Nebrodi Mountains rural escapes
Covering northern Sicily between Etna and the Tyrrhenian coast, the **Nebrodi Mountains** form the island’s largest protected natural area. Known for their ancient forests, peaceful lakes, and traditional shepherd culture, they are the perfect destination for travelers seeking a genuine **rural Sicilian escape**.
- Visit Sicily
- 3 min read
Nebrodi Mountains Rural Escapes
🌿 Overview
The Nebrodi Mountains stretch across northeastern Sicily, forming part of the Nebrodi Regional Natural Park (Parco dei Nebrodi) — the largest natural park on the island, covering over 85,000 hectares. This region is often called the “green lung of Sicily” for its vast forests, rolling meadows, and clean air. Compared to the volcanic drama of Etna or the rocky Madonie peaks, Nebrodi offers softer, greener landscapes and a slower pace of life.
🏞️ Landscape and Nature
The park’s terrain includes beech, oak, and cork forests, with mountain ridges rising up to 1,847 m at Monte Soro. The area is dotted with lakes, waterfalls, and wide plateaus, offering a refuge for wildlife like wild boar, eagles, foxes, porcupines, and even rare black storks.
Notable Natural Sights
- Lago Biviere di Cesarò: a serene lake surrounded by reeds and water lilies, perfect for birdwatching.
- Lago Maulazzo: an artificial lake near Monte Soro, famous for its mirror-like reflections of the beech forest.
- Cascate del Catafurco: a beautiful waterfall near Galati Mamertino, reached by a scenic walking trail.
🥾 Best Hiking and Outdoor Experiences
- Monte Soro Trail: climb to the highest peak in the Nebrodi for panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Aeolian Islands.
- Dorsale dei Nebrodi (Nebrodi Ridge Trail): a long-distance route (70+ km) connecting Floresta to Mistretta through forests, lakes, and villages — ideal for multi-day trekking.
- Catafurco Waterfall Trail: easy and family-friendly hike through gorges and rural landscapes.
- Horseback riding or mountain biking along forest paths and old shepherd routes.
🏘️ Villages and Rural Life
The Nebrodi region is dotted with charming hill towns that preserve ancient traditions:
- San Fratello: known for its Norman heritage and the unique local dialect.
- Cesarò: a great base for exploring the central Nebrodi area.
- Mistretta: historic town with medieval alleys and scenic views.
- Floresta: Sicily’s highest village (1,275 m), surrounded by meadows and summer pastures.
Many villages host agriturismi (farm stays) where visitors can enjoy home-cooked meals, local wines, and rural hospitality.
🍖 Local Food and Traditions
Nebrodi cuisine is rustic and deeply tied to the land:
- Nebrodi black pig (Suino Nero dei Nebrodi): prized for its cured meats and sausages.
- Cheeses: ricotta, pecorino, and provoletta made from local milk.
- Wild mushrooms and forest herbs in autumn.
- Chestnuts and honey from mountain villages.
You can also sample slow food specialties and traditional feasts celebrating local produce.
🌳 Activities Beyond Hiking
- Wildlife watching and photography in the dense forests.
- Cultural festivals in small towns — celebrating saints, harvests, and ancient rituals.
- Stargazing: the Nebrodi skies are among Sicily’s clearest, with minimal light pollution.
🚗 Getting There
- By car: From Catania or Messina, take the A19 or A20 motorways and follow signs toward Cesarò, San Fratello, or Mistretta.
- By bus: limited connections — a car is recommended for flexibility.
- Best time to visit: late spring to early autumn for hiking; autumn for food festivals and forest colors.
🧭 Summary
The Nebrodi Mountains are Sicily’s peaceful, pastoral heart — a place where ancient forests, rural life, and unspoiled nature coexist. Perfect for hiking, photography, and authentic agritourism, Nebrodi offers a refreshing contrast to coastal Sicily. It’s the ideal retreat for travelers seeking tranquility, tradition, and natural beauty in one unforgettable landscape.