Experiences & Day Tours in Italy’s Abruzzo Region

Every Experience with Experience BellaVita was well planned, fun, and delicious! We spent time with local purveyors who were families, and they made us feel like a family member too. Food was delicious and authentic. Truffle hunt was fun.Walking tours were gorgeous and we learned so much about Abruzzo history.... read moreEvery Experience with Experience BellaVita was well planned, fun, and delicious! We spent time with local purveyors who were families, and they made us feel like a family member too. Food was delicious and authentic. Truffle hunt was fun.Walking tours were gorgeous and we learned so much about Abruzzo history. Best of all was Marino and Riccardo. We feel as if we made 2 new friends for life. We will be back! read less

What an amazing experience with a very talented and passionate guide! Marino showed us genuine warmth and attention and exceptional glimpses into lives well lived in Abruzzo. The arranged transportation was comfortable and reliable and the tours were perfection. Never have I eaten so well and had... read moreWhat an amazing experience with a very talented and passionate guide! Marino showed us genuine warmth and attention and exceptional glimpses into lives well lived in Abruzzo. The arranged transportation was comfortable and reliable and the tours were perfection. Never have I eaten so well and had such warm hosts in beautiful settings. We were a group of old friends, 16 strong and every one of us loved our experience. Thank you to Marino for the care and the exemplary Scottish brogue demo! read less

WOW! What can I say about Marino Cardelli and Experience BellaVita? This was the best tour of my life, and I travel a lot! We had a large group of 16, and Marino worked very hard to provide transportation, which was excellent, and to accommodate our needs. ... read moreWOW! What can I say about Marino Cardelli and Experience BellaVita? This was the best tour of my life, and I travel a lot! We had a large group of 16, and Marino worked very hard to provide transportation, which was excellent, and to accommodate our needs. Our 3 days were full of fun, interesting adventures, superior lunches, and for our group, wine tastings. We had a great tour of a winery, a self-guided day in Sulmona using Marino's recommendations, and on the third day a tour of an Abbey and a lunch at a Trabocco, a traditional seafood restaurant on a pier over the sea. Again, all lunches were fabulous, and Marino worked to find chefs who would accommodate our many food restrictions. On the final day, Marino arranged transportation to our hotel in Rome, and made sure that each of us arrived safely. During the entire trip, Marino was cheerful and confident. He was a joy to work with, and made sure to try and arrange the trip that we wanted. read less

We booked two day trips with BellaVita during our recent stay in Abruzzo - one to the mountains/Rocca Colascio/Santo de Sessanio and the second to the Trabocchi Coast - both of which were truly memorable, thanks to our guide, Marino Cardelli, of BellaVita. Our first trip was to the... read moreWe booked two day trips with BellaVita during our recent stay in Abruzzo - one to the mountains/Rocca Colascio/Santo de Sessanio and the second to the Trabocchi Coast - both of which were truly memorable, thanks to our guide, Marino Cardelli, of BellaVita. Our first trip was to the mountains where we explored, admired beautiful vantage points, learned about the challenging lives of the shepherds in the mountains, and enjoyed a special lunch where we enjoyed grilled lamb skewers (traditional dish of Abruzzo), along with vegetables, dessert and wine. There was a table of men behind us that Marino befriended, and they shared some delicious fruit and homemade liquor with us. We truly enjoyed our "new friends". After lunch we made our way up to Rocca Colascio and hiked up to it to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains/valley. We finished the day in the small village of Santo Stefano de Sessiano and enjoyed some more wine, meets and cheeses at a small restaurant where the chef was well acquainted with Marino. Marino brought us back to our B&B in Sulmona that evening. Our second trip (2 days later) was out to the Trabocchi Coast for lunch on a Trabocco (traditional fishing hut of Abruzzo built out over the ocean). On the way, we stopped to admire the Abbey in Portovenere and take pictures - another spot with breathtaking views. The highlight of the day was a multi-course gourmet lunch (approximately 4 hours) on the Trabocco. Beautiful weather, views, delicious food and wine, plus a lot of laughs made for a truly memorable day - one of my top vacation experiences. On our way back to Sulmona, we stopped in San Vito Chietino for a walk around this beautiful town and enjoyed more beautiful vistas. Marino drove us back to Sulmona in the evening. We found Marino to be very personable and fun, and communication was easy as he speaks English very well. I would highly recommend BellaVita for great memories of Abruzzo! read less

