Overview
The Gran Sasso d'Italia is the highest massif of the Apennine range, topped by Corno Grande at 2,912 m. Below it lies Campo Imperatore, a wide, treeless plateau at about 1,800 m that is sometimes called Little Tibet, with grazing horses, sheep and a hotel reached by cable car from Fonte Cerreto.
The park around it is dotted with medieval villages such as Santo Stefano di Sessanio, and the ruined fortress of Rocca Calascio, set on a hill with views over the plateau. Walkers can follow trails to the Calderone, the southernmost glacier remnant in Europe, and more experienced climbers take on the summit routes.
Highlights
- Campo Imperatore and its wide mountain plateau
- The Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennines
- Rocca Calascio and the villages of the park
- The Calderone glacier remnant and its hiking path
Best time to visit
June to September is best for walking, with warm days and clear paths. Wildflowers are at their best in late spring and early summer. The plateau is under snow in winter, and the road and lifts may be closed.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Good
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Rome (FCO) and drive about two hours, or to Pescara and drive about 1.5 hours. The cable car from Fonte Cerreto to Campo Imperatore is the main route up. A car is needed to explore the villages and trailheads.
What to expect
Moderate. The plateau is easy walking, but the summit routes are steep, exposed and need experience. The weather can change quickly, so check conditions before you go.
Practical tips
- Check the cable car schedule and mountain conditions before you plan.
- Carry warm clothes and plenty of water on the open plateau.
- Hire a guide for the Corno Grande summit routes.
- Respect grazing animals and keep dogs under control.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Campo Imperatore?
By cable car from Fonte Cerreto or by road from Assergi, depending on the season.
Why is it called Little Tibet?
Because of its high, bare landscape and wide horizons, which resemble a Himalayan plateau.
Can I visit in winter?
Yes, for skiing and snowshoeing, but check road and lift status.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: PaulFo (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons.
