Sicily in winter, don’t miss these 5 mountain places
Sicily in winter is unique. Thinking of this island only as a summer destination is wrong because it offers so much even in the other seasons. Up in the mountains you can find many small charming villages where you can fully experience the magic of Christmas…and beyond. Let’s discover some ideal destinations for a winter trip with Sicilian Secrets.
Visiting Sicily in winter is an experience often far from common opinion. Anyone who thinks it’s only beautiful in summer is wrong! This territory is very varied and beyond the wonderful beaches, there are some small villages nestled in the mountains that from December onwards turn into picturesque and suggestive gems. So why don’t you organize a trip to plunge into these beautiful places? Here are 5 ideas (plus one!)…off the map!
Nicolosi
Nicolosi is a village in the province of Catania, and anyone wishing to go trekking or skiing on Mount Etna should stop here. Due to the proximity to the volcano, the Volcanological Museum of Etna should not to be missed, it holds many secrets relating to this…explosive place! Visit also the Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena, now the seat of the Etna Park Authority. Lastly? A shopping tour among the local shops.
From Montalbano Elicona…
One of the villages you should put in your bucket list to fall in love with Sicily in winter is Montalbano Elicona, in the province of Messina. Once you arrive here in the heart of the Nebrodi Park, you will feel like in a fairy tale. The medieval castle is the main landmark, but there are also some natural attractions ranging from luxuriant vegetation to the megaliths of Argimusco, i.e. rocks that have been shaped over time recalling human faces and animals.
…to Floresta
Not far from Montalbano Elicona, there is a real gem: the village of Floresta. Why is it so famous? Because it is located at 1,275 meters above sea level, thus winning the gold medal as the ‘highest’ municipality in Sicily.
Monterosso Almo
Hunters of breathtaking panorama (and maybe even photography lovers) will melt in front of the landscapes of Monterosso Almo, in the province of Ragusa. It is a small village in the Iblei Mountains which is not only characterized by its ancient churches but also by the trails for cycling or walking…here is a great way to forget about stress and breathe the fresh mountain air!
Santo Stefano Quisquina
Let’s move to the province of Agrigento, here we find Santo Stefano Quisquina. The hermitage, the castle and a church right on top of the mountain – not to mention the natural frame given by the Sicani Mountains – give this town a very seductive allure. Its peculiarity? Water! The sound of the Platani and Magazzolo rivers will enchant you!
Ferla
The last stop to enjoy Sicily in winter is in Ferla, in the province of Syracuse. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and especially during the Christmas period it becomes the home of numerous handcrafted nativity scenes that attract the interest of visitors. Furthermore, the two churches of Sant’Antonio Abate and San Sebastiano, together with the hiking trails, are a sort of magnet for tourists.
