Astrotourism at the Castello di Semivicoli

With the help of a professional telescope and an astronomical guide throughout the evening, we will move towards the vineyards in search of total darkness to begin observing stars, galaxies, planets, and visible nebulae. We will have a night orienteering lesson with the most important constellations and stars, followed by a smartphone photography session of the Moon and visible planets. We will walk towards the most suitable areas, admiring the sky along the way. The Astronomitaly staff will introduce us to the secrets of celestial exploration, with the common goal of enhancing and promoting the natural beauty of Abruzzo in the context of sustainable and responsible tourism. Regarding the schedule, the visit to the wine cellar with a tasting of Masciarelli wines and the subsequent dinner in the castle's kitchen will be arranged to allow us to observe the sky and stars. Overnight at the castle.

After breakfast, each participant will drive to Rifugio Pomilio at Blockhaus on the Maiella, which was observed the night before with the telescope, to begin a panoramic trekking excursion to the Tavole dei Briganti. This high-altitude hike offers a stunning view of the Maiella, with the scent of mugo pines and one of the most incredible panoramas of the Apennines, embracing almost all the peaks of Abruzzo and the nearby Adriatic Sea. The trail takes us to one of the most iconic spots on the Maiella, a blend of nature and history that traces both the wartime events and the agropastoral history of this "mother mountain." Along the ridge path, we first head to Cima Blockhaus with its evocative fort and then discover the Tavole dei Briganti, striking rock slabs with engravings, an incredible and unique pastoral monument, and an ancient testimony of the passage of "brigands." Located at the foot of Mount Focalone, the view stretches across the highest peaks of the massif and the deep Orfento Valley. Afterward, we return to the refuge for a light snack (not included) before saying our goodbyes and heading back to our respective destinations.