Walking in Abruzzo. Stuart Haines

      Viewed from all corners of the Sulmona valley, the elegant 1800m peak of Morrone di Pacentro, standing prominently above Pacentro, beckons to be climbed. The mountain looks steep and challenging from the valley, but in fact it can be visited by most fit walkers. Beyond it, unseen from below, lies the 1920m Monte Mileto – a fitting climax to the day’s explorations. The views from both peaks are sublime. The return to the historic village of Pacentro is via the rifugio at Passo San Leonardo and the ancient mule path that picks a lovely way above the Vella gorge.