Hiking in Sicily

All areas

When you think of Sicily, there are a few characteristics that come to mind before anything else: the blue sea, the sandy beaches, the hot sun, the long history, the fascinating mix of cultures and, last but not least, the exquisite cuisine. Bear in mind, though, Sicily does not stop here!

The natural areas are certainly another point of pride from the mountains to the sea, through parks and woods and natural reserves, there are many exceptional places for hikers and nature lovers that can discover a different side of Sicily, maybe less known but still incredibly charming and authentic!

From western Sicily to the eastern side, there is so much to experience that it is better to choose one of the two areas and explore that, considering that Sicily is the biggest island in Italy and has a variety of landscapes, but also many areas that are truly open-air museums, because we must never forget the historical and cultural aspects!

Also, if you are thinking of walking across Sicily, it is going to be quite a long and challenging journey (a minimum of 11- 12 days depending on the route).

In terms of mountains, there are three different chains: Madonie, Nebrodi and Peloritani, plus the majesty and uniqueness of our huge volcano: Mount Etna.

Below, you can get inspired by some of the most attractive and renowned spots and trails you can find on the Sicilian island.

Index

Hiking and bathing

Zingaro Nature Reserve

This stunning nature reserve called Zingaro is located on the Sicilian west coast, in the province of Trapani, between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo and you can get there with your car and leave it in the car park.

This beautiful protected area can be accessed from two main entrances: the South side of Scopello/Castellammare del Golfo and the North side of San Vito Lo Capo.

We always suggest a few things like: sneakers or trekking shoes, a hat, sun protection cream, plenty of water and also long trousers are recommended in every season, for the dense and wild vegetation. Going to the Zingaro is challenging but extremely worth it. Once you finally get there you will be able to swim in one of the cleanest waters ever!

Cefalù

In Cefalù, you can appreciate a combination of nature and history going up to visit La Rocca after you enjoyed a day at the seaside. It is a round trip of roughly 3 kilometres but bear in mind there are no places in the shadow and the Sicilian sun hits, so a hat and a bottle of water are a must.

Going up the hill, there are two main points where you can admire the panorama, the first is halfway through and the second is on the top of the hill where you can also see the ruins of the ancient and imposing castle of Cefalù, dated back to the 11th century. It is certainly worth visiting, but maybe avoid it during the hottest hours of the day.

The Natural Oasis of Vendicari

The Vendicari reserve is a protected area of roughly 13 kilometres extended on the south-east coastline of Sicily, between the areas of Noto and Marzamemi.

It is called “oasi faunistica”, a faunistic oasis, due to its incredible biodiversity, a real paradise for nature lovers as both flora and fauna are very rich. In fact, several varieties of plants can be found in the reserve, such as juniper, tamarisk, myrtle, thyme, palms, as well as a Mediterranean aquatic plant called Posidonia.

Vendicari, though, is also renowned for the sighting of pink flamingos that, with several other species of birds, stop during their migration from the south, and it is home to the sea turtles that come to nest in the sandy beaches.

There are three different paths in Vendicari, each roughly 3 kilometres, where you can walk and reach hidden coves between the rocky promontories all around. One of the most famous coves is called “Calamosche”, which is a unique tiny strip of sand with crystal clear waters, perfect for those who love snorkelling.

Hiking in the Mountains

The Madonie

The Madonie Mountains are one of the three main Sicilian mountain chains and together with Nebrodi and Peloritani on the eastern side, form the so-called Appennino siculo (Sicilian Apennines).

The Madonie Park is also a protected natural area which offers a variety of landscapes: from the northern coastal strip to the hills up to the highest peaks of the internal part. In fact, in the Madonie Park, there is the highest mountain in Sicily (excluding Etna), and that is why it is a great destination for outdoor excursions, in particular hiking, as well as horse riding.

One of the most popular spots in the Madonie Park is definitely Piano Battaglia, starting from the plain and going up to its highest peak called Pizzo Carbonara (1979 mt high). It is the winter place for skiing, but also frequently visited all year round by hikers, as you can plan a great excursion and enjoy stunning views from the Carbonara peak in any season.

