Abruzzo Hostels

My father and I just came back from a tour of Italy. Venice, Padua, Pisa, Assisi, Perugia, Florence, and Rome, those places were wonderful but what I found to be one of the most enchanting, warm, and beautiful places on our whole trip was Collelongo. My father and I were extremely impressed with the fine hospitality, the company, the family and the food. The surrounding mountains are breathtaking and the old style charm of everything was well taken. Now, I can really see why people do go back to Collelongo for a visit. I know one thing, I definitely will be going back, hopefully soon.

In the words of Dante, the Collelonghese are truly "forte e gentile". As I continue to meet decendents of these proud people across the USA, I am amazed at the contributions which this small town has made to Americian society. In my many journeys to Collelongo over the past forty years I have always been greeted with warm hospitality not only by family but by strangers as well. Visit and you won't be disappointed.

I will be visiting Collelongo this winter again to enjoy the winter festivities of St. Antonio and I hope some of you will meet me there for the "17th of January '03". Believe me, this is something to experience as it compares very much to the summer festivities of St. Rocco and then some, with the three great 20 foot "Fired Up Torchons" lit up all week long across the whole town. And the lightings all along those tiny streets, and the famous all night processions and sing alongs that go back and fourth from "a monte e a balle". I had the opportunity to experience this a few years back with my wife Franceen and we both loved the harmony and warm welcome from friends and family who are as always very intimate especially at that time of year. Hope to meeting a long lost Paesan there. Ciao.

I first visited Collelongo in 1952 with my family when I was 10 years old. As a youngster I enjoyed every minute of my time there playing bocce with my cousins and running all over town every day. I returned in 1962 with a friend from college and the two frat boys had the time of our lives in this wonderful village. Fast forward to 1997. My wife, Jeanine, and I come back to Collelongo. Me for the 3rd time, Jeanine for her 1st. We loved the town and the people--especially our cousins and uncle. We have returned in 1998, 2000, 2001 and 2003. It's a wonderful town and we are very fortunate to have a home there where we can stay when we visit. Also, having such great family there is really the icing on the cake. Collelongo, we love you! D*ck and Jeanine Abruzzi. Warren, Ohio

I had the pleasure of staying in Villavellalonga in 1987 and 1989 with my wife Maria-Rosaria, who's mother was born in the town (Berenice Bianchi). Villavellalonga is one of the nicest towns I have ever visited. The scenery is breathtaking and the township so beautiful with the old buildings and cobble roads. As a fine art photographer I spent hours photographing the township and people. I was even fortunate enough to capture the entire festival of St. Antonio Abate, and the "Favata". I have some wonderful black and white photographs of the festival at home. The photos have also been exhibited in Melbourne (Australia). The wonderful thing about photographing is that I met so many residents of the town. They were so friendly and all inviting me into their homes for food, coffee, and a good chat. This was such a wonderful way to learn about the town and people. Maria and I do plan on going back and visiting all our friends and relatives. Villavallelonga is a town I recommend all to…

How can you not fall in love with a town that is rich in history, culture, and community! Along side that, the scenery is unlike anything you will find in North America! I love visting Collelongo and my parents (who were born there) are addicted! Once you step foot in the town, you become a part of it. Can't wait to go back!