Full day Discovery hike in the Madonie Park

Off the beaten track
FromEUR€69
Off the beaten track
FromEUR€69

Lowest price guarantee

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Enjoy all the variety of the Madonie Natural Park's landscapes and biodiversity in just one hike

  • Duration5 hours
  • Difficulty levelMedium
  • Distance11km
  • Difference in altitude450m
  • Group tours or Private toursGreat for hiking enthusiasts (couples, families with teens from 12 years old, groups of friends)
  • Departure timeGroup tours: 9 am - Private tours: 9 am, 9.30 am or 10 am
  • Meeting placeCastelbuono (30 min. from Cefalù - 1½ hours from Palermo)
  • WhenAll year round. As part of the itinerary is shaded, the hike can take place even in the hot Sicilian summer. In winter, availability can be limited in case of bad weather or snow on the trail.
  • PriceFrom €69 per adult

Why you will love this hike:

  • Experience the incredible richness of the Madonie ParkFrom coastal views to alpine meadows and ancient forests, all in one day
  • Amazing panoramic views
  • Venture deeper into the park where few tourists go
  • Many opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna
  • Perfect for those looking for a hike near CastelbuonoIf you prefer an easier hike, you could consider our Half-day hike to the Madonie Giant Hollies

This hike will allow you to discover all the beauty of the Madonie natural Park going through places which are usually more frequented by deer than hikers.

In company of our English-speaking nature guide, you will walk through a huge range of habitats, including woods of evergreens, mountain pastures rich in rare plants, karst dolines, woods of beech trees (the southernmost in Europe), mixed woodlands with centuries-old trees. We will also stop at the magical wood of giant holly trees in Piano Pomo.

This itinerary will offer many beautiful panoramic viewpoints and on clear days we will be able to see as far as Mount Etna.

We will take a break in ancient shepherds’ settlements rich in local history.

We will often see raptors or corvids in flight (e.g.: griffon vultures, big ravens or red-billed choughs) and, in summer, a myriad of butterflies.

Have a look at the Frequently Asked Questions

Where and when to meet?

You will meet your guide in Castelbuono (30 min. from Cefalù – 1½ hours from Palermo).
Group tours:
departure at 9 am
Private Tours: departure at 9 am, 9.30 am or 10 am
You will be provided with a map indicating the meeting point when you book. Each guest will then follow our guide in their own vehicle until the starting point of the trail (15 min). If you don’t have a car, please contact us before booking.

Prices

Group tours (maximum 12 participants):

Minimum 2 adults
Adults: 69€
Children (12-16 years old): 40€
For families with younger children, we suggest the Half-day hike to the Madonie giant hollies

Private tours:

Want a guide just for you? Book a private tour and benefit from the following extra options and services included in the price:

  • You can choose the departure time from the meeting place in Castelbuono: 9 am, 9.30 am or 10 am.
  • Enjoy a tasty break in the mountains: coffee or tea served with the best local biscuits (lactose/gluten free options).

1 to 6 people: 210€ fixed price
7 to 12 people: 240€ fixed price
More than 12 people: please contact us

Want to make this excursion even more special? Ask for a tailor-made tour
You’re a Tour Operator? Contact us

What to Bring

  • Hiking shoes Compulsory due to the type of trails. Please use our free rental service in the booking form if necessary
  • Water bottle
  • Your picnic lunchWe recommend stopping at local food stores or bakeries before the hike
  • Windproof jacket
  • Clothes suitable to the weather conditions

We can lend you extra equipment (hiking poles, backpacks, jackets, etc.) to make your hike as comfortable as possible. Please specify your needs on the booking form.

Madonie Explorers' Guarantee

  • Qualified English-speaking nature guideMember of AIGAE (Associazione Italiana Guide Ambientali Escursionistiche) - Language options include Italian, English and French - Read more about Madonie Explorers' guides
  • Free hiking equipment rentalIn the limit of the available stock
  • 10% Discount on the second excursionYou will find the discount code in the first booking confirmation email
  • Free cancellationUp to 48 hours before the tour
  • Rescheduling or cancellation with refund in case of bad weatherIf Madonie Explorers cancels the excursion because of bad weather conditions, you can choose to reschedule the excursion or to be refunded

Optional Extras

  • Transport from the meeting point to the departure of the trailParticipants must have a car. If you don't have one, please contact us before booking and we will find the best solution.

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Are my shoes OK?

This hike requires proper hiking shoes as we will mostly walk on irregular rocky trails. If you don’t have suitable shoes (e.g.: you have simple sport shoes), don’t worry: we can lend you hiking shoes for free. Just make sure to indicate your size on the booking form.

Is the hike difficult?

This hike is not very difficult; however, it is designed for hiking enthusiasts who regularly engage in physical activity and do not have any significant health issues. If you’re unsure whether this hike is right for you, please contact us. You can also book a shorter excursion like our  Half-day hike to the Madonie Giant hollies.

Is the meeting place easy to find?

Yes, you will meet your guide at a bar in Castelbuono (Province of Palermo). The location is on the SS286 national road, so you won’t need to enter the historic town center. You will receive a Google map with directions in the booking confirmation email.

Does the guide speak English?

Yes! Our nature guides, Laetitia and Mario, speak English fluently and are experienced in guiding English-speaking guests. Meet our guides

What if I don't have a car?

Transport is not included in our services, but you may be able to ride in the guide’s car to reach the trailhead (please check with us before booking). A small additional fee may apply.

What if the weather is bad?

We constantly monitor the weather to ensure that guests can enjoy the hike under the right conditions. Of course, this doesn’t mean the excursion will only run with perfect sunshine, but in case of consistent rain, strong winds or mist, Madonie Explorers will cancel the excursion. Participants can rebook for another date or request a refund.

What about lunch?

This is a full-day hike, so you’ll need to bring a packed lunch. We recommend visiting one of Castelbuono’s food stores or bakeries before departure – your guide can suggest the best options.

Isn't it too hot to do the hike in summer?

This hike is great even in July and August, as you will walk in the coolest areas of the region, at higher altitudes and through shady woods. The average temperature will be around 10 degrees Celsius lower than on the coast.

I'm traveling solo. Can I book for one?

Solo travelers are welcome! Our minimum booking is two adults (€138 total), but you can book as a solo traveler at the 2-person rate, or we may be able to pair you with other travelers – please contact us to check availability. Private tours are available from one participant.

What if I want to book last minute?

You can book online through this website until 6 p.m. the day before the hike. We encourage you to book or contact us as soon as possible to ensure we are available during your visit.

What if I change my mind/can't do the tour at the last minute?

We fully refund bookings cancelled at least 48 hours before the excursion. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance are non-refundable. This policy is necessary for planning purposes and also ensures fair working conditions for our guides, who are independent professionals.

Where to stay before the hike?

We suggest staying in Castelbuono, Cefalù, or the nearby area the night before, so you don’t have to drive far to reach the meeting place. Feel free to contact us for any additional information regarding accommodation.