Nestled in the southern Apennines near Rome, Abruzzo National Park covers a vast territory with wide valleys and deep trenches. The mountains here are not as tall as the Alps, reaching only 2000 meters, but the Appennines have merits of their own: Streams run through the valleys forming picturesque waterfalls and caves. The park hosts the only bears surviving in central Italy, along with deer, chamois, wolves, and eagles. The bears are said to be meek vegetarians—not dangerous to humans. One of the nicest treks on foot, mountain bike, or horseback runs among shady beech trees in the Fondillo Valley. Pescasseroli, a small town in the middle of the park is the base for all activities. Though renowned also as a winter destination, summer is the best time to visit the Abruzzo National Park.