DK Travel : Sicily : Outdoor

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Cycling

All but the most serious cyclists may have a rough time on the steep terrain and on roads populated by Sicilian drivers who are not on the lookout for bikes. Cycling is a great way to sightsee in towns, however, and many offer free bike rentals through tourist offices. Renting a bicycle on the offshore islands is a convenient way to get around.
Dwarf Palm

The tiny palm flourishes in the northwest; its fronds are used by craftsmen for weaving baskets and brooms.
Enna

From the valley floor to the east, Enna presents an impressive sight, the Rock of Demeter dominating the cliff above the site where Persephone was abducted by Hades (see Enna).
Eraclea Minoa

Below the ruins of the Greek city (see Eraclea Minoa) a little seaside village comes to life in summer. The sandy beach is long, wide and open, and buffered by pine woods. At either end are two bars providing beach chairs and snacks.
Erosion

The Romans deforested Sicily to make way for profitable wheat farms. The result here is treeless earth, parched for much of the year and prone to drastic run-off during rains. When flooded with more water than they can handle, entire hillsides crumble into the sea.
Faraglione

The rock towers at Scopello Tonnara jut out of the water, and are circled by seagulls who nest in the rocks’ crevices.
Fennel

Bright yellow, fluffy green or tall and crispy brown, depending upon the season, it covers hillsides and springs up along the side of roads.
Fishing, Favignana

You can’t join in the traditional matanza fishing ritual, although you can watch it in progress if you happen to be there when the tuna are running (see Fishing Techniques). You can also rent a boat with a local captain for a day’s fishing.
Flowering Vines

Growing out of control and perfuming the countryside are jasmine, bougainvillea, honeysuckle and morning glory.
Forests

The few remains of once prevalent pine, oak, cork-oak and beech forests are now carefully protected.