Itinerary: religious
15-18 days
The Norman Via Francigena from Palermo to Messina is a historic route that crosses Sicily from south to north, following in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims. Beginning in the city of Palermo, with its Arab-Norman monuments and multicultural charm, the route winds for approximately 370 kilometers to Messina, Sicily's gateway to the Strait of Messina. The journey unfolds through ever-changing landscapes, from the hills of the hinterland to the Madonie and Nebrodi mountains, passing through small ancient villages, churches, abbeys, and castles that tell the story of the island's Norman history. Along the way, you'll encounter local traditions, authentic Sicilian cuisine, and breathtaking views of the sea and valleys. Walking the Norman Via Francigena means immersing yourself in the nature and culture of authentic Sicily, following paths rich in spirituality, art, and history, on a slow journey that invites discovery and encounter.
Link:
https://www.viefrancigenedisicilia.it/PaMe.php
The journey begins in Palermo, along the ancient “Pilgrims’ Road” passing Punic Walls and medieval monuments. After about 26 km you arrive in Bagheria, famous for its baroque villas and aristocratic residences, a hallmark of 18th‑century Sicilian elegance
A roughly 12 km stage featuring significant elevation change (547 m ascent, 633 m descent). The trail descends toward Lake Rosamarina—submerged over the old Norman bridge—before climbing toward the hilltop town of Caccamo, dominated by its famed castle
A roughly 12 km stage featuring significant elevation change (547 m ascent, 633 m descent). The trail descends toward Lake Rosamarina—submerged over the old Norman bridge—before climbing toward the hilltop town of Caccamo, dominated by its famed castle
Leaving Caccamo, the terrain shifts: you depart the San Leonardo river valley and climb into the foothills of the Madonie range. After about 16 km you reach Montemaggiore Belsito, with stunning views over medieval inland Sicily
You continue through the gentle hills of the Madonie toward Caltavuturo. This approximately 22 km leg tests your endurance but rewards you with authentic rural scenery
A shorter 12 km stage leads to Polizzi Generosa, a fortified hill-town famed for its traditions and panoramic mountainous views
You walk through forests and woodland paths to reach Petralia Sottana, one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval villages, nestled in a fairytale setting deep in the Madonie hills
This roughly 14 km leg takes you to Gangi, another enchanting medieval village known for its narrow alleys, historic churches, and spectacular views over the Madonie countryside
A more demanding route: about 22 km through woods and hills arriving in Nicosia, a historical town rich in Norman heritage, and a key transition toward the Nebrodi mountains
Leaving Nicosia, the trail heads into the Nebrodi mountains towards Capizzi, a village of Greco-Roman origin with beautiful views over the valleys below. This stage alternates between forests and hill paths.
The route continues through the Nebrodi mountains to Troina, one of Sicily’s oldest Norman towns. The village boasts important medieval heritage and a charming historic centre.
This stage crosses the heart of the Nebrodi Park. Forested mountain views guide you to Cesarò, an authentic mountain village with a timeless atmosphere.
From the Nebrodi, glimpses of Mount Etna appear. You reach Maletto, a typical village at the volcano’s foot, renowned for its strawberries.
You climb into the Peloritani mountains to reach Floresta, one of Sicily’s highest towns, offering stunning views of both Etna and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The stage takes you to Montalbano Elicona, voted one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, famous for its Swabian-Aragonese castle and the evocative Argimusco megaliths.
A panoramic route through the Peloritani mountains leads to Novara di Sicilia, a stone village with a strong medieval and artisanal heritage.
The final stage ends in Castroreale, a natural balcony overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Peloritani mountains, rich in churches and Renaissance palaces. This is the end of the Palermo–Messina mountain route.
