and the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, a real naturalistic jewel, is a must
Vasto is not only a city of art and nature, but also of entertainment: Vasto Marina is filled with young people until late at night, and there are numerous clubs and discos. about 3 km from the center stands the Aqualand del Vasto, the largest water park in Abruzzo. During the summer, the agenda of events is very busy, big concerts, dancing evenings, festivals of typical products, guided tours, sports tournaments and historical re-enactments such as the traditional Toson D’Oro parade.
NEAR PLACES
If you are up for a quick trip outside the city’s walls and you are a mountain lover, a one-our car ride will take you to the locality of Maiella Orientale where you can visit the suggestive medieval castle of Roccascalegna, the monastery of Fara San Martino, the characteristic Pennapiedimonte with its streets full of faith and mystery and the archaeological area of Juvanum, for a walk through history and nature.
You may also visit the deer wildlife reserve in Lama dei Peligni or have the pleasure of seeing bears in their protected area in Palena.
You can also spend part of your stay making the most fascinating horseback tours from the port of Punta Penna along the Costa dei Trabocchi or you can take the panoramic ‘Via Verde” by mountain bike. Nothing better to enjoy the sunset canoeing off the coast or enjoy an exquisite fish dinner aboard the catamaran.
Equally interesting is the south side starting from Vasto where with half an hour drive you can visit the cave of San Michele Arcangelo in Liscia or the imposing castle of Palmoli that sweeps with a 360 degree panoramic view of the sea and mountains.
