Pescocostanzo, Rivisondoli and Roccaraso: the villages to see

A few minutes' drive apart, three very different villages: one is an architectural jewel, one lives on its traditions, one is the ski capital. They are all worth seeing.

Pescocostanzo

It belongs to the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy and it is easy to see why: fifteenth- and sixteenth-century stone houses, carved doorways, wrought-iron balconies. Its symbol is the Basilica of Santa Maria del Colle, rebuilt after the 1456 earthquake, with its monumental stairway and an interior full of Baroque furnishings, wooden ceilings and wrought iron.

On Piazza del Municipio stands Palazzo Fanzago, the former convent of Santa Scolastica, home to the Bobbin Lace Museum: handmade lace is the village's most famous tradition, together with gold filigree and wrought iron, and there is still a school where it is taught. In the coldest winters the small lake of Pescocostanzo freezes over and becomes a natural skating rink.

Rivisondoli

The village where our homes are. The medieval centre is best explored on foot, through lanes, stairways and the old gates, such as the fifteenth-century Porta Antonietta. Rivisondoli is famous throughout Italy for its Living Nativity, held every year on 5 January since 1951: people in costume, shepherds coming down from the mountains, the Three Kings arriving across the snow, all by torchlight. If you are here at that time, don't miss it, and arrive early.

Roccaraso

The tourist heart of Alto Sangro and the gateway to the Altopiano delle Cinquemiglia. In winter it is the base of the ski area; for the rest of the year it is a lively village with shops, cafés and walks. On Monte Zurrone stands the Sacrario ai Caduti Senza Croce, a destination that combines views and remembrance.

And then Castel di Sangro

Heading down the valley, Castel di Sangro is the largest town in the area, with some of the best restaurants in Alto Sangro: you'll find them in our guide on where to eat.