In these days of mass tourism it's rare to find a destination where it's possible to laze on uncrowded beaches surrounded by vineyards, orchards and clear, traffic-free roads. Abruzzo and the quiet corner of Vasto is one of those places. Still a bit hush hush, it's the destination of choice for those looking to get away from it all and sample the famous Dolce Vita. Those in the know recommend hiring a car. Pescara Airport is just an hour's drive away and is the perfect place for picking up your rental car. Unlike many other regions of Italy where cars and motor bikes zip around honking and revving, driving in Abruzzo is a pleasure. There are plenty of places in the area worth seeing too.

In terms of Mediterranean lashed beaches, Vasto bequeaths an embarassment of riches. The first beach you'll stumble upon when you reach the old town is surrounded by a small group of low-rise hotels-perfect if you're stopping over for a day or two. Drive a little further and you'll reach the picturesque lighthouse at Punta Penna where a small secluded cove surrounded by a nature reserve is to be found at Punta Aderci. Here you can step back in time and watch fisherman at work with traditional wooden trabocchi contraptions, used for catching prawns and shellfish.

After soaking up some sunshine on the silvery sands, its worth heaading into town for a spot of sight-seeing. The beautiful cathedral of San Giuseppe is well worth seeing while the Piazza Gabriele Rosetti is the perfect place to kick-back and indulge in a little people watching while enjoying an ice-cream from a local Gelateria. By lunch time, you'll be getting peckish. Fish and seafood reign supreme in Pescara. If seafood isn't for you, you'll be a little stuck as to what to eat in Vasto. Vasto is the best place to sample the fruits of the surrounding sea. Shellfish, clams, octopus, sole and squid are favourites with the locals. Fret not if fish isn't for you though. Plenty of other local dishes are also available. Pecarino cheeses and Ventricina, a salami spiced with paprika are also worth a try.

Vasto has its fare share of interesting curiosities. Probably the world's only Museum of the Pig is definitely one for the must-see list. Situated at Carpineto Sinello, the museum celebrates all things pig-like. Vasto also has a rich archaeological heritage which can be imagined while walking around the city centre. A short drive away will take you to pretty nearby villages such as Cupello, where the hilltop villages and towns of the Maiella Mountains beckon.

Guardiagrele is just one picturesque town that merits exploration. Often described as Italy's most beautiful village, the town exudes character and charm, boasting narrow winding streets and picture-postcard good looks. From Guardiagrele, it's worth continuing on toMontenerodomo where Iuvanum, a Roman town, complete with amphitheatre is to be found.

After you journey to Abruzzo and Vasto, you'll be refreshed, relaxed and ready to paln your return journey. Just don't tell too many people!