Sicily: culture, sea and mountains tour

Sicily, as we know, is nature and culture! A nature that boasts a crystal clear sea and beaches but also parks and enchanting mountain paths, with a view of the sea, for lovers of trekking and more. Let's discover together a part of the Sicilian territory which admirably combines culture, sea and mountains: in the province of Palermo, Cefalù and its surroundings await you!

Cefalù: city of great beauty and mystery

Cefalù is a Byzantine, then Arab and, therefore, Norman city: a city of the Arab-Norman itinerary recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. We are talking about the itinerary that starts from Palermo, passes through Monreale and arrives in Cefalù, up to its wonderful Cathedral, with Christ Pantocrator dominating from the top of the apse. In addition to the Cathedral, there are other artistic and architectural jewels of incredible value.

For example, the Osterio Magno, from the powerful Ventimiglia family. Or, again, the public Washhouse, a set of tubs once used by the laundresses of the city. Not to mention the old port of Cefalù, squeezed between the sea and houses of medieval origin. All this can be admired walking among colorful shops, in the narrow streets with the smell of the sea, up to the golden beach of Cefalù. Or towards the Rocca which overlooks the Norman town almost forming, together with the Cathedral, a large snail with a large shell.

The atmosphere is unique, made magical by interesting stories that are history and legend.

The beaches: fun and relax

In addition to the seaside town of Cefalù, the surroundings are dotted with beaches. Let's start at the nearby Pollina Beach and Capo Playa Beach, where strong winds create the perfect environment for enjoying surfing and sailing. For those seeking privacy and tranquillity, the Sant'Ambrogio Beach, made of sand and pebbles, is ideal. And again, the Caldura Beach is of great charm, with pebble sand alternating with dark rocks. Everywhere, an always very clean sea where you can dive and enjoy the Sicilian sun!

The mountain routes: trekking, horse and mountain bike

Not only sea and culture. The Madonie area offers a unique spectacle, between mountains and sea, where clean air and breathtaking views meet. The Madonie Park, in fact, is one of the most beautiful parks in Europe, and exploring its grounds is an experience not to be missed! It is part of the European and Global Geoparks network. Walloons and walls that slide down to the sea and gentle valleys where you can let yourself be intoxicated by nature. Walking paths, horse riding, or by mountain bike, through a truly remarkable natural heritage.

When to go and where to stay

The best time to visit this part of Sicily is from March. In addition to the beauty of spring, events and parties begin that last throughout the summer; not to mention autumn, still warm, until winter, time for mushrooms. Vallegrande Nature Resort has a strategic position and, also for this reason, it is the ideal place to stay. The resort is located in the woods of the Madonie Park, about 3.5 km from the sea of Sant'Ambrogio and 7 km from Cefalù. It is a terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, an excellent starting point for discovering the magnificent artistic and cultural attractions of northern Sicily. Therefore, it represents the perfect place from which to dedicate 1 or 2 days to each of these stages. The ideal place to return to for a well-deserved relax by the pool, in the restaurant and finally in the charming room where you can recharge your batteries for the next day, starting with a rich breakfast buffet.