Walking in Sicily

Year: 2000 Format: 11x17 Pages: 240 Photo: b/w col It's incredible, but the first hiking guide covering the entire Sicilian territory and smaller islands was written by an Englishman, published by an English publisher and, clearly English language. The 42 excursions presented take place in the surroundings of Etna, in the Nebrodi and Madonie Park, in the natural reserves of Vendicari, Monte Cofano, dello Zingaro, in the Palermo hinterland, near the coast between Trapani and Agrigento, in the surroundings of Noto, in the Egadi and Aeolian Islands. The extraordinary historical and naturalistic values of this land are always highlighted, from tuna fisheries to volcanoes, from temples to orchards. Cartographic tables in the text. Glossary of Italian/English terms. Congratulations to Gillian Price who succeeded in an undertaking that was previously taboo for local writers and publishers. Sicily's stunning range of scenery, combined with its Mediterranean climate, good transport and age-old pathways make it the ideal walking destination. This guidebook leads walkers along river valleys, past ancient ruins and up to volcanoes and mountain peaks. It also explores Sicily's string of peaceful islands set in turquoise waters. There are 42 varied routes on Sicily, including Mount Etna, the Madonie and Nebrodi mountains and the Egadi and Aeolian islands. There are both short and long distance routes that range from 3 to 23km in length so there is a route to suit all abilities. For the walks around Mount Etna the walking is generally on forestry tracks and the waymarking is all but absent on many routes. Orientation can be tricky in the thick woods as well as on the open lava terrain which is all but devoid of useful landmarks; it is especially difficult and dangerous if low cloud and mist roll in which is not uncommon. Moreover, the high iron content of the rock can play havock with compass readings. In English.