Palermo is the capital of the Italian island Sicily. With its origins, dating back to 2700 years ago, Palermo stands as a testament to multiple civilizations that have influenced its architecture, cuisine and traditions. Being nestled along the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city has always been a crucial naval and trading hub for the Mediterranean, a strategic point many wished for and eventually conquered. As soon as you get settled in your accommodation, step outside and breathe in the air of this multicultural city. And in the evening let all your senses be delighted as you taste some of the local delicacies and wines, and getting ready for your inn to inn self-guided walking adventure ahead. *Easiest arrival via Palermo Airport (Catania Airport is also an option - 2,30hrs bus ride to Palermo (direct services). Palermo Airport is served by numerous major and low-cost carriers. From the airport you can take either a taxi (30min) or a bus (45min) to Palermo city center. 

Your independent hiking tour in Sicily starts with an organized transfer to Santa Cristina Gela - a wonderful tiny village, and arguably the smallest settlement on Sicily. Right after leaving it behind we start climbing along the “antica trazzera” (old route) towards the Santuario Maria S.S. del Rosario di Tagliavia. According to the legend in 1800 a rock with the sacred image of the holy Mary was found by two shepherds. With the display of the painting, first on a pile of stones, then in a dedicated shelter, the practices of veneration and worship began, attracting a small community of hermits. Eventually the Sanctuary was erected in 1841 and nowadays it is a must-stop along the Magna Via Francigena trail. Further on the path takes you to Corleone - a town renowned as the birthplace of several Mafia families. It was immortalized by Mario Puzo's "The Godfather".

An interesting spot to see in Corleone is the waterfall “delle due rocche”, located only 10mins out of town. Another must see is the CIDMA “Mafia” museum in town, which also deserves a visit (allow appr. 1hr for it). Once finished with these points of interest,  you can proceed your self-guided walk through vineyards and open fields, and not the least several Masserie stone houses (characteristic farm buildings, more typical for Puglia). There you may encounter farmers who may try to tempt you try some freshly made ricotta - do not miss the chance! From the lake of Prizzi a steady climb takes you into the town of the same name. Prizzi is among the highest settlements of Sicily (1045m a.s.l.) and proudly calls itself the first capital of Italy. Thanks to its amazing location it offers a breathtaking view of the island where it is possible to admire the Sciacca’s coastline framing by the Mount Etna. Prizzi is home to many historical landmarks, such as the Castle of Prizzi, which dates back to the 13th C. The town is also known for its olive groves, vineyards, and almond trees, making it a great place to enjoy nature. The town is known for its delicious food, such as arancini, cannoli, and pasta alla Norma.

A large part of today’s walk will be carried out inside the peaceful Carcaci natural reserve - home to numerous species of birds of prey, and a great variety of small trees and shrubs, typical of the Sicilian woods. You will be able to see the remains of the abandoned village of Carcaci where the nature has slowly recovered part of the village, making everything really special and fascinating. Take some time, walk and look around, places like this are not found everywhere - the unaltered symmetry of its cross-layout, the rural houses, the warehouses and the small church build of lava stones. Eventually your walking trail will reach Castronovo, where a short ride will be expecting you to the agriturismo near Cammarata. The town of Cammarata is dominated by a medieval Norman castle. What is interested about this town is the fact that homes here have been offered for free. However, there is a catch. In order for new residents to land a free home, they must present a clear renovation proposal for the property and renovate it within three years.

Your Sicilian self-guided walk continues along a railway and then gradually uphill to Acquaviva Platani. The name of the town is  derived from the numerous natural springs in the area. It offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere enriched by its monuments such as the Palazzo Ducale, the baronial residence of Caterina Spadafora built in 1680, the Mother Church of Maria SS. della Luce, the clock tower was (erected in 1860 by the Sicilian engineer Lazzaroni with local limestones) etc. The last part of the path to the medieval town of Sutera is along a stunning ridge. Sutera is dominated by a large monolithic rock termed "The Mountain of San Paolino" and encompasses beauty, art and... legends. Get lost in the maze of alleys and chalk houses of the Arabic neighbourhood called Rabato, and visit the rich ethnographical museum.

The hiking trail leaves Sutera and descends to the bed of the Platani River, which you need to cross and climb on the other side to Milena. The latter is located on the top of a panoramic hill and offers a stunning and breathtaking view of the island. Here the path goes up the hills that surround the village and gives you a panoramic view of all the valleys nearby. Racalmuto is your final destination of the day. Known for being the hometown of the famous writer Leonardo Sciascia, it boasts numerous monuments of great importance, among which the Racalmuto Cathedral, a large Gothic style church, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte, with a spectacular staircase in front of its churchyard, the Church of St. Joseph, the Chiaramontano Castle in the historic center etc.

On your final walking day you will pass through several nice villages such as Grotte and Comitini. The place is famous for their fabulous arancini (fried rice balls filled with ragù or spinach or ham). In Aragona, where the hiking trail ends, you can take a train (or a private transfer, if you prebooked it at the time of reservation - contact us for details!) to the last stage of your trip, the beautiful city of Agrigento, where you can enjoy a free afternoon to explore the old town or the famous Valley of the Temples (you can do so also on your next day). The Valley of the Temples is undoubtedly the most important vestige of ancient classical culture in Sicily. Though not a valley at all, but a hill, the UNESCO world heritage archaeological park comprises of eight temples built between around 510BC and 430BC and remains one of Sicily's most remarkable historical attractions. Allow some 2-3hrs to walk and explore the park in detail.

Services end after breakfast! You can return to Palermo by train (2hrs journey).