A region of incredible diversity, combining olive groves, typical vineyards, and charming Mediterranean beaches with the volcanic cliffs of Mount Etna, beautiful Sicily has long been overlooked by hikers. Looking for a backpacking trek near Palermo, in Erice or in the Aegates Islands? Discover in this article the unmissable treasures of Sicily.

Erice, the Norman town

Erice has several cards to play in attracting hikers. The romanticism of Norman architecture dominates the landscape. Hiking here varies across all tones: colorful among the vineyards, nostalgic at the Venere Ericina temple, which preserves the memory of the Hellenistic era, majestic when reaching the Fort of Venus or visiting the old town ramparts. Perched on a rocky hill, Erice rightfully takes pride in boasting some of the most beautiful panoramas in Sicily. On clear days, you can see the Aegates Islands, Ustica Island, and even the Tunisian Cape Don from its hills overlooking the sea.

After a turbulent past where Saracens, Byzantines, Spanish and Genoese took control in turn, the town strongly developed the wine industry and fishing. Though COVID-19 brought tourism to its knees, the once-deserted trails now eagerly await their regular visitors. Between Norman towers, Aragonese castles and Byzantine churches clinging to mountainsides, not to mention emblematic wine landscapes, the town of Erice won't disappoint hikers.

The Aeolian Archipelago, the most panoramic

Off the Messina coast, the Aeolian Islands attract stressed city dwellers and lovers of wild destinations. They were formed millennia ago due to an underwater volcanic event. Lipari, the largest of the seven islands in the archipelago, is favored by tour operators. Lace up your hiking boots and head toward Stromboli and Vulcano. Between alpinism, wandering through vineyards and citrus groves, and exploring stunning coral reefs, the Aeolian Islands promise a captivating journey.

Etna, a powerful and ardent volcano

Unsurprisingly, Etna ranks among the most memorable hiking sites in Sicily. The famous mountain resort has much to offer travelers: an active volcano, a mosaic of stunning landscapes ranging from meadows, beech forests and conifers to lava layers, the promise of fresh air and relaxation, and an altitude of 3,245 m that breaks all records. If you're not in excellent physical condition, the route to the summit is accessible by car or cable car. But trekking enthusiasts will make the climb up Etna on foot preferably accompanied by a forest ranger guide. The magical viewpoint at the summit is well worth the effort and fatigue.

The Pantalica burial site, the timeless

In the surroundings of Syracuse, the Pantalica necropolis is an archaeological monument listed by UNESCO. It's hard to believe that thousands of years ago, the hill overlooking the necropolis bustled with urban life. Villagers would hollow out granite blocks and haul them down by ropes toward the valley. The site contains no fewer than 5,000 rock-cut tombs, carved directly into the stone.

Pantalica sits in a steep canyon where a river runs. Consequently, sports enthusiasts can extend their day with zip-lining or whitewater rafting.

The Torre Salsa Marine Park: when sea turtles steal the show

Torn between ecotourism and a beach day? The Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, nestled west of Agrigento, brilliantly combines both. You'll enjoy walking on a beach surrounded by dunes, coves and karst cliffs. While the spot attracts swimmers, you'll also encounter many newly hatched sea turtles here. Only a few will manage to escape the crabs and crustaceans and reach the ocean. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy in the Torre Salsa reserve.

The Vendicari Nature Reserve, a bird lover's paradise

Located on the southern coast of the island, the Vendicari Nature Reserve allows you to spend privileged time with birds. The reserve hosts migratory waders from all regions, which pass through to winter, feed, nest or reproduce. Pink flamingos rival elegance with white storks, silver egrets and cormorants. Without question, Vendicari is an unforgettable hiking destination.

Zingaro Natural Park, a hub for green tourism

Located on the western coast of the island, the Zingaro Nature Reserve is undoubtedly a hotspot of biodiversity. Crystal-clear waters lap the shores. Descending the verdant hills, you reach a coastline bordered by charming limestone coves. With this Polynesian-like setting, Zingaro Natural Park fully deserves its place in this ranking of the best destinations for hiking in Sicily.

Madonie Regional Natural Park: a nature escape followed by snorkeling

During a stay in Palermo, Sicily's capital, remember to make a stop at the Madonie Natural Park. As you venture into the superb protected forest, you'll recognize the typical vegetation formations of the south, some of which are unique to the island. Fallow deer and roe deer frequent the mountain heaths, while wild boar are visible in the undergrowth. The park is also populated with birds and small mammals. At 1,979 meters altitude, Mount Carbonara awaits climbing to enjoy a grand perspective from its summit. A haven of unspoiled nature just 70 km from downtown Palermo.

The Aegates Archipelago, the wildest

Less known than the neighboring Aeolian Islands, the Aegates lie off western Sicily, close to the Trapani coast. This neglect is an offense to their beauty: a marine nature reserve (37.45 km²). When you visit, a varied birdlife will compete for your camera's attention: Bonelli's eagle, shearwaters, petrels… Should fortune smile upon you, you might spot the Crocidura sicula aegatensis, a shrew with light gray fur found only in Malta and Sicily. From Levanzo to Marettimo, passing through Favignana, maquis, garrigues and olive groves unfold endlessly.

When to visit Sicily?

Take care to consult our guide thoroughly to choose the hiking destination that suits you. That said, the season in which you plan to visit Sicily is equally important. Summer is peak season: from June through the end of August, the sea is warm and sun-scorched beaches lend themselves to sunbathing. To enjoy a peaceful hike in a cooler climate, it's best to visit in April, May, September or October.