Sulmona's setting at the edge of the Maiella and Sirente-Velino mountains makes it an excellent base. The Hermitage of Sant'Onofrio and the Abbey of the Holy Spirit are within a few kilometres of town. The Maiella National Park's hiking trails start a short drive away. The medieval village of Pacentro, with its three-towered castle, is 10 km east; Scanno, perched above its lake, is 30 km south.