Modern, kitchen, balcony overlooking lush river valley surrounded by mountains

We rented this apartment in the town of Campo de Fano during the last week of September and were delighted with the property and location, which surpassed our expectations. The apartment was in a newly renovated building with modern appointments, clean and well maintained, with a lovely terrace overlooking the valley and mountains beyond. The host, Mike, was an added bonus in that he is fluently bi-lingual in English and Italian, guided us to charming nearby mountain villages, wonderful and reasonable local restaurants, and introduced us to the cultural aspects of the region. This provided us with a rich, authentic holiday and it was as if we had our own personal travel guide in residence. We chose Abruzzo primarily because it was the region my family originated from, and Mike was instrumental in making our search for my roots a successful one. He accompanied us to the town hall of records, acted as interpreter, and even assisted us in finding a possible long lost relative. Without him this could not have been accomplished. The apartment is a mere two miles from Sulmona, an unspoiled, mid sized town convenient to shopping, restaurants and the evening stroll popular with locals and few tourists. Nearby mountain towns of Roccaraso, Scanno, and Pesto Costanzo are side trips not to be missed. Visits should be made in the morning before siesta begins; the towns are virtually deserted for three hours each afternoon. Campo de Fano, a lovely village of 300 people, is strictly a residential hamlet; we experienced its charm on its feast day honoring its patron saints, complete with brass band, Mass in the tiny church, and ending with fireworks late at night. Anyone looking for a true Italian experience without the crowds, at moderate prices, will not be disappointed in Abruzzo, in general, and especially Campo di Fano and Giamia Villas.

We rented this apartment in the town of Campo de Fano during the last week of September and were delighted with the property and location, which surpassed our expectations. The apartment was in a newly renovated building with modern appointments, clean and well maintained, with a lovely terrace overlooking the valley and mountains beyond. The host, Mike, was an added bonus in that he is fluently bi-lingual in English and Italian, guided us to charming nearby mountain villages, wonderful and reasonable local restaurants, and introduced us to the cultural aspects of the region. This provided us with a rich, authentic holiday and it was as if we had our own personal travel guide in residence. We chose Abruzzo primarily because it was the region my family originated from, and Mike was instrumental in making our search for my roots a successful one. He accompanied us to the town hall of records, acted as interpreter, and even assisted us in finding a possible long lost relative. Without him this could not have been accomplished. The apartment is a mere two miles from Sulmona, an unspoiled, mid sized town convenient to shopping, restaurants and the evening stroll popular with locals and few tourists. Nearby mountain towns of Roccaraso, Scanno, and Pesto Costanzo are side trips not to be missed. Visits should be made in the morning before siesta begins; the towns are virtually deserted for three hours each afternoon. Campo de Fano, a lovely village of 300 people, is strictly a residential hamlet; we experienced its charm on its feast day honoring its patron saints, complete with brass band, Mass in the tiny church, and ending with fireworks late at night. Anyone looking for a true Italian experience without the crowds, at moderate prices, will not be disappointed in Abruzzo, in general, and especially Campo di Fano and Giamia Villas.

We arrived late in Sulmona and Mike, the owner, met us and helped us shop for groceries to get us through the night and breakfast the next morning. As other reviewers have stated, he is extremely helpful and made so much difference in the degree of our enjoyment of the week. When we arrived at the property (we had one of the two apartments on the top floor) we were astounded at the spectacular view of the mountains. Even though we had read that there was a mountain view, sitting out there for breakfast or having a drink in the moonlight is unforgettable and beyond our expectations.
The property itself is comfortable for two people, although rather sparsely furnished for the price in terms of creature comforrts (otherwise would have had the top rating), quiet, pretty, and while psychologically away from everything is just a few miles from the charming town of Sulmona.
We were lucky enough to meet another couple staying there in which the husband is in the same line of work as I am, and also another woman who had been traveling through southern Italy, so we all had a great time. Mike had us all go to a terrific outdoor restaurant in a winery vineyard where we were introduced to some delicious Italian cooking. We were also invited to take part in a ceremony honoring the 2 saints at a church just up the road, which included a parade, fireworks, and the chance to attend Sunday services. Mike also introduced us to another restaurant just a few miles away in an adjoining little town - don't miss it! The name is Il Carro - the food is delicious and the prices were astoundingly reasonable. The 1st of 2 nights we were there we got there at 7 and it was empty but by 9 it was packed - typical for Italy. Mike was also helpful with directions and showing us around Italy including the marketplace on Saturday. Campo Di Fano, the location of the apartment, is a town of 300 and Mike knows everyone.
Don't miss going to Scanno and other places in the Appenines, although be prepared for endless hairpin turns and aggressive Italian drivers. The scenery is breathtaking! You are also only 40" from the Adriatic.
If you are looking for an authentic Italian experience in Abruzzo with a great, wordly and English-speaking host, stay here!