Sustainable Sicily: green itineraries through nature reserves and parks

Nebrodi Park is one of the largest and greenest mountain areas on the island. Here, you will find forest areas such as the Bosco della Tassita, the Maulazzo Lakes and the Biviere di Cesarò, set within a profoundly peaceful landscape.

Most of the trails are accessible, allowing you to explore the area even without any special training. Villages such as Cesarò and San Fratello retain a strong identity, linked to the mountains and sheep farming. Farm stays and small local producers add the finishing touch to an authentic experience, built on clean air and a direct connection with the local area.

The Madonie Regional Park, recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is a commendable example of environmental protection and cultural enhancement. The area is home to an extraordinary variety of plant and animal species, as well as mountain landscapes of great scientific interest.

Villages such as Isnello, Petralia Soprana and Petralia Sottana exemplify a model of tourism that is closely linked to local communities. With its scenic trails, nature observatories and widespread hospitality, this itinerary is ideal for those seeking both environmental and social sustainability.

Sicily's north-western coast offers a variety of coastal environments, where the sea and the land meet in protected natural settings. The Zingaro Nature Reserve stretches along a section of coast that can only be explored on foot, via scenic trails that link coves, areas of Mediterranean scrub and hills overlooking the sea. It is an ideal area to visit at a leisurely pace, taking your time and respecting the environment.

Further along the coast, the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans offer a landscape where human activity coexists with nature. Salt pans, canals and mills are characteristic of this area, which is now also important due to the presence of numerous bird species. Thanks to its flat trails and controlled access, the area is ideal for walks, wildlife watching and off-season visits.

Etna National Park shows how an extreme environment can be managed responsibly. Lava flows, forests and craters coexist in a constantly changing landscape, which can be accessed via authorised trails and accompanied by local guides.

The vineyards and sustainable farming practices testify to the resilience of Etna's communities. Eco-friendly mountain huts and facilities allow visitors to experience the volcano in a way that is mindful of the environmental impact, turning the visit into a direct encounter with nature.

Choosing Sicily as a green destination means travelling more responsibly, all year round. Visiting parks and reserves out of season reduces the impact on the local area and enhances the value of the experience, promoting more conscious, respectful and sustainable tourism.

In the south-east of Sicily, in the Noto area, the Vendicari Nature Reserve protects an extensive system of coastal habitats. The lagoons and stretches of beach form an environment of great natural value, which is particularly important for migratory birds to stop over and nest.

Internal trails allow you to explore the reserve on foot, passing through a variety of environments within a unique and peaceful natural setting.

It is the perfect destination for those who want to discover Sicily's biodiversity while walking through landscapes of rare beauty.