The Sicani mountains
Extraordinary heritage of biodiversity
​The establishment of the Parco dei Monti Sicani is justified by the presence of extraordinary vegetational, floristic, faunistic and geological emergencies affecting a vast hilly and mountainous area of ​​central-western Sicily. This naturalistic importance is testified by the presence in the area affected by 4 large established Natural Reserves, 15 Sites of Community Importance plus a vast Special Protection Area. With the establishment of the Monti Sicani park, the 4 large "Monte Cammarata" Oriented Nature Reserves are connected; “Monti di Palazzo Adriano and the Sosio Valley”; "Monte Carcaci"; "Monte Genuardo and S. Maria del Bosco"; which, with the inclusion of the connection areas, bring the area concerned to exceed 40,000 hectares.
The park is crossed by the Sosio river which feeds the Gammauta lake and then continues its journey until it becomes the Verdura river which flows into the Sicilian channel.
The Platani river is fed from Lake Fanaco, which partially runs through the territory of the reserve.
In terms of surface, the Monti Sicani park ranks 3rd among the Sicilian parks, after the Nebrodi park and the Etna park and before the Madonie park.
The Parco dei Monti Sicani included an area of 43,687 hectares divided between 12 municipalities straddling the provinces of Palermo and Agrigento...
Hey There
Between the Gulf of Palermo and the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, along the ancient road traversed by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans, lies the Sican territory, also known as the 'Monti Sicani'. This region boasts breathtaking landscapes and some of Italy's most characteristic villages. Through natural parks, wheat fields, and high-altitude settlements, this experience unveils the traditions and history of a culture that is unforgettable in its depth and beauty.
Flora
Hey There
The considerable diversity within the forests of the Parco dei Monti Sicani creates a mosaic of distinct ecological niches, supporting a rich array of fauna. The park is home to virtually all native Sicilian mammals, including the wild cat and the fox, along with several species of amphibians like the toad and the tree frog, numerous reptiles (with at least thirteen of the twenty-two native species), and over two hundred insect species. However, it is the avian population, particularly the birds of prey, that stands out for its faunal significance, with about one hundred native nesting species recorded in the park. This figure approaches the total number of bird species found throughout Sicily.
Among the most noteworthy and rare avian residents are approximately three breeding pairs of golden eagles, the falco lodaiolo, and the scarce Red Kite. Nocturnal hunters include the Barn Owl, the Owl, and the Allocco. The park also serves as a haven for numerous smaller birds that inhabit diverse ecosystems such as streams, gorges, cliffs, shrublands, meadows, and forests. Notable among these are the dipper, the nightingale, the raven, the mountain swallow, the cuckoo, the great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) — the last of its kind remaining in Sicily, the black cod, the blue tit, and the Blackcap. Additionally, the park's wetlands and artificial reservoirs support a significant population of birds of prey, including the marsh harrier and fisherman.
Many of the species mentioned are recognized by the European Community in the list of Birds of Community Interest, necessitating urgent conservation efforts. Furthermore, the Sican region has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its critical role in the nesting of diurnal raptors, marking it as one of the most significant locations in Italy for both density and diversity of species.
Fauna
There are also many and varied lakes that make up the heritage of the Sicanian reserve, such as Lake Prizzi (near Palazzo Adriano and Prizzi). This is an artificial lake built through a dam. Its waters feed the river Sosio. Lake Fanaco (near Castronovo di Sicilia): artificial lake created in the 1950s blocking the course of the Platani river. The lake is a destination for migratory birds and all around thrives a dense vegetation of Holm oaks, Poplars, Pines, Cypresses and Ash trees. The waters are home to specimens of: Carp, Perch, Eel and Trout and is used for sport fishing.
Hey There
The diverse array of flora, along with the plant communities and the extensive forests (approximately 20,000 hectares) within the Parco dei Monti Sicani, underscores its status as a remarkable haven of biodiversity. The park houses not only the characteristic ecosystems of regions with a Mediterranean climate but also encompasses a wide variety of plant species typically found in mountainous environments, indicative of cooler and more humid conditions. This rich botanical diversity is further accentuated by the presence of numerous peaks within the protected area, many of which soar well over a thousand meters in height, contributing to the varied ecological niches and the unique environmental conditions that foster such a wide range of plant life.
Discover the authentic "Sicilianity"
Genuinity
We focus a lot on the quality of our products, the high quality of cheese wines and the meat of the Sicani mountains, which over time has acquired the name of excellence in Sicily.
Traditions
We have a lot of festivals and traditions throughout the year. That’s the real Sicily!
Hight quality made in Sicily
bÃo Wines
bÃo food
bÃo meats
bÃo honey
bÃo vegetables
bÃo cheeses
What to see and what to do
Santa Rosalia Heritage
The history of the hermitage begins in 1624, when, a few weeks after the discovery of the remains of the Saint in the cave of Monte Pellegrino in Palermo.
Andromeda Theater
the open-air masterpiece built in homage to the constellation of Andromeda, was realized on one rock and give emotions to the visitor. The theater is also
a sculpture park, entirely realizedby the eclectic artist Lorenzo Reina.
Old Towns
The historical centers of the villages are really hidden treasures usually on the rocks that surround castles and churches of extraordinary beauty, and then immerse themselves in the daily life of the Sicilians.
Trekking and hiking
The regional park of the Sicani mountains offers many possibilities for nature lovers, nature trails and breathtaking views.
Drink & food
A very important chapter is precisely the food offered by the countries of the Sicani mountains, the high quality of the products that make visitors discover an exceptional culinary emotion.
Particulars
Traveling through the roads between the Sicani mountains among uncontaminated nature, you will find truly special hidden treasures.
Our tour
Our exclusive tour in the Sicani mountains, a more unique than rare experience, discover the true essence of Sicily