Palermo Hiking Tour: Monte Pellegrino Off the Beaten Path

Hike to the top of Monte Pellegrino via a little-known route and discover a beautiful part of Palermo that few tourists ever see. Those who visit Palermo usually hear of Monte Pellegrino as the site of the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia. Few of them know that the area is a nature reserve where falcons, martens, wild goats, and wild boar can be found. A wood covers large parts of this rocky promontory, which offers hikers stunning views on all its sides. On clear days, one can see as far as the Aeolian Islands. • Follow a custom trail designed to connect the best parts of the nature reserve. • Walk in a variety of environments, from woods and talus slopes to gorges and cliffs overlooking the sea. • Learn about the history of this fascinating site and about Palermitans’ efforts to protect it from property developers. • Enjoy the convenience of a local guide who is a native English speaker. • Meet up with your guide in the city to simplify your journey by public transport (if you wish).

1. 1

   Parco della Favorita

   1 hour

   The moderate/challenging version of this hike begins in the Favorita Park, which is part of the Monte Pellegrino Nature Reserve. Initially, we will follow one of the ancient access routes to the promontory (not the Valle del Porco). This route zig-zags up the mountain among trees. Despite being close to the city, it has a strong mountainous feel—it even crosses some talus. Along this trail, you will learn about the kings who used the Favorita Park as their hunting ground. Please note that we will not visit the main monuments of the park. We will hike close to the base of Monte Pellegrino, before starting to go up its slope. (If you choose the easy/moderate version of this hike, we will start from the square in front of the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, near the top of the mountain, where the Antico Chiosco Bar Oliveri is located.)

2. 2

   Monte Pellegrino

   3 hours

   Once we reach the higher part of the monte, we will walk through its different landscapes (woods, pastures, gorges, and cliffs). During this part, you will learn about the history of the Pellegrino, from the hunter-gatherers who drew on the walls of its caves to the Palermitans who protested against selling the area to property developers. You will stare into an "abyss" connected to a cave along the coast, and you will visit the best lookout points. Details: • Difficulty level: moderate-challenging (modifiable to easy-moderate; let me know your choice via message) • Ascent: 800 m (easy-moderate option: 250 m) • Distance: 10 km (easy-moderate option: 8 km) • Terrain: paths with stony sections. After rain, some paths might become slippery, and the guide might modify the itinerary for your safety. The hike ends with a steep descent with some rock steps; this part can be avoided by leaving the monte by bus. Shoes with good grip are required (hiking or trail running shoes). No sandals.

3. 3

   Santuario di Santa Rosalia

   30 min

   If you wish, you may also visit Santa Rosalia’s sanctuary, which is built inside the rock face of the mountain – a unique site in Sicily. A note on weather conditions and appropriate clothing: We always check the forecast to make sure that you can enjoy the hiking experience under the right conditions. This doesn’t mean that the tour will take place only with sunshine and clear blue skies. However, if persistent rain, strong winds or heavy mist are forecast, we will cancel the hike. Regarding clothing, from autumn to spring, it is important to have a waterproof item with you (jacket, k-way or poncho). Please also be advised that the temperature on top of Monte Pellegrino is cooler, and the weather often windier, than in the middle of Palermo. Dressing with layers is the best option. Finally, shoes with good grip are required (hiking or trail running shoes). No sandals.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.