Discover medieval Abruzzo: Rocca Calascio Castle and Santo Stefano di Sessanio with typical Abruzzo lunch. 1
The famous and amazing "rocca Calascio's Castel
The acient country of Rocca Calascio
The acient country of Rocca Calascio
The restaurant in acient country of Rocca Calascio
Panoramic view of the famous and amazing Rocca Calascio
The acient country of Rocca Calascio
panoramic view from Rocca Calascio
Panoramic view form Rocca Calacio
The acien country of Rocca Calascio
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Discover medieval Abruzzo: Rocca Calascio Castle and Santo Stefano di Sessanio with typical Abruzzo lunch.

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Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Italy
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About this activity

Explore one of Italy's most cinematic medieval castles with a local guide, then descend into the perfectly preserved hilltop village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio for an authentic Abruzzo lunch featuring protected regional ingredients. This 6-hour immersive experience combines history, film heritage, hiking, and slow food tradition in the heart of the Apennines.

Accompanied by a professional local guide, you will take a walk in the Castle of Rocca Calascio, famous for having been the setting and set of numerous Hollywood films such as "Ladyhawke" and "The Name of the Rose"!

Start by visiting the village below the Castle which you will then reach via the path that leads to the entrance bridge passing through the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà located along the path at the foot of the Rocca.

You will continue with a typical Abruzzo lunch made of dishes made with the excellences that the territory expresses such as the Lenticchia di Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a Slow Food Presidium, the Saffron dell'Aquila D.O.P. and the delicious Canestrato cheese from Castel Del Monte.

This will be followed by a visit to the splendid village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio with its newly renovated tower, you will explore its narrow streets and countless shops with its artisan products.

Highlights

  • ✓Rocca Calascio Castle — the dramatic fortress used in 'Ladyhawke' and 'The Name of the Rose'
  • ✓Guided walk through the castle complex and Church of Santa Maria della Pietà
  • ✓Traditional Abruzzo lunch featuring Lenticchia di Santo Stefano (Slow Food Presidium) and Saffron dell'Aquila D.O.P.
  • ✓Canestrato cheese tasting from Castel del Monte
  • ✓Explore Santo Stefano di Sessanio's medieval streets, artisan shops, and restored tower

Insider tips

  • ★Wear sturdy hiking boots — the path from village to castle involves moderate elevation gain on mountain terrain
  • ★Visit in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild and wildflowers line the trails; summer heat can be intense at altitude
  • ★Arrive early to avoid midday crowds and enjoy cooler climbing conditions
  • ★Browse artisan workshops in Santo Stefano for traditional textiles and ceramics — many close by 2 p.m.

Good to know

  • •Duration is 6 hours including lunch and guided exploration; comfortable walking shoes essential
  • •Lunch is included and caters to regional specialties; inform guide of dietary restrictions in advance
  • •The castle sits at elevation (~1,500 m); those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility with supplier before booking
  • •Meeting point and transportation logistics (coach pick-up location) to be confirmed at booking

Who it's for

Film buffs and cinema history enthusiastsSlow food travellers and regional cuisine explorersModerate hikers and cultural heritage seekersGroups and coach tour participants

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal conditions: mild temperatures, clear views, and fewer visitors. Avoid summer midday heat and winter snow closures at the mountain castle.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€90
per person