Piazza Armerina Trip Overview
The itinerary starts from the majestic hills, where once stood the town of Rossomanno (37,27’16.1″N 14,22’32.1″E) from which the name of the mountain derives. The Rossomanno Grottascura Bellia Nature Reserve can be reached driving along SS117 bis and it is one of the largest wooded area in Sicily that can be crossed on foot or by mountain bike. From here you can continue your journey towards the ruins of a medieval monastery called “castellaccio degli Uberti” or “cunvintazzo”. Next, we head towards the so-called “Enchanted stones” or “puppet dancers” (1.2 miles).
From here we depart for the Mining Park of Floristella/Grottacalda (37.488974, 14.351513). The Mining Park involves a certain type of visiting experience that is both historical-anthropological and environmental, given the abandonment of the former industrial area, for decades. It is possible to do a few hours of light trekking among the outdoor environments of the Mining Park, among woods and abandoned industrial buildings and unspoiled nature.
At the end of the visit, after lunch, we move towards the nestled medieval fortress of the Castle of Pietratagliata or Gresti (37.475375, 14.469690) built by the Normans and defined “impenetrable” by the popular tradition. From the top of the cliff you can enjoy a breathtaking view and admire the authentic scenery of the Sicilian hinterland rich in nature and history.
Additional Info
Duration: 8 hours
Starts: Piazza Armerina, Italy
Trip Category: Cultural & Theme Tours >> Historical & Heritage Tours
Explore Piazza Armerina Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Piazza Armerina, Sicilia, Italy
The itinerary starts from the majestic hills, where once stood the town of Rossomanno (37,27’16.1″N 14,22’32.1″E) from which the name of the mountain derives. The Rossomanno Grottascura Bellia Nature Reserve can be reached driving along SS117 bis and it is one of the largest wooded area in Sicily that can be crossed on foot or by mountain bike. From here you can continue your journey towards the ruins of a medieval monastery called “castellaccio degli Uberti” or “cunvintazzo”. Next, we head towards the so-called “Enchanted stones” or “puppet dancers” (1.2 miles).
From here we depart for the Mining Park of Floristella/Grottacalda (37.488974, 14.351513). The Mining Park involves a certain type of visiting experience that is both historical-anthropological and environmental, given the abandonment of the former industrial area, for decades. It is possible to do a few hours of light trekking among the outdoor environments of the Mining Park, among woods and abandoned industrial buildings and unspoiled nature.
At the end of the visit, after lunch, we move towards the nestled medieval fortress of the Castle of Pietratagliata or Gresti (37.475375, 14.469690) built by the Normans and defined “impenetrable” by the popular tradition. From the top of the cliff you can enjoy a breathtaking view and admire the authentic scenery of the Sicilian hinterland rich in nature and history.
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Pass By: Piazza Armerina, Piazza Armerina, Province of Enna, Sicily
The itinerary, in addition to being a naturalistic trail and, at the same time, of great historical and archaeological interest, it is an adventurous off-road route that allows you to discover the hidden and fascinating corners of the Sicilian hinterland. It alternates easy walking trails to off-road driving.
Stop At: Riserva Naturale Orientata Bellia-Rossomanno-Grottascura, Ss288, 94015 Piazza Armerina, Sicily Italy
It starts from the majestic hills, where once stood the town of Rossomanno (37,27’16.1″N 14,22’32.1″E) from which the name of the mountain derives. The Rossomanno Grottascura Bellia Nature Reserve, can be reached driving along SS117 bis and it is one of the largest wooded area in Sicily that can be crossed on foot or by mountain bike. From here you can continue your journey towards the ruins of an ancient and isolated medieval monastery called “castellaccio degli Uberti” or “cunvintazzo”. Next, we head towards the so-called “Enchanted stones” or “puppet dancers” (1.2 miles), or group of sandstone rocks that, according to local legend, represents dancing people petrified by a mysterious spell.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Parco Minerario Floristella-Grottacalda, 94015 Valguarnera Caropepe, Sicily Italy
Visiting experience to the Mining Park of Floristella/Grottacalda (37.488974, 14.351513) that is both historical-anthropological and environmental.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Castello di Gresti o Pietratagliata, Contrada Gresti, Aidone, Sicily Italy
The Castle of Pietratagliata or Gresti (37.475375, 14.469690), built by the Normans and defined “impenetrable” by the popular tradition, during the Vesper War housed a French garrison, destroyed during the siege. From the top of the cliff you can enjoy a breathtaking view and admire the authentic scenery of the Sicilian hinterland rich in nature and history.
After the day of trekking, it is advisable to go to Piazza Armerina for a meal and stay at one of the recommended quality facilities to arrange the following day.
Duration: 2 hours
