Stay at a family-run agriturismo perched atop a hill just north of Pescara.  Breakfast is served every morning.  There is a swimming pool and a restaurant on the property.

After a morning at leisure, a local cooking teacher will teach you how to prepare an authentic Italian meal in the agriturismo's kitchen.  Eat your creations for dinner.                   

The ceramics of Castelli became famous in the 16th century.  The noble families of Italy commissioned their finest dinnerware from Castelli.  By the 18th century, Castelli was selling all over Europe and introducing new styles.  Spend the morning visiting a ceramic factory in Castelli.  Tour the ceramics museum in Castelli and the church of San Donato "the Sistine Chapel of majolica".  Shop in the town before lunch at a nearby restaurant.

In the afternoon hike in Gran Sasso National Park.

Visit the town of Atri, the Abruzzese equivalent of the Tuscan hill town.  Atri is one of Italy's oldest towns and the family home of the Roman emperor Hadrian.  The cathedral is built over the ruins of ancient Roman baths.  Shop and eat lunch.  There is also a beautiful view over the Adriatic Sea from the town's park.

In the afternoon, visit a few vineyards, learn about winemaking and taste their products.

Lounge by the pool, head to the beach or hike or bike in the countryside.  Horseback riding an tennis can be arranged.

Take an excursion to the mountains and the town of Scanno. 

Chieti is a charming town on a hill overlooking Pescara.  Roam the quaint streets before heading to Abruzzo's largest city, Pescara.  Explore the city's shops and museums.  Have dinner in the old town. 

Leave the agriturismo Saturday morning headed northwest through the mountains and into Umbria. Visit the sights of Assisi, home of San Francesco.