Abruzzo is often overlooked by tourists who spend most of their time in and around Rome or on the Campania coast—a choice that robs them of extraordinary discoveries. Choosing to rent a car in the wilds of Abruzzo with Stylish Rent means choosing to explore a region where the mountains still retain their majesty, free from the compromises of mass tourism.
Starting from Rome, the two-hour drive to Gran Sasso already immerses you in the Abruzzo landscape. The mountains aren’t as gentle as the Tuscan hills, but rugged, free of urban development, and still untamed. Traveling in a BMW X5 allows you to tackle the mountain roads with confidence, as the all-wheel-drive system ensures stability even on the roughest terrain.
L’Aquila, the regional capital, still bears the scars of the 2009 earthquake, but the city is rebuilding with a sense of purpose. The historic center retains its charm despite the damage; the churches and palaces tell a story more complex than the conventional tourist narrative. Parking your car and strolling through the center, eating arrosticini in the narrow alleys, offers a fresh perspective on human resilience.
The Gran Sasso National Park is home to ecosystems ranging from alpine to sub-Mediterranean. The hiking trails, which are accessible even to inexperienced hikers, allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Stylish Rent’s short-term rental flexibility means you can plan hikes without being tied to guide schedules.
To the south, the Aterno Valley is home to medieval villages where time seems to have stood still. Civitaretenga, Paganica, Santo Stefano di Sessanio: little-known names that hide squares, churches, and communities where residents still hold onto memories of past generations rather than just tourist stories.
Abruzzo’s cuisine is based on simple, authentic ingredients. Lamb arrosticini, smoked caciocavallo cheese, and local wines such as Montepulciano d’Abruzzo call for slow, leisurely dining, allowing you to savor flavors shaped by tradition. Reaching remote trattorias where dishes are still prepared according to family recipes is only possible if you have your own car.
With Stylish Rent, flexibility lets you plan your trip at your own pace. A two-night stay allows you to explore the Gran Sasso during the day and the local towns in the evening, without the time pressures of organized tours. Choose a car rental in the wilds of Abruzzo and experience its most hidden traditions.
