The 11 most beautiful hikes to do in Sicily

Between volcanic ascents, natural reserves, Mediterranean trails and archaeological sites, the hike in Sicily promises to experience this great island in all its seams!

The largest island in the whole Mediterranean Sea, one doubts that there are many paths to organize beautiful randos in Sicily, yet not one of the major destinations in this area. It must be said that the Sicilians themselves may not be the greatest walking enthusiasts!

However, the hike is ideal for taking its distances around the most frequented tourist sites, or discover magnificent places attracting even few people. Change the point of view by walking on the hiking trails of Sicily, from the most classic as to climb the Etna or discover the Valley of the Temples, to other more secret, on the still preserved natural reserves of the island...

In all cases, always provide good walking shoes and what to guide you (map, GPS, rando app...), and especially sufficient water reserves depending on the season: caution in case of severe heat in the summer. Generally speaking, Sicily’s most beautiful randos are perfect at the weather level from April to June, and on September-October, as everywhere in the Mediterranean.

1. The Ascension of Etna from the Sapienza refuge

Achieving the top of the Etna is a must-see experience: many choose to do so via an organized excursion, or accompanied by a guide, but it is possible for walkers with a little experience to start solo in one of the most memorable hikes in Sicily.

The departure from the refuge of Sapienza is a classic, but be careful, this rather difficult route in terms of kilometers and denivelé is reserved for the enduring walkers! The view of the sumnt is beautiful...

High altitude hikes above the 3,000 m bar, take what to cover for it is fresh up there, and beware of sudden changes of weather during climbing!

2. Sweat her Temple Valley

A hike in Sicily from a very different technical level this time, since it is rather a very nice ride! And not any walk, since this route offers you to discover one of the most famous historical sites of all Sicily: the Valley of the Temples.

Do not hesitate to depart from the route to discover all the archaeological wonders that await you: the temple of Heraclès, the temple of Concorde, the temple of Hera, Kolymbéthra, etc... An exit that combines walking and cultural visit, in a natural setting that is more splendid.

3. The Monte Cofano tower

In the vicinity of Trapani, this beautiful hike of Sicily combines two of the most attractive elements of the island: the rocky reliefs covered with Mediterranean vegetation, and the sea itself, in the backdrop...

This well-lined walking route allows you to take the Monte Cofano, which peaks higher at 659 m altitude: a round-trip variant allows you to climb to the top. On the way or when you arrive, do not exclude a small swim at the turn of a beach (spiaggia Agliareddi, spiaggia Monte Cofano...), to refresh yourself.

4. A trick in the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Not very far from the Monte Cofano, on the side of Scopello, the nature reserve of the Zingaro occupies a beautiful coastline stretching dramatically into the sea, offering a superb contrast and creating a few welcoming cribs for swimming: one of the great pleasures of hiking in Sicily!

This is why you should not hesitate to embark on this trail during the day, taking all the time to enjoy the beauty of the preserved landscapes of the Zingaro reserve.

5. Discovery of the Pantalica Necropolis by the trails

To give you an idea of the landscapes to cross during this edifying hike in Sicily, say that the region around the Necropolis Pantalica is also a high place of canyoning on the island!

By walking around the Anapo valley, the gaze can only be retained by the many cavities that scatter the rocky walls of the cliffs. This set, classified at Unesco, composes the ancient Necropolis Pantalica...

When the level of the river is sufficient, don’t hesitate to dive in fresh water, ideal to rhythm this hike!

6. Ascension of the rock Cefalù

The climb of the rock of Cefalù is both an in-depth visit of the city coupled with a nice hike in Sicily: the distance to go is nothing insurmountable, but with a little sun and heat as there are often here, the trip can be more physical than expected!

During the climbing, enjoy it to discover the ruins of the temple of Diane, and of course the castle of Cefalù that covers the summit: the point of view is one of the most sought after of Sicily!

7. The Monts Sartorius near Etna

Back in the Etna massif, where all walks are not reserved for experienced trekkers. For proof, the discovery of the Monts Sartorius, created by an eruption in the 19th century, is for all audiences.

Indeed, this easy level Sicily hike is still superb in the volcanic setting, especially appreciated by the youngest walkers...

8. Walk and swim in Cava Grande di Cassibile

In the region Syracuse , at the level of the Iblei Mountains, the tireless work of erosion of nature created the amazing limestone landscapes of Cava Grande di Cassibile.

This beautiful hike in moderate Sicily offers a descent to the bottom of the valley for a fresh water bath not to be missed, between natural basins and small waterfalls, before making a loop to the starting point.

9. Climb the Monte Pellegrino to Palermo

Palermo is a must-see stage, but it is not the fact of being in town that will prevent us from returning to Sicily!

Depaysement assured indeed with this beautiful ascent above Palermo, to reach the summit of Monte Pellegrino which dominates the city at 609 m of altitude: stunning overview. The positive denial of this walk has nothing to do, it’s not just a health path: go equipped.

10. The Reserve of Vendicari and its birds

The Reserve of Vendicari, with its large lagoon and beautiful sandy beaches (spiaggia Calamosche, spiaggia di Vendicari), is a true little protected paradise, coupled with a refuge for birds, including the iconic pink Flemish.

This is why this hike in Sicily is usually done with binoculars and bathing suit always at hand! Think about it before you start on the trail...

11. Ascension of the Etna, by the north face

Here is a sporting variant of the ascent of the Etna, on the north side, at the departure of Piano Provenzana. A route that differs from the most commonly used southern face, with more present vegetation and less world, for a higher technical level.

Let’s say that this is a difficult Sicily hike, which requires walking equipment and good physical shape: the walkers prepared for this ascent will be widely rewarded with their efforts, approaching the crater still active at the top of the Etna...