If you are looking for that magical combination of golden sands, crystal-clear water that gently slopes away, and the authentic heartbeat of Italy—the kind where children are welcomed everywhere—then let me introduce you to Vasto.
I’m Elena, and situated on the scenic Costa dei Trabocchi in Abruzzo, Vasto is a place where time seems to slow down just enough for us to catch our breath and truly enjoy our children. It is a city with two faces: the ancient village that peers at the sea from above and the marina with its miles of equipped coastline. For my family, Vasto has become synonymous with freedom and discoveries made at the pace of a bicycle pedal.
I remember the first time I took my family here; the air smelled of salt and wild jasmine, and I immediately felt that sense of peace we all crave on holiday. Just as I wrote in my guide to skiing in Bormio with the little ones, I believe destinations like Vasto are ideal for unplugging and finding family harmony.
Vasto City vs Vasto Marina: The Best of Two Worlds#
Vasto is divided into two perfectly complementary souls. Vasto Città is the medieval historic center that stands on a promontory. It is a labyrinth of cobbled alleys, wide squares like Piazza Rossetti, and historic palaces. Walking here with Lorenzo and the children at sunset has become our favorite ritual. The Loggia Amblingh is a breathtaking panoramic walk: it is wide, safe, and perfect for the stroller. From here you can see the entire gulf, an expanse of blue that takes your breath away.
Vasto Marina, on the other hand, is where the heart of summer beats. The bay is huge and the sand is very fine, perfect for Leonardo’s sandcastles. The water remains shallow for meters and meters, allowing Beatrice to play on the shore in total safety under the watchful eye of the lifeguards. If you are thinking of visiting other cities of art with children during your Italian tour, I highly recommend my survival guide for parents in Siena.
Adventure on Two Wheels: The Via Verde dei Trabocchi#
One of the most beautiful discoveries of our last visit was the Via Verde. It is a cycling path built on the old railway track that runs right above the sea. We rented bikes with child seats and covered miles without ever crossing a car. The kids were thrilled! Along the way, you meet the famous Trabocchi, ancient fishing machines similar to giant spiders suspended over the water. Elena’s Tip: Stop to eat on one of these trabocchi (many have become restaurants). Dining suspended over the sea, with the sound of the waves under your feet, is an experience your children will never forget. It’s a bit like dining in a floating castle!
Wild Nature at Punta Aderci#
If your children have a spirit of adventure like mine, you can’t skip the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve. It is located a few kilometers north and offers an almost lunar landscape, with cliffs and a beach of white pebbles. Leonardo spent hours looking for fossils and particular stones, while with Beatrice we observed the sea birds from the wooden walkways. It is not an equipped beach, so bring water and sunscreen, but the wild beauty of this place rewards every effort. It is the ideal place to explain to children the importance of protecting the sea and the coast, just as I highlighted in my guide to the secrets of Bologna regarding the conservation of traditions.
Pure Fun: Aqualand del Vasto#
I can’t write about Vasto for families without mentioning Aqualand. It is the largest water park in central-southern Italy and children literally love it. Lorenzo usually takes care of accompanying Leonardo on the most adrenaline-pumping slides, while I take Beatrice to the area dedicated to the little ones, with shallow pools and safe water games. It is the perfect day to “break” the rhythm of the sea and give the children a burst of pure joy. There is plenty of shade and green areas to rest between one dip and another.
Abruzzo Flavors for Small Foodies#
Eating in Vasto is a pleasure that everyone agrees on.
- Arrosticini: These small skewers of mutton are Leonardo’s passion. They are easy to eat and very tasty.
- Brodetto alla Vastese: This is for us parents. It is an exceptional fish soup that Lorenzo orders every time. It is served in the typical terracotta pot and the taste of the sea is incredible.
- Artisanal Gelateria: In the historic center, there are fantastic ice cream parlors. Our evening passeggiata ritual is not complete without a giant cone.
Practical Tips from Mama to Mama#
- Nap Strategy: In Abruzzo, the controra (early afternoon) is sacred. The city stops. Take advantage of it to head back to the hotel or house and let the children sleep in the cool of the air conditioning. Everyone will be happier for the evening.
- Parking: In Vasto Marina, parking can be a challenge in August. If you can, rent accommodation that includes a parking space or is a few steps from the beach.
- Clothing: For Punta Aderci, bring water shoes. The stones can be annoying for delicate little feet.
Vasto teaches us that family happiness is found in small things: a bike ride at sunset, a sandcastle that resists the waves, and the taste of a gelato eaten while looking at the horizon. It is a place that heals the spirit and strengthens bonds.
Enjoy your trip to Abruzzo! Elena