A Day Trip to Atri and the Calanchi: Nature and History in the Heart of Abruzzo

If you’re staying with us at La Stradella and are looking for the perfect day trip, we highly recommend that you visit Atri and the dramatic Calanchi di Atri. This hidden gem offers a brilliant mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and relaxed small-town charm. Whether you're into photography, nature walks, history, or simply good food in a beautiful piazza, Atri ticks all the boxes and it’s just a short drive away.

Discover the Calanchi di Atri: Abruzzo’s Striking Badlands

Just outside the town of Atri lies the Riserva Naturale dei Calanchi di Atri, a striking and almost otherworldly landscape of deep clay gullies and ridged formations shaped by centuries of wind and rain. These badlands are unique to this part of Teramo province and are a true natural wonder of central Italy.

There are several easy walking trails through the nature reserve, perfect for stretching your legs and taking in panoramic views. Even a short wander will give you a real sense of the scale and beauty of this protected area. It’s also a brilliant spot for photographers, especially in the early morning or golden late afternoon light.

Exploring Atri: History, Liquorice and Hidden Gems

After soaking in the views, head up the hill into Atri itself — a town with over two thousand years of history, once a Roman colony and later an important medieval centre. Atri is small but full of surprises, from ancient Roman cisterns under the streets to panoramic viewpoints. Park near the historic centre and enjoy a relaxed wander.

Speaking of viewpoints you must make sure you take a walk along the Belvedere di Atri. From here, you’ll get a breathtaking view from the sea to the peaks of the Maiella and Gran Sasso mountains.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is an absolute must see. This 13th-century Romanesque gem houses extraordinary frescoes by Andrea De Litio and has a beautiful crypt beneath the altar. The attached cloister is peaceful and atmospheric and a great place to escape the midday sun.

Piazza Duomo is the main square and the beating heart of the town. There are several cafés nearby and it’s a great place to watch the world go by and soak up the atmosphere. From here you can explore the narrow side streets (vicoli) and old stone houses that form the historic centre and the absolute best way to see Atri is simply to wander. If you happen to visit on Monday, Wednesday or Friday morning then the open air market stalls will be in full swing and are an experience not to be missed.

Fancy something sweet to round off the day? You can’t visit Atri without trying its most famous product: liquorice! The town has been a centre for liquorice production for centuries. You’ll find little shops selling all sorts of liquorice treats, from pure roots to sweets and liqueurs. Or if liquorice isn’t your thing then look out for the Pan Ducale, a traditional almond cake that’s been made in Atri since the 1300s.

There's a rather good virtual tour here, if you wanted to have a sneaky peek in advance.

Atri offers a day of incredible contrasts and we’re sure you’ll love it just as much as we do!