Our family of six (parents and adult children) traveled to Abruzzo to visit the land of my grandfather. After consulting with Marino for several months about our interests, he planned a week of travel, accommodations and activities throughout Abruzzo. The week absolutely exceeded expectations as we were treated to experiences... read moreOur family of six (parents and adult children) traveled to Abruzzo to visit the land of my grandfather. After consulting with Marino for several months about our interests, he planned a week of travel, accommodations and activities throughout Abruzzo. The week absolutely exceeded expectations as we were treated to experiences that were tailored to our interests and pace, and bonus, we were treated like family friends. Each day there was some special surprise for us. We will remember and talk about this trip for a long, long time. Our deepest gratitude goes to Marino, who we consider a new found friend. read less

We are to older couples how visiting Italy for many decades. We love eating and drinking. Marino arranged a culinary trip for us. The best wines and foods of the Abruzzo. And I can tell you it was an wonderful experience. We visited the special fish restaurants in the south... read moreWe are to older couples how visiting Italy for many decades. We love eating and drinking. Marino arranged a culinary trip for us. The best wines and foods of the Abruzzo. And I can tell you it was an wonderful experience. We visited the special fish restaurants in the south (trabucco), get a taste of the cucina povery of the Abruzzo in local restaurants of very high quality, discovered the specialties like vino cotto, local meat and fish, and visiting the best wineries of the Abruzzo like Emidio Pepe. We met the family of Marino his father and mother en grandmother. It was warming. With Marino we not only had a perfect experience of la dolce vita of Abruzzo but we can call him now a good friend. If you want to experience the best of Abruzzo get in contact with Marino. There will be no better choice.
As a wine lover we now drink more wines from the relatively unknown wine region of Italy. We will come back to this wonderful place that have everything to offer. From the coast to the mountains.
For us that travelled tens of times to Italy this was one of the top three experience. High level of food and wine, in a relaxing not touristy area with excellent price performance. Hard the get in other regions of Italy. read less

Having fallen in love with the Abruzzo region (online during lockdown!) my husband and I booked a holiday-home hunting trip for Spring 2022.

We have both spent time in Italy in the past however had never visited the Abruzzo region before.

Prior to visiting in person we wanted to research the food... read moreHaving fallen in love with the Abruzzo region (online during lockdown!) my husband and I booked a holiday-home hunting trip for Spring 2022.

We have both spent time in Italy in the past however had never visited the Abruzzo region before.

Prior to visiting in person we wanted to research the food and culture of the region and, in the Winter of 2020, stumbled across Experience Bella Vita’s website; specifically the food box service.

Marino was brilliant from the first order. His passion for Abruzzo was infectious (and the food/wine delicious!) which only cemented our desire to visit this undiscovered Italian gem and find a holiday home.

He was a fantastic resource and when I enquired about putting together an itinerary for a couple of days exploring the region he came up with a number of options, any of which would have been wonderful.

In the event (and as was travelling with my husband’s parents as a group of 4) we settled on the following:

Day 1: Winery Tour (including lunch), tour of Loreto Aprutino (we were specifically interested in some properties here), Aperitivos/nibbles in a local bar

Day 2: Campo Imperatore, Cooking Arrosticini in the open-air, Castle Calascio, mountain villages, Aperitivos/nibbles in a local bar

