Exploring The Footpaths Of Sicily

Exploring the Footpaths of Sicily

by

Helen Forbes

For travellers yearning to explore Sicily, villas are arguably the best option when it comes to privacy, comfort and access to the rural countryside. It’s no surprise, then, that many of these villas are located near some of the island’s most popular destinations for avid hikers.

Mt. Etna

If you’re up for a little extra challenge, then you’ll want to try your hand at hiking up Mount Etna’s volcanic slopes. This stratovolcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and perhaps the most recognizable natural landmark in Sicily. Villas and hotels are not typically found in the immediate vicinity of the volcano itself, but its hauntingly mesmerizing landscape is worth mentioning for the more avid hikers out there.

Vulcano Island

The aptly named Vulcano Island is a great alternative to Mount Etna if you’re looking for a volcanic trail that’s closer to your accommodation in Sicily. Villas are found not only on the island itself but also off its northern shores. This makes it much easier to access the volcanic baths, black sand beaches, and steaming fumaroles that bring hikers to the island in the first place.

Zingaro Nature Reserve

If you are looking for a rich, unspoilt coastline to explore, the Zingaro Nature Reserve is one highlight you don’t want to miss. The coastline itself stretches for seven kilometres, and you can also explore the mountains as you head inland – which contain rare and endemic creatures found only on the reserve. If you are a nature lover and want to take in the rich natural beauty of the island, few places can match the allure of the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

Vallone degli Angeli

If you’re a lover of nature and love striding among ancient, well-populated forests, then you will be delighted with a hike through the Vallone degli Angeli – the Deep Valley of the Angels. This valley is nestled in between towering mountain ranges, where beeches typically found in the colder regions of Europe mix with holm oaks typically found in warmer Mediterranean climates. The valley is also the only place where Abies Nebrodensis – the Sicilian Fir – can be found. This makes the Vallone degli Angeli a particularly attractive choice for hikers seeking to explore the forests of the island.

Taormina

Taormina is one of the most attractive communes found in Sicily. Villas, hotels, shops and restaurants line the streets – but it is the archaeological sites that will truly tempt the hiker curious about the island’s rich history. Taormina and its surrounding areas are awash with historical sites – from numerous water reservoirs and sepulchres to the famous Ancient Theatre that sees frequent use to this day. It’s a joy to trek through Taormina’s beautiful landscape filled with ruins and archaeological sites.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you re looking for the perfect

Sicily villas

we can help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

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Exploring the Footpaths of Sicily