Giamia Villas Hotel

We spent 3 wonderful weeks at Giamia in Campo di Fano. We stayed on the top floor and the villa was just as it appeared in pictures, beautifully furnished with everything we needed and gorgeous views of lush green mountains. We were there during an unusually hot spell and having a washer & dryer available was an added plus. We cooked the majority of our meals there and even experimented with new recipes using ‘red garlic’ which is grown right on the property. But the best part of our trip was meeting Mike, his lovely wife Olga and their granddaughter, Ciara. They immediately made you feel like part of their family, very friendly, helpful and interesting to talk to. Mike even invited us to an “Immigrant Dinner” in Campo di Fano and we really saw the true Italian hospitality. Everyone was so gracious and friendly and even though we didn’t speak Italian, it didn’t matter, they made you feel welcome. We also attended church service with Mike and his family in a beautiful little church right in the middle of the village.
During our stay, we ventured north to L’Aquila; south to Naples and Pompeii; east to Pescara and the beautiful Adriatic Sea; and, west to Rome, Tuscany and Florence. But, once again, the best part of our stay was Mike. What a wonderful person, he’s so nice and accommodating, always available to answer any questions or give recommendations (to delicious restaurants) and all the while, very respectful of our privacy.

August 2012
After arriving back home we (my wife, daughter and I) realize how much we love and now miss Italy, especially the Abruzzo. Just driving out of Rome to Abruzzo was breataking and arriving in Campo di Fano which is just outside of Sulmona was simple and emotionally gratifying. Yes this little comune or "paese" is where my maternal family is from but it wouldn't of mattered anyway it's just beautiful. Upon arrival at the Gia Mia Villas we were instantly greeted by Mike & Olga and given the royal tour of our accomodation. There is nothing to complain about, alot of work went into these villas and it shows. The best part was the view from our balcony which overlooked the Abruzzi mountains from which we could see other comunees ie Introdacqua, Bugnara & Sulmona. In the evening it was equally beautiful with lights illuminating the mountains. The suite itself was comfortable and had all the anemities, spacious, clean and safe!
One big advantage about these villas is it's location, your only 5 minutes from Sulmona which is such a pretty little medievil city to walk around and has all the anemities that one may need. This area is practically in the middle of Italy and taking day trips was made easier.
You will be drawn to this area by it's beauty, fresh air, water and of course the cuisine. Staying at the Gia Mia Villas adds to the Abruzzi ezperience.
We hope to go back one day and bring the whole family this time.

GiaMia.
Just outside Sulmona is a place where you can relax, unwind and enjoy the view of the beautiful mountains of Abruzzo.  Mike Giammarco is your host and he takes personal responsibility for your exploration and enjoyment of Abruzzo.   Our first night he took us to a local festival that was a wonderful introduction to the culture of the region.  His spacious and comfortable apartments make an ideal base for exploring this exciting and untouristed part of Italy.  The view from our patio was spectacular.  
I was looking for family connections high up in the hills, Mike did all that he could including acting as translator to make sure I found what I was seeking.  I will return to GiaMia.