Unknown Sicily: Madonie Natural Park
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationItaly / Sicily
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AgeFrom 16 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions47.01 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover an exceptional natural sanctuary during a 4-day getaway to the heart of the Madonie Park . This region, a true jewel of Sicily , boasts unique biodiversity , among the richest in the Mediterranean basin. You'll settle into Castelbuono , a village steeped in history where Neolithic, Greek, and Byzantine legacies intertwine. Staying in a comfortable 4-star hotel , you'll enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of this valley, located just a short distance from the seaside resort of Cefalù .
Your adventure revolves around immersive and authentic experiences. Hop on an e-bike for a ride between Castelbuono and Pollina, along the famous Manna Route . This route will allow you to discover the secrets of the ash tree and its precious natural substance. To end your stay in style, an inflatable boat excursion will take you to the heart of the impressive Tiberio Gorge , a wild and UNESCO-listed site. Between cultural heritage and wild immersion, experience a Sicilian interlude punctuated by exploration and serenity.
The highlights
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Guided e-bike tour from Castelbuono to Pollina, the road to manna
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Zodiac excursions to the Tiberio Gorges
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Discovering a little-known and authentic Sicily
Photos
Sport
Level
Summer multi-activity
In figures
MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 36 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1000 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Dirt road
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h
Management
Program
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Palermo Airport - Castelbuono
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Upon arrival at Palermo airport you will pick up your rental car and head to Castelbuono.
Depending on the arrival time you may be able to stop on the way in Palermo and visit the capital of Sicily.
Arrival and overnight stay at the Paradiso delle Madonie hotel.
Day 1 -
E-bike excursion Castelbuono - Pollina
- Activity MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 36 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Predominant type of terrain Dirt road
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast and e-bike excursion.
Perched on a rocky spur at an altitude of over 750 meters, the picturesque village of Pollina offers breathtaking panoramas. Together, we will stroll through its characteristic alleyways, climbing up to the historic Maurolico Tower and the Pietra Rosa Theatre, from where we can admire a spectacular view. During the tour, we will also discover the Madonie manna, once known as "dew honey," a precious gift of nature steeped in ancient traditions.
Lunch and the rest of the day are free.
Day 2 -
The Tiberio Gorge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast you will go to San Mauro Castelverde (about 30km from Castelbuono) to visit the Tiberio Gorges.
The excursion, lasting approximately two hours, includes a raft trip through the geological site and a walk along the Pollina River. Depending on the season, the route either follows the river downstream to the small gorges or upstream to the small lakes where swimming is permitted. Throughout the journey, visitors can admire the flora and fauna typical of river environments. Bee-eaters, yellow wagtails, buzzards, a pair of golden eagles, tawny owls, little owls, crabs, eels, frogs, and dragonflies are among the animal species that inhabit the Tiberio Gorge area.
At the end of the hike, you can use the services offered by the La Rocca picnic area (toilets, changing rooms, bar, shower, tables and barbecue).
Day 3 -
Castelbuono - Palermo Airport
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast and depending on the schedule of your return flight, you will go to Palermo airport and after returning the car you will be able to board.
Day 4
Note
The organization of the e-bike excursion depends on the weather conditions.
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- 3 nights in a 4-star hotel Paradiso delle Madonie
- 3 breakfasts
- 3-day AVIS Group C car rental /EDMR
- An e-bike excursion in the Madonie mountains
- A rafting trip to the Tiberio Gorges
The price does not include
- Flights
- Meal
- Tips
- Tourist taxes
- Petrol/diesel
- Parking
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Clothing to bring
- Shorts, t-shirt, rock shoes or sneakers, cap for the sun.
- Windproof jacket, small backpack, sunscreen.