Highlights of the tours:
- the winery tour was BRILLIANT. Having been on a more ‘touristy’ tour in Tuscany this felt incredibly personal and we learned so much! We visited the Ciavolich vineyard and really enjoyed learning about the history and process of the wine making there. We also learned that the Ciavolich vineyard shares a valley with the well known Valentini winery. During the tasting (4 wines) we enjoyed a number of Abruzzese delicacies to accompany the wines. Delicious and fun!
- Marino had arranged for a local ‘ambassador’ of Loreto Aprutino to show us around and we, again, really loved the personal touch. Our guide had curated a wonderful ‘history of football’ exhibition in an old palazzo. There was room after room of interesting artefacts, posters, shirts…very unexpected and interesting. There is also a ‘history of cinema’ museum which we visited which is run by an animator who runs workshops (we viewed a short film that had been made by local children). The olive oil museum was closed when we visited however I understand that is very good.
- the day in the mountains was exceptional. Visiting in springtime is highly recommended as you will be blessed with meadows of wildflowers. A particular highlight was stopping off en route to the plateau to enjoy the perfume of the ‘broom’ flowers. Delightful! Also cooking arrosticini on the plateau should be on everyone’s ‘to do’ list. Especially if cooked by Marino - Delicious!
- Marino’s commentary (and music choices!) in the car. He is so knowledgeable and really enriched the experience.
- Aperitivos each evening were lovely. It genuinely felt like going for a drink with a friend…a friend who conjures up all the best things for you to try. You just need to sit back and enjoy them 🙂

There were endless other little things that Marino did to ensure we had the best time however you need to experience for yourself.

Abruzzo is a beautiful region; if you have any interest in exploring the region please book a tour/experience with Experience Bella Vita. You will not regret it!

Jasmin and Richard read less

WOW! We just returned from the experience of a lifetime and ‘living like a local’ in Abruzzo with Marino and Experience Bella Vita. His complete detailed planning and tailor-designed trip of what we were interested in experiencing exceeded every expectation! From truffle hunting, making fresh pasta with... read moreWOW! We just returned from the experience of a lifetime and ‘living like a local’ in Abruzzo with Marino and Experience Bella Vita. His complete detailed planning and tailor-designed trip of what we were interested in experiencing exceeded every expectation! From truffle hunting, making fresh pasta with his family and Nonna to cheese making, visiting a local winery and, my favorite, enjoying fresh seafood in an authentic Trabocchi!

We found the Abruzzesi very warm and welcoming even if their understanding of English was limited. Every single encounter with these wonderful people was heart-warming. The passion and love of their craft and the pride they exhibited was only surpassed by the love of their family. Insuring the family was cared for was paramount. It wasn’t about material possessions or money. It was pure love of family, providing for family and making sure we felt we were part of the family. The meals they prepared for us were amazing.

If you are looking to avoid the crowds and commercialism of the big cities, travel at a relaxed pace, explore quaint hilltop villages, taste the delicious wines of the Montepulciano grapes, dine as a member of an Italian family and experience absolutely stunning views from the Adriatic Sea to the Gran Sasso and Maiella mountains in a small intimate group of your choosing, contact Marino at Experience Bella Vita. Abruzzo is an undiscovered gem which makes it more valuable! You will not be disappointed.

Marino went above and beyond to make sure our Abruzzo vacation was perfection! Every detail was exquisite and he included several surprises to make it even more memorable. From the time he picked us up in Rome until we returned our experience and enjoyment were his top priority. He made us comfortable from the very beginning, almost like we had known him for years and at the end we felt like family! His passion for his Abruzzo culture, knowledge of wines and authentic foods, extensive network of contacts throughout the region and enthusiasm for people to learn about Abruzzo are exemplary. We plan to return to Abruzzo and, if you couldn’t tell, Marino is our only choice. It will be like coming home! read less

Marino was an extremely helpful travel guide not only for the 3-4 specific days we spent together, but also for detailed travel guidance and unique places to see for the few days getting to Abruzzo and the few days afterward as we continued south toward Puglia! He offered us great... read moreMarino was an extremely helpful travel guide not only for the 3-4 specific days we spent together, but also for detailed travel guidance and unique places to see for the few days getting to Abruzzo and the few days afterward as we continued south toward Puglia! He offered us great restaurants, cities to visit, places to stop on the side of the road and regional specialties to try.

Marino is a genuine enthusiast of Abruzzo's wonders. He is warm and giving with excellent English and professional expertise! Far more than just a wonderful Italian family experience - Marino helps you figure out how to maximize your entire travel experience. We give BellaVita a rating of 11 out of 10!

