“Sicily’s breathtaking mountains, reserves, and adventure await, with a rich connection to history from the whirlpools of Charybdis to San Fratello.”

Sicily: A Haven for Natural Experiences

Palermo, Italy – The island of Sicily has long been known for its rich artistic and cultural heritage. But beyond its stunning architecture and historic landmarks, Sicily offers a diverse range of natural experiences that allow visitors to discover breathtaking landscapes and authentic stories.

One of the best ways to explore Sicily is by sea, starting with the three kilometers that separate the island from the mainland. In Messina, on the beaches of Capo Peloro, the famous sea monster Charybdis is said to still beckon sailors and swimmers from the depths of the sea, creating eddies at the meeting point of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. This is just one of the many unique experiences that can be found in Sicily, away from the typical tourist routes and crowded beaches.

The Aeolian Islands, for example, offer opportunities for hiking and the chance to witness the “Sciara di fuoco” at Stromboli when darkness falls. Lucky visitors may even spot dolphins while on a boat trip. For a more secluded experience, head to the lesser-known island of Alicudi. The Egadi Islands also offer hidden gems, such as the stunning Favignana where visitors can explore one of Italy’s Sea Ox Caves.

Sicily is home to numerous nature reserves that allow visitors to experience both the sea and the land. One of the most popular is the “Zingaro” reserve, located between Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo. Here, trekking enthusiasts can choose from three main paths, each offering panoramic views of the sea with its ever-changing shades of green and blue.

For those interested in learning about the diverse biodiversity of Sicily, the Isola delle Femmine near Palermo is a must-visit. This strategic location serves as a point of migration for various species. Another similar area can be found near Catania, known as the Simeto Oasis.

Away from the coast, visitors can discover a different side of Sicily with more adventurous routes. The Gole dell’Alcantara, for example, is a canyon of basaltic rocks formed by the erosion of the basalts themselves from past eruptions of Mount Etna. This majestic site offers a unique sensory experience, with the river being freezing cold while the rocks are scorching hot. Activities such as hiking, river trekking, and body rafting can be enjoyed here.

In the Madonie Park, south of Cefalù, visitors can explore the giant holly forest, home to a dense array of ancient trees that seem straight out of a fairy tale. The larger Nebrodi Park, covering an area of 86,000 hectares, boasts lakes, forests, and caves. It is also home to the unique history of the population of San Fratello, a town founded during Norman rule by Lombard soldiers and settlers. The local dialect here is still known as Gallo-Italic and is distinct from the Sicilian language.

Of course, no visit to Sicily is complete without a trip to Mount Etna, affectionately known as “a muntagna” by locals. Activities such as quad and 4×4 excursions and Nordic walking are popular here. Etna’s diverse eruptions have created different types of terrain, making it a playground for adventurous guides who offer activities such as running downhill on the slipperiest parts of the mountain. While this should always be done under the supervision of an experienced guide, it is a thrilling and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

For more information on planning your trip to Sicily and experiencing its natural wonders, please contact Ms. Daniela Lo Cascio, Head of the Department of Tourism, Sport and Entertainment of the Region of Sicily. She can be reached at +39 095 7470254 or via email at daniela.locascio@regione.sicilia.it. Visit the official website at https://www.visitsicily.info/ for more details.