Zompo Lo Schioppo Nature Reserve – The highest waterfall in Abruzzo between woods and vertical silences. The Zompo Lo Schioppo Nature Reserve is located in the municipality of Morino, in the Roveto Valley (province of L'Aquila), and is an integral part of the Sirente-Velino Regional Natural Park. It takes its name from the spectacular waterfall which, with its over 80 meters of drop, is among the highest in the Apennines. "Zompo" means "jump", while "schioppo" recalls the sudden and thunderous noise of water gushing from the limestone wall. 💦 The waterfall, the heart of the reserve: The imposing jet of water that descends from the rock face in spring offers a powerful natural spectacle. Fed by karst springs, the waterfall has a variable flow rate: full and roaring in spring, silent in the driest months. 👉 Tip: Visit the reserve between April and June to see the waterfall in all its power, especially after heavy rains. 🌲 Unspoiled nature and biodiversity: The reserve is an oasis of biodiversity: centuries-old beech forests, maples, hornbeams and rare plants such as the Marsica iris. Among the fauna, wolves, roe deer, wild cats, peregrine falcons, golden eagles and beautifully colored salamanders stand out. 👉 Tip: Take the Nature Trail, well marked and suitable for everyone, to discover the different environments of the reserve. 🚶 Hiking and Family Trails: The network of trails in the reserve is varied: some short itineraries lead to viewpoints on the waterfall, others cross deep woods and lead up to Monte Brecciaro. There is also an area equipped with tables and fountains, perfect for picnics. 👉 Tip: Bring hiking shoes, water and camera: the views between rock, forest and waterfalls are unforgettable. 🏘️ Morino and the Roveto Valley: The village of Morino is the gateway to the reserve. The area, still little known by mass tourism, is perfect for those seeking silence, authenticity and deep contact with nature. Nearby you can also visit the ghost village of Rendinara and the Hermitage of Santa Maria del Cauto. 👉 Tip: Make a stop in Morino to discover the local cuisine and the kindness of the inhabitants, guardians of a silent and wild Abruzzo. 🍽️ Genuine mountain flavors: The gastronomy of the area reflects the peasant tradition: spelt and chickpea soups, homemade pasta, skewers, wild vegetables and desserts such as "anise donuts". The products are local and often organic. 👉 Tip: Book a lunch in a farmhouse or refuge near the reserve to savor the typical dishes of the Roveto Valley. 🛌 Where to sleep between nature and silence: Near the reserve there are refuges, stone B&Bs and farmhouses immersed in the woods. It is the ideal area for quiet and regenerating stays, away from mass tourism. 👉 Tip: Stay in a family-run B&B to experience the simple and authentic hospitality of the Abruzzo hinterland. Zompo Lo Schioppo is a cry of water in the quiet of the woods. A place where time slows down, nature dominates and every step becomes discovery.