If you are looking for a weekend destination, immersing yourself in an area where unspoiled nature, ancient history and authentic traditions come together in perfect harmony, the Turano Valley is the ideal destination. A dream itinerary in the province of Rieti, on the border with Abruzzo, easily accessible by the A24 highway, exiting at Carsoli/Oricola and continuing on Provincial Roads 34 and 32 in a breathtaking landscape of perched villages, crystal-clear waters and wild trails.
The enchanted villages of the Turano Valley
The Turano Valley holds some of the most beautiful villages in Italy, among which Collalto Sabino and Castel di Tora stand out. Perched on a hill, Collalto Sabino will welcome you with its almost intact medieval structure, dominated by the majestic baronial castle. From its imposing bulk, you can enjoy an unforgettable panorama that embraces the Gran Sasso, Terminillo and Maiella mountains. The ancient manor, renovated in the 16th century, still retains its charm as a fortress and summer residence, inviting visitors to lose themselves among its towers and walls. As you descend toward the lake, you will encounter the enchanting Castel di Tora, a village that is mirrored in the waters of the Turano, offering a picture-perfect postcard. Its stone houses, narrow alleys and the castle that watches over the village create an atmosphere suspended in time, ideal for a romantic and rejuvenating walk. A short distance away, stands the Castle of Rocca Sinibalda, an authentic architectural gem. A national monument since 1928, it was transformed in the Renaissance by architect Baldassarre Peruzzi into a fortress and later into an elegant noble palace. Today it is possible to visit its interiors, explore its courtyards and gardens, discover its underground passages and admire a breathtaking view of the valley. The castle also offers unique experiences, with rooms and suites available for hospitality, events and even creative workshops.
A dip in nature between lake and mountains
For lovers of adventure and the outdoors, the area offers a wide range of activities. Lake Turano, with its jagged shores and clear waters, is a paradise for water sports. It is possible to rent sailboats, pedal boats, and canoes or enjoy more adrenaline sports such as wakeboarding and water skiing. If you prefer dry land, the lake is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the surrounding nature. An experience not to be missed is the hike to the Riancoli Ditch, a canyoning and canyoning trail that winds through natural slides and pools of clear water, offering thrills and the chance to dive at several points. For more challenging trails and hikes, the Navegna and Cervia Mountains Nature Reserve offers the possibility of reaching panoramic peaks from which to admire the wild beauty of this corner of Lazio.
A territory for all tastes
To close your itinerary, be sure to make a stop in Rieti, the capital of the province. Between August 29 and September 7, 2025, the city will host the XIV World Chili Pepper Fair.. An unmissable event that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors with its more than 200 stands displaying more than 600 varieties of chili peppers from around the world. In addition to tastings and the sale of typical products, the fair is a real spectacle, enlivened by concerts and shows. Among the expected guests are well-known names from the Italian music scene such as Mr. Rain, Fred De Palma and Aka 7even. And if your trip goes beyond the week of the fair, you can take advantage of other local events, such as the Sagra degli Strigliozzi, a handmade durum wheat flour pasta that is celebrated in late September in Castel di Tora. The area, in every season, offers a calendar full of events, festivals and fairs that celebrate local products and traditions. All in all, a journey through the villages and nature of the Turano Valley is a complete and fulfilling experience, an invitation to discover a lesser-known but extraordinarily fascinating Lazio, just a stone’s throw from Rome and the capital cities of Abruzzo.
