Day 1: Welcome.
Upon arrival at Palermo (or Catania) airport, you will be transferred to Cammarata, where you will settle into the pre-arranged accommodation. Before dinner, enjoy a welcome cocktail and meet your guide during the presentation of the tour. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Discovering Cammarata and San Giovanni Gemini.
The day begins with breakfast, followed by a visit to Cammarata and San Giovanni Gemini. As we wander through the alleys of Cammarata's historic center, we'll explore its captivating history that dates back to the Norman period. The urban landscape, marked by the narrow courtyards and staircases characteristic of the Arab quarter, promises a unique spectacle. Our exploration includes a culinary stop at a renowned trattoria, celebrated for its regional specialties and recognized excellence. We will savor high-quality cheeses, fresh vegetables, locally-sourced meat, homemade pasta with seasonal ingredients, and traditional desserts. Our journey continues to San Giovanni Gemini to visit the main church, home to the Black Christ "Gesù Nazarè", a figure deeply revered and celebrated in a grand annual festival. After our visits, enjoy some free time for a cocktail in the town center. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at the farmhouse.
Day 3: Journey Through Lercara Friddi, Prizzi, Palazzo Adriano, Corleone, and Bosco della Ficuzza.
Following breakfast, our adventure leads us to Lercara Friddi, celebrated not only as the birthplace of Frank Sinatra's grandparents but also for its impressive main church. Within its crypt, over 1000 nativity scenes are displayed, offering a unique cultural insight. The journey proceeds to Prizzi, a quaint village of Greek origin, where its narrow alleys, intimate courtyards, and steep ascents cast a medieval spell. A stroll through its winding paths brings us to Sparacio square, adorned with thematic murals of exceptional beauty.
Our exploration extends to Palazzo Adriano, renowned for its role in the Oscar-winning film "Cinema Paradiso". We'll wander through the historic center and visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which follows the Greek-Byzantine rite. After enjoying a coffee break, we'll immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the "Ficuzza" nature reserve, visiting the hunting lodge of King Ferdinand IV of Bourbon and the LIPU bird sanctuary.
Lunch promises an idyllic picnic in the park, enhanced by local wines and traditional delicacies. The afternoon features a visit to Corleone, famously dubbed the "twilight" of the Sosio Valley and etched in cinematic history through "The Godfather". Our day concludes with a return to the farmhouse for a traditional dinner and a night of well-earned rest.
Day 4: Ascending Monte Cammarata, Discovering the Hermitage of Santa Rosalia, and Marveling at the Celestial Theater of Andromeda.
Following our morning meal, we set off towards Pizzo della Rondine, embarking on the scenic Ivy Path that leads us into the heart of the Monte Cammarata nature reserve. This segment of Sicily stands out as a bastion of biodiversity, offering awe-inspiring vistas of lush forests and majestic rock landscapes. Our exploration continues to the secluded Hermitage of Santa Rosalia at Quisquina, a place steeped in sacred history and nestled among rugged rocks and dense greenery. This sanctuary, devoted to Palermo's patron saint, serves as a serene haven for contemplation and spiritual renewal. Within its ancient walls and cool caverns, we seize a moment of quiet reflection, adding a profound spiritual layer to our adventure.
Embracing the site's serenity, we indulge in a picnic, enjoying the tastes of local cuisine in the embrace of the natural world. The afternoon's journey leads us to the Theater of Andromeda, an extraordinary open-air sculpture featuring 108 stone blocks that correspond to the stars of the Andromeda constellation. More than a homage to the stars, this site presents us with a stunning panoramic spectacle of the land around us, elevating our experience into the realm of the magical.
Our day wraps up with a return to the farmhouse for a traditional Sicilian dinner, capping off the day with flavors that echo the island's rich culinary heritage, followed by a night of restful sleep.
5th Day: Navigating the Sosio River and Exploring the Marvels of Caltabellotta.
Kicking off with a nourishing breakfast, we embark on a bus journey towards the trailhead beside the Sosio river. This route plunges us into a distinctive riverside setting, where we uncover the hidden gem of an old hydroelectric power plant nestled within deep gorges ("naches") and surrounded by verdant riverside flora. A nature-encircled packed lunch marks a pause in our exploration. Come afternoon, the storied Caltabellotta welcomes us. With a knowledgeable guide, we traverse the lanes of this enchanting town, taking in sights like the cathedral of Arab heritage, the San Pellegrino convent, and enigmatic caves. Our exploration culminates at the Civic Museum, home to Maestro Rizzuti's art pieces. Post-discovery, we retreat to our hotel for a traditional dinner and a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Traversing the Magna Via Francigena.
Today, we delve into the allure of the legendary Magna Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage path that has captivated an increasing number of travelers in recent years. Following a hearty breakfast, we leave the farmhouse for Castronovo di Sicilia, a picturesque village cradled by green hills, celebrated for its rich history and long-standing traditions. From here, we commence our segment of the journey towards Cammarata. Upon hike completion, a bus awaits to ferry us back to our lodgings. Yet, the day holds more in store: a culinary feast featuring local specialties and traditional fare. Prepare to be enthralled and indulged by the genuine tastes of Sicily!
Day 7: Delving into Mussomeli, Milena, and Agricultural Life in Cammarata.
Starting the day with a refreshing breakfast, our journey leads us to the grandiose Manfredonico Castle in Mussomeli. Erected between the 14th and 15th centuries, this formidable structure rises 778 meters above sea level, offering a commanding view of the valley beneath. The castle, with its robust towers, solid walls, and hidden chambers, narrates tales of historic battles, aristocracy, and medieval schemes. Our exploration proceeds to Milena to visit the "house of peasant culture." Nestled within one of the 10 "ROBBE" (small house clusters near the town's heart), this 19th-century farmhouse unveils the rich tapestry of Sicilian rural life from bygone days.
Lunch takes us to a nearby farm in Cammarata, where we dive into the world of dairy production. This immersive experience allows us to interact with the farm animals, explore the stables and milking facilities, and culminates in a tasting of exquisite local cheeses paired with fine wine. The afternoon is yours to unwind at our comfortable lodgings. The day concludes with a traditional Sicilian dinner and a restful night.
Day 8: Farewell to the Monti Sicani.
After our last breakfast together, we provide transfers to the airport or offer the option to prolong your stay at our hotels, leaving you with memories of the magnificent Monti Sicani region that will last a lifetime.
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