Itinerary: religious
5 days
"In the Footsteps of Saint Bernard. Walks of Faith, Art, and Nature" is an experiential journey that intertwines spirituality, culture, and pristine landscapes, inviting visitors to retrace the historic paths linked to the figure of Saint Bernard. This itinerary leads through ancient villages, abbeys, Romanesque churches, and stretches of authentic nature, creating a journey where the religious dimension harmoniously blends with the discovery of artistic and environmental heritage. Along the way, travelers can experience moments of reflection and contemplation, drawing inspiration from the beauty of the landscape, the silence of the mountains, and the wealth of artistic treasures preserved in the places they pass through. The journey thus becomes an opportunity to rediscover a profound connection with oneself, with history, and with nature, following in the footsteps of a saint who left an indelible mark on the hearts of local communities.
Link:
http://www.sulleormedisanbernardo.it/
The pilgrimage starts in Corleone, birthplace of Saint Bernard, with historical squares like Piazza Soprana and Sottana – setting for the famed duel that inspired Fra Cristoforo in The Betrothed. The route climbs through rural roads and dirt trails to Campofiorito. Over about 18 km and an elevation gain up to 1083 m, around 68% of the route is unpaved: a high‑difficulty stage offering a deep nature immersion and spiritual journey across woodland ridges.
The journey moves from Campofiorito through Bisacquino, Giuliana, and Chiusa Sclafani, covering about 18.5 km, with elevations between 464‑828 m. The route blends gravel (63%) and paved roads (37%), with climbs up to 25%. Of medium difficulty, this stage passes traditional villages, agricultural terraces, and charming hamlets – an authentic taste of Sicily’s rural heritage
Heading towards Palazzo Adriano, this stage spans about 13.4 km over mixed terrain (61% dirt, 39% paved), with elevations from 443 to 683 m. With climbs up to 27.5%, it’s a medium‑difficulty segment suited for walkers seeking peaceful routes through valleys and wooded hills, far from crowded tourism.
A challenging 18 km stretch, ascending to 1365 m from a minimum of 571 m. With 71% on dirt paths and steep descent grades reaching 31.2%, this medium‑difficulty stage requires fitness and determination. Hikers cross the breathtaking scenery of the Sicani Mountains, ancient royal trails, forests, and sweeping valley views.
The village is also known for having inspired the atmosphere of the famous film "Cinema Paradiso," thanks to its authentic architecture and the intensity of its surroundings. This artistic imprint gives Palazzo Adriano a cinematic charm, where every stone seems to narrate family and community stories. In summer, the streets fill with life: children's voices, gatherings in the squares, sunsets that color the flower-filled balconies, moments of celebration and conviviality intertwined with a feeling of authentic familiarity. Walking through its streets means breathing in a Sicily that tells its story through its architecture, its silences, and the daily presence of its inhabitants.
This 21.5 km stage spans elevations from 281 to 999 m, with 69% dirt and 31% paved surface. Slopes reach up to 22.5%. Rated medium difficulty, it's ideal to savor rural landscapes of olive groves and Mediterranean woods, bathed in Sicily’s immersive light and tradition
A shorter, less demanding stage (~10.7 km), rising from 141 to 770 m, with 59% dirt and 41% paved surface; ascent grades up to 29.7%. Of medium difficulty, it winds through gentle hills to the medieval village of Caltabellotta, offering breathtaking views and a deep sense of ancient spirituality.
The final stage of around 18 km descends from 756 m to sea level (29 m). With 47% dirt and 53% paved, and moderate slopes (up to 21.6%), it's medium difficulty. The trail culminates in lively Sciacca, a seaside town rich in Baroque art, thermal springs, and stunning views over the Gulf of Sicily: an emotional finale to the pilgrimage.
