We rented this apartment in the town of Campo de Fano during the last week of September and were delighted with the property and location, which surpassed our expectations. The apartment was in a newly renovated building with modern appointments, clean and well maintained, with a lovely terrace overlooking the valley and mountains beyond. The host, Mike, was an added bonus in that he is fluently bi-lingual in English and Italian, guided us to charming nearby mountain villages, wonderful and reasonable local restaurants, and introduced us to the cultural aspects of the region. This provided us with a rich, authentic holiday and it was as if we had our own personal travel guide in residence. We chose Abruzzo primarily because it was the region my family originated from, and Mike was instrumental in making our search for my roots a successful one. He accompanied us to the town hall of records, acted as interpreter, and even assisted us in finding a possible long lost relative. Without him this could not have been accomplished. The apartment is a mere two miles from Sulmona, an unspoiled, mid sized town convenient to shopping, restaurants and the evening stroll popular with locals and few tourists. Nearby mountain towns of Roccaraso, Scanno, and Pesto Costanzo are side trips not to be missed. Visits should be made in the morning before siesta begins; the towns are virtually deserted for three hours each afternoon. Campo de Fano, a lovely village of 300 people, is strictly a residential hamlet; we experienced its charm on its feast day honoring its patron saints, complete with brass band, Mass in the tiny church, and ending with fireworks late at night. Anyone looking for a true Italian experience without the crowds, at moderate prices, will not be disappointed in Abruzzo, in general, and especially Campo di Fano and Giamia Villas.
