Between Contessa Entellina and Sambuca di Sicilia, lush landscapes and traces of ancient forests in a not-to-be-missed nature reserve
Nature and culture coexist in the dense woods surrounding the extensive area around Mount San Genuardo The Mount San Genuardo Nature Reserve covers a vast area between the towns of Contessa Entellina and Sambuca di Sicilia. Its dense trees and network of paths winds through different environments and itineraries that make for perfect hiking excursions.
On foot or by mountain bike, numerous paths and fire trails lead to the summit of Mount San Genuardo, such as the Sentiero del Pomo, the Sentiero del Laghetto and, for the more adventurous, the Sentiero del Grande Giro. The ascent to Mount San Genuardo, at a height of 1180 metres, offers breathtaking views over the valley and Lake Arancio; from the summit you can also admire the archaeological site of Mount Adranone.
Crossing the silent Bosco del Pomo wood, among the hawthorn and dog rose bushes, allows visitors to discover and admire the typical vegetation of Sicani Mountains, comprising old monumental trees and specimens of holm oak, downy oak and maple.
In addition to the great natural wonders, the reserve also contains a site of great historical and cultural importance: the Abbey of Santa Maria del Bosco, about 3 km from Contessa Entellina, an extraordinary example of Benedictine and Olivetan architecture in Italy. Surrounded by vegetation, at the foot of the mountain that dominates the reserve, the Abbey, with its baroque atmosphere, takes us back to a past of tranquillity and spiritual growth.
Quick overview
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Opening days
Open daily
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Opening times
All day
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How to reach
By car:
From Palermo take the SS 115 main road. At the junction for Sambuca di Sicilia (SP 41), continue in the direction of the village. Just before arriving at Sambuca, take the SP 69 towards Adragna. The entrance to the Monte San Genuardo Nature Reserve is 5 km away, in the municipality of Contessa Entellina. -
Reservation & Price
No need for booking
Services
- Visits Available in Italian, English
Additional Info
Access to the reserve is free, guided tours are by appointment only. No need for bookingIt is advisable to avoid visits and excursions on rainy days and/or on the following days.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Weekend
Visiting Rules
Basic rules:
All visitors are invited to observe the basic rules of respect for the preservation of monuments and nature
Covid 19 rules:
Visitors are requested to wear a mask in enclosed or heavily crowded areas and to maintain the safety distance indicated by the regulations in force