Abruzzo: The Hidden Gem for Your Dream Wedding
Mostly Unnoticed, And Yet Right in Front Of Our Eyes
During our years in Australia, when I mentioned that my wife was from Abruzzo, people had a big question mark on their face.
No, it's not a city, it's a whole region, with mountains, beaches and all the rest of it.
But because it has never been fully taken advantage of tourism, as a region, it is fairly unknown, when compared to destinations like Venice, Florence or Rome.
Yes, Abruzzo is a hidden gem that provides a stunning backdrop for a romantic and unforgettable wedding.
Let me explain why.
Why Get Married in Abruzzo?
01. Breathtaking Scenery
Abruzzo is a region of stunning natural beauty, with more than just mesmerizing rolling hills.
Let me explain why this place is totally different from sought after locations such as Venice, Florence, or Lake Como.
Abruzzo boasts some of the taller, rugged mountains, to which people regularly flock to climb or ski and snowboard each year.
And when you are on top of the mountain, you get to see the sea in all its beauty.
In fact, on a warm day in April, it is not uncommon for people to take advantage of the last snow for a quick ride on your snowboard, to then meet again at the beach for a fresh dip in the beautiful, crisp seawater of the Adriatic Sea.
At the beach you will find what is called "La Costa Dei Trabocchi". This is a coastline on which you can still see ancient wooden fishing structures, built on the water with stilts.
Many of these Trabocchi have now been converted in beautiful restaurants with a 360 degree view of the sea, while eating the freshest of seafood, caught on the day.
And yet, because the region is touristically speaking not fully developed, the prices aren't as outrageous as one might think.
There, you already have many ideas for your wedding day, ranging from mountaintops to seaside restaurants that don't feel like your regular restaurant.
Even just the sight of these is very fulfilling and offers many untouched areas, as if reserved just for you.
If you are looking for more tips on scenery, feel free to reach out to me, and I'll be more than happy to share my personal experience.
02. Authentic Italian Culture
Abruzzo is known for its rich cultural heritage, with century-old traditions, delicious cuisine, and unique crafts.
You will get all of that, because the typical Abruzzese person will not trade their tradition and culture for anything. They will make sure that they stay as authentic as they can. After all, for many, that is the only way they know to live.
Locals are proud of their tradition when it comes to food, wine and more; keen to show off what they strongly believe in and have refined over many years of passed-on knowledge.
03, Affordable Luxury
Compared to other popular Italian wedding destinations, such as Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, Abruzzo offers a more affordable and accessible option for couples seeking a luxurious and romantic wedding experience.
With a wide range of venues and vendors available at competitive prices, couples can create a unique and personalized wedding without breaking the bank.
Just get in touch and ask me for recommendations, I'll be more than happy to help out.
I have plenty of contact, ranging from dress-makers (seriously, why shop around, when you can get your own ceremony gown, tailor made, for your shape and size, at a fraction of what you would pay those expensive labels?), wedding planners, make-up artists, hairdressers of top quality.
I only refer quality and will tell you if it is anything less.
Where should you get married in Abruzzo?
01 Castello di Semivicoli
This stunning castle is nestled among the rolling hills of the Val di Sangro and provides a regal and romantic setting for a wedding.
The castle's beautifully restored interior features antique furnishings and exquisite artwork, while its gardens and terraces offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It dates back to the 17th century, and it's a perfect example of baroque architecture.
It is surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards, and olive groves, which offer a peaceful and romantic setting for your wedding day.
Its interiors have a blend of traditional and modern decor that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The castle's insides are spacious and luxurious, providing comfort and elegance for you and guests to enjoy.
The restaurant inside the castle is of award-winning cuisine and prides itself in using only the freshest local ingredients.
Location-wise, it is in one of Italy's most beautiful and unspoiled areas, perfect for opportunities for great wedding photography.
This is the description on their website:
"The tradition of made in Italy and the production of elegant wines, gourmet cuisine and the charm of bygone times: the Castello di Semivicoli is the ideal destination for an exceptional wedding, where the bride and groom and their guests experience the house exclusively and the wedding becomes memorable and an experience for all.
Castello di Semivicoli: a wedding destination for those who wish to transform a special occasion into an unforgettable memory."
02 Ristorante Villa Giulia
One of the main reasons to choose Ristorante Villa Giulia in L'Aquila for your wedding is the property's incredible beauty and elegance.
This exquisite villa is surrounded by lush gardens, olive groves, and vineyards, creating a truly magical and romantic atmosphere that is sure to enchant you and your guests.
The villa itself is a beautifully restored 19th-century property that combines classic elegance with modern luxury.
Its interiors are spacious and grand, with high ceilings, antique furnishings, and original features that will take your breath away.
Another reason to choose Villa Giulia for your wedding is its versatility. Whether you are looking for an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the property's vast grounds and multiple event spaces can accommodate weddings of any size and style. From outdoor garden ceremonies to elegant receptions in the grand ballroom, Villa Giulia can make your wedding vision a reality.
The property also offers luxurious accommodations for you and your guests.
The villa has nine beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique charm and character.
Your guests will be able to relax and unwind in style, surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of the Abruzzo countryside.
The venue's intimate and cozy atmosphere is perfect for small and intimate weddings, with opportunities for outdoor dining and dancing under the stars.
03 Sextantio
If you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable wedding experience in Abruzzo, then Hotel Sextantio Albergo Diffuso should be at the top of your list.
This charming hotel is located in the picturesque medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, and offers a range of luxurious accommodations that are scattered throughout the village.