In Gratteri, another mountain village, there is a route that leads you to the ruins of the San Giorgio monastery, located near a wood that has the same name: Bosco di San Giorgio.

Not too far from the tourist centre of Cefalù, another interesting trail starts uphill from Gibilmanna, a small village, famous for the beautiful Norman Sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna and goes up to Pizzo Sant’Angelo, almost 1000 mt high, with a few great sightseeing points along the way.

Although the Madonie are perfect for a relaxing holiday in touch with nature, do not disregard that they are also full of history and culture, as they are very famous for their characteristic medieval hamlets from Castelbuono and Petralia Soprana and Sottana (which means Upper and Lower Petralia) to Geraci Siculo, Gangi and Polizzi Generosa.

These little villages not only are near nature but are cultural treasures with magnificent castles (in Castelbuono, Geraci, Petralia Soprana) and beautiful churches (Gangi, Polizzi, Petralia Sottana), plus the fabulous local cuisine and the genuine Sicilian products at zero km contribute to the unforgettable experience.

The Nebrodi

The Nebrodi mountains are the second most important chain of the Sicilian Apennines and they extend in the north-east part of Sicily, particularly in the province of Messina, while their southern border is marked by the river Alcantara and Mount Etna.

The Nebrodi Natural Park, established in 1993, is characterised by a very large portion of woods, forests and wetlands, and it adds up roughly to 50,000 hectares, with a very rich vegetation as well as an important variety of fauna specimens.

A great trail in the Nebrodi Park, not just for hiking lovers but also bird-watching aficionados, starts from the municipality of Cesarò, in the Catania province and goes up to Lake Biviere, a very large wetland area covered with dense vegetation and populated by different species of animals, including aquatic birds.

During the Summer there is a unique natural phenomenon as the water changes its colour and turns in red, due to the blooming of the “Euglena sanguinea”, a reddish microalgae. This peculiarity adds, of course, great naturalistic value to the area. The highest peak in the park is Monte Soro, which reaches a height of 1,847 meters.

A great trail for bikers is the one starting from the town of Randazzo, close to the Church of the Annunciation. It is a ring-shaped trail and goes up to Santa Maria del Bosco, where there is a wide and well-equipped camping area with a refuge, a farmhouse, toilets, cooking points and water fountains.

Continuing, you can cross the river Alcantara and find yourself on the slopes of Mount Colla, 1600 mt high.

If you are passionate about waterfalls, you can’t miss the trip to the Galati Mamertino area, in the northern part of the park, where you can admire the natural Catafurco waterfalls, caused by a 30 mt drop in the Saint Basilio stream’s path. At the bottom of the waterfall, there is a natural cavity formed by the erosion of the water and it is called “Marmitta dei Giganti”. In the hottest period, you can also go for a regenerative swim out there.

Volcanic Hiking trails and destinations

Catania and Mount Etna

If you are looking for thrill and excitement and want to enjoy spectacular views in the Catania area, then hiking on Mount Etna is the number one choice.

There you will find the best hiking and trekking trails on the island. It’s important to understand that it is safe, as long as there is a certain amount of preparation and common sense. Find yourself a certified guide, because Etna is not only a very active volcano, but also a massive mountain around 3.330 meters above sea level.

Monitored 24/7 by volcanologists and experts of geology, hiking on the slopes of Etna is in high demand, but several variants need to be considered every time, as the terrain can be rugged, the weather can suddenly change, some access to craters can be restricted if there are ongoing eruptions and in some areas, the trails are not particularly well marked, so proper preparation is a must!

There are always guides that make sure everything is under control, and being Etna a very large mountain, there is always the possibility for hiking on the lower slopes, which will still give you an experience that you will remember for life.

One of the most popular trails is the one starting from Nicolosi, a village on the south side of Etna, near the Sapienza Refuge. It is roughly 8 kilometres altogether.

As you go up, you may witness a sudden change of weather and a decrease in temperature, sometimes even up to 10 degrees, so wearing layers is a good tip, together with sunglasses and sun cream. There you can reach the 2500 mt of height through the Etna cable car, where you will see the Montagnola crater first and the Valle del Bove afterwards.

