Capracotta: a sustainable vacation with snow, fresh air, and gourmet flavors
Not just record snowfalls. Capracotta is a true laboratory of sustainability.
It’s a small village, one of the highest in the Apennines, offering a new way to experience tourism.
Starting from the air quality – pure and clean – and the authenticity of its local products.
But above all, it focuses on authentic experiences, in close contact with nature and the locals.
A quote from Alberto Sordi in the movie “Il Conte Max” reminds us that tourism has been thriving in the “Cortina degli Abruzzi” since time immemorial.
But snow isn’t the only strong point of the tourism offer. Over the years, Capracotta has expanded beyond the ski lifts of Monte Capraro and the cross-country tracks of Prato Gentile.
In fact, Capracotta is beautiful in all seasons. While in winter, you can ski, during the rest of the year, there are hikes, sports, and much more.
Experience Nature: The Apennine Flora Garden
Above all, you can fully experience nature in this village where – as the locals joke – “it’s 9 months of cold and 3 months of fresh air.”
Anyone visiting this Alto Molise tourist center must visit the Apennine Flora Garden.
It’s a unique biodiversity treasure.
Not by chance, researchers and students are regular visitors.
So are tourists, attracted by the various workshops held throughout the year, some dedicated to agro-food.
And then there are the cultural events and concerts, organized in an absolutely enchanting setting.
Here, you’ll certainly have the opportunity to admire rare plants, some of which are endangered.
Also notable are the medicinal plants, used in many of the workshops.
The Hiking Trails
The Apennine Flora Garden replicates various habitats.
Some, like the beech forest and wetlands, are natural. Others, such as the pond, have been recreated.
But the essence doesn’t change: a walk through this corner of Alto Molise allows you to discover the typical mountain environment in all its aspects.
Naturally, hiking enthusiasts will find spectacular trails, with varying levels of difficulty, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them.
One of the most picturesque leads to the summit of Monte Campo, at over 1700 meters in height.
The view is simply breathtaking; trying to describe it would be limiting.
There are also interesting and challenging paths for cycling enthusiasts, while horseback riding excursions are practically a daily activity in Alto Molise.
The Pezzata, the Dish of Transhumant Shepherds
One of the key spots for outdoor activities or walks is undoubtedly Prato Gentile.
But the first Sunday in August brings a change of tune: it’s time for the food lovers.
It’s the day of the Pezzata, one of Italy’s most famous festivals.
Thousands of visitors flock to the meadow to taste the typical dish of the transhumant shepherds.
Or simply to whet their appetite with the classic lamb barbecue.
Aside from Pezzata, Capracotta has life all summer long. Events are organized repeatedly.
The main street is always bustling, no matter the hour.
As the night people return home, the hiking enthusiasts arrive. After a hearty breakfast, they head out for a hike.
The Triennial Festival of Madonna di Loreto
Another great time to visit Capracotta is in September, for the celebration of Madonna di Loreto.
It’s a very heartfelt religious celebration. Special.
It is celebrated every three years, allowing all Capracotta natives around the world to return to their homeland or their grandparents’ land.
The torchlight procession on the evening of September 7 is particularly moving, when the statue of the Virgin is transferred from the Sanctuary at the entrance of the village to the Mother Church of Santa Maria Assunta.
But even more captivating is the procession that concludes the festivities. It’s led by decorated horses.
When they reach the Sanctuary, they bow in front of the statue of the Madonna.
The Sanctuary of Madonna di Loreto and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta
By the way, a visit to the small Sanctuary of Madonna di Loreto – rebuilt in neo-Romanesque style – is a must.
Even more interesting is the Mother Church of Santa Maria Assunta, located at the highest point of the village.
Although completely rebuilt in the 18th century, it has much older origins. A Renaissance bas-relief bears witness to this.
The baptismal font, made of walnut wood, also dates back to a period prior to the reconstruction.
Naturally, Capracotta also attracts visitors, especially in the winter season.
The Guinness World Record Snowfall and Activities for Ski Lovers
Snow falls generously in these parts. In March 2015, a world record was set: over 250 centimeters of snow fell in 18 hours.
This event was covered by news outlets worldwide.
What’s certain is that ski lovers will find what they’re looking for.
You can practice alpine skiing at Monte Capraro, where there’s a chairlift and a ski lift.
For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, there are the tracks of Prato Gentile, which vary in difficulty.
They range from the easiest for tourists to those designed for competitive athletes.
No wonder the “Mario Di Nucci” cross-country stadium has hosted the Italian National Championships and the European Cup in cross-country skiing.
In addition to skiing, during the winter season, Capracotta and surrounding areas also offer sledge rides.
Or you can hop on a snowmobile.
Capracotta at the Table, Flavors from Another Time
And to wrap up this journey discovering Capracotta, it’s a must to sit down and taste the local delicacies.
It would be limiting to only mention the typical cheeses of Alto Molise.
Capracotta’s cheeses – especially caciocavallo, braids, and stracciate – are in high demand on the market.
As are the meats from traditional farms.
But Capracotta’s cuisine also boasts other flavors. You can savor excellent dishes based on truffles.
Not everyone knows this, but Alto Molise is one of the richest areas for this precious forest product.
The white truffle is particularly prized. But even the black truffle makes a great appearance in various dishes.
Local Products: Lentils, Spelt, and Wild Herbs
Aside from truffles, there are dishes enriched with wild herbs gathered locally. Chicory, orapi, and asparagus, just to name a few.
Don’t miss the famous Capracotta lentils. Those harvested at high altitudes have a different flavor.
Thanks to the efforts of some young locals, you can even buy them and take them home. They’ve also revived local grains.
Among them, the spelt, the “wheat” of the ancient Sannites.
In short: even at the table, Capracotta treats you well!
After spending a day outdoors – breathing the purest air and doing plenty of activities – you’re bound to work up an appetite.
Not taking advantage of the many genuine flavors available would be a real shame.
Photo Credits: montagnaperta.com
