About Abruzzo

Monthly Archive: February 2023

Scanno with snow 1

Mountains / Province of L'Aquila

Scanno

We weren’t intending to stop for refreshments but as soon as we arrive in Scanno we spot a tree-shaded terrace and tables spread with pretty cotton cloths.  Irresistible. We take our seats. The cake Out comes the waitress to take our order. Seeing me dither, she suggests I try the local speciality, Pan dell’Orso. Bear bread.  Given the name, I could be forgiven for expecting something more substantial than the small domed bun which, disappointingly, arrives wrapped in cellophane. The wrapper describes it as a light fluffy cake of almonds and honey covered in the finest chocolate.  This is confirmed in a couple of bites. And then it’s gone. Transumanza I...

2

Mountains / Province of L'Aquila

Scanno Lake

It happened on a winter’s night One dark and stormy night, so the legend goes, a traveller was on his way by donkey-drawn cart to Scanno. In the village of Villalago a family offered him hospitality and (I’m sure of it) a bowl of steaming pasta e fagioli. But in spite of the worsening weather he decided to press on.  Who knows, perhaps he was driven by the image of his own cosy hearth and the pale, anxious faces of his wife and small children as they awaited his return. Or maybe he was just one of those stubborn individuals who never realize when they’re on a winning streak....