As the volcano is very active, this trail is constantly monitored and regulated, so it is always better to check the weather beforehand and get an expert guide.

If you are lucky, you will see the big mountain smoking its unique ring-shaped puffs, which is incredibly captivating and considered one of the most scenic places in Sicily.

Finally, let’s not forget that along the adventure, you can’t miss the food and wine experience, tasting the products of the land such as local fresh sausages, porcini mushrooms, pistachios and of course the great variety of Etna wines.

The Eolian Islands

Lipari is the principal island among the Eolian archipelago and thanks to the incredible variety of landscapes that it offers, it is also a great resource for hikers, as it has numerous paths that can be explored.

The most popular one is on the western coast of Lipari, the path that goes to the “Caolino Caves”, which are characterised by unique changing colours and uncontaminated nature all around.

The island of Salina boasts enchanting green woods, in particular with chestnut trees and extended vineyards where the Malvasia wine is produced. This sweet wine, together with capers, is the two main local products.

The most popular trail in Salina starts in a hamlet called Valdichiesa and takes you up to Monte Fossa delle Felci, which is an ancient inactive volcano and also the highest peak of the archipelago with its 962 mt of height.

Vulcano is particularly fascinating for its big crater and its natural source of sulfur. It is still active and smoking; therefore, trips are constantly monitored and organised only with skilled guides.

Other walking trails for culture aficionados

Palermo and Saint Rosalia

“When in Palermo do like the ‘Palermitans’ do”, paraphrasing the old saying about Rome! It means that you can experience the most popular trekking route of the city and go up to Monte Pellegrino (609 mt), the promontory from where you can see the whole bay of Palermo city, called “Conca d’Oro”, the golden bay.

What does it have to do with Saint Rosalia, Patron Saint of Palermo?

Well, in the 17th century, the remains of Rosalia Sinibaldi, who was living there as a hermit, were found in the grotto in Monte Pellegrino, which is now a proper sanctuary. For this reason, this path is not only a great hike among cypresses and pine trees, with breathtaking views of the city, but it also has that side of a spiritual journey to it that gives it another layer of uniqueness and enchantment.

The devoted citizens of Palermo in fact traditionally go up on the night of September the 4^th, to mark the anniversary of the saint’s death. So while in the city you might as well do as ‘Palermitans’ do.

If you are yet not tired, keep going on the other side of Monte Pellegrino, where you get to the beautiful bay of Mondello beach, with its easily recognisable building on the water: the “Antico Stabilimento Balneare”, an Art Noveau or Liberty style bathing resort dated beginning of the 20^th century.

Magna Via Francigena

This is truly a remarkable journey through history, as this ancient pilgrimage route crosses Sicily from Palermo to Agrigento, and since the Middle Ages took the name of Magna via Francigena.

It is a less-travelled alternative to the more famous Via Francigena in the mainland Italian peninsula, but it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty and allows you to discover the authentic Sicilian hinterland and its several hidden treasures.

The Magna Via Francigena meanders through the heart of Sicily, passing through charming villages, rolling hills, and diverse landscapes in a north-south direction.

Walking the entire Via Francigena is quite a demanding task and it requires careful planning, including accommodation bookings, transportation logistics, and physical preparation. The route is waymarked, though it’s always advisable to carry a map and/or GPS, but it’s certainly a unique way to experience the authentic Sicilian countryside.

Taormina

For something completely different, that does not involve climbing a mountain or a volcano, you can visit the ancient theatre of Taormina, which was built in the 3rd century BC. This theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse and has a stunning panorama on the Giardini Naxos area and Mount Etna as well.

A very attractive walk in Taormina would be the one called the “Goethe’s path” which allows visitors to reach the theatre from the lower part of the town, walking among the olive trees and the agave plants.

Goethe’s path is dedicated to the German writer, who loved and lived in town for a while, reporting his travels in his famous book “Travels in Italy”. Also consider that the ancient Taormina theatre is home to numerous events, shows and live concerts, so if you can combine a hike up there while securing a ticket on one of these occasions, it will be an unforgettable experience!