In recent years, there has been growing attention on alternative tourism. Not the usual trendy destinations, whether in the mountains or by the sea, but rather lesser-known and less crowded places. Wine and food tourism, religious tourism, the pilgrimage routes of the Via Francigena, and spa tourism have all increasingly captured the interest of enthusiasts. In addition to these paths and themes, another very interesting type of tourism has emerged: sustainable ecological tourism. This includes 9 mountain routes scattered across Europe, forming a network called "Emblematic Mediterranean Mountains."
These itineraries aim to introduce the territory through experience. Starting from France, we have the sacred Catalan mountains, Canigò and Sainte-Victoire. In Albania, there are the Cika Highlands leading to the beach. In Spain, we find the seven faces of Pedraforca Mountain and Serra Tramuntana. In Italy, the Gran Sasso, the mountain of Saints and Warriors. In Greece, the "Olympus Zeus" cultural route and Mount Psiloritis Ida, following the paths of mythology. Finally, there’s Mount Etna, with an eco-trail that takes you through the blooming fields of broom and vineyards.
This trail offers hikers, cyclists, and drivers a way to discover and experience the landscapes and places of Etna. Specifically, the route starts from Nicolosi and ends in Linguaglossa, covering about 60 km of diverse terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter various types of nature, from vineyards to chestnut forests and hazelnut groves, to the yellow-covered slopes of broom plants that miraculously sprout from the lava.
And along the way, there are countless panoramic views of the volcano’s peaks and the Ionian Sea coastline. The route can be completed in 4-5 days, allowing travelers to stop and stay in agritourisms, farms, and hotels, providing an opportunity to experience the gastronomic and wine traditions of the area. Visitors can also participate in religious festivals, local fairs, and folk traditions.
Along the path, there are numerous cultural attractions to explore, including museums, exhibitions, monuments, and churches. Notable sites include the Planetarium in Zafferana Etnea and the Theatre of Myths, the Butterfly House in Viagrande, the Etna Museum, the Civic Museum of Natural Sciences in Randazzo, the Opera dei Pupi Museum, the "Paolo Vagliasindi" Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Saints Peter and Paul.
Other routes are available depending on personal interests. For example, one very interesting route starts in the town of Randazzo and leads to Castiglione di Sicilia, where you can explore the vineyards and their cellars, continuing towards the Alcantara River valley.
The "Emblematic Mediterranean Mountains" circuit, formed by these 9 mountain complexes located in the Mediterranean area across France, Greece, Italy, Spain, and Albania, aims to preserve the cultural heritage from internal and external threats and to share experiences and good life practices. A guide of about 75 pages, available at each location, will provide useful tips for your stay.
On these journeys, visitors have the opportunity and pleasure to explore each area, enjoying the activities offered by local producers, where nature and culture blend harmoniously. The organization and development of these routes have been co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.