We've lived in Italy several times and have visited most of the country over the years. Once you've seen all the museums and churches and major cities, Marino knows where all the other amazing and unique experience remain. Many of them are in and around Abruzzo where his knowledge is unparalleled. read less

I was on the same trip as Ellen to the ancient city of Matera a UNESCO site. Other than visiting the small businesses as Ellen discussed it was nice and relaxing to have someone do all the work. We went along for the ride (literally ) care free and unstressed.... read moreI was on the same trip as Ellen to the ancient city of Matera a UNESCO site. Other than visiting the small businesses as Ellen discussed it was nice and relaxing to have someone do all the work. We went along for the ride (literally ) care free and unstressed. Safety is a big factor for me and Marino was a great driver, host … and he’s cute!I would definitively book with Experience Bella Vita again! read less

This was the best trip of my life. Marino took I and two friends to visit the ancient city of Matera. He designed the entire trip according to our interests. Each experience included a personal rather than tourist oriented approach.We visited with cheese makers in their small business, a young... read moreThis was the best trip of my life. Marino took I and two friends to visit the ancient city of Matera. He designed the entire trip according to our interests. Each experience included a personal rather than tourist oriented approach.We visited with cheese makers in their small business, a young wine producer who discovered and renovated a century old wine production facility, a bread making company that told us the ancient history of the place and it's relationship to bread. A tour of the national park opposite the city with a geologist who explained the evolution of the terrain and the reasons it has been one of the oldest continuously populated places on earth. An evening in the mountains making and eating our own pasta with people who love people. I could go on...Furthermore, Marino himself is an incredibly good sport. He is all of 27 years old with the wisdom of an ancient. He spent 5 days with 3 women in their late 50's' and 60's and we all had a great time. He arranged everything perfectly and adjusted seamlessly if needed. He is special and if you want the best vacation of your life, contact Marino. read less

I don't even know where to start. Marino is the guide that you need to have to experience Abruzzo. We spent the first part of the day in a local family-ran dairy farm, we got to make some cheese and learned all the secrets to obtain a great ricotta. The... read moreI don't even know where to start. Marino is the guide that you need to have to experience Abruzzo. We spent the first part of the day in a local family-ran dairy farm, we got to make some cheese and learned all the secrets to obtain a great ricotta. The owner even showed us all of his farm animals from goats to bulls, from chickens to cows.Marino then took us to visit the beautiful town of Campli, one of the many highlights were the "Holy Stairs" (only 3 in the World) and the nearby ancient cemetery "necropoli" that goes all the way back to Roman Times.We then spent the afternoon with Marino and his grandmother Amina, gorgeous lady that taught us how to make delicious Spaghetti alla Chitarra. An Italian grandma teaching you how to make pasta from scratch?!?! It's a must do! Then we ended the night with a great dinner eating what we made. 10/10 Marino and his Experience BellaVita is the way to go to enjoy beautiful Abruzzo. Trust me, I'm an Abruzzese myself.Thank you thank you thank you Marino, you are the best.Psst...ask Marino what Scuppoz is 😉 read less

 Marino is an amazing tour guide with tremendous knowledge and enthusiasm for Abruzzo. He not only ran a great cooking class with his grandmother, visit to a salumeria, and a truffle-hunting expedition, but also recommended a complete itinerary with hotels, stays in Santo Stefano di Sessanio, visit to Rocca Colascio,... read moreMarino is an amazing tour guide with tremendous knowledge and enthusiasm for Abruzzo. He not only ran a great cooking class with his grandmother, visit to a salumeria, and a truffle-hunting expedition, but also recommended a complete itinerary with hotels, stays in Santo Stefano di Sessanio, visit to Rocca Colascio, Scanno, Pacentro... Wow - what a wonderful way to see this unexplored and authentic part of Italy! read less

 I've just got back from five days in Abruzzo (staying in Controguerra) with my wife. We arranged a day out with Experience BellaVita to visit a local market and vineyard. But the experience turned out to be so much more!

