ABRUZZI: This region encompasses the highest parts of the great Appennine chain. The northern mountains are generally too desolate for agriculture and much of the land is sparsely populated. A ski resort has been built in the limestone massif of Gran Sasso. The southern uplands are covered with a great forest of beech, which has been designated a national park. Marsican brown bears (unique to Italy), wolves, wild boar, chamois and eagles may be seen here. L’Aquilla, the principal city, contains an imposing castle. Celano is an interesting town dominated by a turreted castle whose fortified walls provide a walkway around the castle offering picturesque views over the surrounding hilly countryside. The rest of the town appears to be thriving with active and trendy young people, which projects a suprising contrast to the staid medieval architecture. Tagliocozzo, named after the Greek muse of Theatre, appears at first sight to be just like any other town until one discovers the old Renaissance Square with its 14th and 15th century houses and lantern- lit alleys twisting around behind it. The main Adriatic resorts are Giulianova, Silvi Marina, Francavilla, Montesilvano and Pescara.

Gagliano Aterno has a population of around 200, a castle and 8 churches. There is 1 bar, post office, bakers/general store. Riding stables.
The nearest supermarket is 5 mins drive and the nearest restaurant is 15mins drive (English speaking).
Sulmona is the closest large medieval town around 30 mins drive and L’Aquilla around 50 mins drive.
Pescara is the closest seaside resort about 75 mins drive.
Rome and Pescara can be visited by train from nearby village.

Flights are available to Pescara from Stansted by Ryanair( 1 flight a day).
Alternatively you can fly to Rome (Ciampino) with several flights a day. This involves a 2 hour drive to Gagliano.

THE HOUSE:
Ground floor large living room, fireplace, t.v, dvd player with a variety of films, seating for 8,
Downstairs cloakroom.
First floor: large dining room (seats 10-12) well equipped kitchen, with cooker, fridge freezer, microwave, ironing board and iron etc, open fireplace, mini hifi with cds.
Second floor: master bedroom with king size bed and door to ensuite bathroom.
Large dressing room with single bed and storage, hairdryer plus 1 fold up bed.
Second bedroom: 2 single beds, door connecting to en-suite, which includes washing machine. Balcony with views of the medieval castle.
Full central heating. Plenty of linen and fluffy towels provided (including beach towels)
Ample parking.
This is a non smoking house, sorry no pets are not permitted.