Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi

Country: Italy

The Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi is one of Italy’s most scenic rail trails, created along the route of the former Adriatic railway line in the Abruzzo region. Stretching for about 42–50 km between Ortona and Vasto Marina, it offers a continuous route for cycling, walking and other forms of active mobility, with spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea.

The greenway takes its name from the trabocchi—traditional wooden fishing platforms built on stilts over the sea, which are unique to the Abruzzo coast. Along the route, visitors pass beaches, cliffs, vineyards, nature reserves, historic villages and restored railway structures, making it one of Italy’s premier destinations for slow tourism.

The project transformed a disused railway corridor into a sustainable tourism and mobility route, helping to regenerate the coastal area. It has encouraged the development of bicycle rentals, accommodation, restaurants and other tourism services while improving access to natural and cultural attractions. Regional reports also highlight its positive impact on local businesses, employment and visitor numbers.

Today, the Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi is regarded as one of Europe’s finest examples of converting a former railway into a greenway, combining sustainable mobility, landscape conservation, and regional economic development.

The Costa dei Trabocchi offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, campsites, bed and breakfasts, and holiday rentals, ensuring there is something to suit every traveller. Whether you prefer the tranquillity of the more secluded stretches of coastline or the convenience of sandy beaches equipped with beach facilities, you will find plenty of places to stay. From any accommodation, the Via Verde is easily accessible, allowing you to explore it on foot or by bicycle each day, fully enjoying the diversity of the landscape and experiencing the different types of coastline that the Costa dei Trabocchi has to offer throughout your holiday.

There is also no shortage of opportunities to savour the region’s outstanding cuisine. In addition to the unforgettable experience of enjoying lunch or dinner on one of the iconic trabocchi, visitors can discover the rich food and wine traditions that make this area so distinctive.

So pack everything you need to make the most of its natural beauty, and let the Costa dei Trabocchi and the Via Verdewelcome you for an unforgettable holiday.

More information:

destinazionecostadeitrabocchi.it/en/node/20336

La Via Verde della Costa dei Trabocchi