Mountain Festival

A festival between the Gorges and the peaks of the Maiella

The Mountain Festival is the summer event that, at the end of every July, brings Fara San Martino to life. This small town in the province of Chieti is recognized as one of the authentic villages of Abruzzo. Tucked away at the entrance to the spectacular San Martino Gorges, in the heart of the Maiella National Park (a UNESCO Geopark), the town offers a natural setting of rare beauty: sheer rocky cliffs, the springs of the Verde River, and the remains of the Benedictine Abbey of San Martino in Valle, unearthed by archaeological excavations and hidden deep within the canyon.

Sport, culture, nature, and taste

The festival is a multidisciplinary event that weaves together several themes. The sporting heart is dedicated to trail running and mountain hiking, featuring renowned races like the Monte Amaro Extreme—a challenging 30 km course with over 2,400 meters of elevation gain leading to the second-highest peak in the Apennines—and the Urban Trail through the village streets. There is also artificial and natural rock climbing, cycling excursions, and guided walks to the springs, the Abbey, and along the Park's trails.

The cultural program offers seminars on hiking trails and mountain life in collaboration with the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) and the Alpine Rescue, photography exhibitions like Obiettivo Majella, presentations of scientific volumes about the Park, and competitions for schools. Evenings are filled with live music, dance, and concerts, while food stalls showcase local specialties.

Fara San Martino, the capital of pasta

The festival also celebrates the identity of Fara San Martino, known worldwide as a capital of pasta production: the purity of the waters flowing from the Gorges has made the village a cradle for major pasta factories. The event is promoted by the Municipality of Fara San Martino together with the Pro Loco, the local CAI section, and the Majella Cooperative, with the patronage of the Abruzzo Region and the Maiella National Park.

An experience for everyone

Thanks to initiatives like inclusive mountain programs with joelette wheelchairs and entertainment for children, the Mountain Festival is designed for families, athletes, and nature lovers alike. Admission to the events is free: you only pay for what you consume and for the visit to the Cavallone Caves. It is a unique opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Abruzzo mountains, blending tradition, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.