Abruzzo: from the sea to the mountains in the blink of an eye.
It's not just a saying, it's the characteristic trait of Europe's greenest region.
The coast reveals welcoming beaches and dynamic tourist resorts.
Travelling inland there are enchanting landscapes and an unspoilt natural environment, as well as archaeological sites, castles, hermitages, cathedrals and historical town centres to discover with their artistic treasures. Traditions are still respected in celebrations and feast days.
Abruzzo also offers a very respectable cuisine. Traditional local products include wine and oil. With so many delicious local recipes, the only difficulty is choosing which one to try first.
An important feature of the region is the conservation work done by the Abruzzo National Park, Italy's first national reserve, to protect plants and animals.
The region includes a further three parks: Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, Maiella and Velino-Sirente.
There are also 38 protected areas, including nature reserves, local parks and WWF oases.
The jewel in the crown of Pescara is undoubtedly its marina, one of the biggest in the Adriatic and a European Blue Flag establishment since 1990. The marina offers diving and sailing courses as well as deep sea fishing trips.
The city also offers cultural events, particularly in the summer, including the Flaiano Literature, Cinema, Theatre, Television and Radio Awards, the International Jazz Festival, and the "Oro d'Abruzzo" and "Mediterranea" festivals.