The Madonie Park and its gems: treasures not to be missed.

At first glance it may seem that Sicily, being an island, can be visited with only a few days of vacation available. But if you know it in depth you understand how this statement can be inaccurate. Sicily is in fact not only a large island, whose coasts alone exceed 1,000 km in length, but it is above all an island rich in natural, historical and cultural treasures, sometimes very hidden and therefore difficult to find for the non-traveler expert.

Precisely because of these treasures, now in full view, now hidden in secret places on the island, Sicily attracts every year an ever-increasing number of tourists who come from all over the world and with the most diverse interests. Today, in particular, we want to tell you about three gem towns not only on the itinerary of hundreds of tourists but also on the marvelous Madonie Park: Cefalù, Castelbuono e Petralia Soprana.

The Madonie Natural Park, established in 1989, has an area of ​​approximately 40,000 hectares. It represents one of the most famous mountain ecosystems in the Mediterranean basin due to the richness of its flora and the considerable interest of its vegetation. It occupies the central-northern part of Sicily and includes 15 municipalities that wind from Cefalù towards the interior of the island. These small villages, many of which were founded by the Arabs and Normans to defend the hinterland, offer an almost intact glimpse of the ancient traditional villages of Sicily.

The tourist-seaside village of Cefalù is located 70 kilometres east of Palermo and is included in the circuit "The most beautiful villages in Italy", i.e. an exclusive association of small Italian towns that stand out among other things for their great interest artistic, cultural and historical, for the harmony of the urban fabric, livability and services to citizens. The origins of Cefalù date back to the prehistoric period, its current name was given to it later by the Greeks, the subsequent Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Norman dominations determined the layout of its historic centre of mediaeval origin, characterised by narrow streets, paved with the pebbles of the beach and the limestone of the Rocca, where in its main square stands the famous and imposing Cathedral-fortress built by Roger II in 1131. Numerous palaces, churches, monasteries and chapels that embellish the city from an architectural point of view, including Santa Maria della Catena, Church of Purgatory, Archbishop's Palace, Palazzo Pirajno and the mediaeval wash house.

The village of Castelbuono: with its Castle perched on Colle San Pietro, it looks like a village from other times! Castelbuono is inserted in the luxuriant vegetation of the wood of oak, chestnut, cherry, but above all of ash. The typical Ash tree from which, due to the incisions on the bark of the trunk, a sweetish liquid comes out which, coagulating with the heat of the sun, becomes "Manna", an arboreal essence sought after for the various detoxifying properties it possesses and also used by the traditional local pastry shop. One of the few countries in the world, together with the neighbouring Pollina, to cultivate the "manna" extracted from the trunk of ash trees. The origins of Castelbuono are to be connected to the small Byzantine centre of "Ypsigro" (cool place in the Byzantine etymology), which stood near the current town.

Last but not least, there is the stupendous town of Petralia, a village that rises at an altitude of 1000 metres in the heart of the central massif of the Madonie park. A location that immediately enchants, looking at its houses clinging to a rock spur, which give this place a unique charm and a surreal setting. A destination to consider for your journey to discover Sicily, capable of giving unexpected emotions to anyone who visits it, among narrow alleys, long stairways, fountains and picturesque arcades.

Baia Smeraldo: The emotions that this splendid property is ready to give you are truly indescribable: from the marvelous panorama of the crystalline sea that will accompany your gaze up to the promontory of Cefalù with its incomparable gold-coloured Arab cathedral, to the luxuriant flowery garden, to the delightful private swimming pool in which to cool off in the hottest hours of the Sicilian summer. Equipped with 4 bedrooms with a modern and Mediterranean taste, the house is ideal for hosting families and groups of friends up to 7 people.

Coda di Volpe and Punta a Mare: two magnificent villas with a simple and Mediterranean taste located in the splendid tourist-seaside area of ​​Cefalù, full of trattorias and restaurants where you can enjoy excellent fish-based dishes and more. Although the residences do not offer a private swimming pool, they do have direct access to the sea: on one side, the comfortable platform between the rocks and on the other, the golden sandy beach. The properties can be rented individually or together up to a maximum occupancy of 19 guests.

Terre di Lula: There are very few words to describe Terre di Lula because this is not just a residence, it's a sensation. It is located in the heart of the Madonie Natural Park in a fantastic medieval village called Polizzi Generosa, one of the few where you can still experience the real rural Sicily. Choose this breathtaking villa to experience the colors and scents of Sicily, to experience Nature and become one with it in absolute peace and relaxation as you bathe in the stunning private infinity pool that looks like a lake flowing over the beautiful rich mountains of trees and friendly animals

Carlotta: Carlotta is a delightful residence with a simple and modern taste, equipped with all the comforts one may need on holiday. It is located in the area of ​​one of the most famous seaside resorts in Sicily: Cefalù. Apart from the proximity to this town full of restaurants and shops, the house has direct access to the sea.

Faraglioni: Elegant villa born in one of the most fascinating areas of Sicily, the Kalura in the wonderful area of ​​Cefalù. The view of the sea and the fantastic Kalura stacks that the house offers you from its wonderful garden will leave you speechless. The property is built near a small beach access to which is reserved only for the owners of the villas in the area. On the other side, there is also a small concrete platform on which to enjoy the warm Sicilian sun and from which to dive into the wonderful turquoise sea. This platform is private. With 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, the house is suitable for families or small groups of friends looking for a relaxing and peaceful beach holiday.

Casa dei Nomadi: Are you looking for a residence a few steps from the sea, with a private swimming pool and hydromassage tub for a holiday of both relaxation and fun? Go no further as Casa dei Nomadi is right up your alley. This delightful property is located between Finale di Pollina and Castel di Tuna, in north western Sicily in an exquisite bay called Baia Turchina. With 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, it is absolutely ideal for large families and groups of friends.

Calaluna: Delightful cottage born among the rocks, and partially obtained from them, of the wonderful area of ​​Cefalù called Kalura. It was born in front of the fantastic stacks of the area and is located almost on the water. Not surprisingly, you will almost feel like you are on a boat. Equipped with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this splendid property is suitable for couples or small families who wish to enjoy a relaxing beach holiday away from the chaos of the city.

Casa dell'Acqua: Unique property of its kind, belonging to the Baron of Fatta (owner of the surrounding lands and grandfather of the current owners). The house is located a few kilometres from the highway at the Buonfornello exit, close to Cefalù and the Madonie Park so as to make it far from the bustle of the city but not too far from the sea. Ideal for groups or families of up to 9 people who want to relax and enjoy each other's company between the barbecue and the delightful private pool.

Lalli House: Located on one of the most suggestive promontories of the Sicilian coast from which to enjoy unforgettable sunsets, this delightful charming retreat is ideal for couples of friends and small families who wish to spend a beach holiday away from the chaos of the city. The small beach, which is accessed via a stone staircase, is in fact reserved only for the owners of neighbouring villas.