To be sure, this one has a totally different feel, as it is as authentic as it gets.
It looks like it has been carved out in stone and has been kept in its original state as much as possible. Of course, amenities have been brought to the latest modern standards, as you can see on their website, which gives it a really beautiful contrast to the throwback in time the rest of the furniture and architecture will give you.
The hotel has been beautifully restored to preserve its historic charm, with traditional decor, original features, and local materials. You and your guests will feel as though you have stepped back in time, to a simpler and more romantic era.
Another reason to choose Hotel Sextantio Albergo Diffuso is the hotel's stunning location. The hotel is situated in the heart of the Gran Sasso National Park, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque villages. The natural beauty of the area provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic and intimate wedding celebration.
04 Villa Estea
If you got to this point of the list, I'm going to let you in on a secret: this venue is probably at the very top on my list. Here's why:
Here you get absolute luxury service with a breathtaking view of the Costa dei Trabocchi, talked about in the introduction of this article.
On their website you can get a taste of what the place looks like with beautiful aerial footage, both during the day as well as in the night.
It is the perfect choice for couples looking for a unique and unforgettable wedding venue.
The villa's beautiful gardens and grounds provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic and intimate wedding ceremony, while the villa's elegant interiors offer a luxurious and sophisticated setting for your reception.
Villa Estea offers a variety of event spaces to suit your every need, from the elegant indoor reception hall to the spacious outdoor terraces and gardens. Whether you are planning a small and intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Villa Estea can accommodate weddings of any size and style.
It features several luxurious guest rooms and suites, each beautifully appointed and designed to ensure the ultimate comfort and relaxation for you and your guests. Your guests will be able to enjoy the villa's luxurious amenities, including the swimming pool, sauna, and outdoor jacuzzi, making their stay at Villa Estea a truly unforgettable experience.
Abruzzo is renowned for its delicious cuisine and fine wines, and Villa Estea is no exception. The villa's chefs use only the freshest and highest quality local ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage. And with a vast selection of local wines and spirits, you and your guests can toast to your love in true Abruzzese style.
05 Borgo Dei Lecci
Borgo dei Lecci is a charming and exclusive wedding venue located in the heart of the beautiful Abruzzo region.
Here are just a few reasons why you should consider getting married at this stunning venue:
A Picturesque Location: Borgo dei Lecci is nestled in the picturesque countryside of Abruzzo, surrounded by rolling hills, verdant forests, and tranquil lakes. The venue offers stunning panoramic views of the countryside, making it the perfect setting for a romantic and unforgettable wedding.
A Unique and Authentic Venue: The venue is set in a beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse, which combines traditional rustic charm with modern elegance. The interior of the farmhouse is tastefully decorated with antique furnishings, and the original features of the building have been carefully preserved, creating a unique and authentic atmosphere. The outdoor space even offers a beautiful view and a pool that makes for the best wedding pictures.
Versatile Event Spaces: Borgo dei Lecci offers a variety of event spaces to suit your every need, from the charming courtyard to the elegant indoor reception hall. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the venue can accommodate weddings of any size and style.
Exceptional Cuisine: Borgo dei Lecci prides itself on its exceptional cuisine, which is prepared using only the finest and freshest local ingredients. The venue's expert chefs can create a bespoke menu tailored to your taste, ensuring that your wedding feast is a truly memorable experience.
Luxurious Accommodations: The venue offers luxurious accommodations for you and your guests, including elegantly decorated rooms and suites. The rooms feature antique furnishings and modern amenities, ensuring that your guests are comfortable and relaxed throughout their stay.
When to Get Married in Abruzzo
The answer may surprise you - any season is perfect for a wedding in this stunning region.
Spring in Abruzzo is a beautiful time of year, with wildflowers in bloom and vibrant green landscapes.
The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C.
This season is perfect for outdoor weddings, as the weather is not too hot or too cold.
Many of the region's historic towns also come to life during this time, making it a great opportunity for a romantic stroll through their winding streets.
Summer is the peak wedding season in Abruzzo.
With temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C, this is the perfect time for couples who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the region's stunning beaches.
Summer is also a great time to have an outdoor wedding reception in one of the many beautiful gardens or courtyards, surrounded by the region's natural beauty.
Autumn is a magical time of year in Abruzzo, as the leaves change color and the countryside takes on a warm golden hue.
The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, making it an ideal time for an outdoor ceremony, followed by an indoor wedding reception in one of the many historic castles or villas.
The harvest season also provides an opportunity for a rustic and romantic wedding with a farm-to-table theme, incorporating the region's delicious local produce into the wedding menu.
Winter in Abruzzo is a time of coziness and warmth, perfect for an intimate and romantic wedding celebration.
The snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for a winter wedding, while the region's famous ski resorts offer a unique and memorable setting for a wedding reception.
With temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C, couples can opt for an indoor wedding with a cozy fireplace or an outdoor wedding with blankets and warm drinks to keep guests comfortable.
Abruzzo truly is a perfect wedding destination any time of year, as each season offers its own unique beauty and charm.
Whether you're dreaming of a spring garden wedding, a summer beach wedding, a rustic autumn wedding, or a cozy winter wedding, Abruzzo has something to offer for every couple. So, why not make your dream wedding a reality in this stunning region of Italy?
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Getting things organised
Planning to getting married in Italy? There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to paperwork and the like.
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Included in this comprehensive guide to getting married in Italy are various documents and important deadlines to consider.