Nature and coastal paradises
From the peaks of the Apennines to the coast, this small region in central Italy offers unspoilt landscapes, unspoilt nature and dreamy sandy beaches.
The Molise Coast
Near the border with Abruzzo in the north of Molise, you first come across Marina di Petacciato with its beautiful, wide sandy beach lined with dunes. Here you also find one of the last Saracen towers (“Torre Saracena”), a reminder of the wild times of pirate raids on the Adriatic. The towers once lined the entire Adriatic coast down to Puglia. Today, only a few remain.
Further south along the coast, you come to Termoli, the only major center on the Molise coast. The attractive town beach and the cozy old town (“Borgo Vecchio”) offer everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires. From the harbor of Termoli, excursion boats also leave for the paradisiacal Tremiti Islands, which belong to the southern Italian region of Apulia.
Southeast of Termoli, you reach the only other seaside resort in Molise, Lido di Campomarino. The actual town of Campomarino lies a little inland and is still inhabited by an Albanian-speaking minority. The modern Lido invites you to relax with its wide sandy beach.
The beaches of Petacciato, Campomarino, and the town beach of Termoli have been awarded the blue flag (“Bandiera Blu”), which is a seal of quality for excellent beach and water quality.
Natural Oases for Hiking and Relaxing
Nature lovers can discover many hiking trails and trekking paths in Molise’s many nature reserves, such as the Abruzzo-Latium-Molise National Park or the WWF Guardaregia-Campochiaro Oasis, among forests, streams, gorges, and waterfalls.
Many inland mountain ranges can be explored by mountain bike, and there are interesting cycling routes along the coast.
In nature, you can also enjoy the unique experience of a horseback ride on the so-called “Tratturi”, the unique millennia-old transhumance paths that lead from Abruzzo to Puglia. These ancient paths immerse their visitors in the history of the region, especially near Pescolanciano in the province of Isernia and in some parts of the province of Campobasso.
Skiing is possible thanks to a good system of slopes in Campitello Matese, the most important winter sports resort in the region. Capracotta is also known for its excellent cross-country skiing trails.
Exploring Molise offers a mix of coastal beauty, historical landmarks, and natural adventures. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, delving into the past with ancient towers, or trekking through lush reserves, Molise provides a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
The region’s untouched charm and diverse activities make it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.