A Panoramic Nature Reserve In Italy Boasts Sprawling Beaches, Hiking, And Bike Trails
If you've ever visited Italy's popular beaches, you've likely found yourself surrounded by large crowds and rows of umbrella-covered lounge chairs, blocking the once-beautiful views. For those whose ideal Italian getaway is a blend of serene nature, pristine beaches, fresh seafood, and panoramic cliffs overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Punta Aderci Nature Reserve should be at the top of your list. Spanning 700 acres (just over 1 square mile), this underrated Italian destination provides ample space to stroll, mountain bike, and even horseback ride. The reserve's quiet beaches and clear waters make for a relaxing day of swimming and sea activities.
Declared a nature reserve in 1998, Punta Aderci is home to diverse animal and plant life. Lucky beachgoers can spot sea turtles or dolphins, and birdwatchers can revel in sightings of kingfishers, hawks, and flamingos. Along the rocky inlets, swimmers may find rare red algae. Punta Aderci is also part of the Costa dei Trabocchi (Trabocchi Coast), a 40-mile coastline famous for its trabocchi — historic wooden fishing platforms perched above the water.
Exploring Punta Aderci by foot, bike, and board
The nature reserve begins at Punta Penna Beach by the Port of Vasto in the east and ends near the Port of Sinello in the west. The main trail at Punta Aderci Nature Reserve gives visitors the chance to hike along the beautiful Italian coast for nearly 2 miles through the dunes and along the sea, while cyclists can rent bikes from several shops in the nearby town of Vasto. Following the Via Verde route, a unique 26-mile cycling and pedestrian path along the coast, bikers can spot 25 unique trabocchi along the way. Just be sure to check the official website for trail updates, as inclement weather may cause sections to close.
Travelers looking for a memorable experience can book guided horseback rides along the coastal paths with riding school Circolo Ippico Jack O'Neil. For those looking to explore the serene waters, Vasto Kayak offers exciting sunset, sunrise, and daytime tours, while Wind Sup Le Vele Vasto Surf School rents stand-up paddleboards and offers windsurfing lessons.
Punta Aderci Nature Reserve is also a beach lover's paradise. Punta Aderci Beach has been named one of Italy's top beaches, but visitors can also explore lesser-known coves. Walk from Punta Aderci Beach to the equally scenic Mottagrossa and Libertini beaches, or head to Punta Penna Beach near the Port of Vasto. Punta Penna is a traveler's favorite for its soft white sand and unique amphitheater-shaped shoreline. Climb the 230-foot lighthouse at Punta Penna for a stunning panoramic view of the reserve's cliffs and clear waters. There are no shops or restaurants on the reserve's beaches, providing a more tranquil atmosphere — just remember to pack snacks and an umbrella for shade. Parasols and chairs are available for rent on Punta Aderci's official site.
Where to eat, stay, and explore near Punta Aderci
There are plenty of bus and train options from major Italian cities to Vasto, the quaint Italian town that's the perfect base to explore the neighboring the nature reserve. Buses from Rome take about three and a half hours. If you're flying from within Europe, Abruzzo Airport is around two hours away by public transport (or one hour if you're driving). Vasto is a great starting point for exploring the Punta Aderci area, with many bed and breakfast options available for $100 to $200+ per night.
Vasto is a haven for Italian food lovers, with no shortage of options. Reserve a table at Trabocco Cungarelle for top-rated seafood and wine served on a historic trabocco, or opt for pizza in Vasto's old town at Ristorante Il Corallo, which offers a view of Vasto Beach below. Near Punta Penna Beach, Trabocco Puntamare is another highly rated seafood restaurant set on a restored fishing trabocco. While in Vasto, visit the museums at the Palazzo d'Avalos, a 16th-century Renaissance-style palace with an archaeological museum, art gallery, and a Neapolitan garden overlooking the sea.
Prefer to stay closer to the nature reserve? Punta Aderci is also lined with idyllic bed and breakfasts. Agriturismo Arkadia is a highly rated, farmhouse-style B&B on a hill with stunning ea views. B&B Villa Marianna features a terrace and is within walking distance of Mottagrossa Beach. With so much to see, taste, and explore, Punta Aderci is a destination worth adding to your next Italian itinerary.