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Northeast Sicily : Overview & Top 10

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The northeast of Sicily can’t help but be dominated by Mount Etna, although the region also consists of three mountain ranges, a group of islands with another active volcano, and two of Sicily’s largest cities. Parts of this area have been devastated by wars, earthquakes, tidal waves and lava flows, but the land and the people that live on it come back after each ordeal, heartier and more steadfast. Perhaps that is why people here celebrate feast days of their patron saints with so much fervour. High up in the hills and peaks of the Nebrodi and Madonie mountains, it often seems like nothing has changed for eons – the same castles that safeguarded the royal passageways of the interior now stand guard over modern autostrada.

  • This store’s booty of Aeolian goods includes capers of every kind, sweet sundried tomatoes, honey, oregano and wine.

  • Giardini-Naxos

    According to ancient historians Naxos was founded in 734 BC after a ship was blown off course as it sailed to southern Italy, and it became the first Greek settlement in Sicily. Naxos never became a powerhouse but was mother city to successive colonies and the setting off point for messengers carrying news back to Greece. The ruins, defensive walls and parts of a temple are enclosed within a nicely kept park. A small museum houses finds from the Greek site, as well as finds recovered from shipwrecks.

  • 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.

  • The trails of the Madonie can be used by horse riders too. Several groups arrange trips.

  • Hostaria Bellini, Adrano

    A perfect little trattoria . Try the spicy aubergine (eggplant) pasta.

  • Devoted to the cuisine of Ragusa, Syracuse and Catania, this restaurant focuses on high-quality local produce. The wine list offers more than 20 labels from the Etna region alone.

  • You choose the style of heel and pick your own straps, and the artisans in this store will make custom-made sandals of wood and leather. All you have to do is come back later to pick them up.

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