Etna view from Cesaro (Melvina Taylor)
The cold months can feel different when living in Sicily. The thought of Sicily typically evokes images of beaches, granitas by the sea and cacti-lined roads. It’s unlikely that pine forests, foggy mountains and chestnut gathering come to mind. However, near NAS Sigonella, there are plenty of places to get that woodland fix. Below are my three favorite places near the base to go for a nice nature-ey walk.
My top recommendation to experience the woodland in Sicily at Bosco Cerrita on Mt. Etna. The incline is not steep, as it’s more of a cobbled walk, but proper footwear is still necessary.
This is an out-and-back with minimal signage, but if you stick to the paved path, you’ll stay on track. This location is perfect for a casual stroll with the opportunity to see local fauna and wildlife. I have seen evidence of many animals, including porcupine quills! And when the correct temperatures hit (this can vary based on the year), the forest floor gets flooded in yellow and orange leaves. It is extremely dog friendly, and generally quiet.
Although there are times of the year that it gets busy, namely mushrooming season and during the various cycling events that occur. The winding roads getting here can be tight, but as you drive through the small villages, look out for the festival banners. They have plenty throughout the year, notably the porcini festival in Fornazzo and the Ottobrata festival in Zafferana.
You will also see many other places to stop and hike on the way up the mountain. Chestnut gathering is also extremely popular, and you will see people parked on the side of the road all over the mountain. You can also see various vendors selling their produce, like apples and pumpkins, or their wares, such as handwoven wicker baskets. Check the weather before going! There have been a couple times where I wished I had brought a hat and a big coat, something I never thought I’d have use for in Sicily.
Dog on a path at Bosco Cesaro on a foggy day (Melvina Taylor)
The next suggestion is in Nebrodi National Park, past the northside of the volcano. While the end goal of this walk is a lake, there are trees, shrubs and streams that line the path to get there. It is about a two-hour drive from the base, and is perfectly doable for a day trip. I suggest packing some lunch and a picnic blanket to enjoy at this idyllic lake. The entrance is marked by some signposts and a parking area. Some people choose to drive the dirt road leading to the lake, but I highly recommend walking it! There is little-to-no incline, and the path is easy, although there is not much in the way of signage.
It doesn’t take too long to reach the lake, and along the way you’ll be met with a cool breeze, babbling brooks, moss covered trees and a large pond full of frogs (they are noisy!). Once you reach the lake, you can choose your spot along the bank (you can easily walk around the whole lake) or choose one of the picnic tables. It is an incredibly peaceful location, and the drive boasts epic views of Etna, particularly in the cold months when she is snow-capped. Make a stop in Cesaro on the return home for good picture taking spots.
This last recommendation actually consists of a couple of spots close to the Silvestri Craters. A popular starting point is called “Nature Trail Monte Nero Zappini” near “Piano Vetore,” although you’ll find people parking in many different areas at this location. While not predominately wooded, there are sections that are pine dense.
What sets this location apart is the many different routes you can take, making it perfect for revisiting. There are also amazing views of Etna’s craters, which are often smoking. You can explore many notable spots here, such as an open-air church, old buildings, and picnic spots, and I encourage looking on Google Maps to uncover the many hidden gems of this location.
Hopefully this guide serves as your gateway into the woods of Sicily. There is so much to explore here! Please keep in mind that it does snow in Sicily, notably on Mount Etna and some places in Nebrodi Park. So, keep an eye on the conditions. If you look outside and see a snowcapped Etna, then it’s a good idea to check the roads and weather before venturing out, as some of the mountain roads require chains when the snow arrives. Many of the spots here also have low or no cell signal. So, be sure to take proper precautions before heading on your adventures!
Lago Maulazzo with trees in front of it (Melvina Taylor)
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
