Hiking in the Heart of Sicily - Madonie Mountains

Arrive in Sicily and breathe in the warm island breeze and the aroma of the unique local flora. If pre-booked with us, a private transfer takes you from the airport to your accommodation in Petralia Sottana, in the southern Monti Madonie. Enjoy your first dinner at a local restaurant of your choice and taste the many flavors of the delicious regional cuisine.

Accommodation in Petralia Sottana

Today awaits a relatively easy hike through Petralia's hills from which it is possible to enjoy fantastic landscapes over Sicily's southern side, including Etna. Some sections of the route are on muddy terrain which can be challenging in rain. The elevation is quite gradual; there is only one steep section. The hike can start at Portella Ferrone (wp17) with transfer arranged by the accommodation; the walk is then shortened by 2 km and the steep section to wp14 is avoided.

Accommodation in Petralia Sottana

A morning transfer takes you to the start of the hike in Pomieri. The hike begins on a fairly steep and uneven surface, but it eases when you reach higher up where the view begins to develop and you follow panoramic roads and well-marked trails and make a loop around the fascinating Vallone degli Angeli. From Vallone you can take a detour to Scalone from where you have a good view over Polizzi Generosa and valleys located north of the Madonie mountains. Monte Salvatore is one of the highest peaks of the Madonie mountains, from the summit there is a spectacular 360° view over the central part of Sicily. You can also admire the sanctuary Madonna dell'Alto, a common destination for religious pilgrimages. Part of the route follows the long stretch "Sentiero Italia" where you can still find some examples of the Nebrodi fir, which once covered a large part of the highlands. At the end of the hike, a private transfer takes you back to the accommodation in Petralia Sottana.

Accommodation in Petralia Sottana

A morning transfer takes you to Parco Avventure Madonie where you begin your hike. Climb from Pomieri to the "Piano Battaglia" plateau (1,700 meters), a well-known area whose name comes from a battle that took place here in the 11th century between the Arabs and Normans. Take a large loop around the picturesque Monte Ferro (1,900 meters) before descending to a unique farm where you will spend the night.

Accommodation in Rocca di Gonato

Say goodbye to the beautiful Madonie mountains and descend to the hills around Castelbuono. A short and easy descent takes you to Agriturismo Bergi. Here you can spend the afternoon relaxing in the village of Castelbuono. Don't miss a visit to the nearby medieval village of Castelbuono. Stroll along old narrow streets and squares for a true taste of small-town Sicily.

Accommodation in Castelbuono

After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to the bus stop in Castelbuono where you board the bus with your luggage to Cefalù. Check in at your hotel and explore the city's breathtaking Norman cathedral and impressive Byzantine mosaics. Climb up to the old fortifications of Rocca or take a refreshing dip on the long sandy beach in front of the hotel. To conclude this fantastic hiking tour, celebrate with an exquisite dinner at one of Cefalù's many fine fish restaurants.

Accommodation in Cefalù

The trip ends after breakfast. From Cefalù you can take the train to Palermo or Catania airport.