Trekking Routes

Valle del Lupo Venture

Our Valle del Lupo venture begins a 10-minute drive from the resort. It’s 4km and covers a variety of terrains. Discover the magical medieval Castello di Poggiodiana, along with the Valle del Lupo and the Verdura River that surround it. Find a house built into the rock face near the beginning of the trek, dating back to September 1877, as engraved in the stone. Continue walking down the valley until you reach the Verdura River, where you’ll find the end of the Luna family’s escape route with a secret staircase. Continue walking through the river until you reach the water bridge. Water treading was one of Kneipp’s therapies. End the trek up at the castle, learning about the grandeur of how the Count and Countess lived. From the castle, you can see Verdura Resort, and you might even spot a wild goat.

Caltabellotta Hike

Caltabellotta emerges in the middle of rocky cliffs; it has breathtaking views and is full of ancient ruins. With this exciting climb, you’ll eventually reach this historic hill-town. Start this 4km trek by challenging your legs with a climb up the first peak. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see views of inland Sicily on one side and views towards Africa on the other.  Make your way down the first peak before climbing up the next peak. This next stage is beautifully shaded by pine trees. After a hard trek, you’ll reach the top part of Caltabellotta. Here, you’ll see what still stands of the Norman Castle, with its Torre Normanna.  Once you pass the castle you’ll reach the Cathedral. This was originally a mosque built in 890AD. Further up, you can visit the sacrificial altars, before finishing the trek.

Platani River Hike & Capobianco

Follow in the footsteps of Greek god Heracles and King Minos on an adventure along the Platani river. Begin in the woodlands of the Sciacca nature reserve before following the mouth of the Platani river (known in ancient times as Halycus). Reaching the highest part of the river, we’ll pause at a viewpoint to spot black-winged stilts and falcons and admire the sweep of beach.

Now, the climb begins. Ascend the Pianoro di Capo Bianco, sheer white cliffs reaching towards the sea, and arrive at the archaeological site of Heraclea Minoa. Explore this ancient city and marvel at its majestic Greek theatre overlooking the Mediterranean. As you wander through the ruins, feel the connection to Heracles – who defeated the local hero Eryx – and Minos, king of Crete and founder of this city. There will be time to visit the museum and see its 4thcentury BC treasures and statues of Sicilian divinities.

Ready to set off again, it’s downhill until a pitstop at the river’s mouth (if the weather permits) before continuing the ten kilometre journey back to your starting point. Ruins explored, summits overcome, celebratory drinks earned.