Best attractions and places to see around Lucoli, a municipality in the province of L'Aquila, Italy, are situated on the northern edge of the Sirente Velino Regional Natural Park. This area offers a blend of natural beauty, including mountains and high plains, alongside historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a tranquil environment known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse outdoor opportunities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Highlight • Settlement
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Highlight • Lake
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Highlight • Natural
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You start from Cartore and take two trails: the first, a bit challenging, is 2.5 hours long, and the second, easier, is about 4 hours long. I chose the 2.5-hour trail and recommend it for those in good shape! Once you reach your destination, you're surrounded by this wonderful view of Lake Duchessa and the surrounding mountains, including Monte Murolungo, whose majestic presence is hard to miss.
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Very beautiful place with the lake that mirrors the surrounding mountains. The lake is inhabited by the Crested Newt.
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For those who want to do the walk in 2 stages, I recommend staying overnight in Rosciolo
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Very small village, surrounded by greenery and peace. Respect the place. Be careful, reaching it through Google Maps could lead you on a dirt road. Look for the paved road nearby.
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The village of Cartore located on the slopes of the Montagne della Duchessa, coordinates 42.166595N, 13.310684E, at 944m. above sea level it is the only town within the Montagne della Duchessa Regional Nature Reserve. It is currently inhabited by only one resident family, the slow and progressive abandonment intensified after the Second World War with the emigration of the inhabitants towards the nearby towns (Santa Anatolia) and cities (Rome, L'Aquila, Avezzano). With the establishment of the Nature Reserve on 7 June 1990, a complex of old farmhouses was renovated by the Settima Comunità Montana Salto - Cicolano, which today houses the "Casali di Cartore - LA LOCANDA" structure where you can stay (the farmhouses offer rooms with breakfast, apartments with kitchen, sheets and towels and restaurant service), booking via the website www.casalidicartore.com https://www.riservaduchessa.it/cartore.html
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Medieval village of Marsica located on the slopes of Velino, part of the municipality of Magliano dei Marsi. The path that leads to the village is characterized by the presence of the Church of Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta. Also beautiful are the Churches of Santa Maria delle Grazie and on the slopes of the village the Church of San Sebastiano.
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The Duchess Lake, of karst origin, located at 1788m. above sea level, it is a natural basin of the central Apennines. The lake is not fed by its own springs or by a river and the water level is linked to meteorological factors (rain and snow).
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Lucoli is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can visit Duchess Lake, a beautiful karstic lake within the Montagne della Duchessa regional reserve, perfect for excursions. Another highlight is Piani di Pezza, a high plain offering glacial views and an uncontaminated natural environment ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The area is also a gateway to the Sirente Velino Regional Natural Park, featuring mountains, dense woods, and high plains.
Lucoli boasts several historical and cultural sites. Explore the ancient village of Colle di Lucoli with its traditional architecture and the spiritual path to the church of Beata Cristina. The historic Abbey of San Giovanni, dating back to 1077, serves as a parish church. Don't miss the Garden of Memory, a poignant site commemorating the victims of the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake, or the Church of San Menna, the oldest religious building in Lucoli, home to 'The Crucifixion' artwork. You can also find the ancient castle ruins of Collimento.
Yes, you can visit the Amiternum Archaeological Site, located in the Aterno Valley. This ancient Sabine city, conquered by the Romans, features well-preserved witnesses such as an amphitheater, ruins of public baths, and an aqueduct, offering a glimpse into Abruzzo's glorious Roman past.
The mountainous terrain around Lucoli provides ample opportunities for outdoor sports. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For detailed routes, explore the guides for Hiking around Lucoli, Cycling around Lucoli, and Running Trails around Lucoli. The area is also popular for ski mountaineering and sport climbing.
Lucoli is a gateway to the popular Campo Felice ski resort, which offers extensive slopes for skiing and cross-country skiing in winter. The Piani di Pezza also transforms into a beautiful landscape for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The best time to visit Lucoli depends on your preferred activities. For hiking, mountain biking, and exploring natural sites like Duchess Lake and Piani di Pezza, the warmer months (spring to early autumn) are ideal. For skiing and other snow sports, winter is the prime season, particularly at Campo Felice.
Many natural areas around Lucoli, such as Piani di Pezza, are suitable for family outings and easy walks. The Amiternum Archaeological Site is also categorized as family-friendly, offering an educational experience for all ages. The local festivals organized by the Pro Loco association can also be a fun family experience.
When in Lucoli, be sure to savor traditional Abruzzo dishes. Recommended local specialties include gnocchetti with chickpeas, 'sagne e fagioli' (pasta and beans), barbecued lamb cooked 'al coppo' (a traditional method), and local pecorino cheese often served with honey.
The Pro Loco association in Lucoli organizes various local events that offer a taste of traditional culture. These include the 'Sagra del Toro allo Spiedo' (Spit-Roasted Bull Festival) and the 'Festa della Montagna' (Mountain Festival). Additionally, the Spazio Inerte in Peschiolo hosts cultural shows and exhibitions, particularly in mid-August.
The Vincenzo Sebastiani Mountain Hut is a mountain refuge located at 2,102 meters altitude in the Velino-Sirente mountain range. It offers basic accommodation with 13 beds and serves meals, providing an unforgettable atmosphere for overnight stays. It's a popular destination for hikers, with many marked trails of medium difficulty leading to it.
Many of the natural trails and outdoor areas around Lucoli, particularly within the Sirente Velino Regional Natural Park and places like Piani di Pezza, are generally dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the landscape with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash and follow local regulations, especially in protected areas.
Rosciolo dei Marsi Historic Village is a charming and impressive fraction of Magliano de' Marsi, nestled at the foot of Monte Velino. It's an ideal starting point for exploring the Velino-Sirente National Park, featuring a traditional village with antique frescoes in its parish church and the unique early medieval church of Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta nearby.


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