Nebrodi Park

The Nebrodi Park is the largest protected natural area in Sicily, covering some 88,000 hectares between the provinces of Messina, Enna and Catania. Established in 1993, the park is an integral part of the Sicilian Apennines, along with the Peloritani and Madonie mountains, offering a varied landscape ranging from lush forests to mountainous peaks.

🌿 Nature and biodiversity

The park is home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna. Its forests include cork, turkey oak and beech forests, including the Tassita Forestknown for the presence of the yew tree (Taxus baccata), and the Mangalaviti forest. The fauna is equally rich, with species such as the Nebrodi black swinewild boar, fox, porcupine and numerous birds of prey, including the golden eagle and griffon vulture. The park is also an important habitat for many migratory and resident bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Nebrodi Park+2Wikipedia+2Ciclovia Parks Sicily+2

🏞️ Places to visit

• Monte Soro: the highest peak of the Nebrodi, at 1,847 metres, offers breathtaking views as far as the Aeolian Islands and Mount Etna.ttattago.com+4Wikipedia+4Sicily-Etna.it+4

• Lake Biviere of Cesarò: located at an altitude of 1,278 metres, is the most significant high-altitude wetland in Sicily, surrounded by a dense beech forest. tripnacria+2Wikipedia+2www.travel365.it+2

• Lake Maulazzo: an artificial lake in a picturesque setting, ideal for hiking and picnics.

• Catafurco Waterfall: a spectacular waterfall of about 30 metres, located in the Galati Mamertino area, with a natural pool at the base called 'Marmitta dei Giganti'. Sicily-Etna.it+4Wikipedia+4Where to Travel+4

• Crasto Rocks: impressive limestone rock formations that provide ideal habitats for the golden eagle and griffon vulture. Wikipedia

🚶‍♂️ Excursions and Activities

The park is criss-crossed by numerous hiking trails, including:Sicily-Etna.it

• Nebrodi Ridge: a route of around 70 km that crosses the entire park, offering spectacular views and the chance to immerse oneself in unspoilt nature.

• Springs Trail: an 18 km route leading through natural springs and breathtaking landscapes.Sicily-Etna.it

In addition to trekking, the park offers opportunities for cycling, horse riding and birdwatching, thanks to its rich biodiversity. Sicily-Etna.it

🏘️ Villages and traditions

Within the park are numerous characteristic villages, including:

• Galati Mamertino: known for its natural landscapes and the possibility of spotting deer.Sicily-Etna.it

• Sant'Agata di Militello: located on the Tyrrhenian coast, offers a combination of sea and mountains.Wikipedia

• Bronte: famous for pistachio production, with a historical centre rich in history and culture. The Wom Travel

These villages preserve centuries-old traditions, local crafts and a typical cuisine that reflects the identity of the area.

🍽️ Local Flavours

The Nebrodi gastronomy is rich and varied. Typical products include:

• Cheeses: such as canestrato, pecorino and provola, produced according to traditional methods.Wikipedia

• Salumi: obtained from the Nebrodi black pig, reared in the wild.Ciclovia Parks Sicily+2Sicily-Etna.it+2Wikipedia+2

• Sweets: including royal pastry, crispelle and almond paste.Wikipedia

These authentic flavours can be sampled in the many local agritourisms and restaurants that promote the excellence of the area.

ℹ️ Useful information

• Access: The park is easily accessible from various locations in Sicily, with main access via the SS116, SS117 and SS289 state roads.

• Best time to visit: spring and autumn, when the climate is mild and nature offers unique colour spectacles.

• Recommended activities: excursions, birdwatching, cultural visits to villages, food and wine tastings.