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From the ruins of the Norman castle above Caltabellota (see Caltabellotta) you can see all the way to the flat coast stretching toward Marsala and the hilly interior dotted with villages and farms.

From the ruins of Eraclea Minoa on top of a white sandstone cliff, look down to the wide stretch of sandy beach and the dark sea (see Eraclea Minoa).

From the residential sector on the east hill, look down on the agora (forum) and out towards the east coast and the outline of Mount Etna (see Morgantina).

The beaches west of Castellammare are prettier and less populated than those to the east. There are plenty of gorgeous coves with clear water – most spectacular are those with pebble beaches in Lo Zingaro (see Lo Zingaro) and at Scopello Tonnara, with its rock towers and old boat ramp for sunbathing.

Find great hikes all over the island, whether you’re looking for a strenuous climb up a volcano, a long walk through the green hills of the interior or an exciting hike on trails clinging to the cliffs above the blue sea. Most nature reserves are orientata (orientated), meaning that they have marked trails that are usually graded for difficulty. Try Mount Etna, Stromboli or Vulcano, or the gorges of the southeast. Lo Zingaro has a good selection of trails ranging in difficulty, as do the parks of the Nebrodi and Madonie mountain ranges (see Madonie Mountains).

You can hike up the slopes to Vulcano’s crater following the signs al cratere . Take a guide from the hydrofoil dock up the active volcano Stromboli.

The Madonie mountains are crisscrossed with marked trails graded for difficulty; several trails are suitable for the disabled. The trail map is available from the park service, tourist offices of larger towns within the park system, or from the tourist office in Palermo. The Italian Alpine Club organizes guided excursions.

Ascend towards the main crater or hike the slopes accompanied by a guide.

The Nebrodi Mountain Park encompasses protected yew and beech woods, pastureland, a wetlands habitat for migratory birds, birds of prey and wild horses. The park includes 21 villages where artisans produce local goods and food. Marked trails are available for hiking.

Nature reserves such as Mount Etna, the Madonie and Nebrodi mountain ranges and Lo Zingaro are populated with small farms that rent horses. Ask at the nearest base hotel or check park literature for equiturismo and maneggio (stables).