Imagine boarding a historic train, with vintage carriages and wooden seats, as landscapes that look like something out of a painting flow out the window: snowy forests, perched villages and sheep-tracks that tell stories of shepherds and transhumance. This is the unique charm of the Transiberiana d’Abruzzo, the railroad that connects Sulmona to Carpinone (in Molise) crossing the heart of the Apennines.
The nickname Trans-Siberian is not accidental: during the winter, the line transforms into a white, wild landscape, reminiscent of the snowy expanses of Siberia. But here we are in Abruzzo, between the Majella National Park and the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, in an area rich in biodiversity and traditions.
A journey through history
The Sulmona-Carpinone railroad was inaugurated in 1897, after more than 20 years of work under difficult conditions: tunnels had to be dug into the rock and daring bridges built to overcome major elevation differences. At the time it was considered an extraordinary engineering feat because it reached very high altitudes (up to 1,268 meters at Rivisondoli-Pescocostanzo, the highest station in the Apennines).
Historical curiosities
- An Italian record: for decades it was the highest rail line in Italy.
- The strategic role: during World War I, the railway was used to transport troops and materials to the Adriatic front.
- The decline and rebirth: in the 1980s, with the closure of regular services, the line risked abandonment. Today, thanks to the FS Foundation, it has come back to life as a tourist train.
- Vintage carriages: current convoys use cars from the 1930s and 1950s, restored to provide an authentic experience.
What makes the Abruzzo Trans-Siberian Railway special
- Breathtaking scenery: crosses plateaus, forests and valleys, with views that change with each season.
- Villages to discover: Pescocostanzo, Castel di Sangro, Roccaraso, small jewels of art and tradition.
- Slow experience: a journey that invites you to slow down, to enjoy time and nature.
When to leave
Each season brings different emotions:
- Winter: the charm of snow and Christmas markets.
- Spring: blooms and trekking.
- Summer: villages enlivened by events and festivals.
- Autumn: spectacular foliage and authentic flavors.
The starting point is Sulmona, generally from platform 1 of the train station. From here the historic train runs along the line to Carpinone (IS), with stops in villages along the way. If you arrive by car, you can take the A25 highway with an exit at Sulmona and continue to the station, where there is free parking nearby.
From Nov. 22 to Jan. 6, the Park Railroad organizes special departures dedicated to Christmas markets. The trip is on historic trains from the 1920s and 1930s, with wooden carriages and period atmosphere, passing through snowy landscapes and illuminated villages. It is an experience reminiscent of the Polar Express, but immersed in the heart of the Abruzzo Apennines.
Typical program for the day 
- Departure from Sulmona with two daily runs;
- Scenic route: goes up the Peligna Valley, crosses the Majella Park and the Majella Highlands to an altitude of 1,268 m.
- Main stops:
- Roccaraso: markets, wooden cottages, crafts, mulled wine, typical sweets, entertainment and Christmas music.
- Campo di Giove: markets in the square, festive atmosphere among illuminations and local products.
- Each stop lasts about 3 hours, allowing passengers to visit markets, shop and enjoy local specialties.
How to experience
Tickets are purchased online at the official website of the Park Railroad. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during holiday periods. Take your camera with you: every curve is a postcard shot!
