7-day Madonie Mountains Walking Holiday

Arrive in Sicily and breathe in the warm island breeze and aroma of the outstanding local flora. If pre-arranged with us, a private transfer takes you from airport to your accommodation in Petralia Sottana, in the south of the Monti Madonie. Enjoy your first dinner in a local restaurant of your choice trying the many flavors of the tasty regional cuisine. 

Today’s walk It is a quite easy walk through Petralia's hills from where  it  is  possible  to  enjoy  superb  landscapes  over  the southern  side  of  Sicily,  inclunding  Mt.  Etna.  Some  stretches  of the route are on clayey terrain which can be challenging in case of rain.  The  elevation  is  fairly  gradual;  there  is  only  one  steep stretch.  The  walk  can  start  in  Portella  Ferrone  (wp17)  with transfer  organized  by  the  accomodation;  the  walk  is  then shortened of 2 km and the steep stretch to wp14 is avoided.

Challenge: 5 hours, 16 km / 10 mi, 734m ascent, 713m descent

A morning transfer will take you to the start of the walk in Gangi, a medieval hilltop town often lauded as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The walk starts off on a fairly steep route crossing the typical Sicilian rural landscape and passing by ancient masserie and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, characterized by rolling hills, verdant valleys, and the distant silhouette of the Madonie mountain range.

Arriving in Geraci Siculo, you'll find another enchanting medieval town with a rich history and vibrant local culture. Known for its well-preserved Norman castle ruins, Geraci Siculo offers a charming end to your hike.

Challenge: 4 hours, 12 km / 7,5 mi, 484m ascent, 278m descent

The walk from Geraci Siculo to Rocca di Gonato is a delightful journey through the heart of Sicily's Madonie Mountains. Along the way there are spectacular views of the mountains and the coast. On a clear day, it is also possible to
see the islands of the Aeolian archipelago. Along the way it is suggested a short extension to reach the Church of Saints Cosma and Damiano.

Once you arrive at the destination you can relax and enjoy its natural beauty and serene environment.

Challenge: 5 hours, 15 km / 9,5 mi, 433m ascent, 677m descent

Bid adieu to the lovely Madonie Mountains an descend to the hills around Castelbuono. A short and easy descent brings you to Agriturismo Bergi. Here you can spend the afternoon relaxing into the village of Castelbuono. Do not miss a visit to the nearby medieval village of Castebuono. Stroll along ancient narrow streets and squares for a true taste of small-town Sicily. 

Challenge: 5 hours, 13 km / 8 mi, 206m ascent, 635m descent

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 town’s breathtaking Norman Cathedral and awe-inspiring Byzantine mosaics. Climb the ancient fortifications of the Rocca or go for a refreshing swim on the long sandy beach in front of the hotel. To end this fabulous walking trip celebrate with a delicious dinner in one of Cefalù’s many fine fish restaurants. 

Challenge: 1.5 hours, 3 km / 3 mi, 207m ascent, 203m descent

The tour ends after breakfast, unless you have booked extra services with us. To get to the airport you can go either by train or taxi.