Things To Do In Campo di Giove

Campo di Giove is a small mountain village in the Maiella National Park, Abruzzo, sitting at around 1,070 metres above sea level. With its dramatic mountain setting, clean mountain air, and access to some of the best hiking and skiing in central Italy, it's the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Its name translates as 'Field of Jupiter' — and on a clear day, looking across the Maiella plateau, you can see why the ancient Romans might have thought the gods lived here.

Why Visit Campo di Giove?

Campo di Giove offers something rare: authentic Italian mountain village life combined with exceptional outdoor activities. The village is small enough to explore in an afternoon, but the surrounding Maiella National Park could keep you busy for days.

It's also just 25km from Sulmona, making it an easy day trip or overnight stay when exploring the Peligna Valley.

Top Things To Do in Campo di Giove

1. Hike in the Maiella National Park

The Maiella is one of Italy's most important national parks and one of the highest massifs in the Apennines. From Campo di Giove, you can access a range of hiking trails from gentle valley walks to serious mountain routes. The scenery is extraordinary — vast mountain plateaux, ancient beech forests, glacial valleys, and sweeping panoramas.

2. Try the HUNTA Treasure Hunt

The Adventures in Campo di Giove HUNTA treasure hunt takes you through the village and its surroundings, discovering its history, stories, and hidden spots through GPS-guided clues. It's a wonderful way to connect with the place beyond the obvious.

3. Ski at Campo di Giove

In winter, Campo di Giove transforms into a ski resort. The slopes are relatively modest but well-maintained, and the combination of mountain village atmosphere and uncrowded pistes makes it a charming alternative to the more commercial Alpine resorts.

4. Spot Wildlife in the National Park

The Maiella National Park is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife: Apennine wolves, Marsican bears (in the bordering area), Apennine chamois, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons. The park authority offers guided wildlife tours from several entry points.

5. Visit the Village Church

Campo di Giove's medieval church contains locally significant frescoes and artwork. The church piazza is a wonderful spot to watch village life, particularly in the early evening during the passeggiata.

6. Eat Mountain Food

The food of Campo di Giove reflects its mountain setting: hearty lamb dishes, wild mushroom pasta, locally cured meats, and the region's excellent pecorino cheese. The small village restaurants serve honest, unfussy mountain cooking.

Family Activities in Campo di Giove

Campo di Giove is excellent for families, particularly those who enjoy the outdoors. The national park offers easy nature trails suitable for children. In winter, the ski slopes include gentle nursery areas for beginners. The HUNTA treasure hunt is a brilliant way to keep children engaged while exploring the village.

Hidden Gems in Campo di Giove

• The Maiella plateau viewpoints: Several tracks above the village lead to points where you can see the full plateau of the Maiella stretching towards the horizon.
• The ancient hermitages: The Maiella mountains contain several ancient medieval hermitages carved into the rock, used by monks for centuries. Some are accessible by hiking trail.
• The village at dawn: Campo di Giove at dawn, when the mountains are lit by the rising sun and the village is still quiet, is an unforgettable experience.

Getting To Campo di Giove

Campo di Giove is located approximately 25km from Sulmona. By car, follow the SS17 south from Sulmona and then take the road towards the Maiella. The drive is spectacular. There are occasional bus connections from Sulmona.

Nearby Destinations

Campo di Giove pairs beautifully with visits to Sulmona, Pacentro and Introdacqua. Together, these four destinations make an exceptional Abruzzo itinerary.