Cima della Cioccola

Cima della Cioccola rises to 1,581 meters (5,187 feet) within the Gran Sasso massif in the Abruzzes region. The peak is covered in extensive forests of beech, poplar, birch, and fir trees that blanket its slopes.

The summit has long served as a key passage connecting the municipalities of Civitella Casanova, Carpineto della Nora, and Villa Celiera to the Voltigno plain below. This role made it an important crossroads in the mountain region for local communities.

The mountain sits within Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, forming part of the region's natural landscape. Visitors come here to experience the diverse forest ecosystems and mountain environment that define this area.

Two mountain refuges are accessible from this peak: Rifugio Bufara at 1,261 meters (4,137 feet) and Rifugio Tricalle at 1,246 meters (4,088 feet). The proximity to these shelters makes the summit a manageable destination for hikers of varying experience levels.

The eastern slope holds a cross-country skiing facility roughly 900 meters long, beginning at 1,375 meters elevation. This slope connects to the larger Voltigno ski network and brings winter sports to the mountain during snowy seasons.