We started in Campli, where we tasted amazing local food like... read moreI've just got back from five days in Abruzzo (staying in Controguerra) with my wife. We arranged a day out with Experience BellaVita to visit a local market and vineyard. But the experience turned out to be so much more!

We started in Campli, where we tasted amazing local food like porchetta (pork roasted for nine hours with rosemary and garlic) along with cheeses and sausages from Lucia (market stall owner). Marino knew everybody and was super proud to show us his town. We'd already been to a couple of villages on our own, but having someone who knew the local culture made everything so much better.

In the afternoon we visited a vineyard close by run by Vincenzo and his dad. We had a brilliant afternoon learning the history of the family business and tasting the wines, including some very special older wines.

It was everything we could have wanted from an Abruzzo experience - great food, great wine, great company.

Marino was really knowledgeable, super friendly and went out of his way to make sure we had a nice time. We can't recommend him highly enough. read less

Super séjour avec Marino!Quand l'option plage pour aller faire du stand-up paddle avec une super dégustation de fruit de mer le midi ou bien une balade dans les montagnes suivi d'une super beignade dans la rivière et sans oublier le restaurant local le midi pour découvrir les saveurs du terroirs... read moreSuper séjour avec Marino!Quand l'option plage pour aller faire du stand-up paddle avec une super dégustation de fruit de mer le midi ou bien une balade dans les montagnes suivi d'une super beignade dans la rivière et sans oublier le restaurant local le midi pour découvrir les saveurs du terroirs toujours accompagné du bon vin :)Encore merci pour ces quelques jours de pur détente, découverte et bonne bouffe ! read less

The BellaVita Experience was probably one of my best choices so far. I've been to Italy before, but mostly to the well-known touristic places. But this trip to Abruzzo, with Marino as tour-guide has presented a whole new Italy to me. They took us to see the most amazing views... read moreThe BellaVita Experience was probably one of my best choices so far. I've been to Italy before, but mostly to the well-known touristic places. But this trip to Abruzzo, with Marino as tour-guide has presented a whole new Italy to me. They took us to see the most amazing views - grassy fields filled with flowers, snowy mountains, beaches, tiny villages and fortresses - and the food! Wow, I don't remember when was the last time I ate so good. 100% recommended! read less

You can't say you have experienced Italy if you have not experienced Abruzzo. Let Experience Bella Vita guide you through its beauties and great food, but prepare to shed a tear when you'll have to go back home.

Marino's tours are a unique opportunity to discover Abruzzo's local culture and food. His unpretentious and authentic approach was really refreshing and it was a distinct pleasure to meet lovely local people and get a real first hand experience of Abruzzo food and native culture. He was very flexible accommodating... read moreMarino's tours are a unique opportunity to discover Abruzzo's local culture and food. His unpretentious and authentic approach was really refreshing and it was a distinct pleasure to meet lovely local people and get a real first hand experience of Abruzzo food and native culture. He was very flexible accommodating my schedule as I was only in the area for a limited time. He kindly fit in the Truffle Hunt and Olive Oil experiences in the same day. In the morning - gifted with good weather, we ventured off for an enjoyable truffle hunt in the Abruzzo countryside with truffle hunter Fabrizio and his dog Olaf, uncovering 6 prized truffles including one white! After we proceeded to Marino's large home kitchen where he prepared delicious, traditional Abruzzese dishes with our tasty score of the day, alongside some fantastic regional organic wines.Later on I got to see start to finish the olive oil making process. I was taken to an olive grove where I met busy local workers occupied with the harvest, and I even got to try some harvesting myself! From there to a locally owned processing factory where we sampled pure, fresh olive oil right from the presses! I thoroughly enjoyed both experiences. Marino is a friendly, stellar guide (and cook) and his English is excellent.In addition, he is extremely knowledgeable about local food and culture. I would definitely recommend travellers to venture off and explore the Abruzzo region and getting in on his tours. The next time I'm in Abruzzo I won't hesitate to look him up again to see what he's got going on. read less

 Different and amazing way to spend your holiday. We did all those things only locals know exist - truffle hunting, beer festival, discovering hidden river valleys,..
Thanks Marino for this incredible experience!!